Articles tagged with Public Policy
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that feeling fearful is associated with greater support for climate policies, while feelings of dread lead to lower support. The researchers suggest that evoking manageable levels of fear can motivate people to engage and support solutions.
A survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that a strong majority of Americans view the MMR vaccine as safe relative to other vaccines. However, the number of people holding this view is below the threshold required for community immunity, which is worrisome.
A 11-year study of Alaska's state-wide cash distribution program found no connection between direct cash payments and serious injury or death. The study considered all traumatic injuries and deaths over a longer period than previous research, examining the effects of providing cash transfers to an entire state.
A new report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the critical role of businesses in halting and reversing biodiversity loss. Businesses can either drive transformative change or risk extinction, as they rely on and impact nature. The report provides methods and 100+ actions for bu...
A new analysis by UC Berkeley researchers found that 'red flag' laws significantly reduced firearm suicides in four states that implemented the laws. The study estimates that these laws prevented over 675 suicides between 2023 and 2024. Non-firearm suicide rates remained unchanged.
A new study by University of Cincinnati economics professor David Brasington found that local business benefits from city services, particularly tax renewals, in Ohio. The research compared communities with renewed taxes and those with cut taxes, revealing a significant difference in commercial property redevelopment.
A new study evaluates climate policies in 40 countries, finding that a comprehensive toolkit including carbon pricing, taxation, and renewable energy investments is most effective. Countries like Australia, Canada, and Japan have substantial potential to strengthen their climate performance by increasing fossil fuel excise taxes.
A new study reveals Nepal's community forestry program has widened the gap between rural poverty and social elite, leaving marginalized populations behind. Researchers suggest stricter monitoring and targeted payment schemes to reform the program and promote equity.
This study found that universal pre-kindergarten may help mitigate racial and ethnic disparities in child protective services involvement. Reductions in child neglect associated with UPK could benefit children's health and well-being in the short- and long-term.
The new NIH policy on research using human fetal tissue could undermine the development of life-saving therapies for various diseases. The ISSCR urges NIH to reconsider its decision and engage constructively with the scientific community to support biomedical research.
A new study finds that hospitals treating more patients with Medicare Advantage plans face higher readmission penalties despite taking similar actions to prevent repeat hospitalizations. The analysis highlights the need to incorporate Medicare Advantage data into the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program.
A study by Chungnam National University finds that climate adaptation can significantly reduce migration from drought and armed conflict in Africa. Countries with stronger adaptive capacity experience lower migration levels during crisis conditions, highlighting the importance of policies addressing environmental and security threats.
A study by Seoul National University of Science & Technology found that expanding hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty trucks could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8.74 million tons. Public willingness to pay for this transition amounts to KRW 572.4 billion, far exceeding the prevailing carbon credit price.
The United Nations University reports that many regions are living beyond their hydrological means, with critical water systems already bankrupt. The study defines 'water bankruptcy' as persistent over-withdrawal from surface and groundwater relative to renewable inflows and safe levels of depletion. This has resulted in a growing list...
A study of European farmers' protests reveals a wide range of concerns including environmental regulations, which differ between countries. Farmers in Germany criticized bureaucracy, while French farmers focused on financial pressures, Belgian farmers expressed a broad mix of concerns, and Dutch farmers voiced dissatisfaction with policy.
The 27th SBSTTA-27 meeting emphasized the crucial role of scientists and knowledge holders in the UN CBD process. A side event explored capacity-building initiatives, regional TSC centers, and the introduction of a new guide for supporting participation in UN CBD processes.
A recent study by researchers from Waseda University and Zhejiang University found that inward foreign direct investment has distinct nonlinear, spillover, and contingent effects on new venture creation. The study analyzed China's enterprise credit information data between 2013 and 2023 and demonstrated robust support for its hypotheses.
A recent University of Michigan study analyzed over 60 million Medicare participants and found that total visits remained stable or declined slightly through June 2024. Despite widespread adoption of telehealth, overall healthcare visits stayed steady or decreased, contradicting predictions of increased utilization.
A new study by Binghamton University Professor Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm found that social media hashtags can help identify early warning signs of violence and amplify local voices. The research examined social media campaigns in Canada and Syria, analyzing over 5,000 posts tied to #TruthAndReconciliation and #SaveSyria.
