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Why TikTok Keeps You Scrolling: Baylor Research Explains the Science Behind Social Media Addiction

Why is it so hard to stop scrolling TikTok? A new study by Baylor University marketing professors and social media researchers James A. Roberts, Ph.D. and Meredith E. David, Ph.D., reveals that the answer lies not only in the app’s content, but in its design. Their research, published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, is among the first to compare the technological affordances – the built-in design features that shape user behavior – of three leading short-form video (SFV) platforms: TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts. The findings reveal that TikTok’s combination of ease of use, highly accurate recommendations and surprising content variety creates a powerful recipe for user engagement – and, in many cases, addiction. The power of effortless design In their study, Roberts and David had participants rate each platform on three key technological affordances: perceived effortlessness, recommendation accuracy and serendipity (the element of surprise) and answer questions measuring their levels of social media engagement and addictive use. The results were clear: TikTok scored significantly higher than Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts across all categories. Users in the study said TikTok required the least effort to use, delivered the most relevant videos and surprised them most often with unexpected but enjoyable content. “It’s the combination of all three that keeps people scrolling,” David said. “But the prerequisite is effortlessness. Without that ease of use, the other two wouldn’t matter as much.” TikTok’s seamless experience – where videos begin playing automatically the moment the app opens – creates a sense of immersion unmatched by competitors. Other platforms require users to click or select a video before viewing begins, a subtle difference that nonetheless makes TikTok feel faster and more intuitive. Engagement becomes addiction The study found that TikTok’s technological affordances indirectly increase addiction by first increasing engagement. The more users engage, the more likely they are to lose track of time – a phenomenon known as time distortion. David said this design is no accident. “TikTok’s algorithm is intentionally created to be addictive,” she said. “Their own materials acknowledge that users can become hooked after less than half an hour on the app.” She noted that even users who recognize these patterns often underestimate how long they spend scrolling. “We all need to be more cognizant of our time on these platforms,” David said. “Check your phone’s screen-time data – you may be surprised.” Implications for users and policy Beyond individual awareness, the researchers point to the broader social impact of overuse – particularly for young people. Excessive time on short-form video apps can erode attention spans, foster expectations for instant gratification and displace face-to-face interaction. “These platforms are designed to hold our attention,” David said. “But the opportunity cost is huge. The more time we spend scrolling, the less time we have for the activities that build real connection and meaning.”

How mitochondria shape brain health from childhood to old age

From the first spark of neural development to the challenges of ageing, Dr Lissette Sánchez Aranguren is uncovering how the cell’s powerhouses — mitochondria — hold the key to a healthy brain across the human lifespan. Her pioneering research at Aston University explores how these microscopic energy generators safeguard the brain’s communication network and how their dysfunction may underlie conditions such as dementia, stroke, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Mapping the brain’s energy defence system Dr Sánchez Aranguren’s work focuses on the partnership between brain cells and the blood vessels that nourish them — a relationship maintained by the blood–brain barrier. When mitochondria fail, that protective interface can weaken, allowing harmful molecules to penetrate and trigger inflammation or cell loss. Her team’s studies show that mitochondrial malfunction disrupts the dialogue between neurons and vascular cells, an imbalance seen both in the developing and ageing brain. To counter this, she and her collaborators have engineered a mitochondria-targeted liposome, a nanoscale “bubble” that delivers restorative molecules directly where they are needed most. By re-balancing cellular energy and communication, this innovation could one day reduce brain injury or slow neurodegenerative decline. From heart cells to the human mind Originally trained in cardiovascular science, Dr Sánchez Aranguren became fascinated by how mitochondria regulate energy and stress in blood-vessel cells — insights that ultimately led her toward neuroscience. View her profile here “Mitochondria do much more than produce energy. They send signals that determine how cells communicate and survive.” That realisation inspired her to trace mitochondrial signalling across the continuum of life — linking early brain development to later-life vulnerability. Her research now bridges traditionally separate fields of developmental biology, vascular physiology, and ageing neuroscience, helping identify shared molecular pathways that influence lifelong brain resilience. Global collaboration for a healthier brain Her work thrives on multidisciplinary and international partnerships. At  Aston, she collaborates with scientists from Coventry University, Queen’s University Belfast, and the University of Lincoln, alongside research partners in the Netherlands, Italy, Malaysia, and China. Together they integrate chemistry, biology, and computational modelling to understand mitochondrial function from molecule to organism — and translate discoveries into practical therapies. Towards mitochondria-targeted brain therapies The next frontier is refining these mitochondria-targeted nanocarriers to enhance precision and efficacy in preclinical models, while exploring how mitochondrial signals shape the brain’s vascular and neural architecture from infancy through adulthood. Dr Sánchez Aranguren envisions a future where protecting mitochondrial health becomes central to preventing brain disease, shifting medicine from managing symptoms to preserving the brain’s natural defence and repair systems. “If we can protect the cell’s own energy engines,” she says, “we can give the brain its best chance to stay healthy for life.”

