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Vance and Rubio's differing postures on Iran war highlight their challenges ahead of 2028 election
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance are both seen as the Republican Party’s strongest potential candidates in the next presidential election, but the Iran war could prove to be a political millstone for them
‘Culture is moving at the speed of swipe’: Why E.l.f. Beauty considers itself an entertainment company as much as a beauty brand
With consumers turning more and more to platforms like TikTok Shop and ChatGPT to do their shopping, the beauty giant is hoping to stay ahead of a fast-evolving digital sphere.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 1, 2026, puzzle No. 555
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Historic Rock Island Bridge opens in Kansas City as new entertainment option
Historic Rock Island Bridge opens in Kansas City as new entertainment option
LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. Signs Sponsorship Agreement with the Japan Sport Association (JSPO), Contributing to the Future of Sports
LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: LFS) (the "Company" or "Leifras"), a sports and social business company dedicated to youth sports and community engagement, today announced that it has signed a partnership agreement (the "Agreement") to participate, from April 2026, as an official partner in the Sports Active Partner Program hosted by the Japan Sport Association ("JSPO"), a public interest incorporated foundation that plays a central role in Japan's sports ecosystem. Through this collaboration, Leifra
Wordle today: The answer and hints for April 1, 2026
Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #1747.
USMNT's problems resurface in 2-0 friendly defeat to Portugal
Many of the telltale signs of a team unprepared to make a deep run this summer surfaced again Tuesday, resulting in a 2-0 loss to Portugal before an announced crowd of 72,297 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
USMNT's problems surface again in 2-0 friendly defeat to Portugal
Many of the telltale signs of a team unprepared to make a deep run this summer surfaced again Tuesday, resulting in a 2-0 loss to Portugal before an announced crowd of 72,297 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Apple Will Push Out Rare ‘Backported’ Patches to Protect iOS 18 Users From DarkSword Hacking Tool
As a DarkSword takeover technique spreads, Apple tells WIRED it will release fixes for millions of iPhone owners who remain on iOS 18 rather than force them to update to iOS 26 simply to be protected.
Italy stunned out of World Cup as Türkiye joins USMNT group; Sweden, Czechia, DR Congo qualify
Woeful Wizards try to surprise playoff-seeking 76ers
The Washington Wizards host the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night, trying to avoid a season series sweep while the Sixers continue their late-season playoff push.
UAH Earth System Science Center scientist selected as U.S. Drought Monitor author
A University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) scientist is stepping onto the national stage to help shape how the country understands and responds to drought. Jonathan Case, a principal research scientist for the Earth System Science Center at UAH, a part of The University of Alabama System, has been selected as one of two new NASA-affiliated authors for the U.
Pete Golding responds to Dabo Swinney's tampering claims tied to transfer LB Luke Ferrelli's recruitment
Golding offered his most direct response yet to Swinney's tampering allegations
‘The Drama’ review: Fine performances can’t save uninteresting story
"The Drama," starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, fails to answers its central questions, writes Moira Macdonald.
Spire completes acquisition of Tennessee Piedmont Natural Gas business from Duke Energy
/PRNewswire/ -- Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) today announced it has completed its acquisition of the Piedmont Natural Gas business in Tennessee from Duke Energy...
New in Home Entertainment: A nature documentary, a parental comedy and an updated reality series
Screen Chatter Film Critic Tony Toscano reviews "Secrets of the Bees", "Preschool" and "Duck Dynasty: The Revival".
Dan Hurley downplays headbutting ref after UConn's win vs. Duke: 'Thought he was coming over to chest-bump me'
Golf Entertainment Group Inc. Announces Full Year Financial Results
Golf Entertainment Group Inc. (OTCQX: GLFE) (the “Company”), a leading owner and operator of golf-related leisure and entertainment businesses, today announc...
Jack Dorsey: AI will turn managers into 'player-coaches' at Block
Jack Dorsey and Roelof Botha outlined Block's AI future one month after its sweeping 40% layoffs. Block will be a "mini-AGI," they wrote.
UEFA World Cup Playoffs Scores, Live Updates: Italy, Türkiye, Sweden Eye Spots
Following along for the top moments and highlights of the UEFA World Cup playoffs.
Here's 14 high top sports performers from Monday's MetroWest action
The high school sports spring season is in full swing after Monday's action. Here are 14 top performers that are off to hot starts.
Sports and art come together for 2026 SWISH Arts & Culture Festival
The citywide fest will take place April 3-6 alongside the NCAA Men’s Final Four.
EXCLUSIVE: Veteran Studio Working On New Lord of the Rings Game
Insider Gaming has an exclusive update on the studio working on the new The Lord of the Rings game from Embracer.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney apologises and seemingly rectifies life insurance situation of laid off worker with terminal brain cancer
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has responded online to messages about an ex-employee with terminal brain cancer that was laid off last week.
