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MAHA says red meat will make you healthy. The American Heart Association disagrees
The American Heart Assn. is the latest medical association to issue guidelines that conflict with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s MAHA-friendly guidelines.
Manhattan DA pushes state lawmakers for tougher 3D-printed gun laws
The top Manhattan prosecutor is supporting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s effort to crack down on both 3D-printed ghost guns and 3D-printed auto sears.
Trump signs executive order limiting mail-in ballots; California leaders say they'll fight
President Trump signed an executive order Tuesday purporting to place new federal controls on voting by mail in states such as California.
Lawsuit: BLM abandoned best-available science for Montana, Wyoming sage grouse
Second legal challenge in four weeks contends that the federal government’s policy for about half of the world’s remaining sage grouse has failed to halt ongoing population declines.
Missouri attorney general files suit against Kansas City business over 7-OH sales
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is taking action against businesses that sell and manufacture 7-OH, which she called a "deadly opioid."
FBI agents who worked on Trump election probe sue, saying they were unjustly fired
FBI agents who say they were summarily fired for investigating President Donald Trump following his first term have filed a class-action lawsuit arguing they were improperly dismissed from the agency.
Andy Reid: Justin Fields is "more than a gadget guy"
With Patrick Mahomes on the mend from a torn ACL suffered late in the 2025 season, there's certainly a chance he won't be ready for the start of the regular season.
Memorial fund honors patient whose life was saved by Vanderbilt Health neurosurgeons
Charlotte Davis underwent groundbreaking brain mapping surgery at Vanderbilt Health in 1995 to treat a deep-seated brain tumor. The procedure preserved areas controlling speech and movement. She lived 30 more years after her surgery.
Johnson Lecture in Science Communication to be held April 2
On Thursday, April 2, award-winning science journalist Maddie Sofia will present the spring 2026 A. Dixon and Betty F. Johnson Lectureship in Scientific Communication at 4 p.m. in Freeman Auditorium, HUB-Robeson Center.
Judge halts construction on Trump’s White House ballroom
The planned $400 million project has been a priority for the president.
Business Professor Douglas Johnson integrates service in leadership course
In the spirit of Pro Humanitate, Business Professor Douglas Johnson and students recently assembled outside Farrell Hall to construct beds for A Bed and A Book, a North Carolina-based nonprofit organization founded in Winston-Salem. The beds will soon be delivered to families in need [...]
Charlie Kirk highway got vetoed in Arizona. Elected officials are citing politics
There will be no Charlie Kirk highway in his home state of Arizona after Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed the legislation.
NFL passes rule regarding kickoffs from the 50
The NFL has approved a rules change that will eliminate the kicking team’s incentive to intentionally kick the ball out of bounds when kicking off from the 50-yard line.
Prince Harry's final suit against British tabloids could hang on private eye's disputed statement
i e counterfeiting-and-forgery lawsuits courts legal-proceedings journalism general-news royalty entertainment world-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Prince Harry's final suit against British tabloids could hang on private eye's disputed statement
i e counterfeiting-and-forgery lawsuits courts legal-proceedings journalism general-news royalty entertainment world-news | 104.1 FM KMOX
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
Silicon Valley's tech world takes center stage in state politics
From a wide-open governor’s race to a bitter congressional contest, Santa Clara County has emerged as a key battleground in the tech industry's bid to control California politics — and shield billionaires from a wealth tax.
