Add BrightSurf on Google Email

COVID-19 denial depends on a population's trust in social institutions

A study of over 150,000 respondents found that COVID-19 denial depends on people's trust in social institutions, particularly healthcare systems. EU countries demonstrate varying levels of stress and trust in governments, with some showing high levels of stress and others trusting their governments more than other institutions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 18, 2021

Increase in minimum wage will save infant lives, study shows

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that increasing the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 per hour can reduce infant deaths by up to 1.8% annually in large U.S. cities, saving over 1,400 infant lives annually. States preempting city and county governments from raising the minimum wage contribute to these infant deaths.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJan 26, 2021

Experts call for Europe-wide COVID-19 targets

A group of over 300 global scientists is urging European governments to adopt a coordinated approach to managing the pandemic by setting clear COVID-19 case number targets. The proposed strategy aims to achieve low case numbers, enhance mitigation measures, and develop long-term common vision to protect people's health, societies, and ...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 18, 2020

Quantifying effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions on SARS-CoV-2 transmission with modeling

A new modeling study found that limiting gatherings to fewer than 10 people and closing educational institutions significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Closing schools, universities, and nonessential businesses had a considerable impact on transmission rates, while targeted closures of high-risk businesses showed more benefit.

New study shows converting to electric vehicles alone won't meet climate targets

A new study published in Nature Climate Change estimates that meeting UN climate targets would require up to 90% of US passenger vehicles to be electric by 2050. The researchers found that a fleet of 350 million EVs would increase electricity demand by 41%, posing significant technological and infrastructure challenges.

Even 'low-risk' drinking can be harmful

A recent study found that even low-risk drinking within Canada's guidelines can lead to hospitalization and death. Moderate drinkers are not insulated from harm, particularly men who experience harm at all drinking levels. The study suggests that guideline limits should be lowered to match those in the Netherlands.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 15, 2020

Key failings in government's approach to COVID-19 preparations and emergency response

Research finds UK government's reliance on 'lean production' and 'just in time' continuity planning left NHS stockpiles short of vital supplies and capacity for PPE, ventilators, and testing. The paper suggests a new independent body should be set up to take responsibility for future national emergency preparedness.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Risk Research·DateMay 7, 2020

Online tool helps to protect tropical forests

Researchers at KU Leuven developed an online tool that maps threats to tropical dry forests in Peru and Ecuador, advising local governments on forest restoration and conservation. The tool uses tree species traits to predict resilience and identify most-at-risk areas.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 22, 2020

UK coronavirus policy places people aged 60-69 at increased risk

A study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine found that people aged 60-69 are at a higher risk of complications and death from COVID-19. The authors recommend stringent public health measures for this age group to reduce hospitalizations and deaths.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 21, 2020