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Social media polls deliberately skew political realities of 2016, 2020 US presidential elections, finds research team led by UMass Amherst

Research by the University of Massachusetts Amherst team found that social media polls consistently predicted a landslide election win for Trump in both 2016 and 2020 presidential contests. The polls were predominantly crafted by males with a bias for Trump, and purchasing votes from troll farms was common.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Quantitative Description Digital Media·DateJul 16, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Pusan National University researchers propose backscatter communication technique for low-power internet of things communication

A research team at Pusan National University proposes a novel backscatter communication system that utilizes transfer learning and polarization diversity to achieve 40% energy efficiency gains compared to conventional systems. The system enables integrated sensing and communication technology, facilitating smart cities, efficient indus...

SourcePusan National University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Web-based cognitive behavioral treatment for bulimia nervosa

A web-based cognitive behavioral self-help intervention effectively decreases eating disorder symptoms in individuals with bulimia nervosa, reducing illness-related burden. The digital intervention has potential as a complement to established treatments for bulimia nervosa.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 3, 2024

Wireless receiver blocks interference for better mobile device performance

Researchers developed a novel millimeter-wave multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) wireless receiver architecture that can block stronger spatial interference, improving device performance. The new design uses a special circuit to target and cancel out unwanted signals earlier in the receiver chain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 27, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

New security loophole allows spying on internet users visiting websites and watching videos

Researchers at Graz University of Technology discovered a security loophole that enables tracking users' online activities in detail by monitoring internet connection speed fluctuations. The 'SnailLoad' attack can bypass protective measures like firewalls and browser privacy modes without malicious code or data traffic interception.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 24, 2024

Satellite “megaconstellations” may jeopardize recovery of ozone hole

The launch of thousands of satellites may jeopardize the recovery of the ozone hole. Aluminum oxides, formed when old satellites burn up in Earth's atmosphere, destroy stratospheric ozone. A new study estimates that by 2027, every year will release around 912 metric tons of aluminum into space.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 12, 2024

Human evolution and online morality

The internet exposes users to extreme morally relevant stimuli, causing empathy overload and public shaming. Research is needed on platform design features that sustain attention without inducing negative externalities.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 11, 2024

Great news, parents: You do have power over your tweens’ screen use

Researchers found that restricting screens in bedrooms and at mealtimes has the biggest impact on reducing screen time and addictive behavior. Parents who model healthy practices at home also see a decrease in their child's screen use. Limiting and monitoring screen time can reduce usage by 1.29 hours and 0.83 hours, respectively.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPediatric Research·DateJun 5, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Internet addiction affects the behavior and development of adolescents

A new study found that internet addiction in adolescents can lead to changes in the brain's neural networks, resulting in addictive behaviors and tendencies. The study, published in PLOS Mental Health, reviewed 12 articles involving 237 young people aged 10-19 with a formal diagnosis of internet addiction.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Mental Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 4, 2024

Banners backfire: Misinformation impact on search results

A study published in Scientific Reports found that most people pick out and click on accurate information during internet searches. However, warning banners about misinformation actually decreased trust in these accurate results, while having little effect on distrust of misleading information.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 30, 2024

Quality over quantity for screen time - study

A study published in World Psychiatry found that the content we consume online has a greater impact on our health than the amount of time spent online. The report highlights the importance of taking an individualised approach to how the Internet affects mental health, cognition and social functioning.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalWorld Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 29, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Study sheds light on shady world of text message phishing scams

Researchers collected an unprecedented amount of data on SMS phishing attacks, identifying 35,128 unique campaigns and 600 distinct operations. They also found that phishers use mainstream servers, URL-shortening apps, and web infrastructure to support their operations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

A simple internet with significant possibilities

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully demonstrated the first metro-area quantum computer network in Boston, using existing telecommunication fiber to send hacker-proof information via photons. The breakthrough overcomes signal loss issues, enabling the creation of a secure quantum internet.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Rice’s Mamouras wins NSF CAREER Award

Konstantinos Mamouras, assistant professor of computer science at Rice University, has been awarded a $547,555 NSF CAREER Award to decentralize IoT applications and relieve network congestion. He aims to introduce novel programming techniques that enable efficient and reliable IoT development.