Judge dismisses lawsuit against Fox News in sick leave dispute with fired journalist
w e n general-news lawsuits entertainment washington-news | 104.1 FM KMOX
Judge dismisses lawsuit against Fox News in sick leave dispute with fired journalist
w e n general-news lawsuits entertainment washington-news | KNX News 97.1 FM
Airbnb Externship Shows 3L Isabel Samayoa How Legal Strategy Drives Business Growth - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)
An externship at Airbnb provided 3L Isabel Samayoa exposure to areas such as contracts, licensing, risk management, and growth strategy, helping her develop the skills and experience to thrive in her future career as a corporate transactions attorney. 3L student Isabel Samayoa reflects on her work with Airbnb’s in-house legal team through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program. Supported Airbnb’s legal team on commercial contracts, open-source licensing, external partnerships, product counseling, and legal research. Observed how legal advice aligns with business strategy and risk management. Gained exposure to strategic decision-making while preparing for a career in corporate transactions. Q: What did you do in this corporate externship? A: I supported the Airbnb legal team across several functions, including commercial contracts, open-source licensing matters, strategic external partnerships, legal research, real estate matters, internal AI integration, and product counseling. I also gained exposure to corporate structure counseling, litigation, patent counseling, and the company’s broader business strategy. Q: What did you take away from this experience? A: One of the most valuable parts of this experience was learning how a business actually operates. I had never worked on such a large team in the private sector, so I had little exposure to how companies run internally. I learned how lawyers can provide valuable advice to support business goals, seeing how leadership evaluates risk and develops growth strategies. Understanding those priorities allows me to calibrate my legal advice to clients, balancing the client’s goals against the level of risk they are willing to take. Q: How does this experience support your career goals? A: Exploring the anatomy of a successful company was incredibly valuable because I plan to pursue a career as a corporate transactions lawyer. Being in the room with the teams discussing important decisions allowed me to see firsthand the factors that contribute to that success and how lawyers help guide those decisions. Q: Would you recommend UC Law SF and this externship? Why? A: I would absolutely recommend this opportunity. While the team worked on high-stakes matters at a highly successful company, they still created an environment where I felt welcomed. They trusted me with meaningful work and supported me every step of the way. This helped me build confidence in my analytical abilities. Q: What’s your favorite UC Law SF memory so far? A: Some of my favorite UC Law SF memories, aside from my time at Airbnb, involve mentorship. I have benefited from mentorship and have also had the chance to mentor other law students. Watching the students I mentored go on to mentor others has been particularly rewarding. I think mentorship is integral to the legal profession, and it has been inspiring to see that culture thrive at UC Law SF and continue beyond the classroom. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the College’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.
How behavioral health supports women’s mental health
Women's mental health is shaped by hormones and life changes. Behavioral health care can help regulate emotions and reduce distress.
Supreme Court Allows Licensed Mental Health Practitioners to…
HRC President Kelley Robinson: “To undermine protections that keep kids and families safe from these abusive practices is shocking — and our children…
Iran still firing missiles, U.S. ground operations remain an option, Hegseth says
Despite weeks of intensive U.S. operations targeting Iran's missile infrastructure, the threat has not been fully eliminated and continues to be a factor in the military operation.
Spring sports photos are April 17 and 18!
Mark your calendars for spring sports photos, which will take place on Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18. The schedule is below: Friday, April 17 3:30 p.m. Junior varsity & varsity softball 4 p.m. Girls' flag football 4:30 p.m. Girls' outdoor track 5 p.m. Boys' outdoor track Saturday, April 18 8:45 a.m. Girls' lacrosse 9:15 a.m. Junior varsity baseball 9:30 a.m. Varsity baseball 10 a.m. Boys' lacrosse 10:30 a.m. Junior varsity tennis 10:40 a.m. Varsity tennis If you have questions, please contact the Athletics Department at (518) 475-6310. Let's go Falcons!
U.S. Bank, Mastercard take Amazon's small-business cards from Amex
The Minneapolis-based bank will issue the cards, and Mastercard will act as the network provider. American Express formerly ran the e-commerce giant's business credit card programs.
BLM abandoned best-available science for Wyoming, Montana sage grouse, lawsuit argues
by Mike Koshmrl, WyoFile A new lawsuit argues that the Bureau of Land Management’s recently revised sage grouse plans for Wyoming and Montana are
BLM abandoned best-available science for Wyoming, Montana sage grouse, lawsuit argues
by Mike Koshmrl, WyoFile A new lawsuit argues that the Bureau of Land Management’s recently revised sage grouse plans for Wyoming and Montana are
Predicting Harmful Algal Blooms and Toxicity in the San Francisco Estuary
In fall 2023, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded a five‑year, $3 million Monitoring and Event Response Research Program (MERHAB) grant to improve Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) detection in the San Francisco Estuary.
Scott Pemberton O Theory added to VanWood entertainment line up
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – VanWood Tahoe, hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe in partnership with Kirkwood Mountain Resort and EpicPromise, announced a featured live music experience as part of its inaugural...
Why Disney still needs Epic Games
Two years ago, Walt Disney Co. made a big bet on Epic Games. Despite the "Fortnite" developer's layoffs last week, that investment is still as important as ever.
