Research on social media and its effects on people. Covers sleep and mood, body image, self-objectification, and the platforms' wider social impact.
Researchers found that nearly 18% of participants aged 50 and older had healthy vascular aging, with the youngest group most likely to achieve this. Lifestyle measures such as staying lean, avoiding diabetes, and maintaining favorable cholesterol levels were also crucial in achieving healthy vascular function.
A Concordia study found that 'best' and 'worst' teachers are often praised for contrasting qualities, highlighting the importance of individual educational values. The research also discovered gender biases in teaching perceptions, suggesting a need for further investigation.
The US Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board has investigated over 130 accidents since its creation in 1998. The board's work has positively influenced industrial safety in the US and globally, producing over 90 accident reports and 40 safety videos with a budget of $12 million per year.
A study published in Cognition found that Pope Francis's 2015 encyclical on climate change increased perceptions of his credibility on the issue, particularly among liberals, but did not directly influence people's beliefs about its seriousness or effects on the poor. The study used a panel of 602 U.S. adults who completed surveys befo...
Researchers found that VR pornography can create a sense of 'perfection' leading to addictive and extreme content. The team calls for greater responsibility in developing this technology, including alternative scenarios where participants assume different roles.
New research examines the global phenomenon of toy unboxing on social media platforms, revealing both empowering and exploitative aspects. The study suggests that while some argue for strict regulation, others see it as an educational tool and business opportunity.
The research enables immersive viewing of pre-rendered video in six degrees of freedom using a head-mounted display, making it easier to repurpose animated film assets. The novel video format can be rendered in real-time from an arbitrary point of view, allowing for motion parallax and interactive experiences.
A recent study suggests that an aggressive reef competitor, the Threespot Damselfish, may be impeding the recovery of Caribbean long-spined sea urchin populations after a mysterious disease outbreak. The research reveals a link between the decline of staghorn coral and the increase in damselfish populations.
Researchers have developed a method to create stretchable holograms that can display multiple images, which can be switched depending on the stretching of the material. The technique uses metasurfaces and gold nanorods to generate holographic images with changing shapes.
A computational model developed by Northeastern researchers uses Twitter data to project the spread of seasonal flu in real time, accurately forecasting the disease's evolution up to six weeks in advance. The model incorporates key parameters such as incubation period, immunization rate and viral strains present.
Researchers create technique to observe mRNA at ribosome sites, revealing protein synthesis and cellular responses to iron. The method is applicable to any type of RNA and could be modified for other interactions.
A recent survey of 14,000 internet users in seven nations found that concerns about fake news undermining democratic processes are unwarranted. In fact, internet users use search to check facts and validity of information, and encounter diverse information across multiple media sources.
Research by Sayuri Naruse and Dr Mark Moss from Northumbria University found that couples' physical and mental wellbeing improved after a three-week massage course. The study involved 38 participants who reported significant benefits to their wellbeing, stress coping, and relationship satisfaction.
A recent study found that genetics play a significant role in determining social media use, accounting for one-third to two-thirds of the variance. The research used twin study survey data and provided an analytical blueprint for studying genetic influence on communication behaviors.
A Florida Atlantic University study found that blogs from the opposition had a significant impact on shifting political perceptions and electoral outcomes in Russia. Exposure to dissident content on Western social media platforms played a crucial role in fueling skepticism about electoral fraud.
A study by Dr Martin Graff from University of South Wales found that receiving 'likes' on social media posts doesn't improve mood or self-esteem. Participants who prioritized getting more likes were more likely to have low self-esteem and be less trusting.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that 'visual abstract' graphics on Twitter can nearly triple the number of people who click the link in a tweet to read a full research paper. The study showed that tweets with visual abstracts were retweeted more than eight times as often and seen by nearly eight times as many people.
For the first time, researchers have measured the force that draws tiny crystals together and visualized how they swivel and align. The van der Waals forces provide insights into how crystals self-assemble in nature.
A new study suggests that reading supportive comments from online friends prior to taking a test can help college students with high levels of test-anxiety reduce their nervousness. Undergraduate students who received social support from their online friends reduced their anxiety levels by 21%, performing as well on a set of computer p...
A study found that Leave campaigners outperformed Remain's Stronger In on Twitter, using effective messaging and agenda-setting strategies. The analysis also revealed the Remain camp's sporadic online approach and reliance on negative comments, which strengthened the Leave campaign's message.
