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Who's a bot and who's not

Researchers found trends in human behavior absent in social media bots, including increased social interaction and decreased content production over time. The study suggests these differences can be used to develop more sophisticated bot detection strategies.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physics·DateApr 22, 2020

How tweets may influence substance abuse in youth

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that youths express pride and confidence online about their drug-related behaviors, indicating a craving for drugs. The study analyzed 23 million drug-related tweets to understand the potential mechanisms driving substance use behavior in youth.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJMIR Public Health and Surveillance·DateApr 21, 2020
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.

Tech not hurting social skills of 'kids these days'

A new study from Ohio State University found that children's social skills have not declined due to increased screen time, with teachers rating both generations similarly. The study also showed that even heavy screen users showed similar development in social skills compared to those with little exposure.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateApr 13, 2020

'Fake news' increases consumer demands for corporate action

A study by North Carolina State University found that consumers demand corrective action from companies even if they are victims of fake news. Consumers also expect corporations to take responsibility for combating fake news and want improved media literacy.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMass Communication & Society·DateApr 8, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Want to stop consumer hoarding in times of crisis?

A new study measures consumer planning horizon based on buying behavior and inventory, estimating a typical planning horizon of 8 weeks. The research suggests that anticipating shortages and high prices can lead to panic buying as a form of rational stockpiling behavior.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateApr 2, 2020

The candy-cola soda geyser experiment, at different altitudes

At high altitudes, the researchers observed increased foam production from soda eruptions caused by Mentos candies. However, this effect cannot be explained solely by gas laws. The team suggests that a unique balance between bubble size and number of bubble sites on the candy may contribute to excellent fountains.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·DateApr 1, 2020

Outcomes of coronavirus patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in China offers guidance for management of critically ill COVID-19 patients worldwide

A recent study published in the ASAIO Journal reports on the management and outcomes of eight COVID-19 patients treated with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) in China. The study highlights the potential benefits of ECMO in supporting critically ill COVID-19 patients, allowing their lungs to heal and recover.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalASAIO Journal·DateApr 1, 2020

Broken bone location can have significant impact on long-term health

Research found that older people with proximal fractures face a higher risk of hospitalization for major medical conditions and dying prematurely. In contrast, distal fractures showed similar or lower risks. The study suggests that treating bone health is crucial to improve outcomes after a fracture.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateMar 31, 2020
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.

Fake Russian Twitter accounts politicized discourse about vaccines

Phony Russian Twitter accounts contributed to the politicization of vaccine discussions among Americans, leading to increased polarization. Researchers found that pro-Trump personas expressed anti-vaccine sentiments, while anti-Trump personas supported vaccines.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 31, 2020

How social media makes it difficult to identify real news

A study by Ohio State University found that social media users pay less attention to the source of content when it's jumbled with entertainment, leading to a higher risk of mistaking satire for real news. This can result in the spread of misinformation and fake news.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew Media & Society·DateMar 30, 2020

How customers search for hedonic versus utilitarian purchases

A new study in the Journal of Marketing finds that consumers use social media and on-site product pages early in their journey for hedonic purchases, while utilizing third-party reviews and search engines closer to the time of utilitarian purchase. The study offers actionable insights for retailers, including investing in social media ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 27, 2020
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.

'McDonaldization' based analysis of Russian social networks

A study found that Russian social media platforms like Facebook and VKontakte exhibit characteristics of McDonaldization, a form of rationality that prioritizes efficiency and profit over human values. This process can lead to the displacement of individuals from meaningful relationships and the loss of personal autonomy.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalRUDN Journal of Sociology·DateMar 27, 2020

In politics and pandemics, trolls use fear, anger to drive clicks

Researchers found that Russian troll ads using fear and anger appeals worked well in getting people to engage, with a clickthrough rate of 9.2%. The study analyzed over 2,500 ads placed by the Internet Research Agency in 2016 and found that inflammatory language, such as cuss words and threats, was particularly effective.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·DateMar 26, 2020

Does coronary microvascular spasm exist?