UF expert answers questions about local risk of bird flu

Consumers may have noticed the rising price of eggs and even some shortages at grocery stores lately due to H5N1 avian influenza, but as cases of human and animal infections continue to rise, how concerned should you be about the virus? Benjamin Anderson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions’ Department of Environmental and Global Health and lead for UF’s Emerging Pathogens Institute bird flu response team answers some questions about the risk of infection to humans and animals from bird flu and how to protect yourself. Who is at risk? Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to humans is low. “That is correct on an overall level,” Anderson said. There is no human-to-human transmission right now. Anderson said that while there have been an “alarming” number of human cases, the number of infections is still fewer than 100. Of those, most have resulted in mild illness and were in people who had direct exposure to infected animals. So far, there has been only one death attributed to the current outbreak of H5N1, known more commonly as bird flu – a man in Louisiana who was infected by a backyard flock. “We do have a lot of people who keep chickens,” Anderson said. “Because of the situation in Louisiana, this has, I think, piqued the concern even more so among folks who might have backyard poultry to recognize that is a potential pathway for transmission.” If you see a dead chicken, do not touch it or try to investigate yourself. Instead, report it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Report dead wildlife, including migratory birds, to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. Anderson said while the risk to the public is currently low, the future risk, including human-to-human transmission that could result in a pandemic, is still uncertain. Right now, he said, “Unless you’re handling poultry or working with or near dairy cattle, where bird flu outbreaks have been ongoing, your risk is relatively low.” Can I catch the virus from my backyard bird feeder? Gainesville is on a major flyway for migratory birds – a draw for birdwatching enthusiasts, particularly in the winter. This may be how bird flu has made its way into backyard flocks, since infected migratory birds shed the virus in their waste. So far, there is no data that suggests bird feeders could pose a significant transmission risk to people, and no reported human cases of bird flu have been traced to feeders. “However, when I say there’s no data, that means there’s no data. It hasn’t been investigated,” Anderson said. Waterfowl such as ducks and geese are more likely to carry the virus than songbirds. But if backyard birdwatchers are concerned, he said, take precautions such as wearing gloves and disinfecting bird feeders. And whether there’s an elevated risk of bird flu or not, always take care to avoid touching bird feces, which can contain salmonella. “Using some common sense, good hygiene practices, is going to be an effective way of protecting yourself,” he said. Are my outdoor cats in danger? Outdoor cats are susceptible to bird flu through exposure to dairy cattle, wild birds and contaminated raw milk. There is also new evidence of some sources of raw cat food being contaminated with H5N1. H5N1 causes severe infection in cats, with neurological symptoms that could mimic rabies. Infected cats may be disoriented, lethargic or disinterested in food. Florida residents can contact the Florida Health Department if they notice these symptoms in their pet. “If you see something unusual, seeking out professional care for that animal is an important thing to do,” Anderson said. As of now, it’s unclear whether cats can transmit the virus to humans, but as it adapts, transmission to other species could become easier and more widespread. What about eggs and poultry from the farmers market? Florida state statutes require sellers to register as a food supplier and meet certain criteria for food handling safety. But the regulations can be unclear to some small, local egg and poultry producers, and others operate under the radar. “I wouldn’t say that if you go to a farmers market, it’s a guarantee that the products you’re buying are produced under the proper regulations,” Anderson said, but the regulations themselves can be unclear. Some things you can do to keep yourself safe are asking the vendor if they’re registered and permitted with the state’s agriculture agency and checking that the products are labeled. Per the statutes, eggs must be refrigerated at all times between packaging and sale to the consumer. And definitely steer clear of raw milk, which has been tied to several human and animal H5N1 infections and always carries a risk of salmonella. “Don’t drink it, and don’t give it to your animals,” Anderson said. Is there a vaccine? How else can I protect myself? There is a vaccine for bird flu. While it isn’t currently being administered to humans in the U.S., Anderson said some agriculture workers in Europe have received it. “There is a potential justification for starting to release some of the stock of the H5N1-specific vaccine,” but it would come with tradeoffs, he said, such as maintaining stockpiles and keeping the vaccine matched well to an evolving virus. In his opinion, though, it makes sense to start the process now, both to protect workers who are already at higher risk of contracting the virus, and to begin collecting data on how well the vaccine is working. The idea that the U.S. should hold off on releasing a vaccine until bird flu becomes a pandemic is contrary to protecting public health, he said, adding that the tipping point for him was seeing the virus start to show up in backyard poultry. “That’s the rationale that I base my opinion off of,” Anderson said.

