This month, MSU researchers have been making groundbreaking discoveries across various fields. Some researchers worked to uncover secrets of photosynthesis in volcanic algae or rethink the environmental impact of packaging materials. Other researchers gained insight into how social media fosters community for students with disabilities. For even more MSU research, check out msutoday.msu.edu.

MSU research: Social media bridges connection gaps for students with disabilities

MSU’s College of Education published a study in the Journal of Contemporary Issues in Education examining college students’ use of social media and how it fosters connection and community, particularly for those with disabilities.  

MSU researchers glean photosynthetic insights from volcanic hot springs

 

Researchers at MSU are inspecting Cyanidioschyzon merolae, an alga that thrives in the extreme volcanic environment of Italy's Phlegaean Fields to better understand its unique carbon-concentrating mechanisms. Their findings are published in Plant Physiology and could provide insights into improving photosynthesis, with potential applications in biotechnology and agriculture. 

Ready (or not) for love? Your friends likely agree

A study from MSU published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that friends often agree on who is ready for a committed relationship and who isn't. The research also showed that those perceived as less ready tend to have more insecure attachment styles, highlighting the influence of friendships on romantic relationships. 

Henry Ford + MSU researchers collaborate to shift pancreatic cancer outlook from bleak to bright

Researchers from Henry Ford Health and MSU are collaborating to improve pancreatic cancer outcomes, aiming to change its grim prognosis, with a five-year survival rate of just 13%. Through the Henry Ford Health + MSU Health Sciences partnership, scientists like Jennifer and Jeff Klomp are advancing research at the Grand Rapids Research Center, leveraging diverse expertise to develop more effective treatments.  

MSU expert: Using light to hear biology

MSU associate professor Elad Harel's research aims to reveal how microscopic phenomena impact large complex systems. He has developed a technique called BioSonic spectroscopy, which uses light to “listen” to the vibrations of viruses in real time. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research offers a new way to study biological systems dynamically without traditional labeling methods. 

Protected habitats aren’t enough to save endangered mammals, MSU researchers find

 

Tropical forests hold 60% of the worlds known species, but rapid land changes for industrial and agricultural purposes threaten biodiversity. MSU researchers are examining how to better protect endangered species beyond designated habitats. 

MSU scientists discover new sources for ‘the molecule that made the universe’

MSU researchers have uncovered new insights into H3, a key molecule in space that expands our understanding of how stars and other cosmic structures develop. This has led to broadening the horizon for researchers looking to study the origins and formations of other molecules. 

New research finds that certain packaging materials can show 70% lower emissions than alternatives

A research study found that polyethylene packaging generally has a lower environmental impact than alternatives like paper, glass, and aluminum. MSU’s Rafael Auras co-authored the paper that was published in Science of The Total Environment.