Suicides spiked after death of Robin Williams
After Robin Williams' suicide in 2014, researchers found a 10% increase in overall suicides, particularly among men aged 30-44. Suffocation suicides also increased by 32% compared to other methods.
News Media
Articles tagged with News Media
Media research: Time not up for newsprint
A new study reveals that younger readers are spending nearly twice as much time reading print newspapers as they do online. Despite the rise of digital distribution, the young are actually spending less time with newspaper brands overall, with a 40% drop in attention from younger and middle-aged readers since the turn of the millennium.
Conspiracy thinking less likely with greater news media literacy, study suggests
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that individuals with higher news media literacy are less likely to endorse conspiracy theories. The study surveyed nearly 400 participants and found that those who know more about the news media are less susceptible to conspiracy theories, regardless of their political affiliation.
Sleep deprivation may increase risk of cardiovascular disease in older women
A study published by the American Heart Association found that older women who don't get enough sleep are more likely to have poor cardiovascular health. Women in 'sleep debt' were also more likely to be obese and have hypertension.
Plant-based diet associated with less heart failure risk
A predominantly plant-based diet was associated with a 42% decreased risk of developing heart failure over four years compared to those who ate fewer plant-based foods. The American Heart Association recommends consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
Driving the conversation: FSU researcher finds media impacts public expression
A study by Florida State University researchers, led by Benjamin Schneer, demonstrates that the news media causes Americans to take public stands on issues and join national policy conversations. The research found a 62.7% increase in social media discussion about a major topic when just three outlets reported on it.
Most Americans get science news from general outlets more say specialty outlets more accurate
A new Pew Research Center survey explores Americans' science news habits and their views on sources of science news. Most Americans (54%) regularly get their science news from general news outlets, while about half say specialty sources such as museums, magazines, and documentaries provide more accurate information.
Media microaggressions against female olympic athletes up 40 percent
Researchers found a significant rise in discriminatory language against female athletes in the media, with 96 instances of microaggressions reported during the 2016 Olympics. The study highlights the need for education to reduce microaggressions and promote inclusivity in sports media coverage.
'Who needs a flu shot? -- not me'
A study by Hyunmin Lee found that individuals tend to think the media's coverage of flu epidemics influences others more than themselves. This perception counteracts the message's intended behavior, leading to decreased vaccination intentions.
AGU Fall Meeting: Groundwater resources around the world could be depleted by 2050s
New research predicts that aquifers in parts of India, southern Europe, and the US could be depleted within 2040-2060, affecting up to 1.8 billion people. Heavy irrigation regions in dry climates face the greatest threat of depletion.
AGU Fall Meeting: Syrian refugees face new obstacle: Turkish earthquakes
New research highlights the importance of including physical, political, cultural and socio-economic factors in natural hazard risk assessments. Syrian refugees living in seismically active regions of Turkey could boost the death toll from a major earthquake by up to 20 percent.
Despite upbeat headlines, Detroit still reeling
A new study finds that Detroit's poverty rate has increased, unemployment remains high, and public education is declining, highlighting the gap between the city's core and neighborhoods.
Coolness, control and community draw people to Pinterest
A new study by Penn State researchers found that Pinterest users are drawn to the platform's unique features, including easy-to-follow instructions and intuitive navigation. The study also revealed that users pin content to express their interests and creativity.
Link between weather and chronic pain is emerging through innovative smartphone research
A mass participation study involving over 9000 UK participants found a correlation between sunny days, rainfall, and pain levels. The study suggests that understanding how weather influences pain could lead to new treatments.
New research shows link between extended GP surgery hours and fewer A&E visits
Research from University of Manchester shows link between extended GP hours and fewer A&E visits, but cost savings may not outweigh benefits.
Gravitational waves detected from second pair of colliding black holes
Scientists have detected gravitational waves from the merger of two black holes, 14 and 8 times the mass of the sun, producing a single massive spinning black hole. The detection provides new insights into the nature of gravity and the origins of these cosmic events.
