News

Though an estimated 60 million people around the world have atrial fibrillation. It’s been at least 30 years since any new treatments have been developed. This is because researchers haven’t had accurate models of the human heart to study. Thanks to new developments from Michigan State University scientists, that is no longer the case.

A Michigan State University–led study explores how social media might strengthen or weaken echo chambers. The study focused on social media use and the attitudes of young people who leave rural areas to attend university and the attitudes of their parents who stay behind.

But a recent study from researchers at Michigan State University’s Department of Psychology found that narcissism is a universal trait with consistent patterns across cultures. Interestingly, their findings indicate the U.S. is not even in the top five countries with the highest levels of narcissism — and that rates are higher among young adults and men.

As a Beinecke Library Fellow, Sara Doan, spent two weeks immersed in the archives of Yale University’s Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, uncovering materials to inform her forthcoming book, Visualizing Pandemics: A History of Data in Action, that focuses on public health communication and the history of persuasion during disease outbreaks

Michigan State University researchers are helping power Michigan’s dry bean industry from seed to shelf through more than a century of innovation and partnership. From elite bean breeding programs to on-farm trials and sustainability research, MSU’s work boosts yields, quality and global competitiveness. Growers and food companies alike say this research is essential to keeping the industry strong, resilient and profitable.

The cherry harvest wrapped up months ago. But in northern Michigan, some growers are already anticipating the spring resurgence of a tiny raptor that could benefit next season’s crop. The American kestrel is the smallest falcon in the U.S. As birds of prey, kestrels deter smaller birds that like to snack on farmers’ fruit. But new research suggests that these winged security guards may have an additional benefit: food safety.

Scientists have long known that bacteria come in many shapes and sizes, but understanding what those differences mean has remained a major challenge, especially for species that can’t be grown in the lab. Now, a new study led by Nina Wale introduces a groundbreaking method that could change how researchers study bacterial diversity.

From after-school tutoring to STEM projects and community service, Michigan’s 21st Century Learning Centers give thousands of students a safe place to grow. A new $2.6M grant empowers MSU researchers to continue ensuring these programs truly make a difference.