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Ballroom commission changed documents at White House’s request
Records show a staffer asked the commission to soften language about its own authority over the president’s project — and it complied.
Recent billing code changes wreaking havoc for radiation oncologists, new survey finds
“This is a financial emergency for our practice,” one physician says, according to a new survey from the American Society for Radiation Oncology.
UK hit by record rise in fuel prices, and ‘biggest mortgage shock since mini-budget’ as Iran war bites
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
A Look At Live Nation Entertainment (LYV) Valuation As Concerts Hit Records And Global Expansion Accelerates
Why Live Nation’s 2025 milestones have investors’ attention Live Nation Entertainment (LYV) is back in focus after reporting record adjusted operating income in its Concerts segment for 2025, hosting 159 million fans and outlining new venue openings across Latin America, Europe, and the U.S. See our latest analysis for Live Nation Entertainment. Live Nation’s latest results arrive after a 7.11% 90 day share price return and a 13.35% 1 year total shareholder return, which build on a very large...
Sony's new PlayStation handheld rumored to top Xbox Series S, Steam Deck 2 may arrive (much) later
KeplerL2: Sony handheld GPU is ahead of Xbox Series S Sony’s rumored next-generation handheld may launch before Steam Deck 2, according to new comments
7 best eye massagers to boost relaxation and relieve tension, according to health care experts
Looking for the best eye massager for headaches, eye strain and relaxation? I spoke with experts to get their recommendations and advice.
MUFG Chases Global Peers for Cash in $1.3 Trillion Bank Business
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. is trying to boost its transaction banking business by hiring more people and expanding domestic money transfer services in Asia, as it plays catch-up with global peers, according to a senior executive.
Chesterfield diner closes due to family, health issues
A Chesterfield County diner has closed its doors due to personal family concerns, according to the diner.
Republicans in Congress say they have a deal to end the record-long shutdown at DHS
The plan would fund DHS, except for immigration enforcement, through September. Republicans would then try to fund the whole agency for three years using a tactic that would not need Democratic votes.
Remembrance: Former colleagues praise Barry Bloom’s scientific achievements, global health contributions, and good humor | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Barry Bloom, the former dean of Harvard Chan School who died on March 18, was an inspiration to many, according to longtime colleagues Marc Lipsitch and Yonatan Grad.
What to Eat for Better Heart Health, According to New Guidelines
The American Heart Association updates its advice for what to eat to maintain a healthy heart.
Raw milk cheese is tied to E. coli outbreak: What to know, according to a doctor
While food safety experts renew warnings not to consume raw milk or cheeses made from it, consumers continue to seek these products. A doctor breaks down the issue.
The Supply Side: Target continues to lag Walmart’s financial performance - Talk Business & Politics
In the post-pandemic retail world, Walmart has outperformed Target on every metric, and that is expected to continue in 2026, according to Oliver Chen, equity analyst at TD Cowen. He...
SpaceX reportedly files plans for massive IPO
SpaceX, Elon Musk’s rocket company that merged earlier this year with artificial intelligence company xAI, confidentially filed plans for an initial public offering Wednesday in what might be the largest of all time, according to multiple reports.
Apple TV 4K might break a record no one wants to see happen
It makes sense that Apple TV 4K customers are vocal about the lack of new hardware. The current set-top box,...
Midtown Walkabout returns April 11 with shopping and entertainment in OKC
Midtown Walkabout returns April 11 in Oklahoma City featuring shopping, live music, and family activities across the district.
Disney accidentally creates an original movie that shakes the entertainment industry
This article is SATIRE. Quotes, attributions and facts are fictional. LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — Over the past few years, Disney has come out with a multitude of new, inspiring and out-of-the-box movies. According to Disney, the new animated film that is in the works follows a hamster named Demi that loves food. The plot known...
Iran's New Supreme Leader ‘Is in Full Health,’ Official Says
Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, “is in full health” but hasn’t appeared in public because of “wartime conditions,” the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said, according to Iran’s state news agency IRNA. Khamenei’s [whereabouts and well-being](https://www.wsj.com/world/m
How to poop better, according to a gastroenterologist | Science Friday
For many of us, what happens in the bathroom stays in the bathroom: According to a recent survey, 1 in 3 Americans are too embarrassed to talk about their poop or gut issues with thei...
'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' book reveals the '80s star who almost beat out Matthew Broderick for title role
Another notable John Hughes collaborator could have portrayed Ferris Bueller, according to an upcoming book about the production of 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off.'