Babies are an afterthought in the birthright citizenship case, advocates say
An end to birthright citizenship would mean a new layer of bureaucracy for all babies born in the U.S., and could cause delays for health insurance and other benefits.
Predicting spring bloom is an art
Do you ever wish you could predict the future? The National Park Service in Washington D.C. does it every year when they forecast when the Capitol’s cherry blossoms will reach peak bloom. People travel from all over the world to enjoy the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival and to glimpse these fragile flowers before they are gone. On this month’s Nature Quest, we learn the ins and outs of cherry tree blossoms, how scientists make that big prediction every year — and why all this focus on blooms can help scientists better understand climate change. This episode is part of Nature Quest, our monthly segment from listeners noticing a change in the world around them. To participate, send a voice memo to shortwave@npr.org with your name, location and your question about a change you're seeing in nature!Want to learn more about nature’s calendar? Check out our first Nature Quest episode on whether flowers are blooming early.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
High school baseball and softball: Monday's scores
CIF City Section and Southern Section high school baseball and softball scores for Monday's games.
Health, Green Groups Sue EPA Over Mercury Standards Rollback
The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration's recent repeal of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) for power plants.
Laura Dern signed on to play reporter in Jeffrey Epstein TV series
There's a Jeffrey Epstein series in the works and Laura Dern has signed on to play Miami Herald reporter Julie K. Brown, who investigated the disgraced financier's crimes.
VA family suing over rules preventing homeschool students from participating in public HS sports
A family is taking legal action against the Virginia High School League, challenging rules that prevent homeschooled students from participating in public high school sports.
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame baseball wins National Classic opener
Benett Pace homers for Sherman Oaks Notre Dame in a 7-4 win over Corona Santiago during the first day of the National Classic.
Area students advance to state science competition
Local and area schools will advance to state competition after earning top spots in the Minot Regional Science Olympiad held March 9. Schools participating in Science Olympiad send teams of up to 15 students who compete in building and study events. Division B is for grades 6-9 and Division C is for grades 9-12. Advancing […]
Entertainment and more in the Mid-Ohio Valley
PARKERSBURG – The Artsbridge calendar for the week: TODAY * Geppetto Woodcarver’s Wood Quilt display, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., WesBanco, Market Street, Parkersburg WEDNESDAY * Diane Wigal wildlife photography exhibit, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., WesBanco, Market Street, Parkersburg * Story Hour, ages 3-6, 10-11 a.m., Marietta Public Library * Bookworms Storytime, ages 3 […]
SBA offering low-interest loans to residents, businesses impacted by last year's severe storms
Residents and businesses in six counties, including Cook, can apply for federal disaster loans if their properties were damaged by storms in August 2025.
Shawnee proposes TIF district to help businesses near Midland Drive, I-435 impacted by construction
City Manager Paul Kramer said a TIF would help with investments in development in the district using revenue generated by it, without creating additional sales taxes on businesses.
Rep. Eric Swalwell sends cease-and-desist letter to FBI director
The Democratic lawmaker’s move comes after report in The Post that Kash Patel was preparing to release investigative files related to the congressman.
Celine Dion announces comeback concerts September-October in Paris
Céline Dion will perform at in Paris in September and October, marking her return to the stage after her diagnosis with stiff-person syndrome.
Boone Health sues cardiology group; coverage change to affect over 20K patients
Boone Health filed a lawsuit against Missouri Heart Center, alleging the cardiology group is trying to open a new clinic in Columbia.
Lextran launches new $1 LexRide seasonal bus route connecting Lexington entertainment spots
A night out in Lexington is getting easier with the launch of LexRide, a new seasonal downtown circulator from Lextran that connects popular entertainment districts for $1 each way.
Pittsburgh black-owned businesses express frustration over NFL draft selection process
B. Marshall, Juneteenth promoter, said, "They are contracting businesses to work for the NFL to do certain functions."
Charlie Kirk highway got vetoed in Arizona. Elected officials are citing politics
There will be no Charlie Kirk highway in his home state of Arizona
Yemeni politician says former U.S. soldiers tried to kill him. Now he's suing in U.S. court
The suit is centered around the alleged attempt on Anssaf Ali Mayo's life. But it raises broader questions, including about the role of the United Arab Emirates in Yemen's civil war.