Black Friday 2025: Earlier, Bigger and More Digital Than Ever

Black Friday is no longer just a day – it’s becoming an entire season. In 2025, shoppers are starting earlier, spending more and relying heavily on technology to find the best deals. With online shopping now the dominant force, an estimated 71% of consumers plan to browse and buy from their screens rather than stand in long lines. Baylor University consumer behavior expert James A. Roberts, Ph.D., said this year’s sales stretch well beyond Thanksgiving weekend. Top 5 Black Friday Trends from Dr. James A. Roberts Retailers have pushed promotions into early November – and in some cases, late October – creating what many now call “Black November.” And for the true procrastinators, “Desperate in December” is the new reality, with next-day delivery extending holiday shopping right up to the last minute. Even as shoppers plan to spend up to 10% more, they’re extremely price sensitive, Roberts said. Inflation, rising living costs and ongoing economic uncertainty – including concerns over tariffs – are prompting consumers to hunt for deeper discounts and compare prices more closely than ever. That caution is also fueling another trend: increased use of buy-now-pay-later plans. While convenient, Roberts urges shoppers to approach them carefully to avoid overspending. Technology also is accelerating the shift. AI tools and retail chatbots are helping customers track deals and make purchases, while influencers and social media ads continue to shape buying habits. Cost-conscious platforms like Temu and Shein are poised for another strong season. Clothing, electronics and home goods remain top categories, Roberts said, with gift cards still the go-to for last-minute buyers. Walmart, Target and Kohl’s are expected to be the most popular in-store destinations, while Amazon – unsurprisingly – continues to dominate Cyber Monday. Overall spending remains robust. Shoppers are expected to spend roughly $20 billion across online and in-store purchases, split almost evenly between the two. The best bargains will be toys discounted about 25 percent, phones and computers discounted around 30 percent and TVs discounted an average of 23 percent. The typical shopper will spend about $650 this holiday weekend. How to navigate the shopping frenzy Roberts offers some simple advice for navigating the frenzy: Set a budget, stick to it, choose thoughtful gifts and keep the season in perspective. After all, the most meaningful gifts are the ones that show how well you know the people you love. ABOUT JAMES A. ROBERTS, PH.D. James A. Roberts, Ph.D., is The Ben H. Williams Professor of Marketing at Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. A noted consumer behavior expert, he is among the Top 2% Most-Cited Researchers in a database compiled by Stanford University. In addition to journal citations, Roberts has often been called upon by national media outlets for his consumer expertise and latest research. He has appeared on the CBS Early Show, ABC World News Tonight, ABC Good Morning America, NBC’s TODAY Show and NPR’s Morning Edition, as well as in articles in The New York Times, USA TODAY, The Wall Street Journal, TIME and many others. Roberts’ research has focused on how individual consumer attitudes and behavior impact personal and collective well-being, including investigating the factors that drive ecologically and socially conscious consumer behavior, the impact of materialism and compulsive buying on well-being and the effect of smartphone and social media use on personal well-being. He is the author of “Shiny Objects: Why We Spend Money We Don’t Have in Search of Happiness We Can’t Buy” and “Too Much of a Good Thing: Are You Addicted to Your Smartphone?”

Breakthrough with first disease-resistant wine grapes shows hope for a Florida wine renaissance