Tiger Woods Says He's 'Stepping Away' to Focus on His Health
Tiger Woods is breaking his silence after being arrested and charged with driving under the influence following a crash in Florida where he allegedly clipped a vehicle’s trailer and flipped his SUV. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health,” he said. Woods allegedly had two opioid pain pills in his pocket, identified as hydrocodone, according to the arresting officer’s newly released affidavit. NBC’s Jesse Kirsch reports for TODAY.
How to watch NASA's historic Artemis II launch for the moon
NASA's Artemis II mission is set to take four astronauts on a record-breaking spaceflight around the moon, bringing humans farther into space than ever before. Here's how to watch it.
CNN Poll: Trump’s approval rating on the economy hits a new low
President Donald Trump’s approval rating for handling the economy has fallen to a new career low of 31%, according to a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS, reflecting growing pessimism among Americans over the issue they consistently describe as the most important.
Byron Donalds posts record $22M quarter to kick off 2026 Governor's race
That's more than any non-incumbent running for Governor raised in the first quarter of an election year.
Trump’s threats of targeting water plants in Iran, a potential war crime, alarm Gulf allies
After President Donald Trump floated on Monday the possibility of expanding the Iran war by potentially striking water treatment plants in Iran, some Gulf countries reiterated grave concerns to the Trump administration about any strikes on civilian infrastructure and the risk of an intensifying tit-for-tat escalation, according to four regional sources.
Freshmen highlight near-comeback for Mizzou baseball in Border War
In front of a record-breaking sell-out crowd, the Tigers gave up a late lead in loss to Kansas. Mizzou had an eight-run fourth, but didn't score runs outside of that
Business Sentiments in Japan Improving Despite Iran Worries
TOKYO (AP) — Business sentiment among major Japanese manufacturers rose to 17 in March from 16, according to the Bank of Japan’s quarterly survey released Wednesday. The improvement in the key so-called diffusion index in the closely watched “tankan” report, recorded for the fourth quarter straight,
Play Ball! Partnerships will bring new Zebulon Regional Sports Complex to life
Pictured: Douglas County Commissioners and citizens at the Zebulon Special Business Meeting March 31, 2026 Did you know, according to newly released Census data, Douglas County is one of the fastest-growing…
Sentiment improves among Japan's big firms, but Iran war clouds outlook
Business sentiment among large Japanese manufacturers improved in the three months to March, according to a closely watched survey released on Wednesday, a sign that increasing economic uncertainty from the Middle East conflict has yet to hit morale.
Cardiovascular health in pregnancy according to Life’s Essential 8 score
npj Cardiovascular Health - Cardiovascular health in pregnancy according to Life’s Essential 8 score
Mid-Ohio Valley Sports Announcements
Beall Aces Mingo Bottom Larry Beall, of Mineral Wells, recorded his fourth career hole-in-one on Tuesday at Mingo Bottom Golf Club. Beall used a gap wedge to ace the par-3, 122-yard, No. 8 hole. Witnessing the feat were Billy Dotson and Terry Jones. *** Stephens Gets Hole-In-One at Lakeside Larry Stephens recorded a hole-in-one at […]
Cook County Department of Public Health warns of possible measles exposure at O'Hare, 2 stores in Niles
According to the CCDPH, measles is a dangerous and potentially deadly, highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
Why More Than 1 Million Americans Are Starting Small Businesses
A record number of Americans are starting businesses driven by job market anxiety, AI disruption, and a fundamental shift in how workers think about risk.
Most Americans Now Worry More About Healthcare Than the Economy
Healthcare is once again the top domestic concern of Americans, according to the latest Gallup poll. Sixty-one percent of U.S. adults said that the availability and affordability of healthcare was a "great deal" of concern in 2026. The economy was Americans’ second-largest concern, with about half ...
Inspector general's report says human error, not political motive, to blame for release of Mikie Sherrill's military records
The inspector general for the National Archives concluded human error, not political motivations, was to blame for the release of New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill's military records last year.
Tri-Cities business leaders worry there’s not enough power to go around
According to local business leaders, it’s getting harder to bring new, large developments to the Tri-Cities in Washington state.
When Did the Earth's Crust Start to Shift? Scientists Uncover Evidence of Plate Tectonics Happening 3.48 Billion Years Ago
A new study provides the oldest direct evidence of tectonic plate movement ever recorded
Apple Tests Siri Feature That Handles Multiple Commands at Once
Apple Inc. is testing a feature that would let Siri process multiple requests in a single query, according to people familiar with the matter, breaking new ground for the nearly 15-year-old digital assistant.
