An article co-authored by Dr. Andrew D. Sweet, assistant professor of evolutionary biology, was recently published in Communications Biology. The researchers found that parasitic lice evolved fragmented mitochondrial genomes many times over the last 60 million years. In most other animals, these fragmented genomes are associated with cell death and aging, but lice seem to function normally. The results could challenge assumptions about how eukaryotic cells function.

Congratulations to Jo Ann Nalley, director, Childhood Services, who was recognized last evening as Arkansan of the Day by KTHV 11 and featured in today’s Jonesboro Sun. Monday also was proclaimed Jo Ann Nalley Day in Jonesboro by Mayor Harold Copenhaver. At the 50th anniversary Early Childhood Education Conference at Red Wolf Convention Center, she was saluted for her leadership in professional development for early childhood education practitioners.

Two short stories by Dr. Khem K. Aryal, associate professor of English, have been published in recent weeks. "Shopping for Glasses" is in the spring issue of South Carolina Review, while the other story, "Overstayed," was published in Reed Magazine, California's oldest literary journal. Both of these stories are part of Aryal’s short-story collection, The In-Betweeners, which will be published next year by Braddock Avenue Books.

Three music faculty members who comprise the NordesTrio have been recognized for their excellence in craft and creativity. Their performance of “Braziliana” won a silver medal, classical category, in the Global Music Awards competition. The group members are (from left) Dr. Juli Buxbaum, assistant professor of horn; Dr. Lauren Schack Clark, professor of piano; and Dr. Nairam Simoes, assistant professor of trumpet. Award details are online.

Dr. Steve Green, professor of soil and water conservation, made a presentation during a rice production field day conducted by the Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center. Green discussed soil health with the field day participants. The center research is being funded in part by a grant from the Anheuser-Busch Foundation, which supports the Arkansas Discovery Farm Program’s network of working farms that document the impact of conservation.