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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

The brain is 'programmed' for learning from people we like

The brain is wired to learn from people who are liked, making connections and updates more likely when faced with information from familiar individuals. This study shows how our brains draw inferences and remember selectively, influencing polarization and knowledge resistance.

SourceLund University·JournalCommunications Psychology·DateFeb 15, 2024

Using written records – and tweets – as a roadmap for plant disease spread

A study using historic and modern writing reveals more information about the effects and spread of Phytophthora infestans, a plant pathogen that caused the 1840s Irish potato famine. Researchers tracked the disease's spread across the US and Canada, finding it affected multiple states and provinces between 1843-45.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 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.

Customers prefer text over video to provide service feedback

A study found that customers are more willing to provide written compliments and complaints using AI-powered tablets rather than leaving videos. The researchers suggest that methods requiring 'low self-disclosure' would work better for customer feedback.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateFeb 12, 2024

White people more likely to confront authors of racist online posts to set discussion rules

A recent study suggests that reframing confrontation goals from changing beliefs to setting social norms increases white people's willingness to challenge racist online posts. The study found that participants were more likely to confront those they knew well, such as friends and family members, rather than strangers or acquaintances.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNew Media & Society·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 12, 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.

Social media can reveal who needs the most help

A study found that people from ethnic minorities show clearer signs of depression and lower adaptability on average. The researchers also discovered correlations between area poverty levels and the proportion of ethnic minorities exhibiting these traits.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalHeliyon·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 8, 2024

Perceived experts as anti-vaccine influencers

A study finds that individuals with biomedical expertise are influential anti-vaccine advocates on Twitter, sharing misinformation and sowing doubt. The research highlights the need for public education, credential verification, and disciplinary actions against health professionals spreading false information.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 6, 2024

Influence of voting advice web tools is limited during elections with authoritarian candidates, study shows

A new study published in Electoral Studies found that voting advice applications have short-term effects on voter attitudes and choices in competitive authoritarian regimes. However, these effects are relatively small and dissipate within two months, limiting their practical value in such contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Body positive images on social media improve how men view their bodies

A new study from the University of Surrey reveals that exposure to body-positive images on social media increases body satisfaction in both men and women, while idealized imagery decreases it. Body positivity is perceived as promoting plus-size bodies more than other characteristics, but can still be beneficial for all body types.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalActa Psychologica·DateJan 30, 2024

Predictive model detects potential extremist propaganda on social media

Researchers developed a predictive model to detect users and content related to Islamic State extremists on social media, identifying potential propaganda messages and their characteristics. The study's findings can help social media companies and law enforcement agencies track and prevent the spread of extremist propaganda.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Network Analysis and Mining·DateJan 26, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Disinformation can reinforce polarization in society

New research from Aalto University reveals how disinformation and conspiracy theories persist despite external threats, bridging partisan divides only when shared democratic norms are condemned. The study found that social bubbles built on disinformation can be difficult to break, even in the face of dramatic events.

SourceAalto University·JournalEPJ Data Science·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

How does materialism in social media trigger stress and unhappiness?

Researchers found that materialistic attitudes and passive social media use are associated with increased stress, addictive behavior, and decreased life satisfaction. This study suggests a downward spiral of materialism leading to negative mental health outcomes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalTelematics and Informatics Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2024

Online versus reality: social media influences perceptions

New Cornell University research examines how people form impressions about individuals from social media posts. The study found that viewers' ratings of Facebook users often differed significantly from the users' self-perceptions, particularly when updates included photos or links. Cultural norms also played a role in shaping these per...