The best headphones for flying, according to our frequent-flyer editors
Frequent flyers know great headphones aren’t optional; they’re essential. With more than 200,000 miles flown annually, I rely on them to block noise, reduce fatigue and make every flight more comfortable.
University of West Florida sports to make jump from DII to DI, according to report
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- University of West Florida athletics will be making the move from Division II to Division I, according to a report from Yahoo Sports.UWF will
Health care polling as top issue for first time since 2020: Gallup
Americans are more concerned about the availability and cost of health care than any other domestic issue, reclaiming the top spot for the first time since 2020, according to a new Gallup poll. The…
Florida Council of 100: Economic Outlook Index shows record investment confidence
While markets and prices are volatile, Florida top business leaders indicate they're bullish on near future investments and hiring.
OpenEvidence inks deal with major health system
In this edition of STAT Health Tech: New OpenEvidence's partnership, pressure on HHS over health record sharing, and K health has a bot.
Wembanyama records fastest double-double in league history
San Antonio had six players score in double figures while extending its lead to 29 points in the third quarter.
Two's company: ISTA scientists identify new class of star remnants
In the vastness of the Universe, any new object with interesting properties can spur the search for similar objects, potentially establishing a new class of stars. In a paper published in Astronomy & Astrophysics and an arXiv preprint, researchers from the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) describe two stellar remnants that share five properties, including X-ray emission, despite being isolated objects. According to the team, these two remnants are sufficient to define a new class of stars.
Daily Horoscope: March 31: Time to Take Care of Business
See what your daily horoscope has in store for your zodiac sign, according to astrologer Valerie Mesa
Shakira says she feels like she's just getting started. A Rock Hall nomination begs to differ
Shakira says her new world tour is turning lifelong dreams into reality as she sets attendance records and earns major recognition. The boundary-breaking Colombian performer told The Associated Press she
One Year in, the Anti-Science Agenda of the Trump Administration Is Evident
We are now more than a year into President Trump’s second stint in the White House, establishing a grim and undeniable record of attacks on science. Every month that has passed since his inauguration day, there have been multiple actions that target science, scientists, and science-based policies. T
Airport congestion eases as TSA workers receive backpay but record DHS shutdown drags on
Union boss says workers have received some, but not all, of their pay
Ollama Now Runs Faster on Macs Thanks to Apple's MLX Framework
Ollama, the popular app for running AI models locally on a computer, has released an update that takes advantage of Apple's own machine learning framework, MLX. The result is a hefty speed boost on Macs with Apple silicon. According to Ollama, the new version processes prompts around 1.6 times faster (prefill speed) and nearly doubles the speed at which it generates responses (decode speed).
North Shore Health weighs EHR options, potential partnerships
North Shore Health is exploring options for a new electronic health record system while also considering adding another partnership to its existing network. The hospital currently uses MEDITECH for its electronic health record system. However, Epic Systems, based in Madison, Wisconsin, has become increasingly prevalent across Minnesota and the broader Midwest. “I think North Shore...
Medicaid cuts threaten hundreds of hospitals, new report finds
Together, the hospitals provide care for nearly 7 million patients across the U.S., according to the analysis.
Scoop: In 2024, Disney considered building hotels inside the Magic Kingdom, records show
The revelation came via a court deposition from a Disney Imagineer.
Live updates on Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Record-low prices on Apple MacBooks, DJI drones, Sony headphones, and Kindles
Get real-time updates on the Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026. We found record-low prices on Apple MacBooks, DJI drones, Kindles, Sony XM6 headphones, and more.
Blackstone Is Said to Plan $500 Million India IPO for AGS Health
Blackstone Inc. has begun discussions with investment banks about a potential initial public offering of its AGS Health Pvt. unit in Mumbai to raise as much as $500 million, according to people familiar with the matter.
Lakers’ LeBron James laps himself with latest NBA record
LeBron James accomplished another NBA feat after racking up a triple-double in the Lakers' blowout win over the Wizards on Monday.
20 teens arrested after 'TikTok takeovers' at Brandon businesses: 'They come to fight'
Twenty teens have been arrested following three separate "TikTok takeover" incidents in Brandon, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Are Humans Naturally Violent? Scientists Challenge Long-Held Assumptions
Mild aggression and lethal violence evolved separately, according to research across 100 primate species. The study challenges the idea that everyday conflict leads to deadly outcomes.