Researchers investigate coronary microvascular spasm using real-time blood flow velocity measurement during acetylcholine testing. The study aims to provide objective evidence on the existence of coronary microvascular spasm, a condition affecting chronic coronary syndromes.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 20, 2020

Patients with type 2 diabetes belonging to online support groups have poorer health

Research found that individuals with type 2 diabetes who participate in online support groups have worse health outcomes and higher levels of disease-related complications. In contrast, users with type 1 diabetes did not show a significant correlation between forum participation and health outcomes.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·DateMar 19, 2020

Overlooked caregivers? Children, teens help care for parents with ALS

A study found that children and teens aged 8-18 provide an average of 5 hours per day in caregiving activities, including tasks like medication management and cooking meals. Despite their efforts, many youth feel isolated and undertrained, highlighting the need for training and support.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 18, 2020
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.

How people investigate -- or don't -- fake news on Twitter and Facebook

A study by University of Washington researchers found that people often ignore fake news on social media, but some use strategies like evaluating the source or noticing inconsistencies to detect misinformation. The study provides a framework for understanding how people react to fake news and could inform interventions to resist misinf...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMar 18, 2020

New COVID-19 info for gastroenterologists and patients

Key information for gastroenterologists and patients with chronic digestive conditions about COVID-19 includes prioritizing patient safety and maintaining medication regimens. Laboratory findings in COVID-19 patients also include liver function test abnormalities, emphasizing the importance of monitoring.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMar 18, 2020

Instagram makes it easier to exercise

A recent experiment published in Frontiers in Psychology found that following a motivational Instagram account increased participants' enjoyment of exercise. The researchers tested how social media can help with training and found that targeted motivation via Instagram postings had a significant positive effect, relying on scientific p...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 16, 2020
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.

Facebook users change their language before an emergency hospital visit

Researchers found that patients' Facebook posts showed a shift to more formal language and descriptions of physical pain before their ED visit, reliably predicting hospital visits. The study provides evidence that social media can be an unseen signal of medical distress and could potentially be used to trigger health care interventions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 12, 2020

Facebook language changes before an emergency hospital visit

A new study found that patients' Facebook posts exhibit a shift towards more formal language and health-related discussions before an emergency department visit, indicating increased anxiety and concern for their health. This research provides valuable insights into the potential use of social media as a signal of medical distress.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 12, 2020

Misinformation on vaccines readily available online

Research by University of Otago found significant levels of negative information about vaccines available online, including on Google, Facebook, and YouTube. Health professionals can help inform parents by referring them to credible websites containing well-validated information.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalVaccine·DateMar 12, 2020

Healthier and happier without Facebook

Participants who reduced their Facebook usage experienced fewer depressive symptoms, were more active physically, and showed increased life satisfaction. Reducing social media time may help prevent addictive behavior and support a healthier lifestyle.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 12, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vision problems may be common in people with Parkinson's disease

A study published in Neurology found that 82% of people with Parkinson's reported one or more eye problems, compared to 48% without the disease. Eye problems often interfered with daily life for 68% of those with Parkinson's, affecting activities like driving and reading.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 11, 2020

Two weeks after sports-related concussion, most patients have not recovered

A study in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine reports that most patients with sports-related mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) do not achieve clinical recovery within two weeks after injury. Recovery times varied by age and presence of concussion modifiers, highlighting the importance of early access to care.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Journal of Sport Medicine·DateMar 9, 2020

Scholars explore role of digital environments in international marketing

The Journal of International Marketing explores the impact of digital environments on international marketing, with research highlighting key trends and frameworks. Studies examine social media, global brand building, customer journeys, dark net markets, and more, shedding light on the latest developments in the field.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of International Marketing·DateMar 6, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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.

Women deflated by #Fitspiration images

A recent study by Flinders University found that exposure to #fitspiration images increases negative mood and body dissatisfaction among young women. In contrast, exercise behavior was not significantly affected by viewing these images.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·DateMar 4, 2020

Can boxing improve quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease?