Women are seen more than heard in online news
The study found men's views and voices are represented more in online news than women's, while women appear proportionally more in images. Women feature more in fashion and entertainment articles, but are least present in sports and politics topics. The research highlights the marginalization of women's voices in the media.
How can peers, parents, schools and new media stop bullying?
A multi-tiered approach to stopping bullying is proposed, with recommendations for peers, parents, schools, and new media platforms. Peers can defend victims by sharing emotional reactions and offering support, while parents can facilitate communication about incidents through training.
Mass media coverage helps slow down disease spread in an epidemic
Researchers found that more news reports resulted in fewer hospital visits and vice versa, indicating media coverage can help halt disease spread. The duration of coverage also mattered, with longer coverage leading to further behavior changes and fewer new infections.
Smartphone compatible listening device may rival gold standard stethoscope
A new smartphone-compatible listening device, HeartBuds, has been shown to work as well as widely used FDA-approved traditional and digital stethoscopes in identifying heart murmurs. The study also found that the disposable stethoscope performed poorly on detecting abnormal sounds, making it a less reliable option.
College football linemen face greater risk of heart problems
Researchers found a higher incidence of high blood pressure in college linemen compared to non-linemen, with a relative decrease in subclinical left ventricular function. The study suggests that football players in lineman positions face a greater risk of specific heart problems due to physiologic differences between the group.
Cardiac rehab coverage expands for chronic heart failure patients with symptoms
The expanded coverage includes patients on optimal medical therapy and those with less than 35% ejection fraction. Newly eligible patients have lower hospital readmissions compared to those previously eligible for cardiac rehabilitation.
Bystander CPR on kids has increased, survival odds improve for some
Researchers analyzed 2,176 children with cardiac arrest and found that just under half received bystander CPR, associated with an 11% likelihood of neurologically favorable survival. The majority of cardiac arrests occurred at home, but infants did not benefit from bystander CPR.
Tobacco use fueled by e-cigs, hookah remains high among US Hispanics/Latinos
Research on Hispanic/Latino adults found substantial e-cigarette and hookah use, with younger users more likely to use these products. Easy access, flavored taste, and socializing were cited reasons for their appeal.
Lowering China's pollution could prevent about 900,000 cardiovascular deaths by 2030
A study found that lowering China's air pollution to 2008 Olympics levels could prevent 304,000 stroke deaths and 619,000 coronary heart disease deaths by 2030. Achieving the World Health Organization's pollution goal would yield greater life year gains.
Achieving Life's Simple 7 reduces more than heart disease
A study of 6,814 adults found that achieving the seven heart-health metrics of the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 reduces rates of non-cardiovascular diseases overall. Those in the ideal category had a 20% lower risk for cancer and a 62% lower risk for chronic kidney disease.
Wealthiest -- not sickest -- patients may have edge in organ transplants
Research found that patients who listed at multiple centers had higher transplant rates and lower death rates while waiting. Wealthier patients were more likely to be insured and had the resources to list at multiple centers, addressing long waiting times and organ shortage issues.
Hispanics largely undertreated for high cholesterol
According to a study of 16,415 U.S. Hispanic/Latino adults, only one-third to one-half are eligible for and receiving statin therapy, highlighting a significant undertreatment gap.
Cardiovascular disease on the rise as fewer people achieve ideal cardiovascular health
A study found that fewer people achieved ideal cardiovascular health scores, with a decrease in healthy metrics such as body mass index, blood pressure, and glucose levels. People who experienced significant changes in their health scores were at higher risk of diagnosed cardiovascular disease.
Partners of heart defibrillator patients concerned about resuming sex
Research at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2015 found that intimate partners of people with heart defibrillators are concerned about resuming sexual activity. After discussing their concerns, partners reported a significant decrease in fears related to cardiac arrest and ICD discharge during sex.
