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May elections come at time of war on two fronts, Starmer says
At campaign launch, PM acknowledges concern over events in Ukraine and Iran as well as over rising cost of living
Thieves steal paintings by Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse from Italian private museum
i e theft crime painting entertainment world-news general-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
After a heart attack, beta-blockers are often a lifelong medicine. Maybe they shouldn’t be
For decades, surviving a heart attack has come with a lifelong prescription: Stay on medications called beta-blockers to help protect your heart. But doctors are taking a closer look at whether long-term beta-blocker use is really necessary, especially beyond the first year of recovery.
Scientists Just Upended a 300-Year-Old Law of Physics
When load increases steadily, so does friction, but in the realm of magnetization dynamics, things aren’t so simple.
Scientists Just Upended a 300-Year-Old Law of Physics
When load increases steadily, so does friction, but in the realm of magnetization dynamics, things aren’t so simple.
For $200 more, you can get a MacBook Air
Joanna Stern talks Apple’s most imitated product
Unseen Grand Theft Auto 4 Dev Kit Assets Have Leaked
If you thought you'd seen everything that GTA 4 had to offer, you need to check out a leaked dev kit revealing never-before-seen assets.
Column: The time has come to discard California's top-two open primary
We should consider returning to a primary system that produces party nominees — one Democrat and one Republican — to give voters a more varied selection in November.
Big Tech joins Big Oil as big CA politics spenders
Tech companies spent $39 million to influence California politics last year, making 2025 a blockbuster year of spending for Meta, Google and others.
Library hosting Writers Roadshow
The Northwestern Regional Library is pleased to announce our upcoming Writers Road show April 21-25 at our libraries and in our communities. These events are free and open to the
Why the cost of college football roster building won’t slow down anytime soon
Winning is expensive, but the alternative costs more. “Losing is the most expensive element of our sport,” a Pac-12 assistant coach said.
Corn tortillas in California now must contain folic acid. More states are looking at it
In January, California became the first state to require food makers to add folic acid, a crucial vitamin, to corn masa flour used to make tortillas and other traditional foods. It’s a long-delayed move aimed at reducing Hispanic infants’ disproportionately high rates of serious conditions called neural tube defects.
Webb telescope spots mysterious explosion that defies known physics
Astronomers have spotted a bizarre cosmic explosion that refuses to play by the rules—and it’s leaving scientists scrambling for answers. GRB 250702B, detected by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and a global network of observatories, lasted an astonishing seven hours—far longer than typical gamma-ray bursts, which usually fade in under a minute.
Coral reef science must adapt to have a chance to outpace climate change
Scientists call for a major acceleration in coral assisted evolution research to help reefs cope with rapidly warming oceans.
Is an IDA Health Window the Global Health Financing Solution?
The global health architecture is facing intense scrutiny. There are now an A-Z of initiatives launched to lead the reform, from the Accra Reset to the Lusaka Agenda Secretariat and a WHO-led process. Critics have argued that the current system fails to focus on the poorest countries, fragments national systems, undermines country ownership, and displaces domestic health spending.
Monster black holes are silencing star formation across the universe
A blazing supermassive black hole can influence far more than its own galaxy. Scientists found that quasars emit radiation strong enough to shut down star formation in nearby galaxies millions of light-years away. This could explain why some galaxies near early quasars appear faint or missing. The finding suggests galaxies grow and evolve together, not in isolation.
Improving Connecticut’s Public Health Through Cross-Sector Data-Sharing
The Prevention Data Portal, launched in 2018 by Connecticut’s State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW), houses data from local, state, and federal sources to advance health promotion and substance use prevention in the state.