Head of Colorado’s Medicaid program resigns as state Senate was preparing to take “no confidence” vote
Kim Bimestefer’s resignation comes as the state Medicaid program has dealt with billing mistakes and scrutiny over past spending
Trump Admin. Sues Minnesota Over Transgender Athletes in Girls' Sports
It's the third state the Trump administration has sued over transgender participation in athletics.
Violent video game spurred fatal attack on veteran at Minnesota mental health facility, lawsuit says
Registration open for live webinars focused on employee health and well-being
Penn State Human Resources is offering free "Well-Being Week" webinars for University employees from April 6 to 10.
Trump administration sues Minnesota over transgender athlete participation in girls' sports
The 45-page lawsuit is a key step toward yanking the state’s federal funding after the administration advanced its investigation in January.
Mattel goes through another round of layoffs
The company behind Barbie and Hot Wheels plans to lay off 65 workers in May, the latest in a series of mass layoffs that have plagued Mattel in the past year.
Exclusive: Federal prosecutors are exploring whether prediction market bets trip insider trading laws
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are exploring whether certain lucrative bets placed on prediction markets have violated insider trading and other laws, multiple sources told CNN.
Lawsuit claims Maine transgender sports referendum signatures are not valid
The lawsuit was filed by Jane Gilbert, Mark Sayre and Kaitlin Webber in Cumberland County Superior Court on Friday.
The small town politics of big-tech development
This is an op-ed from Ken Wolkin, a Lansing resident and president of FLX Strong, which is involved in litigation against Town of Lansing Zoning Board of Appeals. To submit […]
In wrangling dark matter, some scientists find inspiration in the Torah, Krishna and Christ
Dark matter and dark energy are mysteries that have confounded scientists for decades, even though they comprise 95% of the universe's mass.
Delaware Judge reassigns Musk cases following allegations of bias over LinkedIn-emoji claims
Musk's lawyers accused a Delaware judge of bias over a LinkedIn post, but she denied the claim and reassigned his lawsuits to avoid media disruption.
Here’s how to purchase tickets for 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games
The Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games are still more than two years away, but the window for purchasing tickets officially opens this week.
THE WEEK OF MARCH 30, 2026
- NASA revises lunar plans - Trump clamps down on federal contractor DEI - DOE Office of Science heads discuss reorg and facilities
National Science Foundation provides $45 million more for ag innovation effort
The NSF AgTech Engine in North Dakota was one of 10 "regional innovation engines" created by $15 million National Science Foundation grants, paid over two years, in January 2024.
LMPD releases names of 2 officers who shot woman during mental health crisis call
Louisville Metro Police Department released the names of two officers who, while responding to a mental health crisis, fired shots, and a woman died.
Chris Christie pushes back on calls to rein in sports gambling
Chirs Christie chuckled recalling how quickly signing New Jersey’s first legalized sports gambling law in 2012 sparked a lawsuit from the NCAA and …
Trans sports referendum signatures are not valid, legal challenge argues
The lawsuit was filed last week in Cumberland County Superior Court.
Can the CDC respond to public health threats without a director?
NPR's Michel Martin speaks with former CDC official Demetre Daskalakis about the absence of a CDC director and the government's ability to respond to public health threats.Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.
Lawsuit Accuses Americans of Political Killings for Hire Overseas
Three men working for an American security contractor say the United Arab Emirates paid them to carry out targeted killings in Yemen. One of their targets is suing them in U.S. federal court.
Ways to save money at live sports events in San Diego
Rooting for the Padres, catching a hometown soccer game or even cheering on the local hockey team can get expensive, fast. Here are a few ways tips to go to the games and save money.
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.
This week on The V: Faith, politics and unfinished business
Panel examines faith in campaigns, Tuberville lawsuit, IVF debate and legislative priorities as Alabama's legislative session nears its end.
Lomo Meats: A local shop built on science and family roots
Samuel Garcia spent more than a decade building his expertise in meat science, working and teaching at the University of Arizona.
Better Business Bureau warns of spring and summer scams targeting homeowners
The BBB's scam tracker shows some New Yorkers have lost nearly $12,000.
Schreyer Scholar explores entrepreneurship through computer science
Schreyer Scholar Aryan Sabnekar first learned coding from an online course during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, he has continued to explore all of his interests in coding and entrepreneurship both inside and outside the classroom at Penn State, most recently placing at HackPSU.