In a milestone for Florida agriculture, researchers have grown and harvested wine grapes that are resistant to the main bacterial disease that has long prevented the state from establishing a large-scale wine industry. Researchers successfully grew five grape varieties in Citra, Florida, that are resistant to Pierce’s disease, a bacterial infection that kills the vines and shrivels the grapes. The effort, led by Ali Sarkhosh, associate professor in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) horticultural sciences department, produced a harvest of grapes that resulted in 13 cases of wine. “This could be the start of a new chapter for Florida wine.” — Ali Sarkhosh, associate professor in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences horticultural sciences department While Florida has a thriving muscadine grape industry, the global market for muscadine wine is small compared to wine made from Vitis vinifera, the species of grapes behind world-famous wines such as cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc and merlot. Florida is already the nation’s second-highest wine-consuming state, behind only California, with an industry valued at $15 billion in 2022. Yet most of the wines served are produced elsewhere, primarily in California, Oregon and Washington. Sarkhosh said he hopes this research will offer a potential additional crop for muscadine grape farmers. As of 2017, there were 547 Florida vineyards, growing muscadine and hybrid grapes. “This could be an enormous opportunity for vineyards in Florida to expand into additional types of wine for a wider market,” he said. “This could be the start of a new chapter for Florida wine.” UF researchers worked with Château Le Coeur, a winery based in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, to make the wine from their harvest. The wine was crafted with 75% Florida-grown fruit and blended with 25% cabernet sauvignon and merlot. The grape used in the wine collaboration is a hybrid called “Erante Noir” and was developed at the University of California, Davis. It carries the genes of sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon. John Choquer, the owner of Château Le Coeur, emphasized the potential for this collaboration. “If we are successful in growing in the area and combating Pierce’s disease effectively, it will be a strong growth industry and emerging market for agri-tourism,” he said. Early tastings point to a dark, fruit-forward wine. Château Le Coeur named this debut wine “Genial,” a French expression for something new and innovative. He said he is also planting a variety of traditional wine grapes, red and white, at his vineyard. He said his winery is grateful for UF’s support and collaboration as he works to create a Florida-based traditional wine industry. “This is not a short-term experiment,” Choquer added. “We plan to test more Pierce’s disease-resistant and traditional vinifera varieties, refine vineyard practices and build a new type of wine industry here in Florida. There will be challenges, there will be setbacks, but the potential is also so great. There is such a strong market potential here in Florida.”

RPI Awarded Air Force Grant to Monitor Growing Traffic Between Earth and Moon

As nations and private companies prepare to ramp up the number of missions to the Moon, researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and Texas A&M University have secured a $1 million grant from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research to develop a system to track and monitor resident space objects — including spacecraft, satellites and debris — moving through the vast cislunar space between the Earth and the Moon. The initiative, called RCAT-CS (Reconfigurable Constellations for Adaptive Tracking in Cislunar Space), will develop intelligent networks of sensor satellites that can be reconfigured to perform resilient tracking of objects as they maneuver through this complex orbital environment. "Right now, we're seeing an explosive growth in cislunar missions, including everything from commercial lunar landers and orbiters to next-generation spacecraft that secure national interests in this contested domain," said engineering professor Sandeep Singh, Ph.D., RPI’s lead investigator on the project. "But our ability to track what's happening out there hasn't kept pace. Ground-based sensor systems have blind spots and cannot reliably provide measurements. A space-based constellation is the answer, but placing spacecraft in orbit is expensive and solving the resource constraint problem is essential." The cislunar region presents unique challenges for space domain awareness applications. Competing gravitational forces from the Earth and the Moon create complex orbital dynamics, while the sheer distances involved make tracking difficult. When spacecraft and satellites perform maneuvers in this space or behave unexpectedly, current systems can lose track of them entirely. RCAT-CS will tackle these problems by designing constellations of space-based sensors that can dynamically reposition themselves based on what they're observing. Professor Singh and his colleagues will develop novel algorithms to detect maneuvers made by tracked objects, balance fuel costs, track performance of the sensing satellites, and quantify the uncertainties underlying it all. The system addresses critical safety and security needs as cislunar space becomes increasingly congested and contested. The research will also advance fundamental knowledge in orbital dynamics and autonomous space systems, with implications for mission planning, collision avoidance, and safe coordination of a growing cislunar economy. Additionally, the project will train the next generation of space engineers in cutting-edge technologies essential for American leadership in space operations. “Congratulations to Professor Sandeep Singh and his team on securing a research grant in the important area of lunar space exploration,” said Shekhar Garde, Ph.D., the Thomas R. Farino Jr. ’67 and Patricia E. Farino Dean of the School of Engineering. “RPI has always been at the frontier of space exploration, from George Low’s work on the Apollo program to the forthcoming Artemis II mission, led by Commander Reid Wiseman ’97.” “Professor Singh’s work will not only advance research, it will strengthen RPI’s recently launched Aerospace Engineering undergraduate program by bringing the latest research into our classrooms,” Garde added. Looking to know more?  Shekhar Garde, Ph.D. is available to discuss this topic. Simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.