Princeton’s Science Outreach enters a new phase under the Program in Teacher Preparation
Princeton’s Science Outreach initiative recently began a new chapter after transitioning to the Program in Teacher Preparation (Teacher Prep), part of the Office of the Dean of the College. The move represents a strategic collaboration designed to enhance STEM education for K-12 students, support educators and strengthen the impact of both programs
Usha Vance on disagreements with JD Vance, 2028 and shopping at Costco
The second lady, who was registered as a Democrat until at least 2014, told NBC News she sometimes has thoughts that are "idiosyncratic" and don't fit neatly with one political party.
Apple Reportedly Planning to Launch iMac With OLED Display
Apple is preparing to launch an iMac featuring an OLED panel with higher brightness, according to ZDNet Korea. Apple has apparently requested that Samsung Display, LG Display, and other suppliers produce 24-inch OLED panel samples suitable for a future iMac model using their mass-production facilities. This would be the biggest ever OLED display offered on an Apple device.
‘It's okay to go ask for help’: Nebraska’s DHHS highlights mental health resources as wildfires continue
As wildfires spread across western Nebraska, burning over 800,000 acres of land, Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services and local partners are reminding Nebraskans of mental health resources available.
New ad blitz targets tariffs on small businesses
A small business organization is using posters to highlight tariff challenges for entrepreneurs.
Plastic is the hidden cost of the war in Iran
Experts are warning that consumers will see a rise in prices for a variety of plastic consumer goods due to the war with Iran.
Steve Jobs and the greatest run of products in tech history
iMacs. iBooks. iPods. For 10 years after Steve Jobs came back, Apple couldn’t miss.
Farthest, fastest and most diverse: 6 major records the Artemis II astronauts will smash as NASA returns to the moon
The Artemis II astronauts will soon launch on the first crewed mission to the moon in more than 50 years. During this trip, they will travel farther and faster than any humans in history — and will each claim a different individual record.
Send us a question about Wisconsin’s men’s, women’s basketball teams
Wisconsin basketball beat reporter John Steppe will answer your questions about the teams in our UW mailbag this week. Ask a question here.
The list of people hit by recent Epic layoffs has been turned into a dedicated portal for recruiters
Google sheet turned into dedicated website, while Tim Sweeney steps in following outcry over laid-off worker losing cancer treatment
Hyde Park reopens in Bath with steak menu, more seafood, entertainment
Hyde Park steakhouse returns to Bath Township location after $1.8 million in renovations.
How local GOP officials are embracing Trump’s tactics to hunt for voter fraud
Local Republican officials across the country are taking aggressive steps to probe prior elections — from seizing ballots to making sweeping claims of non-citizens on the voter rolls — that mimic actions from the Trump administration’s hunt for 2020 voter fraud.
The real threat to trust in science isn’t outright fraud, but the pervasive tweaking of research designs and models
Thomas Plümper and Eric Neumayer argue that science's credibility issues stem from the deliberate manipulation of research designs and model specifications.
Philanthropy in science has little oversight. Jeffrey Epstein exploited that
A large share of science funding comes through philanthropy, with little legal or public scrutiny. This lack of oversight allowed Jeffrey Epstein to cultivate scientists and launder his reputation.
3 Insights Into the Future of Business From “The Diary of a CEO” Podcaster Steven Bartlett
What you need to know about agent maxxers and paper walls.
Liverpool urged to give more opportunities to young midfielder
Liverpool’s Next Midfield Evolution: Nyoni Emerging as Endo’s HeirLiverpool’s midfield has undergone a steady recalibration in recent seasons, but the next phase may already be unfolding in plai...
What to know about the 2026 World Cup playoffs
The final six World Cup places will be decided this week with the conclusion of two playoff tournaments that will complete the 48-team lineup. Eight teams from Europe will compete for four spots, while the new intercontinental tournament that is being staged in Mexico will determine the other two places. The biggest ever World Cup — up from 32 teams in Qatar in 2022 — is being co-hosted by three nations for the first time: The United States, Canada and Mexico.
Lee Health: Parkinson program – Support, movement and connection
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects many systems of the body, but it is referred to as a “movement disorder.”