SourceRice University·DateMay 14, 2024

Transgender preteens report 13 hours of daily screen time

A new study found that transgender preteens reported 13 hours of daily recreational screen time, which was 4.5 hours more than their cisgender peers. The researchers highlight the importance of managing the risks associated with excessive screen use for this vulnerable population.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMay 13, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and perception of healthcare providers regarding halal pharmaceuticals

A survey of healthcare providers in the Middle East reveals a good understanding of halal pharmaceuticals, but gaps in knowledge, particularly about ingredients and aligning with Islamic principles. Personalized education and culturally sensitive care can address patient concerns and improve healthcare outcomes for all patients.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Public Health Journal·DateApr 30, 2024

International balance of power determined by Chinese control over emerging technologies, study shows

A new study by the University of Exeter finds that China's growing use of emerging technologies in civilian and military domains has escalated its stakes as a threat and near-peer competitor to the US. Western states have responded with diplomatic efforts, bans, and restrictions to undermine China's power.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalChinese Political Science Review·TypeObservational study·DateApr 22, 2024

A win–win approach: maximizing Wi-Fi performance using game theory

A team of researchers has developed a novel approach using game theory to maximize Wi-Fi performance by optimizing user positions. By analyzing the incentives for all users, their potential game model condenses the impact of new users and inter-user interference into a single function.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 22, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Internet can achieve quantum speed with light saved as sound

Scientists create a small drum that stores data sent with light in its sonic vibrations, allowing for secure transmission over long distances. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize quantum computing and enable an internet with quantum speed and security.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 15, 2024

Security vulnerability in browser interface allows computer access via graphics card

Researchers at Graz University of Technology discovered three side-channel attacks on WebGPU browser interface, allowing them to access a computer's cache memory and extract sensitive information. The attacks were fast enough to succeed during normal surfing behavior, highlighting the need for browsers to address GPU security and priva...

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 15, 2024

The future of online security safeguarded by AI and metasurfaces

The team created ten holograms with varying colors and shapes using an inverse design technique driven by artificial intelligence. They integrated an oblique helicoidal cholesterics-based wavelength modulator to accurately implement the designed holograms, enabling the establishment of an optical security system.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 14, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

How autocrats control internet traffic out of sight

Researchers found that autocratic regimes have a higher degree of control over transit networks, enabling state-led monitoring and control of internet traffic. This is achieved through state-owned entities dominating transit networks in poorer but politically similar countries.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 10, 2024

With VECSELs towards the quantum internet

Researchers have developed VECSELs with record output power and absolute frequency stability, overcoming the hurdle of spectral differences between glass fibers and quantum bits. These lasers enable low-loss transmission and precise frequency conversion for quantum internet applications.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·DateApr 5, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Patient engagement and surgical outcomes improved by digital health platform

A digital health platform with one-on-one telehealth coaches significantly improves patient adherence to pre-surgical preparation and post-surgical recovery guidance. Patients who used the platform had shorter hospital stays and lower risk of readmission compared to those who didn't use it.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateApr 4, 2024

Users actively seek and share child sexual abuse material on Tor – but help is available to those willing to stop

A recent study on the Tor network found that one in five onion domains shared child sexual abuse material. The researchers also discovered that users sought CSAM through popular search engines and found that viewing violent material correlates with addiction, while seeking help is often hindered by lack of resources.

SourceTampere University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 3, 2024

New commentary: Combatting digital redlining is imperative for advancing health equity

A new commentary from Boston University School of Public Health emphasizes the need to address digital redlining, which disproportionately affects people of color, low-income communities, and rural populations. The authors propose standardizing social determinants of health screenings to include questions about broadband access.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 20, 2024

Research exposes security, privacy and safety issues in female technology apps used to track fertility, menopause and monthly cycle

Research highlights significant security, privacy and safety issues in female-oriented technologies, including period-tracker apps and fertility smart devices. The study found inadequate regulations and industry practices in data collection and sharing, posing a potential threat to users' sensitive information.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalFrontiers in the Internet of Things·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

The atlas of internet surveillance

A German-American research team created an 'atlas of internet surveillance' by mapping the global ownership of internet service providers. The study shows that authoritarian states control more influential internet service providers than democracies, and often use state-owned transit networks to surveil and censor content. Additionally...

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 5, 2024

The YouTube algorithm isn’t radicalizing people

A new study from the Computational Social Science Lab at the University of Pennsylvania found that YouTube's recommendation system has a moderating effect on user behavior. Contrary to popular narratives, users' own political interests and preferences play the primary role in what they choose to watch.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

UC3M and IMDEA Networks present the SLICES research infrastructure

The SLICES research infrastructure, launched by UC3M and IMDEA Networks, provides high-quality experimentation services with emerging technologies like 5G/6G, IoT, NFV, or Cloud Computing. This Spanish node aims to support the scientific community in experimenting with cutting-edge resources.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateJan 29, 2024