Researchers found that media portrayals of public shooters vary based on the race of the shooter, with black and Hispanic shooters more likely to be labeled as thugs. White shooters, on the other hand, are often attributed to mental illness, perpetuating negative stereotypes.
A University at Buffalo researcher warns that personalized content on political websites can lead to a 'filter bubble' effect, where users consume only information that aligns with their ideologies. This can result in increased polarization and reduced civil discourse, ultimately hurting democracy.
Researchers have discovered how oxygen blows bubbles inside a lithium-air battery when it discharges, a crucial step towards improving the technology. The findings, published in Nature Nanotechnology, propose a new mechanism for bubble formation that could lead to smaller and more stable batteries.
Researchers found that changing tasks frequently interferes with brain activity, leading to worse results than focusing on one task at a time. Brain areas like posterior temporal and dorsomedial prefrontal cortices work more efficiently when dealing with one task.
A Scripps-led study finds that the Gulf of California's small-scale fisheries are operating at over capacity, threatening fish habitats and future economic sustainability. The research uses satellite images and flyovers to count small boats and estimates that 34% more boats are operating than sustainable levels.
The Disney Research team has developed a new system called Makeup Lamps that can track an actor's facial movements and apply light-based makeup in real-time. This technology enables the creation of stunning transformations without physical makeup, with potential applications in theater, film, and other creative fields.
A Virginia Tech researcher found that social media, particularly Facebook, is negatively correlated with corruption across over 150 countries. The study shows how Facebook serves as a peer to the press, spreading unbiased information and facilitating multi-way communication that is harder for governments to control.
Scores of undocumented immigrant youth pursuing careers in chemical sciences and related fields face uncertainty due to potential repeal of the DACA policy. Currently, only marrying a U.S. citizen can legalize their status, with limited avenues for education and employment.
A recent meta-analysis of 57 studies involving over 25,000 participants found a weak to moderate link between social media activity and narcissistic tendencies. Grandiose narcissists are more likely to frequent social networking sites, whereas vulnerable narcissism is associated with insecurity and social withdrawal.
A new paper-based device harnesses mechanical energy from body movements to charge small electronics, offering an untethered alternative to traditional batteries. The lightweight, rhombic design is capable of charging devices to 1 volt in just a few minutes.
The study found that users adopt different personas unique to each social network, with demographics also influencing their portrayal. Researchers used a dataset of over 100,000 social media users and identified patterns such as women being less likely to wear corrective eyewear in profile pictures.
A study found that nearly half of new doctors' Facebook profiles contain concerning content, including self-authored unprofessional posts and confidential patient information. Researchers warn about the impact on online and offline behavior as a new generation of physicians enters practice.
Researchers at Oregon State University developed a software to analyze social media comments and found that 51% of tweets about Alzheimer's disease contained stigma. The system may help combat negative attitudes and promote positive experiences of people with dementia.
A recent study found that adolescents' use of Instagram strengthened their friendships, leading to lower levels of depression. Frequent Instagram use was related to increased closeness to friends, which in turn was linked to better mental health.
Researchers found that when participants knew each other, they were more likely to cooperate in the prisoner's dilemma game. The findings suggest that knowing others can promote cooperation and reduce hate and fake news on social networks.
When anonymity is lifted, cooperation increases significantly due to mutual understanding. Participants who knew each other were more likely to cooperate rather than engage in retaliatory sentiments or punishment.
A USGS and Michigan State University study discovered that slower sea lamprey growth rates during the larval phase increase the odds of becoming male. In productive environments, only 56% of sea lampreys were male after three years, whereas in unproductive lakes, 78% became male.
A study published in Teaching and Learning in Medicine found that a social media course had a significant impact on the online behavior of first-year medical students, with 94% reporting increased awareness of their social media habits. The course aimed to empower students to use social media professionally and responsibly.
Researchers at Stockholm University will receive prestigious ERC Advanced Grants for innovative projects tackling dark matter detection, social-ecological interactions, and the impact of social media on Chinese society. The grants support interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex global challenges.
Disney Research scientists developed a method to catch a real flying ball using virtual reality, demonstrating enhanced user experience. Different visualization styles were tested, revealing that users caught balls in all three modes with varying strategies.
