Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Michigan State University


LGBT health improves when friends are just like them

A recent study published in the Journal of Health and Aging reveals that having a large social network consisting of people who share one's sexual identity can significantly reduce harmful effects of discrimination on health. This finding underscores the importance of considering a person's background in their overall well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateMar 5, 2020

Better planning could save millions in health care costs

A new study from Michigan State University and Rutgers University reveals that five to 10 minutes are added to each surgery due to unplanned supplies, resulting in nearly $28 million annually in unnecessary costs. Implementing standardized planning processes for medical supplies can significantly reduce these waste costs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateMar 4, 2020

Big data helps farmers adapt to climate variability

A new study by Michigan State University quantifies soil and landscape features and spatial and temporal yield variations in response to climate variability. The research identifies areas within individual fields where yield is unstable, with over one-quarter of corn and soybean cropland in the Midwest experiencing this issue.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 27, 2020

New bile discovery will rewrite textbooks

Scientists at Michigan State University discovered new bile acids produced by microbes in the gut, which expand our understanding of mammalian bile and its connection to gastrointestinal diseases. These novel acids are particularly abundant in people suffering from conditions like Crohn's disease and cystic fibrosis.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2020

The curious case of the disappearing snakes

A Michigan State University-University of Maryland study found that the decline of frogs led to a significant decrease in snake diversity, with an estimated 85% probability of fewer species. The research highlights the importance of long-term data for understanding biodiversity loss and its cascading effects on ecosystems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2020

Taming electrons with bacteria parts

Researchers created an artificial electron transfer system by modifying a protein from bacteria, which can be used to produce medicines and biofuels. The system works by guiding electrons through short 'pit stops' made of heme molecules, allowing for more efficient energy transfer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2020

A model ecosystem fish story

A study led by Michigan State University researchers found that a collective model created by over 200 anglers and fishing club members accurately predicted pike populations, habitat, and fishing pressure. The results show that involving diverse interest groups improves the accuracy of the solution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2020

Insect bites and warmer climate means double-trouble for plants

A new study reveals that warmer temperatures worsen the productivity of infested tomato plants, causing them to produce more defense compounds in response to caterpillar attacks. This double-edged sword leads to impaired photosynthesis, decreased crop yield, and unexpected tradeoffs between defense responses and plant productivity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2020

Organized cybercrime -- not your average mafia

Researchers identified common attributes of cybercrime networks, revealing how they function and work together. These networks are composed of hackers coming together due to shared functional skills, often collaborating to cause greater disruption.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology·DateJan 16, 2020

Are bigger brains better?

A larger hippocampus may not guarantee better memory in older adults, with a new study highlighting the significance of its white matter connectivity. The research analyzed over 330 participants and found that faster learning was only seen in those with both a larger hippocampus and uniform white matter structure.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJan 16, 2020

All global sustainability is local

A new study assesses country and regional progress towards 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), revealing disparities between developed and developing regions. The study suggests that sustainability progress is dynamic and may involve tradeoffs, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to address these challenges.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateJan 1, 2020

Building a better flu shot

Researchers at Michigan State University have found that cellular RNA levels change significantly following infection or vaccination. The study's findings could help identify new targets for building better flu vaccines and aid in the design of a universal vaccine.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateNov 26, 2019

What will make grandma use her Fitbit longer?

A Michigan State University study found that older adults are more likely to use wearable activity trackers for longer periods if they offer a variety of functions, such as tracking calories burned or mood. Technological savviness and partnership-based motivation also play a crucial role in long-term adoption.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateNov 18, 2019

When managing a company, less is more

Michigan State University researchers identified key elements of a company's product portfolio and brand strategy that drive success in marketing. The study found that developing high-quality brands within a portfolio and innovating products are critical to maximizing sales and market share.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 5, 2019

Bird bacteria is key to communication and mating

Researchers at Michigan State University have found that scents emitted by songbirds are produced by certain bacteria in preen glands, which identify a bird to other birds. Altering these bacteria can disrupt the bird's ability to communicate and find a mate, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 29, 2019

Can solar technology kill cancer cells?

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new approach to detect and attack cancer cells using light-activated fluorescent dyes. The breakthrough utilizes technology traditionally reserved for solar power, offering promising results in breast, lung, and skin cancer cell lines and mouse models.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 25, 2019

What would Jesus do? Quite possibly, recycle

A Michigan State University study found that fundamentalist Christians are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviors such as conserving water and energy. However, their willingness to sacrifice for the environment does not extend to addressing climate change and protecting biodiversity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·DateSep 23, 2019