Korea University's Institute for Environmental Health trained faculty members from Karakalpakstan Medical Institute to improve environmental health in the region. The training aimed to enhance water quality and waste disposal management, fostering collaboration and joint research.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that patients with underlying conditions such as type 1 diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of complications from cosmetic botulinum toxin injections. The researchers recommend restricting administration to medically qualified professionals.
Researchers at North Carolina State University propose a 'compounded resilience' strategy to help local governments prepare for and adapt to climate change. By incorporating policies that improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance infrastructure, communities can become more resilient and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
This cohort study found that exposure to Migrant Protection Protocols was associated with higher rates of trauma during migration among asylum seekers. The Migrant Protection Protocols may have potential downstream implications for U.S. public health and security, including adverse health outcomes for asylum seekers.
A new study published in the ECNU Review of Education warns that digital inequality has not disappeared but has become more hidden. School leaders play a critical role in inequities, particularly in how technology is used and in the social context of its implementation.
A new study from the University of Florida suggests that scientific populism is a stronger predictor of distrust in federal agencies than political ideology. Scientists must communicate the value of their work and engage with democratic institutions to influence research priorities.
Research found that early childhood exposure to childcare tax credits affects children's physical and mental health outcomes differently based on their mothers' educational level. Children of more-educated mothers experienced worse health outcomes, while those of less-educated mothers showed improvements.
The book chronicles challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and offers practical guidance on building trust, prioritizing needs of most at risk and reliable communication. Experts share lessons learned from K-12 schools and public health partnerships to navigate future crises.
A new study by Rice University researchers links legal sports betting to a measurable rise in violent and impulsive crime on game days. Crime levels surge when betting outcomes defy expectations, such as underdog wins, especially during games with close or tied scores that extend into overtime
A new study by the University of Washington found that households redeeming higher amounts of popular WIC food categories are less likely to drop out of the program. The research identified a link between increased redemption rates and lower risk of discontinuation, with fruits, vegetables, eggs, and whole milk being key categories.
John Holdren, a Harvard University professor and former OSTP director, has been awarded the 2026 AIP Karl Taylor Compton Medal for his scientific leadership in engaging the public and promoting sound governmental policies. The medal recognizes his contributions to physics through statesmanship in science.
A new study proposes a two-stage decision-making framework for lithium governance in Latin America, highlighting the role of external pressures, internal politics, and industry development. The research suggests that engagement strategies must consider these factors to succeed in the region.
Residents at a Japanese squat sustain autonomy through collaborative maintenance, fostering safety and inclusion. Simple spatial interventions enable diverse residents to coexist, challenging common assumptions on urban planning.
A comprehensive review of 19 multi-day events found that nearly 70% of reported emergencies were infectious disease outbreaks, with influenza, measles, and meningococcal disease being the top causes. Foodborne illnesses accounted for over one in five incidents, often linked to poor food handling practices.
New legislation bans online money games in India, highlighting aggressive promotional spending and addictive design features that exploit users. The study finds 450 million people lose Rs. 20,000 crores annually through online gaming, with cases of Internet Gaming Disorder and suicides reported.
The Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science at University of California San Diego is expanding its roadway safety education efforts to reach more Californians, with a focus on Native American youth, pedestrian safety and Spanish-speaking communities. The project will train local Native peer educators to del...
The 2025 European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology (ESCAIDE) brings together over 3,000 participants to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration in infectious disease prevention and control. The conference highlights urgent priorities such as building trust in science, demonstrating science-based ...
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that child firearm injuries rise as soon as the school day ends, with a peak risk in the first 15 minutes after dismissal. Community-level interventions providing safe spaces for youth are crucial to prevent such violence.
Shared houses in Tokyo are marketed as lifestyle-driven homes focusing on comfort, connection, and personal growth. The study reveals that properties near train stations emphasize accessibility and neighborhood convenience, while those farther away highlight natural surroundings and social interaction.
A blueprint for reducing firearms harms has been presented, suggesting investments in community-based initiatives and advancements in firearm technologies. The experts also recommend reframing gun violence as a public health issue and supporting coordinated action at federal, state, and local levels.
A new study ranks 38 OECD countries on their progress toward global health goals, finding that some of the world's wealthiest nations lag behind smaller economies. Nations with well-integrated public health systems and preventative care achieve better outcomes for every pound spent.