Moving to a walking neighborhood is good for your blood pressure
A new study found that moving from a low-walkability neighborhood to a high-walkability one significantly lowers the risk of high blood pressure. Researchers compared adults who made this move and found a 54% lower risk of developing hypertension.
Just 1 energy drink may boost heart disease risk in young adults
A study of 25 healthy young adults found that drinking one energy drink increased blood pressure and norepinephrine levels, which could predispose otherwise healthy individuals to cardiovascular risk. The findings suggest that commercially available energy drinks may be a contributing factor to heart disease in young adults.
Eating more homemade meals may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes
Research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2015 found that eating about two homemade lunches or dinners a week can lower Type 2 diabetes risk by 13%. The study analyzed data from nearly 58,000 women and 41,000 men over 36 years.
Kids learn about healthy lifestyle in school-based garden program
A school-based garden program in Nevada taught children about the value of healthy nutrition and physical activity, leading to increased awareness and behavior change. The program also included parent workshops and a farmer's market, resulting in improved knowledge of daily recommended screen time and participation in physical activity.
Sudden cardiac arrest? Can't find an AED? There may be an app for that
A new smartphone application called AED-SOS helps connect rescuers with lifesaving automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest outside hospitals. Researchers found that the app can shorten the time from recognizing out-of-hospital cardiac arrests to delivering AEDs by an average of 69 seconds.
The media love men... bad news for women
A study published in the American Sociological Review found that media coverage is dominated by men, with 82% of names being men's. Despite significant social and economic advances, women continue to be underrepresented in media coverage.
New study explores how millennials consume paid media content
A new study found that 87% of Millennials use paid content for entertainment or news, with popular services including movies and TV, music, and Facebook. Socioeconomic differences were not a major indicator of paid content usage.
Cheaters sometimes prosper -- on Facebook
Concordia researchers investigate how social media gamers cheat in games like FarmVille, with some defining cheating as breaking social norms. The study found that most respondents admitted to cheating, including purchasing currency or creating multiple accounts.
New study identifies four distinct types of millennial news consumers
A new study reveals that Millennials are not a monolithic group, but rather four distinct types with different information consumption habits. The study identifies key characteristics of each group, including their age, interests, and media use.
Half of the most popular news on Twitter is not covered by traditional news media sources
A study found that Twitter's trending topics often don't reach traditional news media, perpetuating socioeconomic and cultural biases. In four countries, over half of trending topics were reported first on Twitter, while less than 10% appeared in mainstream newspapers.
Researchers find mass killings, school shootings are contagious
A study by Arizona State University researchers found that mass killings and school shootings in the US are contagious, with a contagion period of approximately 13 days. The analysis revealed that roughly 20-30% of such tragedies are inspired by previous events, highlighting the complex dynamics underlying these incidents.
Researchers link Ebola news coverage to public panic using Google, Twitter data
Researchers found that news media created public panic during the 2014 U.S. Ebola outbreak, with tweets and Google searches peaking in response to news clips. The study used social media data to show how news media manipulated public emotions, highlighting its potential impact on future outbreaks.
Grant funds innovative news follows to Washington state tragedies
A WSU study will place microphones in popular gathering spots of traumatized Washington State communities to determine effective journalism that respects community members. The project aims to provide a platform for community voices and handle the emotional trauma faced by journalists covering disasters.
Buyer's remorse -- model shows people demand all that bad news
A new model by Washington State University researchers suggests that consumers derive greater happiness from reading negative news than positive news. This tendency creates a societal preference for negative news stories, with news outlets responding by reporting more bad news to attract readers.
How Millennials get their news
Millennials consume news across various platforms, including social media, for civic, problem-solving, and entertainment purposes. The study finds that 70% of their social media feeds contain a diverse mix of viewpoints.
NUS study shows factors influencing which conservation news get shared or liked in social media
A recent NUS study found that online news articles about climate change and charismatic mammals are more likely to be shared or liked on Facebook and Twitter. Conservation researchers highlight the importance of engaging with the general public through effective online content delivery.
