Research on social media and its effects on people. Covers sleep and mood, body image, self-objectification, and the platforms' wider social impact.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that highly anxious individuals in Hawaii calmed down rapidly after a false missile alert, while those with lower anxiety levels took longer to stabilize. The researchers believe this may be due to the threat of imminent death putting day-to-day stressors into perspective.
Researchers created a community-focused drug abuse monitoring system called DrugTracker, which analyzes social media posts and geospatial data to detect trends and changes in the landscape. The system helps organizations identify drug abuse risk behaviors and allocate resources effectively.
A new paper by Emilio Ferrara explores the complex history of digital spam, from its origins in confidence tricks to sophisticated AI-powered manipulations. With social media bots and deepfakes posing significant threats, experts warn of an escalating 'arms race' against spammers.
College students with lower social self-efficacy benefit from using Facebook to form new connections, while those with higher confidence rely on traditional media. The study found that Facebook can compensate for reduced face-to-face interaction with close friends and works best when supplementing traditional media in making new colleg...
Research suggests that mothers are uniquely susceptible to social media marketing tactics, leading them to share their children's personally identifiable information online. The study highlights the need for enhanced government guidance and parental education on the consequences of sharing personal info about their kids.
Researchers found a positive correlation between passive Facebook use and depressive symptoms in individuals with an increased need for social comparisons. Long-term use of social networks can also lead to lower self-esteem and greater depressive tendencies.
A study found that rugby-style tackling resulted in lower frequency and force of impacts to the head compared to football-style tackling. Rugby players had an average of 21 g-force, while football players had an average of 63 g-force.
A new study by University of Montreal scientists reveals that social media use and television viewing are associated with increased adolescent depressive symptoms. The study found that teens who spent more time on social media and in front of the TV experienced more severe depression over a four-year period.
A UTSA researcher examines how individuals use social media to engage with their cultures, finding that technology enables people to construct a 'third land' and enact ethnic identities. The study highlights the importance of online participation in shaping identity formation and sense of belonging among immigrant populations.
A Carnegie Mellon AI program called Pluribus defeated leading poker professionals in six-player no-limit Texas hold'em, achieving superhuman performance. It developed unique strategies such as frequent donk bets and mixed play, which human pros struggled to execute.
Researchers developed an AI-based system, SpoilerNet, to flag spoilers in online book and TV show reviews. The tool achieved 89-92% accuracy in detecting spoilers, with most errors caused by distracting words.
A global survey has found crAssphage viruses in people's sewage across the world, with a history dating back to millions of years. The viruses are naturally occurring and not associated with health outcomes, but may help scientists target harmful gut bacteria.
Researchers found over 1,000 entangled shark and ray individuals, with true numbers likely higher due to under-studied cases. Entanglement causes significant animal welfare concerns, despite being considered a lesser threat than commercial fishing.
Research reveals a proliferation of JUUL-related content on Instagram that appeals to young people through product promotion, nicotine and addiction content, and youth culture references. The study's findings suggest that strong regulatory action is needed to restrict promotional efforts for e-cigarette products on social media platforms.
A new study from the University of Connecticut found that tweeting while watching TV decreases viewers' ability to become immersed in the narrative. College students who engaged in media multitasking reported lower levels of transportation into the content and intensified emotions compared to those consuming only one medium.
Researchers found that people shared informational tweets about cervical cancer prevention significantly more than personal-experience tweets. Organization senders were more likely to share content, regardless of type.
A study of 200 users found that spending more time on WhatsApp per day was linked to lower loneliness and higher self-esteem due to stronger relationships. The research suggests that using WhatsApp to connect with friends may have positive effects on wellbeing.
A study of 32,748 Dutch women found that menstrual symptoms cause significant lost productivity, with 33% of work time affected. Women are more likely to experience lost productivity due to symptoms than take time off entirely.
A survey study found that YouTube, WhatsApp, VSCO, and Photoshop users had lower self-esteem scores. In contrast, Tinder and Snapchat users showed a higher acceptance of cosmetic surgery. The study's findings suggest an association between social media and photo editing app use and attitudes towards cosmetic surgery.
Researchers found that TV ads lead to various online responses and that advertisers can use these signals to improve media planning and ad evaluations. The study provides a framework for modeling behavioral response at the minute level, allowing advertisers to link post-ad spikes in online activities to individual TV ads.