Ms. Basketball has the latest in entertainment headlines
Brandy has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Zendaya is gearing up for another blockbuster movie release
America Needs Reproductive Health Leave
Too often, "women have to choose between working through unbearable pain, losing income they can’t afford to go without, or tapping into a limited number of sick days," writes Congresswoman Ansari.
Price Hike or Discount? Nintendo's Changes to Physical and Digital Game Pricing Have Analysts Split, Too
Nintendo games are about to get more expensive. Or less. Depending on whether or not you want a physical copy, and how you read its recent decision to charge different prices for physical and digital games in the U.S. What's really going on? As usual, I have turned to a panel of industry experts to explain.
Hit the Gravy Train by Completing Trader Sales in Red Dead Online
These are boomtimes for fearless entrepreneurs willing to do what it takes to obtain animal carcasses and pelts across the wilderness and swamps of the frontier. Earn 3X RDO$, XP, and Role XP on all Trader Sales, plus garner additional bonuses.
Cardi B and Steph Curry earn Webby Award nominations, along with Sydney Sweeney's bathwater
f s e media-and-entertainment-industry software podcasts sports technology language celebrity politics internet business entertainment | KMBZ
Join Alliance Entertainment's Exclusive Live Investor Webinar and Q&A Session on April 7
/ March 31, 2026 / RedChip Companies will host an investor webinar on April 7, 2026, at 4:15 p.m. ET with Alliance Entertainment Holding Corp. (Nasdaq:AENT).
Myth-busting virtual care’s most common misconceptions
For patients who've never tried virtual care, there can be a lot of misconceptions. Sanford answered some common questions to debunk myths.
Cardi B and Steph Curry earn Webby Award nominations, along with Sydney Sweeney's bathwater
f s e media-and-entertainment-industry software podcasts sports technology language celebrity politics internet business entertainment | KNX News 97.1 FM
Swope telescope: five decades of observing and reinvention
Astronomer Nidia Morrell looks back on more than 20 years of observing at the Las Campanas Observatory—an era marked by the transition from manual methods to digital systems—and reflects on the enduring relevance of a telescope that remains central to modern astronomy.
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
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...
Public Health Leaders to Convene in Baltimore at the 2026 Preparedness Summit to Improve Local and National Emergency Response Efforts
/PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the voice of the country's over 3,300 local health departments, will...
BrightSpring Health Services Completes Sale of ResCare Community Living to Sevita
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 31, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BrightSpring Health Services, Inc. (“BrightSpring” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BTSG), a leading provider of home and community-based pharmacy and health services for complex populations, today announced the completed sale of ResCare Community Living to Sevita, a leading provider of home and community-based specialty health care. The transaction reflects a shared commitment to continuity of care, operational stability, and long-term opportunity f
Why are the same women's basketball teams in Final Four? The answer is money
Parity is rising in women's college basketball, but it hasn't reached the top as the same teams are in the Final Four. Spending is the difference.
Inc. Names Interactive Entertainment Group Inc. to 2026 List of the Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Northeast for the Fourth Time
/PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Inc., the leading media brand and playbook for entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping the future, today announced that Interactive...
MCC students awarded for 1986 science fair achievements
MCC junior high science fair award winners in March 1986 were Mike Fischer, Terry Kosiboski, Craig Harless, Julie Fischer, Stacey Swiatlowski, Heather Adamczak and Kim Nowak.
Nintendo's Changing Mario Kart World Again, Rebalancing Items and Adding Bob-omb Blast Battle Mode
Nintendo has released a major new update for Mario Kart World, which rebalances items, adjusts recovery times, and adds another battle mode.
COLUMN: Nebraska men’s basketball’s season isn’t defined by Sweet 16 loss
The Nebraska men's basketball team ended their season with a loss to Iowa at the NCAA Tournament. However, this doesn't define their season.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 31, 2026, puzzle No. 554
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Stanford scientists create shape-shifting material that changes color and texture like an octopus
A new shape-shifting material can change both its texture and color in seconds, inspired by the camouflage abilities of octopuses. By precisely controlling how a polymer swells with water, researchers can create detailed, reversible patterns at the nanoscale. The material can even mimic realistic surfaces and dynamically adjust how it reflects light. In the future, AI could allow it to automatically blend into its surroundings.
These “smart” crystals bend and snap back when hit with light
Perovskite crystals can dramatically and reversibly change shape when hit with light, a behavior not seen in conventional semiconductors. This effect, called photostriction, can be finely tuned depending on the light’s intensity and color. Researchers say these materials act more like adjustable systems than simple switches. The finding could lead to a new generation of light-powered sensors and devices.