Men experience greater eye changes from spaceflight, while brain differences between sexes are subtle

A new study into how spaceflight impacts the human brain and eyes revealed notable sex differences in brain fluid shifts, with female astronauts showing a greater reduction in fluid around the uppermost part of the brain than their male counterparts. Led by Rachael D. Seidler, Ph.D., director of the University of Florida’s Astraeus Space Institute and professor of applied physiology and kinesiology, the study analyzed data from astronauts to determine how factors such as sex, age and body metrics relate to structural brain and eye changes after space travel. The findings, published in August in npj Microgravity, provide key information for protecting astronaut health on long-duration missions to the moon and Mars. This is one of the first studies to look at sex differences in the physiological response to spaceflight. “The data on sex differences in response to spaceflight are scant, given the historically low number of female astronauts.” — Rachael D. Seidler, Ph.D., director of the University of Florida’s Astraeus Space Institute In addition to changes in fluid around the brain, the team also found that a form of eye compression, a hallmark of Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome known as globe flattening, was the most consistent eye change among crew members. “By far the most prevalent sign of eye changes that we observed was globe flattening, suggesting that this should be the primary monitoring target for ocular health,” Seidler said. “Interestingly, eye changes were more prevalent in males than females.” Globe flattening, when the back of the eyeball becomes slightly indented or pushed inward, might sound minor, but it can have significant effects on vision and raise concerns for long-duration space missions. Surprisingly, there was no strong link between brain structural changes and eye changes, suggesting that the effects on the eyes and brain may arise from distinct mechanisms rather than shared physiological causes. The research underscores UF’s growing leadership in space health science. Through the Astraeus Space Institute, Seidler leads multidisciplinary collaborations that connect neuroscience, physiology and space research to advance human performance and safety in spaceflight. “We used UF's HiPerGator computing cluster for our analyses in this study, enabling us to analyze our data at high speeds,” Seidler said. Read the full study in npj Microgravity.

Creepy, crawly, and totally cool: Florida’s “spooktacular” spiders aren’t so scary after all

As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to spotlight some of Florida’s coolest and spookiest spiders —that aren’t so scary after all. Spiders are often misunderstood, but many are shy, harmless and downright fascinating. Lisa Anne Taylor, assistant research scientist at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), said that spiders “get a bad rap and aren’t so frightening.” Here are 10 standout species that bring both cool, spooky vibes and ecological value to the Sunshine State. This Halloween, instead of fearing spiders, celebrate their mysterious style and ecological superpowers. They’re nature’s pest control, silk engineers and stealthy hunters. As Taylor puts it, “No one should be afraid of them.” For even more spider fun, check out Taylor’s kid-friendly coloring book, “Coloring with Spiders: Our favorites from Florida.” Black Widow The black widow is perhaps the most iconic Halloween spider, the OG creepy crawly, instantly recognizable by the red hourglass on its jet-black abdomen. Despite its reputation, black widows are shy and rarely bite unless provoked — like when someone slips on a shoe that the spider was hiding in. “Nobody should be scared of them; they should just not hold them. They should keep a respectful distance,” said Taylor, who works for the Department of Entomology and Nematology. Florida is home to both native southern and northern black widows. Brown Recluse  The brown recluse is feared but is actually very uncommon in Florida. Most “sightings” in Florida are misidentifications, and bites are rare. “They get blamed for a lot of things, but it’s rarely actually a brown recluse bite,” Taylor explained. Red Widow The red widow is a stunning native Florida spider with a black body with red and white splotches and bright red legs. Found only in Florida’s scrub habitats, this spider is rarely seen and even more rarely bites. Its vivid, spotted red-and-black patterns and elusive nature make it a mysterious and beautiful part of Florida’s spider diversity. Brown Widow The brown widow, an invasive species in Florida, is a close relative of the other widows but their venom seems to be less potent for humans. It has a dark-orange hourglass marking on its brown abdomen and is often identified by its spiky egg sacs. While it may look spooky, the brown widow is not aggressive and prefers to stay hidden in quiet corners. Like the black widow, it’s best to check shoes and outdoor gear before use for these stowaways. Golden Silk Orb Weaver The golden silk orb weaver, also known as the banana spider, adds dramatic flair to Florida’s landscapes with its large, golden webs that shimmer in the sunlight. Females can grow impressively large and display vibrant colors of gold, white and black. Their webs often span several feet, serving as natural Halloween decorations in gardens and forests. Ogre-faced Spider The ogre-faced spider is one of the more bizarre-looking and captivating spiders. With enormous eyes and a unique net-casting hunting style, it can see in near-total darkness and uses a silk net to snatch prey mid-air. During the day, it hangs motionless, resembling a twig. At night, it becomes a stealthy predator, making it a true Halloween terror to its prey. Regal Jumping Spider The regal jumping spider is a fan favorite, known for its iridescent green or pink jaws and bold, colorful patterns. These spiders are curious and often seem to watch humans with interest. “They’ve become internet famous,” said Taylor, noting that influencers even keep them as pets. They tend to be larger than other spiders, making them easy to hold, and they do well in a small terrarium. Green Lynx Spider The green lynx spider blends perfectly into Florida’s foliage with its bright green body and long, spiny legs. It’s a master of camouflage and a skilled hunter, often found on flowers and shrubs. Though it looks fierce, it poses no threat to humans and helps control garden pests. Taylor noted they’re common in gardens and flowerbeds and are great for natural pest control. Twin-flagged Jumping Spider The twin-flagged jumping spider is a tiny acrobat with oversized eyes and a curious nature. These spiders are known for their impressive leaps and use silk safety lines like bungee cords. Their bold movements and alien-like appearance make them a fun and fascinating species to watch. Though they may look intimidating, they’re completely safe for people – but horrifying to ants. “If you’re an ant, these are ferocious predators,” Taylor said. “They’re completely harmless to people, but they’re ant specialists.” Spitting Spider The spitting spider brings a comic-book twist to the mix. It spits sticky glue to trap prey, à la Spiderman, using a rapid-fire technique that’s highly effective against insects. These spiders are small and secretive, but their hunting method is one of the most unique in the arachnid world. For even more spider fun, check out Taylor’s kid-friendly coloring book, “Coloring with Spiders: Our favorites from Florida.”