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study examines how ad strategies of the Great Depression can inform today's crisis communications

Researchers studied newspaper ads from Dust Bowl states in 1934 to understand how businesses and companies reached consumers during a dual crisis. The study found that essential services used informational approaches while nonessential services relied on sensory appeals, offering valuable lessons for current mass media during emergencies.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournalism History·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 16, 2024

News media trigger conflict for romantic couples with differing political views

A study by University of Illinois professor Emily Van Duyn found that news media consumption can trigger conflicts in couples with differing political views. Couples often struggle to decide which media to follow, leading to disagreements over news sources and content. This conflict can also affect the relationship, causing individuals...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPolitical Communication·TypeSurvey·DateJan 12, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Virginia Tech researchers find drugs used to treat Type 2 diabetes reduce alcohol cravings, use in individuals with obesity

A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, can decrease cravings for alcohol and lead to reduced consumption in individuals with obesity. The findings add to a growing literature on the potential of GLP-1 agonists to curb dangerous drinking habits.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 8, 2024

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

Social media platforms generate billions in annual ad revenue from US youth

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health estimates that social media platforms generated nearly $11 billion in ad revenue from U.S.-based users younger than 18 in 2022. The study found that YouTube derived the greatest ad revenue from users under 18, followed by Instagram and Facebook.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 27, 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.

Emissions and evasions

A new study found that fossil fuel companies rarely respond to online discussions about extreme weather, but instead engage with sustainability initiatives and corporate efforts. Climate misinformation can fuel denialism and delay action, emphasizing the need for understanding how it's designed and spread.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·Journalnpj Climate Action·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Evaluating the truthfulness of fake news through online searches increases the chances of believing misinformation

A new study by researchers at New York University found that searching online to evaluate the truthfulness of false news articles actually increases the probability of believing misinformation. This phenomenon is concentrated among individuals for whom search engines return lower-quality information.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Public opinion polls may not be as straightforward as you think

A new study on the role of polls in South Korea highlights the limitations of polling in a democratic society. The research finds that technology, methodology, intentions, and reporting can affect poll results, leading to a social construction of public opinion influenced by pollsters and media.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPolitics & Society·TypeSurvey·DateDec 18, 2023

Less social media makes you happier and more efficient at work

A study found that cutting daily social media use by 30 minutes per day improves job satisfaction, mental health, and reduces stress. Participants who reduced their social media time reported feeling less overworked, more committed to their jobs, and experiencing decreased Fear of Missing Out.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBehaviour and Information Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023
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.

Assessing loan applicants’ credit risk via smartphone activities helps improve financial inclusion and business profitability

A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that using alternative data from smartphones is more effective in improving financial inclusion (23% better) and business profitability (42% better) compared to social media data. This approach can help microloan companies adopt cost-effective solutions and offset potential economic loss.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateDec 12, 2023

Inclusive content, peer support, media information literacy can combat health misinformation spread to adolescents on social media

A new commentary in JAMA Pediatrics recommends improving adolescents' media information literacy skills and promoting inclusive content to combat health misinformation spread on social media. This approach aims to harness the potential of social media as a tool for positive connections and mental well-being.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 11, 2023

How ChatGPT could help first responders during natural disasters

Researchers developed a geoknowledge-guided GPT model that extracted location data from Hurricane Harvey tweets with an accuracy rate 76% better than default models. The model recognized complete location descriptions, enabling first responders to reach victims more quickly and potentially saving lives.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalInternational Journal of Geographical Information Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 7, 2023

Addicted to your phone? New tool identifies overuse of digital media

The Digital Media Overuse Scale (dMOS) is a new tool that measures digital media addiction, providing clinically relevant scores across various domains. Researchers found that overuse is typically reported in one or a few domains only, with social media being a significant concern.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTechnology Mind and Behavior·DateDec 5, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Social media influencers may affect more than voter opinions

Researchers found that social media influencers with distorted messages cause political parties to moderate their policies to win over independent voters. However, this leads to traditional media outlets becoming more extreme in their editorial positions, and citizens swayed by influencers growing more polarized.

