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River Thames invaded with foreign species

The River Thames has been invaded with over 96 non-native freshwater species, according to a recent study published in Biological Invasions. The research suggests that globalisation and shipping activity have facilitated these invasions, resulting in significant biodiversity loss and ecosystem service degradation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBiological Invasions·DateOct 8, 2012

Study examines autism law, financial burdens

A new study by Susan Parish found that families living in states with parity laws spent significantly less on healthcare needs for their children with autism. Families in these states incurred lower out-of-pocket costs, averaging $500 annually, compared to those without such legislation, where costs were much higher.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalIntellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateJul 16, 2012

Is berry picking forced labor?

Research by Charles Woolfson reveals that berry pickers from Asia and Eastern Europe may be subjected to forced labor in Swedish forests. The ILO's definition of forced labor is met, with threats of punishment and non-consensual working conditions.

SourceLinköping University·JournalInternational Journal of Comparative Labour Law and Industrial Relations·DateJun 7, 2012

Any UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids

Researchers argue that UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids due to equivocal evidence of adult protection. The authors suggest a paternalistic approach and instead recommend public health information to empower adults to make their own decisions about helmet-wearing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateMar 7, 2012

Smoking bans lead to less, not more, smoking at home

A study of four European countries with smoke-free legislation found that banning smoking in public places prompts smokers to ban smoking at home, contrary to the displacement hypothesis. The percentage of smokers implementing a home smoking ban increased significantly across all countries.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateFeb 13, 2012

California nurse staffing

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that California's nurse-to-patient ratio legislation increased registered nurse staffing without decreasing RNs. The law allowed hospitals to hire licensed practical nurses to meet staffing requirements, helping to alleviate a severe nurse shortage.

Women in Congress outperform men on some measures

A study by University of Chicago scholars finds that women in Congress consistently deliver more federal projects to their home districts and sponsor more legislation than men. Women's higher performance is attributed to voter discrimination against female candidates, leading only the most talented females to run for office.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJan 24, 2011

Tobacco: Out of sight, out of mind?

Researchers at the University of Nottingham discovered that removing tobacco displays in shops can change young people's attitudes towards smoking. The number of teenagers who recalled tobacco displays dropped from 81% to 22%, and fewer believed smoking was widespread among their peers.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalTobacco Control·DateNov 23, 2010

Health reform fails the disadvantaged

A new study finds that US government health reforms have improved insurance coverage and reduced financial barriers to care, but failed to address disparities in access to care and self-rated health. The research suggests that health reform policies should focus on broader social determinants of health to advance health equity.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2010

Keeping faith -- schools must balance ethos with equality

Research reveals that faith-based schools in the UK often fail to address LGBTQ+ issues, with teachers intimidated by power structures and unequal policies. The study calls for greater accountability from school leaders to challenge homophobic bullying and ensure equality for all students.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalEducational Management Administration & Leadership·DateSep 1, 2010