Free-roaming horses in the US West degrade landscapes and shrink biodiversity due to soil compaction, water resource domination, and over-grazing of native plant species. The authors argue that rigorous ecological research is needed to address these issues and promote scientifically sound management.
Researchers found that Republicans tend to focus on breaking news reports and event-specific facts, while Democrats discuss potential policy changes. The study also reveals a stark contrast in emotions expressed by each group, with Republicans showing more fear and disgust, while Democrats express sadness and calls for action.
Facebook researchers create a system to animate precise, lifelike avatars in VR using cameras mounted on a headset. The system enables two-way social interaction and overcomes challenges of camera views and appearance differences between images and avatar renderings.
Researchers analyzed 532 million tweets and found a correlation between racist tweets and actual hate crimes in cities. The study identified specific discriminatory terms and phrases used on social media across the country, which could help identify groups targeted by racially motivated crimes.
A Virginia Tech research team uncovered how Facebook and Google deadlocked the Federal Election Commission's efforts to regulate digital political advertising. The platforms sought exemption from disclaimers, citing profit motives and technological limitations. This led to a narrow advisory opinion with minimal guidance for compliance.
A new study from Washington State University found that witnessing poor customer service can prompt bystanders to punish the employee through lower tips, regardless of whether they were directly affected. However, a manager's intervention with an apology can help reestablish trust and reduce hostility.
A study from Penn Medicine and Stony Brook University found that language in Facebook posts can identify conditions such as diabetes, anxiety, depression, and psychosis. The researchers analyzed nearly 1,000 patient profiles and built models to predict disease using post language alone or combined with demographic data.
A new University of Guelph study found that posting even one subtle negative comment on social media can hinder health professionals' credibility with clients. The researchers tested factors including ambiguous workday comments and found that a single such comment was enough to lower perceived professionalism by 11 points.
Research reveals social media has a detrimental effect on mental health in Indonesia, exacerbating envy and resentment due to high levels of inequality. The study calls for public health interventions to promote wise social media use and prevent increased mental illness.
Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland developed a machine learning-based application to detect Twitter bots across languages. The tool achieved high accuracy, classifying 15,000 tweets from Finnish, Swedish, and English, and can quickly process vast amounts of data.
The Genes for Good project has engaged over 80,000 Facebook users, collected 27,000 DNA samples and amassed a trove of health survey data on a more diverse group than previously possible. Researchers say their app could work as a model for studies on an even larger scale.
IMDEA Networks researchers have developed a novel communications architecture for future ultrafast wireless networks that promises to achieve data rates previously only possible with optical fiber. The architecture uses angle information to rapidly align directional millimeter-wave antennas and integrates a location system, enabling hi...
Researchers found that creating a viral YouTube ad requires arousing strong emotion through captivating plots, surprising endings, and authentic characters. Ads placed at the end of the video and between 1.2 to 1.7 minutes in length are also more likely to be shared.
A study by Dickinson College researchers finds that young people's perceptions of 'clean eating' are overwhelmingly positive, but may signal a risk for eating disorders. The diet fad is often associated with extreme strategies like eliminating gluten or dairy.
A new study found that auditors are more likely to resign or increase fees in response to negative media coverage of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. However, governance issues are the most significant concern, with a 19.5% increase in resignation likelihood.
A new survey found that around one in five doctors are aware of patient feedback about their care online, while the majority did not encourage patients to leave feedback. The study also revealed that GPs view online feedback as mostly negative, particularly on social media.
Research by Sara Davis and Abby Dubisar found a stark contrast in information provided for women and men seeking elective sterilization, reinforcing gender roles and stereotypes. The study recommends improved communication strategies for doctors to better counsel patients on the procedure's benefits and risks.
A study by Ruhr-University Bochum found that daily stress levels are positively correlated with Facebook engagement and addiction risk. Users who receive little offline social support are most at risk of developing a pathological dependence on the platform.
A study using social media data revealed that popular bird species sites have higher visitation rates, while sites with high tourism facilities receive more visitors. The research suggests that these areas face potentially great threats or opportunities due to high numbers of visitors, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
A UTSA political scientist analyzes the UN's Twitter feed to understand its potential as a diplomacy tool. The researcher found that tweets from the UN and its member states are often self-referential and lack substantial debate on global issues, resulting in limited engagement.