A preliminary study found that Rock Steady Boxing participants reported significant improvements in quality of life areas, including depression, fatigue, and fear of falling. The program also boosted confidence in exercising, with current participants scoring better on standardized scales than non-participants.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateMar 4, 2020

The catch to putting warning labels on fake news

A recent study found that disclaimers on some false news stories can make people more willing to believe other false stories. In contrast, placing 'Verified' tags on true stories eliminates the problem. The study's findings suggest a solution for social media platforms to improve their labeling systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalManagement Science·DateMar 3, 2020
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.

Tracking communication networks and the diffusion of information

Researchers studied how infants learn language through vocal interactions with caregivers, identifying key features of effective communication structures. They also analyzed the spread of information on social media and in offline networks, highlighting the importance of accounting for neighbors' biases and geographic segregation.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateFeb 28, 2020

Eating a vegetarian diet rich in nuts, vegetables, soy linked to lower stroke risk

A recent study published in Neurology found that individuals who follow a vegetarian diet rich in nuts, vegetables, and soy have a lower risk of ischemic stroke. The study, which followed two groups of people from Buddhist communities in Taiwan for an average of six years, also found a significant reduction in overall stroke risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 27, 2020
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.

Professor works to reduce fake news dissemination

Etesami aims to develop a platform that simulates human behavior in dynamic social networks like Facebook or Twitter. By analyzing data from these simulations, his team plans to build a richer model to predict and control the spread of false news.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateFeb 26, 2020

What we learned after 5,000 non-surgical rhinoplasties

A study analyzing 5,000 non-surgical rhinoplasties found high efficacy and safety with low complication rates. The procedure involves targeting critical aesthetic points on the nose and using hyaluronic acid filler for reversibility and convenience. Long-lasting results were observed in approximately 32% of patients.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 26, 2020

Still a fan of the golden tan?

A new study from University of South Australia found that social media literacy can help individuals change their perceptions of the 'tanned ideal' and reduce their risk of skin cancer. The research tested 151 young Australian adults and found that those with higher media literacy skills were less likely to idealize a golden tan.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalSocial Media + Society·DateFeb 25, 2020

Using social media to understand the vaccine debate in China

A recent study found that social media significantly increased expressions of distrust in government regarding vaccines after the 2018 Changchun Changsheng Biotechnology vaccine incident. The researchers also observed a decrease in self-reports of vaccination and expressed support for vaccine acceptance in China.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalVaccine·DateFeb 25, 2020
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.

Data Science Institute team wins Facebook award to enhance machine learning

The Data Science Institute team received the Facebook Systems for Machine Learning Award for their research on co-training machine learning models. The project aims to enhance machine learning models for scalability and adaptability, particularly in recommendation systems used by Netflix, Amazon, and Facebook.

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·DateFeb 25, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

When parents should worry about teen girls' selfies

A study found that excessive selfie editing and time invested in creating perfect selfies are related to self-objectification, leading to body shame and anxiety. Researchers advise parents to monitor their teens' phone behavior and engage in conversations about self-esteem.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Children and Media·DateFeb 19, 2020

APS tip sheet: Capturing election interference

A game theory model captures and assesses election interference by analyzing social media activity and polls, echoing the 2016 election. The model's results reflect real-world scenarios, including Russian Twitter fake accounts' influence.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review E·DateFeb 18, 2020

GI societies issue updated colorectal cancer screening recommendations

Experts provide a timeline for patients to be rechecked for colorectal cancer based on their initial colonoscopy and recommend the safest techniques to completely remove polyps. Screening is recommended to begin at age 50, with follow-up colonoscopies every 3-10 years depending on polyp size and removal.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 18, 2020

Vaccine misinformation and social media

A study found that people exposed to vaccine content on social media were more likely to be misinformed about vaccines than those exposed to it on traditional media. Up to 20% of respondents were at least somewhat misinformed, with common claims including the link between vaccines and autism.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·DateFeb 17, 2020
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.