Add BrightSurf on Google Email

San Diego State University


Vaping draws strong support -- from bots

A study found that more than 70% of tweets about e-cigarettes were posted by robots, while human users showed strong support for vaping. The team analyzed nearly 194,000 geocoded tweets and identified adolescent Twitter users as particularly enthusiastic about e-cigarettes.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateAug 6, 2018

More teens than ever aren't getting enough sleep

A new study by San Diego State University finds that adolescents are sleeping fewer hours per night than older generations, with 40% of teenagers in 2015 sleeping less than 7 hours a night. Young people's increased smartphone use is linked to decreased sleep, with teens who spend more time online being more likely to not get enough sleep.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalSleep Medicine·DateOct 19, 2017

Making healthier decisions, step by step

A study at San Diego International Airport found that signs encouraging stair use increased steps taken by 50% compared to sign-free days. The prompts appeared to nudge both regular and non-exercisers into taking the stairs, demonstrating a ripple effect in behavior.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalThe Journal of Primary Prevention·DateOct 12, 2017

Swearing is a sign of the times

A recent study by San Diego State University researchers found that the use of swear words in books has increased significantly over time, reflecting a growing value on individual freedom. The study analyzed tens of thousands of books published between 1950 and 2008 and discovered a steadily rising trend of taboo words being used.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalSAGE Open·DateAug 3, 2017

Mapping how words leap from brain to tongue

Researchers led by SDSU neuroscientist Stephanie Ries discovered that wide swaths of the brain work in parallel to retrieve correct words from memory, challenging previous assumptions about localized language processing. The study's findings could help speech-language pathologists develop strategies for treating disorders like anomia.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2017

The Charlie Sheen effect on HIV testing

A new study published in Prevention Science found that Charlie Sheen's HIV-positive disclosure on November 17, 2015, corresponded with record levels of HIV testing, including a near-doubling in at-home rapid test sales. The study also suggests that public health leaders should consider embracing big media data for decision-making.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPrevention Science·DateMay 18, 2017

Boosting your own defenses against heart disease

A new study by San Diego State University researchers found that a protein called ATF6 promotes the natural ability of heart cells to ward off stress-induced damage during heart attacks. This discovery suggests a novel treatment and prevention strategy for people at risk of heart disease, particularly as they age.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalCirculation Research·DateMar 6, 2017

Fighting barnacle buildup with biology

A new study identifies a specific chain of proteins activated during barnacle metamorphosis, suggesting bacteria play a crucial role in their development. The findings could lead to the development of ship coatings that inhibit bacterial cues, mitigating biofouling issues.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2016

And the Oscar goes to ... climate change

A new study by SDSU researchers finds that DiCaprio's speech sparked record levels of public engagement with climate change, exceeding Earth Day and a major climate summit. The study analyzed news media trends, Twitter postings, and Google search trends to investigate global engagement with climate change since January 2011.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 3, 2016

Millennials less sexually active than Gen-X peers

A study by San Diego State University psychology professor Jean M. Twenge found that millennials are less likely to have had sex since turning 18 compared to Generation X peers. The researchers attribute this trend to increased safety concerns, reduced interaction time due to technology, and a risk-averse attitude.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateAug 2, 2016

$10 million endowment for health disparities work

San Diego State University has received a $10 million endowment from the National Institutes of Health to improve its research infrastructure and support population health and health disparities research. The funding will enable researchers to collaborate across disciplines and institutions, fostering innovations in research programs w...

Algae disrupt coral reefs' recycling

A new study finds that excessive algae growth in coral reefs causes microbes to dominate the food chain, depleting oxygen and releasing harmful pathogens. This leads to a runaway feedback loop, further coral death and ecosystem collapse. The research highlights the impact of human activities on coral reef ecosystems.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 25, 2016

Building a better concussion test

Researchers from San Diego State University have developed a portable balance board called BTrackS that provides fast, objective feedback on an athlete's balance disruption following a suspected concussion. The technology has been found to be about twice as effective as the most widely used balance test for concussion nationwide.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Physical Therapy·DateApr 2, 2016

Do awareness days make a difference? Yes, at least one

A new study from San Diego State University found that awareness days, such as the Great American Smokeout, can have a significant impact on smoking cessation. The team analyzed data from news reports, tweets, and quitline calls, and discovered a 61% increase in news coverage and a 25% increase in Google searches related to quitting sm...

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 31, 2016