Phonons in Focus
Phonon lasers are used to trap and levitate nanoparticles in the laboratory of Nick Vamivakas, the Marie C. Wilson and Joseph C. Wilson Professor of Optical Physics at the University of Rochester. https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-70564-3
The Trump-voting pastor Democrats think could cost them a chance at a Nebraska Senate seat
In Nebraska’s Senate race, a Trump-supporting, anti-abortion pastor is running as a Democrat. The state’s Democratic Party — which is backing an independent candidate — says he’s a Republican plant. And another Democratic primary candidate says she’s running just to stop him.
Publicly, NH never joined Northeast Public Health Collaborative. Privately, it’s deeply involved.
When 10 Northeastern U.S. states came together in September to announce a new public health collaborative amid turmoil within federal health agencies, New Hampshire was the only state in the region not included. However, behind closed doors, New Hampshire was directly involved in the group from an early stage and continues to be involved today, internal emails obtained by the Bulletin reveal.
Scientists solve 40-year-old biological mystery behind sleeping sickness
To survive in the human bloodstream, the African trypanosome parasite wears a "cloak" made of proteins known as a variant surface glycoprotein (VSG). The study, published in Nature Microbiology, identifies ...
Improved Assessment of Health Care Worker Attitudes about Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders May Improve Prevention and Treatment
The authors of a recent study have recommended improvements to commonly used assessments of health care and social service providers’ attitudes about prenatal alcohol exposure and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. The recommendations follow a thorough evaluation of assessments that had not previously been psychometrically validated and represent a first step toward establishing reliable and valid measures to assess attitudes toward these conditions. More accurately understanding providers’ a
Hospitals preach health. What happens when a Louisiana hospital practiced it in the cafeteria?
What if the healthiest option was also the cheapest? At one Louisiana hospital system, meals cost as little as $2.25. Early data shows it may be changing eating habits.
Do good neighbors make good economies? Minnesota could be a test case
Economic studies strongly suggest that higher levels of trust can lead to increased commerce, promote financial innovation and even foster economic growth. Will the neighborly care and civic engagement in Minnesota during the Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge translate into economic resilience?
Hempfield sisters win Philadelphia Eagles-sponsored business competition
Lincoln Financial Field has been the site of many thrilling victories, as the Philadelphia Eagles have soared to two Super Bowl wins since its opening.
Trump officials cite white supremacists in bid to end birthright citizenship
The administration builds its arguments on an 1800s campaign, led in part by a Confederate officer, that scholars say was steeped in anti-Black and anti-Chinese racism.
'Foden needed a big performance... it did not happen'
Phil Foden's World Cup audition ended painfully with the consoling arm of England head coach Thomas Tuchel around his shoulder. The 25-year-old's face was a picture of hurt, primarily from a dreadful challenge by Uruguay defender Ronald Araujo that left him clutching his ankle, but also after a display that left his chances of making the cut for this summer's showpiece in the balance. The Manchester City forward was given the opportunity to strike first in the fight for a fiercely competitive number 10 position as he started ahead of Chelsea's Cole Palmer.
“I feel sad about what happened to Kasper,” Viljami Sinisalo
Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has voiced his backing for club teammate Kasper Schmeichel while away on international duty with Finland…The Finnish shot-stopper has stepped up in recent months, ...
Ukraine Health Cluster: Partner Response to Evacuations, (as of 28 February 2026)
in English on Ukraine; published on 10 Mar 2026 by Health Cluster and WHO
Lisa Forrest’s Cup final double earns her family bragging rights
Glasgow City secured a memorable victory in the Sky Sports Cup Final yesterday afternoon, with James Forrest’s sister Lisa Forrest delivering a stunning performance against the Rangers Women…Playe...
Galaxy Watch 9 gets one step closer to launch
A firmware file for Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 9 has been spotted on the brand's server, suggesting that its testing has started.