People with suicidal thoughts help each other through tough times

Researchers found that people with suicidal thoughts use closed peer groups on Danish social media to navigate the healthcare system and receive emotional support. These online communities provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and connect with others who understand their experiences.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMental Health & Prevention·TypeCase study·DateJan 24, 2024

Incheon National University researchers propose a web 3.0 streaming architecture and marketplace

Incheon National University researchers developed a web 3.0 streaming architecture that reduces delay, improves user experience, and ensures transparency and fairness for real-time services. The proposed system uses Inter-Planetary file system (IPFS) to enable blockchain-based peer-to-peer data storage and caching.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Services Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 23, 2024

Light it up: reimagining the optical diode effect

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered a magnetoelectric antiferromagnet LiNiPO4 that exhibits large nonreciprocal absorption of light. The material's unique property allows for the switchable optical diode effect, potentially enabling more compact and efficient optical isolators.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Advancement in thermoelectricity could light up the Internet of Things

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a new thermoelectric material that can improve the efficiency of temperature-to-electricity conversion, enabling more sustainable IoT applications. The innovation has potential to power environmental monitoring systems and wearable devices.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2024

University of Cincinnati Blue Ash students publish research on smartphone usage

A recent study by University of Cincinnati Blue Ash students found that individuals with clinically significant levels of OCD are more prone to problematic smartphone use. The research also highlighted the impact of fear of missing out, boredom proneness, and inhibitory anxiety on the relationship between OCD and PSU.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJan 11, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Influencers’ vulnerabilities: a double-edged sword

A Cornell University-led research finds that social media platforms and the metrics that reward content creators for revealing their innermost selves open them to identity-based harassment. Influencers use platform filtering systems and other strategies to manage vulnerabilities, but the authors caution that internet hate and harassmen...

SourceCornell University·JournalEuropean Journal of Cultural Studies·DateJan 2, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

No ‘smoking gun’ mental health harm from internet: landmark Oxford survey

A major international study of two million individuals in 168 countries found smaller associations than expected between internet adoption and psychological well-being. Life satisfaction increased more for females over the period, but no specific demographic patterns were identified among internet users.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalClinical Psychological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 27, 2023

AI can 'lie and BS' like its maker, but still not intelligent like humans

A paper by Anthony Chemero explains how AI thinking differs from human thinking, highlighting the limitations of large language models trained on biased data. Despite generating impressive text, these models can make up facts and produce biased outputs due to their lack of embodiment and understanding of context.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 20, 2023

’Indoor solar’ to power the Internet of Things

Researchers developed indoor solar panels to power smart home devices, identifying efficient PV materials and minimizing heat production. Gallium indium phosphide shows promise but is expensive, while perovskite minerals and organic films offer a cost-effective solution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateNov 9, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

How accurate was ChatGPT for common allergy myths? Pretty accurate

A recent study assessed ChatGPT's accuracy in identifying common allergy myths. The AI model correctly identified myths as true or false with an overall accuracy rate of 91%, with some myths being more accurate than others.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

21st century Total Wars will enlist technologies in ways we don’t yet understand, writes Jordan Richard Schoenherr

The Ukraine War is a turning point in modern warfare, as new technologies like AI, drones, and cyberweapons are being used to devastating effect. Researchers like Jordan Richard Schoenherr warn that our understanding of warfare is outdated, and we need to rethink the role of sociotechnical systems in strategic thinking.

SourceConcordia University·JournalIEEE Technology and Society Magazine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 8, 2023

Conversational artificial intelligence/large language model can accurately diagnose and triage health conditions, without introducing racial and ethnic biases

A study published in JMIR Medical Education found that GPT-4 can accurately diagnose and triage health conditions comparable to board-certified physicians. The model's performance does not vary by patient race or ethnicity, providing a promising tool for healthcare systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2023

In online news, do mouse clicks speak louder than words?

A new study found that people's reported media preferences often don't match their actual news consumption, highlighting the need for more accurate measurement. The researchers also discovered that those with divergent media preferences tend to visit similar online news outlets, challenging common assumptions about media polarization.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateNov 2, 2023

Most websites do not publish privacy policies, researchers say

A study by Penn State researchers found that only one-third of online organizations publish their privacy policies, highlighting the need for improvement. The researchers used a large-scale investigation to analyze the availability of privacy policies on millions of websites, revealing significant challenges in compliance.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 30, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Engineers from the UMA develop more accessible and versatile next-gen “digital twins”

Researchers from the UMA developed an open-source platform called Open Twins to create more accessible and versatile digital twins. This platform enables the simulation of real-world assets based on virtual replicas, predicting future behaviors and detecting anomalies, leading to more efficient companies that make data-driven decisions.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalComputers in Industry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 27, 2023