A national Taiwanese health database study found people with bipolar disorder were nearly seven times as likely to develop Parkinson's disease as those without the condition. The risk was higher for those hospitalized more frequently, developing the disease at a younger age.
A proof-of-concept study found that special goggles measuring eye movements can accurately diagnose vertigo types, including Meniere's disease. The study showed improved sensitivity and specificity compared to audio tests.
Researchers at Penn Medicine found that Twitter users with depression and anxiety tend to post less vivid photos with lower aesthetic values, often featuring grayscale images of their faces. The study's lead author noted that this 'flat affect' is characterized by reduced expression and displays of emotion.
A recent study analyzing Twitter comments found that ISIS remains successful at inspiring low-level attacks due to its 'call for lone jihad' messaging. The research discovered correlations between media coverage, online conversations, and support levels towards the group.
People tend to be more envious of future events than past ones, but the passage of time can reduce negative emotions. Research showed that imagining an event's aftermath leads to lower envy and stress.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania and George Washington University shows that collective intelligence can increase belief accuracy even in politically homogeneous groups. Participants in homogenous groups became 35% more accurate after exchanging information with one another, decreasing polarization.
A survey of 435 parents from 45 states found that most had read and written texts while driving, with millennial parents showing more reckless behavior. The study suggests potential intervention strategies, such as pediatrician conversations and app usage restrictions.
A new study on Twitter conversations about President Trump found that people are engaging in rich and engaging discussions to bridge political divides. The study revealed that participants tend to engage with those who have different beliefs and backgrounds, and that pleasant conversations are more likely to receive positive replies.
A new study by LSU researchers found that scientists who post selfies on Instagram are perceived as warmer and more competent, challenging the stereotype that scientists are intelligent but not friendly. The study used social media platforms to bring scientists and non-scientists together, revealing that warmth is a key factor in deter...
The article discusses the practical clinical applications of cardiac computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve (FFR-CT) in evaluating coronary artery disease (CAD). FFR-CT analysis may help reduce additive functional testing for patients with intermediate stenosis, providing a more efficient and accurate assessment of CAD.
Cardiovascular PET has grown into a staple of contemporary cardiovascular care, with emerging techniques expanding its applications to CAD, CMD, and vascular plaques. The development of new tracers and absolute flow assessment are poised to further improve diagnostic information and treatment outcomes.
The article discusses the importance of multimodality imaging training for general and advanced cardiology fellowships. The ideal training models remain undetermined, leaving uncertainties about manpower needs and cardiologist expertise.
A new study suggests that Facebook algorithms can lead to different results from the same advertising spend, creating new inequalities in online campaigning. Researchers argue that existing regulations need to be updated to capture the true extent of political spending on social media platforms.
A study of over 12,000 adolescent participants found that social media use was associated with improved life satisfaction across multiple domains. Girls showed a stronger link between social media and life satisfaction compared to boys.
A large-scale Oxford Internet Institute study of UK teenagers found that social media use had limited effects on life satisfaction, with some bidirectional effects observed. The researchers used improved data and statistical approaches to test the relationship between social media use and life satisfaction, finding modest trends.
The i-HOPE Study found that patients' priority unanswered questions include shared decision-making, patient-provider communication, and care transitions. By incorporating patient input, hospitals can improve hospitalization outcomes and provide more effective solutions.
A phase 3 study involving 336 participants found that isradipine did not slow the progression of Parkinson's symptoms over three years. Researchers will continue to work on finding a treatment for the disease despite negative results.
A University of Michigan study found that expressing empathy for victims after an extremist attack can alleviate negative responses from non-Muslims. However, accepting group responsibility can cultivate perceptions of collective guilt and backfire, increasing the perception that Muslim Americans are to blame for terrorist acts.
A small study found that teenagers' fear of being seen while seeking sexual health advice online is a significant barrier to accessing reliable information. The researchers call for more sensitive and user-friendly digital content to address this issue.
A team of UT researchers will monitor and analyze Russian information warfare tactics, measuring their effectiveness in shaping public opinion in Georgia, Ukraine, and Belarus. The project aims to model relationships between propaganda and opinion, assessing the impact of disinformation campaigns on democratic institutions.