Is it true that … you can never eat too much fibre?
Fibremaxxing is everywhere, and most of us should eat more roughage, but your gut won’t thank you for overloading
Killing off the Regional Transportation District
This column is appearing the same day state Sen. Matt Ball (D) of Denver and his legislative co-sponsors unveil legislation implementing many of the recommendations advanced by last summer’s RTD Accountability Committee. Although it isn’t readily apparent, they have allowed themselves to be enlisted in a plot that will likely lead to the bankruptcy and […]
AKC Canine Health Foundation Joins All Access hosted by Andy Garcia to Explore the Science of Veterinary Innovation
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is excited to announce a collaboration with the educational program "All Access hosted by Andy Garcia" to develop a documentary segment centered on canine health research. Set to film on April 15, 2026, at the Foundation's headquarters and the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, the production will provide an objective look at how independent research improves the well-being of dogs, through highlighting CHF's pivotal role as a f
Light Science wins £300,000 university glasshouse contract
Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (AIM:LST, FRA:9FD), the AIM-listed agricultural and fire safety technology group, has won a contract worth approximately £300,000 to refurbish a glasshouse at a university in Wales, with an additional annual maintenance package of £19,000 also...
Marc Skinner: Man United’s thoughts on coach’s performance revealed
Manchester United Women’s season has begun to unravel somewhat.Historic runThe Red Devils have made history in their first ever Champions League campaign.They impressively won four matches out of si...
Sports driving tourism along Western Slope
The Grand Junction tourism industry had a booming year in 2025, according to data released by the city of Grand Junction.
Halving the fuel excise is smart politics, but flawed policy
The changes announced by the prime minister won’t help with supply and are poorly targeted.
Monday briefing: Has the single-use vape ban made any difference to our health or our environment?
In today’s newsletter: Nearly a year after disposable vapes were outlawed, new figures suggest the policy has delivered only modest gains while creating new challenges
Kosovo, one of Europe’s poorest countries, struggles as Iran war drives up fuel prices
Kosovo is one of the Europe's poorest countries and struggles with a steep rise in fuel prices caused by the Iran war.
New £1.5m research facility plan for New Cross Hospital
A new clinical centre will bring big benefits for patients, staff and the health system, say bosses.
How The Investment Story For Privia Health Group (PRVA) Is Quietly Shifting After Q4
Privia Health Group’s fair value estimate has been fine tuned to US$31.95 from US$31.85, keeping the modeled price target firmly in the low US$30s range. That small adjustment sits within a broader set of Street targets clustered around the low to mid US$30s, reflecting a mix of constructive views on recent Q4 results and more cautious takes around valuation and claims timing. As you read on, you will see how these shifting targets fit into the evolving analyst narrative and how to track it...
Starwatch: Lynx constellation well placed for northern hemisphere observers
A moonless evening away from streetlights will be the best to track down this celestial feline
MPs wary of move against Starmer while war is raging
Even after electoral disaster, Iran war gives many MPs pause for thought about timing of leadership contest
Jacksonville business owner arrested by ALE
A Jacksonville business owner is facing felony charges following a multi-month investigation by the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement Division.
The psychology of holidays: the perfect space between breaks according to science
As the great Easter break begins, It’s tempting to base annual leave around maximising days out of the office, but there’s a much better way to make the most of your holiday. Lydia Spencer-Elliott followed made one big change to her annual leave schedule and was shocked by the benefits
CONNECT for Health Act of 2025
Permanent Medicare Telehealth Expansion: Provisions, Status, Stakeholders & Pennsylvania Implications
Trump’s Iran war is at a fateful fork in the road
One month in, President Donald Trump’s war in Iran is at a crossroads.
