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Internet searches reflect vaping's surge

A recent study found that people searching for vaping-related terms are primarily interested in shopping for e-cigarettes rather than health information. This suggests a concerning trend in the growing vaping industry, where marketing and advertising efforts may be targeting consumers without regard for potential health risks.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2016

1 in 4 kids sexually harassed by friends online

A new study led by Michigan State University found that nearly 1 in 4 children experience online sexual harassment at the hands of their own friends. Parents can help mitigate this issue by having open and honest conversations with their kids about online safety and boundaries.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Contemporary Criminal Justice·DateJan 7, 2016

What makes Tom Hanks look like Tom Hanks?

University of Washington researchers have developed a technology to capture the 'persona' of a well-photographed person like Tom Hanks from vast numbers of Internet images. The digital model can be animated to deliver speeches that the real actor never performed, and even transfer expressions and mannerisms onto another person's face.

'Tuning in' to a fast and optimized internet

Researchers have designed a tunable filter that can be integrated onto a photonic chip, enabling flexible optical networks. The device has a record-breaking tuning span of 670 GHz, making it suitable for handling large data volumes and adapting to dynamic changes.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateNov 16, 2015

Using FM to improve wireless networks

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed Wi-FM, a technique that uses ambient FM radio signals to mitigate interference between competing wireless networks. By analyzing usage patterns and adapting to changes, Wi-FM enables devices to harmonize their signals and reduce slow speeds, resulting in improved network performance.

Research shows Cuba's Internet issues

Researchers at Northwestern University found Cuba's Internet connection to be among the poorest in the Americas, with information traveling back from the US taking up to 270 milliseconds. The team is exploring a possible configuration problem or routing policy as the cause of this delay.

Why hasn't he/she replied yet?

A new study from USC Viterbi School of Engineering identifies key factors that influence email response times. The study found that younger people respond faster, but write shorter replies, while older individuals take longer to respond. Additionally, the researchers discovered that platform usage and timing also impact response time.

Dew helps ground cloud computing

A new cloud-dew architecture offers a way to counteract cloud downtime and communication difficulties by providing a buffer between the local user and cloud servers. This lightweight local server retains a copy of the given user's data, making it available with or without an internet connection.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Cloud Computing·DateSep 15, 2015

The power of film

A University of Iowa researcher found that local screenings of Gasland led to an increase in anti-fracking mobilizations and influenced local policymakers to ban hydraulic fracturing. The study used online searches, social media chatter, and mass media coverage to measure the impact of the documentary on public perception.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateSep 2, 2015

Concern over claims about how technology affects young brains

Despite claims by Susan Greenfield that intense internet use harms adolescent brains, experts warn that there is currently no evidence to support these claims. Research suggests that social networking sites can enhance friendships and relationships, while computer games do not lead to impulsiveness or aggression.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 12, 2015

Shoring up Tor

Researchers at MIT and QCRI demonstrate a vulnerability in Tor's design, allowing an adversary to infer a hidden server's location or the source of information reaching a user. However, they also propose defenses, which are being evaluated for inclusion in future versions of the Tor software, to prevent such attacks.