The study found that only half of Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies have adopted Twitter, highlighting the digital divide as a constraint. Despite this, high activity rates were observed in countries like Kenya, Indonesia, and the Philippines, suggesting potential for growth in developing economies.
New research from Lancaster University reveals significant changes in British language usage over the last two decades. The study has found that words like 'Awesome', 'Massively', and 'Yoga' have become popular, while expressions such as 'Tar-Rah Matey' and 'Boxer' have declined drastically.
Researchers tracked social media posts with specific tags before extreme weather events to identify areas at risk. This early warning system has the potential to improve prediction and monitoring of floods and other natural hazards, saving lives and protecting homes.
A national analysis found that frequent social media use is associated with increased social isolation, even when controlling for demographic factors. The researchers suggest that social media may displace authentic social experiences and elicit feelings of envy, contributing to feelings of isolation.
A new study analyzing online public responses to media reporting found that frequent business travelers tend to either 'flourish' or 'flounder' in their careers. The research highlights the need for organizations to develop policies to protect employees from the negative impacts of business travel.
Research by Lehigh University finds that Chinese firms have more success than others due to coordinated efforts building their legitimacy. Companies should adapt to local environments through social media and language, and consider long-term commitments to avoid reputation damage.
Researchers found that trolls form 'anti-social networks' that reinforce their behaviour and are attracted to attention from media reports, highlighting the need for social media platforms to take responsibility for negative content
Research by University of Kent psychologists finds that most people (99%) approve of revenge porn being posted online, with a link to specific psychological characteristics. The study also found a positive correlation between revenge porn proclivity and the 'Dark Triad' of psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism.
A preliminary study found that individuals with relapsing-remitting MS who experience fatigue and limited leg function are at higher risk of progressing to secondary progressive MS. The study suggests that tailored treatments may be more effective for these patients, providing valuable insights into predicting MS progression.
A new long-term study harnesses social media data to understand the reasons people vape, shifting away from cessation to social image. The study found that misinformation drives some vapers' rationales for using e-cigarettes.
Researchers found that involving interdisciplinary partners improved risk communication and public safety during earthquakes. Key recommendations include engaging with decision makers, developing clear warning messages, and minimizing negative impacts of inaccurate messages.
A preliminary study found that people with epilepsy are unaware of the rare but fatal complication known as Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), which affects 1 in 1,000 adults. The study suggests that providing information about SUDEP can motivate patients to take better care of themselves and adhere to their medication.
A recent study suggests that people with psychopathic traits, particularly fearless dominance, can exhibit exceptional work performance when educated and socialized properly. This challenges the common perception of psychopathy as solely negative, highlighting its paradoxical nature.
Research from Drexel University found that people with depression are using Instagram to share their feelings and experiences, attracting positive social support. The study suggests that the platform's image-centric nature allows users to express themselves in a way that feels safe and supported.
Researchers analyzed Wikipedia bots' interactions on 13 language editions over ten years, finding they behave differently in culturally distinct environments. Bots often engage in 'sterile fights' lasting years or reaching deadlock, with conflicts triggered later than human reverts.
Research from Binghamton University suggests that integrating social information from experts and friends can decrease uncertainty in crowdfunding campaigns. For low-product complexity projects, funders rely on implicit social cues from friends to make decisions, while for high-complexity projects, explicit expert advice is preferred.
Researchers found that hospitalized stroke patients with visible brain vessel changes and those who exhibited weakness or partial loss of movement were at higher risk for falls. Social media campaigns can effectively educate and engage communities about stroke awareness, increasing website traffic by 200% compared to previous years.
A recent study found that caregivers of black stroke survivors provided an average of 11 additional hours of care compared to white stroke survivors. Despite this greater time commitment, caregivers of black stroke survivors reported more positive aspects of caregiving, including increased confidence and satisfaction with their role.
Successful dieters tend to express positive sentiments on Twitter with language related to health and fitness. Their larger social networks and engagement also contribute to stronger support systems, positively impacting dieting compliance. In contrast, unsuccessful dieters often exhibit a negative tone and lack emotional control.
Science communications expert Dominique Brossard discusses the challenges of combating fake news in science, particularly on social media. She advocates for improved communication between scientists and journalists, as well as quality control measures to prevent misinterpretation of studies.