Malnourished children and desperate mothers: the healthcare facility on the frontline of Nigeria’s hunger crisis
About 6.4 million Nigerian children are expected to be acutely malnourished by the end of the year, putting impossible pressure on scarce treatment centres
‘Wow, people were so angry at Labour!’ Green MP Hannah Spencer on politics, plumbing, smears and snobbery
The 34-year-old plumber last month secured the Green party its first byelection victory and a record fifth concurrent MP. She discusses the problem with career politicians – and being screamed at by voters
Butterfat, Bots, and Bureaucrats: The Limits of Optimization
Across various fields, we constantly attempt to refine, control, and optimize complex systems. But whether it’s chatbots reshaping beliefs, cows engineered for more nutritious milk, drugs that suppress desire, or regulators chasing vanishingly small risks, each effort reveals the same tension: control involves tradeoffs. The issue isn’t whether optimization works—it’s what it costs and whether we notice it in time.
Blueprints for Pangaea gala highlights intersectionality of health care and business
More than 100 students and community members gathered for a gala hosted by the University of Michigan’s chapter of Blueprints for Pangaea.
Blueprints for Pangaea gala highlights intersectionality of health care and business
More than 100 students and community members gathered for a gala hosted by the University of Michigan’s chapter of Blueprints for Pangaea.
UCLA's first dean for Health AI Strategy and Innovation takes office
“The creation of an associate dean in AI speaks to the fact that AI has become central to research, education and clinical operations in the health care system."
UCLA's first dean for Health AI Strategy and Innovation takes office
“The creation of an associate dean in AI speaks to the fact that AI has become central to research, education and clinical operations in the health care system."
3 Simple Daily Changes Could Lower Your Risk of Heart Attack And Stroke
Small steps for big results.
‘The Count of Monte Cristo’: Will Jeremy Irons Be Back as Abbé Faria?
The Oscar winner made his debut in Episode 2 of the 'Masterpiece' adaptation of the literary classic.
Support beyond the classroom: Little Rock’s community schools offer health care, therapy, a student bank and more
At first glance, Chicot Elementary is just like any other school. But walk past the bright hallways plastered with crayon drawings and "I can count to 100" worksheets and through a gym lined with balance bikes, and you'll find clinics that provide vaccines, lab work, eye tests, counseling and language interpretation for Little Rock School District students and their siblings.
THE POLICY PROGNOSIS | Health Supply Chains Are Understudied, Limiting Focus on Patients
Previously, this column has scrutinized the lack of accountability in hospital systems, health insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their negotiators for raising U.S. health care costs. However, far more financial incentives exist to overcharge consumers for medications and services, and scarcely discussed negotiators may be taking revenues at every stage of...
FIRST ON MS NOW: Pro-Palestinian protester discusses seizure in ICE custody: “my physical health is destroyed”
Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who was detained by ICE last March after participating in pro-Palestinian protests near Columbia University, was released this month after more than a year in custody. She joins The Weekend: Primetime for her first TV interview since her release to discuss her treatment and conditions inside a Texas ICE detention center.
Who could the Chiefs potentially draft with the ninth pick?
- The 2026 NFL Draft is less than a month away and it's an extremely important one for the Kansas City Chiefs, who have plenty of holes to fill on the roster.
Rockets Fall To Sixth In Crowded Western Conference
Houston has gone just 5-5 in its last ten games.
Sleeping 11 minutes longer each night shows surprising health benefit, study finds
New research suggests that improving heart health may be less about drastic lifestyle changes and more about small, consistent daily habits.
Sleeping 11 minutes longer each night shows surprising health benefit, study finds
New research suggests that improving heart health may be less about drastic lifestyle changes and more about small, consistent daily habits.
College Student Is Disgusted By Her Roommate’s Science “Supplies,” So She Contacts The Landlord About The Disgusting Living Conditions
She never should’ve put it in the refrigerator in the first place.