Vast majority of scientists believe in engagement on public policy debates
A survey by Pew Research Center in collaboration with AAAS found that 87% of scientists believe they should take an active role in public policy debates. Scientists use various methods to connect with the public, including social media and blogging, with 47% using social media to talk about science or read about scientific developments.
Dehydration linked to worsening stroke conditions
Research presented at American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2015 found that dehydration worsens stroke conditions. Almost half of ischemic stroke patients were dehydrated when admitted to the hospital, with hydrated patients experiencing better recovery outcomes and lower risk of worsening conditions.
Motorized cycling may prime brain for relearning after stroke
Research suggests that motorized cycling can prime the brain for relearning everyday tasks and improve motor function in stroke patients. In a small study, 17 stroke survivors showed a 34% improvement in motor skills after exercising on a motorized stationary bike compared to voluntary cycling or no aerobic exercise training.
Low vitamin D predicts more severe strokes, poor health post-stroke
Research found that patients with low vitamin D levels suffered larger areas of dead tissue resulting from obstruction of the blood supply compared to those with normal levels. Additionally, a 10 ng/mL reduction in vitamin D level was associated with a decreased chance for healthy recovery after stroke
Stroke patients receiving better, more timely care
A new study published at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference found that 1 in 4 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with tPA were transferred quickly to certified stroke centers. The study suggests that these transfers may lead to improved patient outcomes, as time is brain in stroke care.
Mobile stroke units improve response times, outcomes for patients
Researchers report improved diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients with Mobile Stroke Treatment Units, reducing median alarm-to-CT scan completion times by 41 minutes. The units provide pre-hospital evaluation and treatment, allowing for earlier clot-busting medication administration and better outcomes.
Stroke survivors more likely to make dangerous driving errors
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that stroke survivors are more likely to commit driving errors, particularly during complex tasks, and made a greater number of hazardous errors in simulated driving conditions compared to healthy drivers.
Most exaggeration in health news is already present in academic press releases
Researchers analyzed press releases and news stories for exaggerated advice, causal claims, and inference from animal findings. They found that 40% of press releases contained exaggerated advice, while 33% of peer-reviewed journal articles did. Improving academic press releases could reduce misleading health news.
Speedy heart transplant for kids better than waiting for perfect match
Children who receive a heart transplant quickly are predicted to have better quality-adjusted survival rates, even if they have antibodies that may attack the new heart. Transplanting with the first suitable heart is also cheaper than waiting for a better-matched organ.
Surgeons use 3-D printed model of heart to treat patients with disorders
Researchers used 3D printing to create detailed heart models of three patients with complex congenital heart defects. Surgeons successfully repaired severe abnormalities in all three patients, potentially extending their lifespan by decades. This emerging technology has the potential to revolutionize surgical planning and treatment.
Unhealthy behavior may be cross-generational
A study found that children who spend more time in front of screens are at increased risk for obesity and heart disease. The researchers suggest reducing parental screen time may help lower the risk in children. Parents' behavior can have a lasting impact on their child's health.
New leadless pacemaker safe, reliable
Researchers have developed a new self-contained leadless cardiac pacemaker that reduces complications associated with traditional pacemaker systems. The device was implanted in eight patients with no complications in an average of 41 minutes and demonstrated reliable performance during follow-up sessions.
Healthy diet linked to decreased blood-pressure measurements
A recent study by the American Heart Association found that following a healthy diet can lower blood pressure measurements. The research, which included over 12,000 volunteers, suggested that eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be an effective way to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Home exercise can ease hopelessness in coronary heart disease patients
A small study found that home exercise can significantly reduce feelings of hopelessness in patients with coronary heart disease. Patients who walked or biked at home for at least three days a week experienced a 12% reduction in state hopelessness scores, even when considering other factors such as depression.