Oil rises for a fourth day on supply cuts from widening Middle East conflict
Oil prices rose for a fourth day on Tuesday, with Brent crude poised for its largest monthly gain on record and U.S. crude futures set for their strongest monthly increase since 2020, because of supply constraints from the widening Middle East war.
Sarasota County business raided, 2 arrested after 66 slot machines seized in illegal gambling operation: SCSO
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Gaming Control Commission cracked down on an illegal gambling operation last week, arresting two people and seizing 66 slot machines from a local business, according to SCSO.
When health data lives everywhere: Rethinking privacy outside the EHR
Health privacy risks now extend far beyond medical records governed by HIPAA.
Mount Sinai Health System Collaborates with OpenEvidence to Provide Evidence-Based Knowledge Within Electronic Medical Record
Collaboration extends access to all clinical users, including nurses and pharmacists
Following 9 key steps for a lifetime of eating well can support heart health
Statement Highlights: Sustaining lifelong healthy eating patterns may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic health issues, according to the latest updated dietary guidance offered in a new scientific statement from the American...
Clear link discovered between chronic kidney disease and periodontal disease
Emerging evidence supports a relationship between chronic kidney disease and oral diseases, according to a recent review from University of Cincinnati College of Medicine researchers published in BMC Nephrology.
Bill creating standards for community health workers in Georgia has stalled
A plan to strengthen health access in rural and underserved communities in Georgia through community health workers is on life support in the Georgia Legislature. The legislation, House Bill 291, has passed the House and an amended version passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee last week. But in Monday’s gatekeeping Senate Rules Committee, […]
Exit Interviews: Local Congressional candidates proud to counter divisive politics
A blaze of St. Patrick’s Day and election night activity has burned out in downtown Wilmette. It’s 10:40 p.m., and on a dim and quiet Central Avenue, parking, for once, is plentiful in front of The Wilmette Theatre. Inside the community venue, Phil Andrew is issuing goodbyes and thank-yous to the remaining guests of the […]
Exclusive: Unilever imposes global hiring freeze, citing Middle East war effects, memo says
Dove soap maker Unilever has implemented a global hiring freeze "at all levels" that will last at least three months, citing the effects of the widening conflict in the Middle East, according to a memo seen by Reuters.
iOS 26.5 adds Live Activities support for third-party accessories
Apple is working on support for Live Activities in third-party accessories with iOS 26.5 in Europe, according to new code seen by 9to5Mac.
Sleep health overlooked: Nearly half of adults haven't talked to their health care professional about sleep
Nearly half of U.S. adults haven’t talked to a health care professional about sleep, according to a new survey from the AASM.
Bo Nix and teammates watched the Nuggets’ win last night
Bo Nix and several Broncos teammates watched the Nuggets win, and Marvin Mims attended Denver Summit's record-breaking home opener on Saturday.
Ranking MLB's five remaining undefeated teams: Whose early success is most believable?
The MLB record for winning streak to open a season stands at 13
UAE Authorizes Billion-Dirham Business Stimulus Package
The United Arab Emirates approved a massive stimulus package for Dubai’s business sector, according to Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the crown prince of Dubai and the U.A.E.’s defense minister. The Executive Council authorized the 1 billion dirham, or about $272.2 million, package to roll
More Countries Refer To Refugees In Health Policies, But Access And Data Gaps Persist
More than 60 countries now include refugees and migrants in their national health policies, according to a new World Health Organization (WHO) report.
The science behind Easter candy cravings — and when it becomes too much
Americans love Easter candy, spending more than $5 billion on it in 2024, with chocolate bunnies and eggs among the most popular treats, according to the National Confectioners Association. While having a candy or two on a holiday isn’t a problem, consistently eating too much sugar can have significant negative effects. According to Brenda Davy, a professor in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise at Virginia Tech and a registered dietitian, added sugar consumption is
Apple will hide your email address from apps and websites, but not cops
Demands for Apple customer records by federal agents in recent months underscore the privacy limitations of email.
Bill Bliss: Edmonds School District science teacher, researcher
William (Bill) Henry Bliss III 1935-2026 Bill Bliss passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 9, 2026. Family ancestry records reflect three brothers and one sister arriving in Philadelphia […]
Most say Trump administration has not done enough to ‘Make America Healthy Again’: Survey
Most Americans say the Trump administration has not done enough to “Make America Healthy Again, (MAHA),” according to a Monday poll. In the Politico poll, 52 percent of respondents said the a…
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.