A new report from the Higher Education Policy Institute calls for a fundamental rethink of NHS clinical placement provision. The paper proposes practical interventions to make placements more effective and sustainable, including greater use of simulation and digital learning, new supervision frameworks, and community-based models.
A new study found that cash transfer programs led to significant improvements in health outcomes across 37 low- and middle-income countries. Women were more likely to plan pregnancies as they wished and receive birth control when needed, resulting in lower infant mortality rates. The programs also had a positive impact on child nutriti...
The 15% expansion of food stamp payments during the COVID-19 pandemic reduced child food insufficiency among SNAP participants compared to eligible non-participants. In Hispanic-American households, odds were 39% lower, while in large households (6+ people), they were 33% lower.
Immigration enforcement policies are producing widespread harm to physical and mental health, with family separation and fear affecting communities. Researchers call for an end to deportations and restrictive immigration policies, highlighting the need for community care and solidarity.
A new study found that the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision led to a significant increase in tubal ligations, a surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy, with 51% more procedures performed across four medical centers between 2021 and 2023.
The report proposes initiatives to reduce firearm violence, including using AI and addressing social causes. It also highlights the need for primordial prevention, which involves changing inequitable social structures to prevent violence.
A US study found that nicotine vaping nearly doubled among adolescents who vaped between 2020 and 2024, with a significant increase in daily users struggling to quit. The researchers aimed to understand the 'hardening' of youth vapers, describing a worsening addiction pattern.
The Lancet Countdown report links climate change to violence and community health, emphasizing the need for social and economic changes to prevent conflict. Strengthening food systems and ensuring emergency responses can reduce grievances and protect healthcare workers.
The Annenberg Public Policy Center survey finds that most American adults are unclear about the dangers of measles and the value of vaccination. The survey also shows a decline in support for MMR vaccination among parents, from 90% in November 2024 to 82% in August 2025.
A UK report highlights gender inequities in drug and alcohol services, with women often experiencing adverse childhood experiences and trauma. The study recommends improving treatment and support for women, including women-only spaces and holistic multi-agency approaches.
JMIR Publications invites submissions on navigating AI-enabled uncertainty in healthcare management, with a focus on practical guidance for senior management and administrators. The theme issue explores topics such as AI-enabled reimbursement, cloud migration, and vendor dynamics.
A recent study published in Pediatric Research highlights the impact of neighborhood environments on childhood type 2 diabetes risk. The research found associations between library presence, neighborhood walkability, and caregiver health, suggesting that social and environmental factors play a significant role in T2D development.
Research finds that commercial wind energy installations lead to a significant 3% increase in community home values after becoming operational. This effect is strongly correlated with the size of the energy project and positive impacts on school district revenues and per-pupil expenditures.
Researchers propose using the Agent Deed Consequence (ADC) model to program ethical values into smart city technologies. The model captures human moral judgments by considering agent intent, deed, and consequence, enabling AI systems to distinguish between legitimate and illegitimate orders.
A study by Bonnie Johnson at the University of Kansas found that group reflective practice among planning commissioners and staff improves services and reduces stress. The researchers explored the use of unconventional formats for staff reports to facilitate discussions about their work.
Critical raw materials are projected to grow from 1 million tonnes in 2022 to between 1.2 and 1.9 million tonnes by 2050. Europe can recover more of these essential materials by improving collection, design, and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Researchers found that the addition of new hierarchical layers occurred neither at the start nor end of growth periods, but rather smoothly as firms expanded. Smaller firms tend to add layers soon after growth begins, while larger firms have lower levels of managerial resources at the end of growth periods.
Researchers found that students from low-income households, specifically boys, were the most affected by class closures, highlighting growing educational inequality. Smaller class sizes and experienced teachers can reduce adverse effects on disadvantaged students.
A study found that UK MPs and the public overestimated the time needed for global greenhouse emissions to peak. Labour MPs were more likely to know the correct answer than Conservative MPs. The researchers suggest that institutions like the IPCC need to improve communication about climate change to policymakers and the public.
The IPBES report highlights five strategies to achieve transformative change: incorporating culture and ecology into conservation efforts, integrating biodiversity concerns into economic sectors, reforming governments, shifting societal values, and promoting incremental changes. The authors emphasize the urgent need for concerted effor...