Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Parenting classes benefit all, especially lower-income families

A new study from Oregon State University suggests that parenting education can improve the skills of every parent and the behavior of all children. The study found that parenting education series serving predominantly lower-income parents resulted in greater improvements in their skills and their children's behaviors compared to series...

SourceOregon State University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateDec 5, 2016

The tree of life has its roots in Jena

Ernst Haeckel's groundbreaking work in 1866 introduced the concept of monophyly and natural selection in speciation, illustrating the evolutionary history of organisms as a tree of life. This innovative method has remained unchanged for over 150 years, with its principle being widely adopted to represent biodiversity.

Science: Public interest high, literacy stable

A US survey finds that while 51% of Americans are interested in science, only 28% have a sufficient level of scientific understanding. The adult literacy rate is driven by completion of college-level science courses and baccalaureate degrees. NASA's educational programs aim to boost science literacy among learners of all ages.

Educating community research facilitators helps protect integrity of study results

A recent study by University of California, San Diego School of Medicine reports that educating Community Health Workers (CHWs) and other 'citizen scientists' can boost the integrity of scientific research. The Building Research Integrity and Capacity (BRIC) program uses eight modules to teach research ethics and concepts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·DateMar 18, 2016

WSU receives $3.6 million NIH grant to increase underrepresented students in science majors

The WSU-IMSD program aims to facilitate the entry, persistence, and success of underrepresented minority students into science majors, guiding them to pursue careers in academics and scientific research. The program has shown significant impact, with IMSD student graduation rates at 87% and 64% pursuing further degrees.

The strain allows to control the magnetic properties of individual iron atom

Researchers from the University of Warsaw have discovered a way to tailor the energy spectrum of an iron atom to obtain a doubly degenerate ground state with non-zero magnetic moment. This achievement enables the storage and processing of quantum information, making it suitable for applications in spintronics and solotronics.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2016

A snapshot of Americans' knowledge about science

A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals significant differences in Americans' understanding of various science topics, with educational level being a major factor. Adults with higher education tend to perform better on science-related questions, while gender also plays a role, with men generally outperforming women.

On Wikipedia, politically controversial science topics vulnerable to information sabotage

Researchers found that Wikipedia entries on acid rain, evolution, and climate change receive near-daily edits, resulting in egregious errors and distortion of consensus science. In contrast, non-controversial topics received fewer edits. The study suggests that users should critically evaluate Wikipedia source material and identify ent...

Reading comprehension focus of NSF grant

A team of Penn State researchers, led by Ping Li, has been awarded a nearly $1 million grant to investigate how readers comprehend science texts. The project aims to capture cognitive and brain representations during and after reading, with implications for STEM education.

Pharmaceutical industry regulation undermines NICE drugs appraisal work

The pharmaceutical industry's regulatory system is criticized for lacking accountability and being evidence-based, resulting in high NHS costs and inefficient use of technology appraisal work. The Cancer Drugs Fund is also singled out for criticism due to its inequitable allocation of funds and discrimination against other diseases.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 29, 2015

How do students use video in higher education?

A new SAGE white paper reveals that 68% of students watch videos in their classes, with 79% using them to enhance learning. The most compelling videos feature charismatic speakers, and preferred lengths range from 5-20 minutes, depending on the topic.

SourceSAGE·DateMar 16, 2015

How do men and women respond to gender bias in STEM?

A study analyzing online comments found that men are more likely to respond negatively to articles on gender bias in STEM, while women are more likely to express gratitude and call for social change. Men also make up a disproportionate share of sexist remarks against both themselves and others.

SourceSAGE·JournalPsychology of Women Quarterly·DateJan 8, 2015

Independent safety investigation needed in the NHS

A new agency would investigate major failures and provide public explanation, improving system-wide learning. The NHS lacks a consistent approach to investigating safety issues, relying on costly one-off inquiries.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 30, 2014

Endurance athletes at risk of swimming-induced pulmonary edema

Swimming-induced pulmonary edema is a potentially life-threatening condition affecting highly fit individuals who engage in strenuous or competitive swims, particularly in cold water. The unique combination of factors can lead to an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, resulting in fatal consequences if not addressed.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 24, 2014

Does the belief in guardian angels make people more cautious?

A recent study published in SAGE Open found that individuals who believe in guardian angels tend to be less likely to take risks compared to non-believers. The researchers surveyed 198 participants and discovered that the majority of those who believe in guardian angels are more cautious when making decisions, with a higher risk percep...

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateSep 23, 2014