Ruby Ridge Book Explores Roots of American Conspiracy Politics at Vroman’s Tonight
Author Chris Jennings will discuss his critically acclaimed book “End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America” at Vroman’s Bookstore on Monday, March 30, in a 7 p.m. conversation with journalist and author Jim Newton, a Pasadena resident. The book, published in February by Little, Brown and Company, examines the 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff — in which federal agents surveilled a cabin in Boundary County, Idaho, as part of an operation to arrest white separatist Randy Weaver — and traces a line from that 11-day siege to the conspiratorial politics that now mark American public life. By the time Weaver surrendered, his wife, his son, and a U.S. Marshal were dead. Jennings, a former editorial staffer at The New Yorker and the author of “Paradise Now: The Story of American Utopianism,” argues that the strain of apocalyptic Christianity that gripped the Weaver family can be traced to biblical prophecy readings dating to the 1870s and through the rise of 20th-century fundamentalism, according to the publisher’s description. The events at Ruby Ridge, Jennings contends, acted as an accelerant for this worldview. The New York Times Book Review called the book a thoroughly researched chronicle written with precision, according to a review published in February. Kirkus Reviews described it as a vivid reconstruction of a pivotal moment in the history of right-wing extremism. Newton, who will lead the conversation, spent 25 years at the Los Angeles Times as a reporter, editor, bureau chief, and columnist, including a stint as editor of the editorial pages from 2007 through 2010. He is the author of four books, including biographies of Chief Justice Earl Warren and Gov. Jerry Brown. Newton teaches at UCLA, where he founded Blueprint magazine, and is a columnist for CalMatters. He received the American Political Science Association’s
A leaker claims Nintendo is set to release Zelda-themed limited edition Switch 2 to tie in with release
A leaker with an unproven track record, Shpeshal Nick, has stated that Nintendo is planning to release a limited edition The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Nintendo Switch 2 console to tie in with…
The Hallmark Channel is Shutting Down Its TV App Tomorrow on Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, & More
Hallmark Media will shut down its dedicated TV Everywhere app across major streaming platforms, including Roku, Google TV, Fire TV, and compatible smart televisions, on March 31, 2026. The move ends a long-standing option that let cable and satellite subscribers authenticate with their provider credentials to access live channels and on-demand programming directly through the […]
New Zelda Limited Edition Switch 2 Console Rumored to Launch with Ocarina of Time Remake
According to a rumor, Nintendo might be preparing a new Zelda limited edition Switch 2 console to launch alongside the Ocarina of Time remake
Krafton shutters free-to-play PUBG spin-off after two months, in line with policy of using Early Access to "quickly validate a game’s potential"
Company abandons top-down shooter after two months of declining player counts, despite franchise delivering record revenues
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.
10 Danbury eateries cited for serious health violations in Feb. 2026
Of the 24 Health Department inspections in February, six food-serving establishments and four public schools received serious violations, according to reports.
West York entertainment complex stuck on hold without liquor license
Bakery Complex in West York is almost ready to open, but the state hasn't yet OK'd a liquor license, which the developer says is crucial.
Dell’s CFO is using AI agents to run his finance team—and has helped the AI business go from $0 to $25 billion
David Kennedy discusses the company’s record-breaking year.
Jersey Bulls keep up perfect run with 11-0 victory
Jersey Bulls Women keep their perfect record for the season as they thrash Ash United 11-0.
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.
Here’s the Morgan Park Picnic entertainment lineup
n case you missed the news, Milwaukee Record and Busby’s will once again be joining forces to bring the city a full-fledged spring festival. Yes, following a successful debut in 2025…
Tony-nominated actress Mary Beth Hurt dies at 79
The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of actress Mary Beth Hurt at 79 years old. She starred in films such as "Interiors" and "The World According to Garp."
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
Detained and deported: The mental health toll of immigrant detention
NJ man had a clean record, road to citizenship. ICE deported him
German firms trapped between U.S. and China, study finds
German companies are so deeply tied to both the United States and China that they cannot decouple from either without severe economic costs, according to a study by the University of Sussex and King's College London seen by Reuters on Monday.
‘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
Michigan Medicine study shows emoji usage increasing in electronic health records
The study published Jan. 14 analyzed clinical notes from electronic health records and found clinicians are using emojis more often.
Consumers for Fair Hospital Pricing coalition statement: lower health prices
As part of the Consumers for Fair Hospital Pricing coalition, PIRG entered a statement for the record to urge Congress to address the root causes of the high price of American health care.
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.
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.
Guns stolen during break in at Marion business
An undetermined number of guns were stolen early Sunday morning from a business that sells weapons on Main Street in Marion, according to Marion Police Chief.