Trump news at a glance: Generational divide over Iran war emerges at key conservative conference
Younger conservatives say they are disappointed by Donald Trump’s decision to launch war against Iran. Key US politics stories from 29 March
Better Business Bureau program connects Marion family with trusted businesses to help finish dream home
A Marion family's dream home project hit a major setback after a contractor dispute left the build unfinished, but the Better Business Bureau is now stepping in to help them finish what they started.
Golden Demon Show Review from Adepticon 2026
Golden Demon 2026 hosted superlative painters from around the world as they competed in this prestigious painting competition. In this video, the Warhammer team debrief after the judging, discuss the winners, and take a look at some of the highlights from the event.
The Downward Spiral of the NSF’s GRFP (opinion)
Under the Trump administration, the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program has strayed from its historic mission of funding the most meritorious candidates regardless of STEM field.
Shaping effective leaders in women’s health: New FIGO Leadership Empowerment Series
FIGO is pleased to launch the Leadership Empowerment Series, a 15-module foundational leadership series designed to equip early career OBGYNs and other women’s health professionals with key skills, confidence and strategic insight needed to drive meaningful, lasting change at local, national and global levels. This series represents a meaningful step forward in FIGO’s commitment to strengthening leadership capacity across our member societies.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
How Gender Stereotypes Got Written Into Evolution
Feminist biologists have been challenging a flawed fruit-fly experiment that helped harden Victorian stereotypes about sex.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Roane County Raiders schedule
Baseball Head coach: Larry Ash, 2nd year Assistant coaches: Matt Ash, Will Starcher Last year: 9-12 Roster Seniors 3 Jacob Greathouse (C/P), 8 Caden Caldwell (2B/MI), 16 Hogan Greathouse (DH/OF), 23 Carder Kinder (CF/P/UTL) Juniors 9 Brodey Proctor (LF), 11 Carson Casto (OF), 15 Alex Richardson (C/3B/P), 22 Reis Thornabar (1B/P) Sophomores 1 Wyatt Brabham […]
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Warren Warriors schedule
Baseball Head coach: Chad Porter, 5th year Assistant coaches: Jason Gandee, Zac Carte, Caleb Davis, Carson Gandee, Jake Davis, Chris Jonas (scorekeeper) Last year: 10-13 Roster Juniors 8 Logan Wukelich (OF), 11 Tate Jonas (INF/P), 12 Jayce Hilverding (INF/OF), 27 Haiden Strong (INF/P) Sophomores 1 Bo Jonas (INF/P), 2 Al Winters (INF/P), 3 Will Carte […]
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Williamstown Yellowjackets schedule
Baseball Head coach: Levi Maxwell Assistant coaches: Ryan Scott, Mark Adkins, Matt Houser, Cole MacIver, Josh Yearego Roster Seniors Wyatt Powell, Dylan Pucella Juniors Wyatt Siley, Austin McDonald Sophomores Breck Allen, Jackson Fulton, Noal Powell, Jacob MacIver Freshmen Ben Raines, Brayden Strcula, Colten Rinard, Daniel Cunningham, Zander Brookover, Alexander Schmidt Schedule March 23: at Doddridge […]
‘Shadow administrator’ at FEMA under investigation by DHS internal watchdog
An outside contractor installed in the Department of Homeland Security by then-Secretary Kristi Noem and her adviser Corey Lewandowski, gained outsized influence over the Federal Emergency Management Agency over the past year, with a major hand in steering the disaster agency’s spending and day-to-day operations, according to sources who worked with her.
‘I’m cooked’: Aurora business owner’s viral video draws customers to notorious strip
In Demi’s viral video, she claimed there were warnings against opening a business on Aurora when she did six years ago, although she didn’t listen.
Oil prices climb after Iran warns against US ground invasion
Oil prices climbed Sunday after Tehran warned against a US ground invasion.
Scientists Solve Decades-Long Mystery About Why Saturn Appears To Change Its Spin
Researchers at Northumbria University have used the most powerful space telescope ever built to answer one of the longest-standing puzzles in planetary science – why does Saturn appear to spin at a...