Conservation of a species is difficult – mostly because as numbers dwindle, the likelihood of running into an endangered or threatened animal gets slimmer. When you’re talking about an animal that is secretive to begin with, the challenge is even greater. Recently, a group of alligator snapping turtles was discovered in an unlikely place: the metro of Houston, … [Read more...] about Turtles find unlikely home in Houston

The statistics are staggering. Doctors prescribe opioids and people become addicted. But what if there was an effective, safer alternative to beat the pain? Dr. Paul Durham, distinguished professor of biology at Missouri State University and the director of the Center for Biomedical and Life Sciences at the Jordan Valley Innovation Center, shared his research of the vagus nerve … [Read more...] about Center tests device to combat opioid crisis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 64,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2016. Opioids now cause about three-fourths of all overdose deaths. One solution to address this deadly crisis is reducing dependence on prescription painkillers through Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). Dr. Paul Durham, distinguished professor of biology at Missouri … [Read more...] about Reducing opioid use through VNS

In Hollywood, death is usually dramatic and loud. But for most living organisms, it’s slow and silent. To keep an eye on the health of several at-risk species, Missouri State University’s biology department has a contract with the National Park Service (NPS). Since 2004, this relationship has allowed students and faculty to conduct research at 15 national parks. They … [Read more...] about Health of many species studied through parks partnership