SourcePenn State·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateDec 1, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Social media use linked to risky health behaviors in young people

A systematic review of over 250 social media measures found frequent or daily social media use associated with higher odds of alcohol consumption, drug use, tobacco use, risky sexual behaviors, and anti-social behavior. Exposure to content such as alcohol advertising had the strongest evidence of harm.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 29, 2023

Social media posts that promote tobacco are increasing, AI detection technology finds

A study led by Keck School of Medicine of USC used AI detection technology to analyze influencer content on TikTok between 2019 and 2022, finding an increase in posts that promote e-cigarettes. The prevalence of pod devices, e-juice flavor names, and nicotine warning labels increased significantly over time.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Narratives clash in the war taking place on social media

The study examines how social media comments influenced the public's perception of the war in Ukraine, focusing on age, gender, and ethnicity. It reveals how women are framed as symbols of national identity, with women from opposing sides being demonized or portrayed as weak.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNations and Nationalism·DateNov 29, 2023
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.

Sydney researchers discover hidden structure in networks like Twitter

Sydney researchers have identified new structural relationships in complex networks like Twitter and political blogs. A 'source-basin' structure plays a crucial role in organizing the flow of information, with influential nodes serving as sources and densely connected active nodes forming basins.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 28, 2023

Smartphone use differs between urban and rural areas

Smartphone usage patterns differ substantially between urban and rural populations, with urban users favoring social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. In contrast, rural users tend to use Facebook and Snapchat, suggesting that environment influences smartphone behavior.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 28, 2023

Aussie teens are not actually selfie-obsessed

Researchers from RMIT University found that Australians aged 20 to 40 years old take more selfies than teenagers and older Australians. Older participants used their smartphones for functional purposes like capturing information at work, whereas teenage participants preferred taking photos during exciting events or with friends.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Visual Literacy·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 27, 2023

How certain media talk about AI may have everything to do with political ideology

Virginia Tech researchers analyzed partisan media sentiment toward AI and found that liberal-leaning media tend to have a more negative tone than conservative media. The study suggests that this opposition can be attributed to concerns over AI amplifying existing social biases, such as racial and income disparities.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 22, 2023
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.

Nostalgia and memories after ten years of social media

A study from the University of Gothenburg and University West found that social media users engage in 'nostalgizing' to relive memories and emotions. The platforms' advanced features, such as personalized photo albums and reminders, facilitate nostalgic experiences, leading to a decrease in new content posting.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalSocial Media + Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Social media helping to protect biodiversity

Researchers have successfully mapped thousands of animal species in Bangladesh using social media posts, significantly improving habitat conservation. The study also highlights opportunities for social media companies to automate biodiversity data collection, making it easier for scientists to access and utilize.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalOne Earth·DateNov 16, 2023

AI recognizes faces but not like the human brain

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that AI's deep convolutional neural networks can identify faces but struggle to capture other important information like emotional state and trustworthiness. Brain activity scans revealed a weak correlation between AI's codes and human brain represent...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023
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.

‘Crowding out’ the competition: Study reveals surprising livestream chatting and tipping behavior

A new study by the University of Notre Dame found that viewers tend to tip less and chat more when they see others receiving higher tips, leading to a 'crowding-out' effect. This behavior is driven by the pursuit of social status and can be mitigated by splitting crowded livestreams into smaller virtual sessions.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateNov 7, 2023

Social media giants send mixed signals on muscle-building supplements content

A new study found that social media platforms restrict user-generated content and advertising related to illegal muscle-building drugs but offer few restrictions on legal dietary supplements. This has raised concerns about the potential negative effects of these products on young people's health and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateNov 6, 2023

Mother Nature knows best when it comes to climate solutions, social media users say

A survey of social media posts suggests that people are more positive about nature-based efforts to protect carbon-storing ecosystems than human technological solutions. The study found that tree-planting solutions, such as afforestation, received the most approval, while geoengineering was associated with negative sentiments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Men less likely than women to share negative information, says study

A new study from Carnegie Mellon University found that men are less eager and likely to share negative information than women, while sharing positive news shows no difference. The study suggests that this may be due to a greater concern among men over how others perceive them, leading to a tendency to self-promote.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateNov 3, 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
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.

“Peace speech” in the media characterizes a country’s peaceful culture

A new study found that high-peace countries are characterized by an increased prevalence of words related to optimism for the future and fun, while low-peace countries feature more references to control and fear. The research used a machine learning model to identify these linguistic patterns in media articles from 18 countries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2023