About The Study: There was no evidence supporting a diagnosis of neurological syndrome of unknown cause (NSUC) in this cohort. The data inclusive of independent examinations and neuropathology strongly supported the presence of several neurodegenerative and non-neurodegenerative conditions. Unfounded concerns that a potentially fatal mystery disease, possibly induced by an environmental toxin, is causing the patients’ neurological symptoms has been amplified in traditional and social media. Second, independent clinical evaluations are needed for any patient given a diagnosis of NSUC.

A study from the University of Kansas had several pre-service social studies teachers plan and deliver a lesson on "Night," by Elie Wiesel before a mixed reality, simulated classroom. Interviews before and after showed they were afraid of how to handle difficult topics like antisemitism and the Holocaust, but that their confidence improved and they learned about relying on better sourcework for lessons. The author argues it adds evidence for giving novice educators more practice before they lead their own classrooms.

Metaverse platforms, like Roblox and ZEPETO, are redefining how brands connect with consumers, blurring the lines between physical and digital identities, according to a new study from the University of Surrey.  

A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders surveyed 21,000 children in China and found that the association between parental bereavement and school bullying varied by sex of the child and deceased parent, age when the death occurred, and geographical area. Adolescents in rural areas, girls, and older youth (ages 13-17) were at higher risk of bullying after either parent died. 

All 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have adopted vertical identification laws, which require state drivers’ licenses issued to individuals under age 21 to be vertically oriented, with the goals of lowering the cost of age verification and curbing underage drinking and smoking. Research published in Contemporary Economic Policy indicates that these laws have not achieved these goals, however.

Scientists studying empathy tested whether people would prefer to empathize with groups or with individuals using a pair of card decks, asking people to choose between describing or empathizing and then showing them a picture of an individual or a group to describe or empathize with. People were more likely to choose to empathize with a group rather than an individual, even though they reported that empathizing was difficult and unpleasant.