Barton outlines how politicians exploit voter information fatigue
Dona-Gene Barton, associate professor of political science at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, was interviewed for a March 26 HuffPost article on how politicians on both sides of the aisle have taken advantage of Americans’ shortened attention spans to sway public opinion in their favor.
Brian Gutekunst says Skyy Moore addresses Packers special-team priority
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said he has been prioritizing special teams for several years and signing Skyy Moore is the latest example.
Cardi B and Steph Curry earn Webby Award nominations, along with Sydney Sweeney's bathwater
This year’s Webby Award nominations highlight the internet’s wildest hits, from celebrity campaigns to strange viral products.
How Can Climate Entertainment Help Us Talk About Climate Change?
We talk about why storytelling in film, TV and advertising has such a powerful sway over us, and take stock of the landscape of climate change depictions on your screens.
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.
Employers, legislative leaders seeking change in business atmosphere with bill | The Sum and Substance
Shortly after Steve Swinney and his partners founded Kodiak Building Partners in 2011, they acquired two local companies that they viewed as core to the...
New York looking to impose new gambling safeguards
Gov. Kathy Hochul has previewed sweeping new measures that would block minors from accessing betting apps and limit how companies target users.
Army investigating after helicopters hovered alongside Kid Rock's swimming pool as he saluted
a e n technology general-news military-and-defense u-s-news entertainment | KNX News 97.1 FM
Apple Intelligence Accidentally Goes Live in China Before Regulatory Approval
Apple accidentally started rolling out Apple Intelligence features in China before receiving regulatory approval, reports Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Some Chinese users began seeing Apple Intelligence features listed as available and active in the Settings app on their iPhones, but Apple made no formal announcement. Gurman says that Apple is not planning to launch the feature imminently, and that its availability was a mistake. Apple has since removed the Apple Intelligence features.
Quilty Launches as the Entertainment's Intelligence Platform
Today, Quilty launches as the first unified intelligence platform for the entertainment industry, a new tool set that consolidates creative analysis, writer development, packaging, market forecasting, production planning, industry introductions and legal intelligence. Founded by Simon Horsman, a technology and entertainment lawyer and film, television, and theatre producer, alongside technology entrepreneur and film producer, Daniel Wood, Quilty was created to address the global entertainment in
CEO of Epic Games apologizes after laying off employee with terminal brain cancer
Tim Sweeney, chief of firm that created Fortnite, received backlash after worker’s wife revealed loss of life insurance
PENN Entertainment to Report First Quarter Results and Host Conference Call and Webcast on April 23
PENN Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: PENN) announced today that it will release its 2026 first quarter financial results at 7:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, April 23, ...
The Insight Series: AI & Digital Health
“The Insight Series: AI & Digital Health” features industry experts answering key questions to help inform policymakers and the public about how AI is shaping the future of care delivery. Our latest edition features Julia Strandberg, Executive Vice President, Chief Business Leader, Connected Care at Philips.
Zack Polanski meets unions in attempt to get them to switch party funding to Greens
Leader understood to have spoken to 10 trade unions after party claimed working class voters are turning to them
Helen H. Hobbs, M.D., honored for innovation in cardiovascular science
Helen H. Hobbs, M.D., Professor in the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development and of Internal Medicine and Molecular Genetics at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Valentin Fuster Award for Innovation in Science by the American College of Cardiology (ACC).
OC Insider: Food, Sports & Entertainment - Orange County Business Journal
In a 2023 profile of TEI Entertainment, the Anaheim-based producer of celebrity-studded entertainment events, CEO and founder John McEntee was asked by Business Journal Editor-in-Chief Peter J. Brennan to name his favorite performer. His answer: Sugar Ray lead singer Mark McGrath.
Immigration advocates appeal to a higher power to sway the high court on birthright citizenship
As the Supreme Court considers the future of birthright citizenship, some advocates fighting President Donald Trump are speaking directly to conservative justices on how fundamental one’s faith can be to identity and citizenship.
Turns out Crimson Desert's lead voice actor was as confused by the game's disjointed story as some players
Crimson Desert voice actor Alec Newman has explained what happened behind the scenes when voicing lead protagonist Kliff.
The Crossword, March 30: Feeling Good (Themeless)
It’s time to wrap up the month with a challenging themeless. Keep an eye out for tricky clues and fun wordplay. This week’s puzzle was constructed by Rafael Musa and Owen Bergstein, and edited by Hoang-Kim Vu. Defector crosswords, launched in partnership with our friends at AVCX, run every Monday. If you’re interested in submitting a puzzle to us,…
Foundation Gaming & Entertainment Announces Sponsorship of New MPB Original Series “Southern Dish”
Foundation Gaming & Entertainment, a Mississippi-based hospitality and gaming company, is pleased to announce its sponsorship of Mississippi Public Broadcast...