The keys to holiday happiness: Gratitude, giving and genuine connection

The holiday ads insist that it’s the time for cheer, buying gifts and reconnecting with friends and family. Various factors – social media, remote work, politics – have made that more difficult than ever. There is hope: Research by the University of Delaware's Amit Kumar shows the path to genuine happiness this season. Kumar, assistant professor of marketing in UD's Lerner College of Business & Economics, offered the following three strategies. Gratitude: • Gratitude and giving thanks has benefits for both the giver and the receiver. It makes both parties feel good, and provides a real-life human connection at a time when those are hard to come by. "Investing in doing is a better route to social connection than spending on having." - Amit Kumar A shift in gift buying strategy: • Experiences can make for better gifts than trinkets, coats, jewelry or other items. There's a better chance of social connection if you're doing something rather than giving something. Type less, talk more: • It's important to keep in touch, but reconnecting during the holidays through a phone call or face-to-face interaction (virtually or in person) has a better chance of strengthening our bonds. More information on Kumar, who is also an assistant professor of psychological & brain sciences, can be found on his website. To contact Kumar directly and arrange an interview, visit his profile and click on the contact button. Interested reporters can also send an email to MediaRelations@udel.edu.

UD physicists track one of the most powerful solar flares in nearly two decades

A massive solar flare – possibly the strongest recorded in nearly 20 years – has unleashed a wave of charged particles toward Earth, sparking radio blackouts across parts of Africa and Europe and triggering measurable increases in radiation levels worldwide. At the University of Delaware, physicists Pierre-Simon Mangeard and John Clem are closely monitoring the event through UD’s neutron monitor network, a global system that tracks cosmic radiation from observatories in Newark, Greenland, Canada, Antarctica and Hawaii. “This is a significant event, still in progress,” said Mangeard. The physicists are seeing a roughly 65% increase in ground-level radiation, which is possibly the largest since 2006.  These elevated readings are known as a Ground Level Enhancement (GLE) – a rare occurrence caused by high-energy particles accelerated by solar flares that penetrate Earth’s magnetic field and reach the surface. The data being collected now will help researchers better understand how such bursts of solar activity impact Earth’s atmosphere, communications systems and even aviation safety. Clem and Mangeard’s work at UD’s Bartol Research Institute and Department of Physics and Astronomy contributes to global efforts to monitor and predict space weather events, including solar storms and coronal mass ejections. The team’s continuous, real-time data help scientists worldwide assess potential disruptions to satellites, power grids and high-altitude flights. As analysis of this flare continues, UD’s neutron monitor network will remain a key resource for understanding how space weather events ripple through our planet’s systems. Experts available for interviews: • Pierre-Simon Mangeard, research associate, Department of Physics and Astronomy • John Clem, associate professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy To contact Mangeard or Clem, email mediarelations@udel.edu.