VOL. 37, NO. 13 - MARCH 16, 2006

Researchers find black mold toxins can affect smell

Photo by Derrick L. Turner Rising Red Cedar signals spring Swirling rapids rush through the usually calm Red Cedar River just north of Spartan Stadium. Recent heavy rains combined with melting snow have caused the river to rise, spilling well over banks and intruding on walking paths and the W. J. Beal Botanical Garden. While forecasters are still predicting winter weather for East Lansing later this week, optimists see the rising waters as an annual sign that spring and warmer temperatures will soon arrive on campus for good.

MSU researchers in the Center for Integrative Toxicology have found that certain toxins produced by black mold are capable of killing nerve cells, essential for the sense of smell, that are located in the nasal passages of mice.
(Full Story)

'U' plays role at national science meeting

If science needs an audience, AAAS can be thought of as a really big stage. (Full Story)

Human Resources launches 'U' applicant page

Applying for MSU support staff positions just got easier.
(Full Story)

Professor's book on slavery takes $25,000 prize

Laurent Dubois, associate professor of history, had known for months that he'd bagged one of the biggest cash prizes in his field. But that didn't make the Feb. 23 award ceremony for the $25,000 Frederick Douglass Book Prize at the Yale Club of New York any less enjoyable. (Full Story)

Faculty Conversation with Rick Cole, Chairperson, Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Retailing

(Full Story)

'U' new Web site improves usage and speed

On Feb. 27, MSU launched a new version of its main Web site, www.msu.edu. The new site features improved visual design, faster paths to the information that people seek and compliance with current Web standards. (Full Story)

Food, farming help habitat, reduce global warming

When people hear the word “agriculture,” most think of food. But the benefits of agriculture are much more than farm fresh corn or dairy products. Now scientists are investigating how farmers can manage their land to offer everyone more environmental benefits, and whether farmers could be paid for providing these benefits. (Full Story)

Researchers develop background check system for care

The first phase of a statewide background check system developed by MSU will go live April 1, allowing employers to better screen potential employees who work with patients in long-term care settings. (Full Story)

Climate change, terrorism risks of 21st century

What sounds like the opening line of a joke — “what do a melting polar cap and a suicide bomber have in common?” — is actually at the center of how society understands and responds better to risk. (Full Story)

Event to explore service-learning

New opportunities for faculty, students and other members of the MSU community to talk about service-learning community opportunities and experiences will be part of the university’s Making Connection, Academic Service-Learning Conference. (Full Story)