Major health nonprofit accuses its fired CEO of misusing funds
The former CEO of Mesa-based Copa Health used money meant for vulnerable people on items like trips, concert tickets and shoes, a new lawsuit says
Oil Prices Surge & Star Entertainment's New Financing
Oil prices rise amid Iran conflict, as Star Entertainment secures new financing.
Nurses are an afterthought in health care debate, and that's deadly
As hospitals consolidate and executive pay rises, nurses and other frontline employees continue to get squeezed. Such pressures stretch patient safety.
First projects at The Point to add apartments, retail, entertainment
The first wave of projects at The Point in Draper will include an entertainment venue, hotel and mixed-use apartment buildings.
The 'Ballet Reign' YouTube channel brings Gen Z vibes to the art form
The whimsical YouTube channel Ballet Reign posts explainer videos about classic ballets and dancers, bringing edgy, fun Gen Z vibes to an art form known for attracting an older crowd. The online response is effusive and growing.
Taylor Frankie Paul's domestic violence investigations explained
A timeline breaking down the rise of Hulu's 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' and Taylor Frankie Paul's domestic violence investigations.
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.
She owed her insurer a nickel, so it canceled her coverage
When medical bills started rolling in, a teacher’s aide wondered why her insurance suddenly wasn’t covering them.
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.
With stricter laws across the Southeast, NC remains an access point for abortion care
Out-of-state patients got more than one-third of the abortions provided in North Carolina in 2025, as telehealth expands as a pathway to care.
BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on the NinjaFit Playground by Neighborhood Ninjas—coming to Lee this summer
Providing a “fun, free, safe and accessible space where community members of all ages can connect and engage in free, obstacle-based fitness and active lifestyles together.”
BUSINESS BRIEFS: BTG’s Playhouse Project receives $500,000; Berkshire HorseWorks receives $18,500; BCC Assistant Professor receives $5,000; Berkshire County Arc receives $80,000; NBT Bank donates $29,000; Egremont Water Commission receives $33,225; MountainOne distributes $363,200
“Like so many people in the Berkshires, I have deep personal memories of the Stockbridge Playhouse and the transformative experiences it made possible,” said Gilson Family Foundation board member Mary Gilson Spina. “Supporting its restoration is about honoring that legacy while ensuring future generations have the same opportunity to experience the magic of live theatre in this remarkable space.”
Will a Fragmented Electorate Undermine Black Political Strength?
Crowded primaries could signal a weakening of African American political power, but a more open and competitive political environment could also be a sign of democratic health.
Center Theatre Group unveils ecclectic 2026–2027 season
Center Theatre Group in its 2026–27 season will wrap August Wilson's Century Cycle with 'Fences,' plus stage some family-favorite shows.
Eagles agree to one-year deal with Joe Tryon-Shoyinka
The Eagles are adding a former first-round pick to their defense.
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.
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.
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Parkersburg teams are off to hot start
PARKERSBURG — Energy and effort are givens when it comes to the Big Reds and their spring sports programs, but results are what matter at the end of the day for “The School of Champions” at Parkersburg High. Thus far through the first two weeks of the season at PHS head coach Eric Stanley has […]
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Ripley baseball goes from hunter to hunted
RIPLEY — Ripley has gone from the hunter to the hunted. That’s what happens when you win a state championship return and eight starters. The Vikings finished 27-5 last season, blanking Frankfort 5-0 in the Class AAA state final. “It’s a completely different mindset this year,” said Ripley head coach Shane Casto. “We’ve got the […]
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 […]
High Points of the Valley
* There’s something special about high school sports programs in the Mid-Ohio Valley — that’s no secret. But the Wood County Board of Education had an opportunity last week to recognize the accomplishments of local teams who live up to the nearly impossible high precedent that has been set for them. Parkersburg High School’s girls’ […]
‘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.
Fuel price surge hits Colorado small businesses hard
Rising oil and gas prices are driving up costs for many small Colorado businesses, not just for drivers at the pump.
Basketball tournament makes space for trans athletes amid international sports bans
The court, split into competitive and recreational sides, pitted players of all genders against each other for 15-minute matchups less than a week after transgender female athletes were banned from women’s events at the Olympics after the International Olympic Committee agreed to a new eligibility policy.