IGAPA Highlights Key Trends in Government Relations and Political Campaigns at Washington, D.C. Forum
The 11th International Government Relations (GR) & Political Campaigns Forum, organized by IGAPA (International Government Affairs Professional Association), a leading global network of public affairs professionals, convened policymakers, political strategists, consultants, and thought leaders from more than 10 countries to address pressing challenges in governance, elections, and public trust.
Availability of Care for Older Adults in Outpatient Behavioral Health Facilities
Behavioral health (BH) conditions are rising among older adults, who are less likely to receive mental health (MH) or substance use disorder (SUD) treatment compared to younger adults. This study examined the availability of care for older adults in outpatient BH facilities across the United States both quantitatively and qualitatively.
Novant Health to build new hospital in Leland
Novant Health earns approval to build a new hospital and emergency department in Brunswick County.
'The Librarians' to be screened at Southwest Harbor library
The Southwest Harbor Public Library will host a screening of the 2025 documentary “The Librarians” on Tuesday, April 7, from 5:30-7 p.m.
Charlie Health Names New Chief Technology Officer to Accelerate Technology and AI Strategy
/PRNewswire/ -- Charlie Health, the nation's leading provider of virtual high-acuity behavioral healthcare, today announced Ashok Balakrishnan as its new Chief...
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Arkansas' primary runoff elections
Two Arkansas Republicans with competing visions on how best to implement President Donald Trump’s agenda to overhaul elections and voting will vie for their party’s nomination for the state’s top elections job on Tuesday
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.
Axcelis Announces SBTi Approval of Science-Based Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Targets
Axcelis Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ACLS), a leading supplier of enabling ion implantation solutions for the semiconductor industry, is pleased to announce the approval of its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The SBTi is a corporate climate action organization that enables companies worldwide to play their part in combating the climate crisis.
Atlantic Health Reduces Colonoscopy Screening Gaps Using Artera's AI Agents
/PRNewswire/ -- Colorectal cancer is expected to claim the lives of more than 55,000 Americans in 20262. Despite the fact that early-stage detection carries a...
PAVmed Provides Business Update and Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results
/PRNewswire/ -- PAVmed Inc. (NASDAQ: PAVM) ("PAVmed" or the "Company"), a diversified commercial-stage medical technology company, operating in the medical...
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…
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
Why mentorship is vital for the future of physics
Honor Powrie explains why giving back through mentorship is so valuable
Clint Eastwood’s ‘Unforgiven’ still haunts this critic
ASK MICK: Chronicle film critic emeritus Mick LaSalle also answers questions about “Hamnet” and the fun of telling people you haven’t seen a famous movie.
Spire announces sale of gas marketing business to Boardwalk Pipelines for $215 million
/PRNewswire/ -- Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) today announced it has entered into an agreement to sell its gas marketing business, Spire Marketing Inc. (Spire...
Epic's mass layoffs left a programmer with terminal brain cancer without life insurance, but Tim Sweeney says the company will "solve" the problem
A programmer with terminal brain cancer lost his life insurance due to Epic Games' mass layoffs, and Epic are now helping his family out.
Sensodyne India rolls out 'Know Your Dental Age' Campaign - An Oral Health Awareness initiative supported by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Indian Dental Association
Sensodyne, Haleon's leading oral care brand, is strengthening its commitment to better oral health in India with the launch of its 'Know Your Dental Age' initiative, placing the concept of Dental Age at the forefront of proactive care. India continues to face a significant oral health gap, with 9 in 10 people experiencing dental issues and most seeking treatment only when symptoms become severe. To drive early awareness and encourage preventive habits, Sensodyne has partnered with the Indian Den
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.
‘To do something nobody’s done’: physicist Zhu Zijie leaves Europe for China
Rising star scientist returns to China to undertake cutting-edge research in the field of cold atoms.
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
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.
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
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
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 30, 2026, puzzle No. 553
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney on Chris Denson’s future at quarterback
After a shaky spring game performance, Dabo Swinney talked Chris Denson’s future at quarterback.
Raptors go on a 31-0 run in Sunday's 139-87 rout over the Magic
The run was the largest unanswered run in the play-by-play era, which started in the 1997-98 season.
Pricing, politics and patients: the new drug affordability battle
The USA remains the outlier among wealthy drug markets. OECD data for 2023 put US retail pharmaceutical spending at $1,713 per person, against an OECD average of $766. Germany was at $1,158 and Switzerland at $1,061.
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.
Ingredion and Holobiome map gut microbiome to unlock targeted health benefits
Ingredion has partnered with Holobiome to use AI and its database of two million bacterial genomes to predict how specific ingredients will interact with human health before clinical trials. The research expands beyond digestion to explore how sweeteners, plant proteins, and texture solutions influence the gut-brain axis, including sleep and mental health.