Articles tagged with Public Policy
US youths experience disparities in firearm and motor vehicle crash fatality rates across different age groups, sexes, races, and ethnicities. A multipronged approach is necessary to address these leading causes of death, focusing on individual, community, and policy levels for high-risk groups.
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that a market-oriented organisational culture is positively associated with strategic procurement capability, which predicts the use of public procurement of innovations to create customer value. The study highlights the importance of both market orientation and strategic proc...
Dartmouth researchers propose a new way of thinking about masking and social distancing rules using game theory, considering them as two distinct actions. The study finds that people respond differently to these measures based on their perception of the disease's severity, trending towards masking or no protective action over time.
A policy brief by the Complexity Science Hub calls on G20 countries to collect granular supply chain data to identify key weaknesses and prioritize resilience-building investments. The move aims to prevent economic collapse in the face of future climate shocks, affecting millions worldwide.
Researchers investigating widowhood effects on poverty, wealth, labor supply and income for secondary earners who receive Social Security survivor benefits following a spouse's death. The study explores how these outcomes vary by the primary earner's initial Social Security claiming age.
A recent Maryland poll found Angela Alsobrooks (D) leading Larry Hogan (R) in the U.S. Senate race and a strong majority supporting an amendment to guarantee reproductive freedom. The poll also shows Kamala Harris (D) holding a significant lead over Donald Trump (R), with abortion services ranking as a top issue for voters.
Research led by a firefighter co-author sheds light on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons' affinity for DNA and ability to evade repair, highlighting potential health risks. The study's findings could inform public policy and accelerate the development of safer chemicals.
A machine learning model predicts soil behavior during earthquakes, identifying areas vulnerable to liquefaction and providing contour maps for safer construction sites. The study uses geological data to create detailed 3D maps of soil layers, improving prediction accuracy by 20%.
Research from Lancaster University found that restricting new fast-food outlets led to fewer overweight and obese children in Gateshead, England. The policy resulted in a statistically significant reduction of 4.80% in childhood obesity prevalence in deprived areas.
The Lancet Commission on Investing in Health recommends focusing on 15 priority health conditions to achieve a 50% reduction in premature deaths. Raising taxes on tobacco is key, with estimates suggesting it could reduce mortality rates by more than any other single policy.
Researchers found a 'confrontation effect' where people are more likely to engage with opposing viewpoints driven by outrage. The study analyzed data from Twitter and Facebook during the 2020 US presidential election, revealing users often react to opposing views with heightened engagement.
A new study by Harvard researchers found that food insufficiency increased after pandemic-era SNAP emergency allotments expired, leading to greater use of food pantries and difficulty paying household expenses. Black SNAP participants reported higher anxiety symptoms than white participants.
New research reveals hurricanes and tropical storms in the U.S. cause a surge of deaths for nearly 15 years after a storm hits, with an estimated 3.6 million to 5.2 million total deaths. The study also finds that Black individuals are three times more likely to die after a hurricane than white individuals.
A new study reveals that Florida policies are driving a 'limitation effect' in public schools, restricting access to instruction, books, and supports. Educators and parents report witnessing efforts to censor materials, reduce learning opportunities, and even quit teaching due to state restrictions.
A new study found that most US cities are successfully limiting floodplain development by applying existing tools and strategies. In New Jersey, municipalities have consistently limited new housing in floodplains and impervious surface growth using conventional local ordinances and modest government capacity.
A new study from European universities has developed a method to analyze wastewater data from seven major cities, identifying thousands of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and antimicrobial resistance. This approach can detect potential health threats simultaneously, potentially preventing epidemics from escalating into outbreaks.
A study analyzing data from the Health Survey for England found that people living in areas of high deprivation are likely to have worse health than those in less deprived areas, even when reporting their own health as 'poor'. This could lead to underestimation of health inequalities and inaccurate allocation of resources.
A study of over 5,000 Australian high school students found that those with severe depressive symptoms were more than twice as likely to have tried e-cigarettes. The research highlights the urgent need for effective mental health support to prevent vaping onset during early adolescence.
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin finds that more frequent financial reporting aids investors in predicting future earnings. Quarterly reports lead to better-correlated returns with long-term future earnings, making it easier for investors to forecast and incorporate them into current stock prices.
High levels of lipoprotein (a) found in 20-34% of Polish patients with heart disease or at risk. Lp(a) measurements may be crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis progression.
A recent study by an international team has established a link between academic freedom and innovative output for the first time. The researchers found that countries with higher levels of academic freedom tend to have more patent applications and citations, indicating a positive correlation between academic freedom and innovation. Con...
Researchers examined how clean energy policies affect neighboring states and found that stronger policies lead to more renewable electricity generation. The study suggests that individual state policies are more effective than previously thought, and that geographical proximity plays a significant role in spillover effects.
A study of 12,000 Canadian respondents aged 65+ found that socially independent older adults born in Canada are most satisfied when living solo, while socially dependent immigrants who live alone experience lower life satisfaction. Personality-based social dispositions play a key role in how older adults feel about their living arrange...
A systematic review found that universal free school meals were associated with increased meal participation and no significant improvements in attendance. The study also noted a decrease in obesity prevalence and suspension rates, although the evidence for these findings was moderate to low certainty.
A cohort study found that childhood and adolescent depression symptoms were associated with impaired adult psychosocial functioning. The study highlights the importance of screening and monitoring children and adolescents for depression to inform policymaking regarding young adult mental health and psychosocial outcomes.
A study by University of Surrey researchers highlights the importance of public bodies investing in local food systems to create healthier communities. Community cafes and pantries have been shown to empower volunteers and promote knowledge sharing about food, while grant funding and council support can unlock new projects.
A new study finds that housing-related companion animal relinquishment increased across 21 US shelters from 2019-2023, while pet restrictions and conflicts declined. Housing insecurity worsens despite pet-inclusive policies, leaving owners with devastating choices.
A national survey of clinicians providing abortion found elevated moral distress among all practitioners, with those in restrictive states facing twice the stress. The study emphasizes the need for structural changes and policy reform to combat widespread moral distress.
A cross-sectional study found that universal background checks alone are ineffective in reducing firearm homicide rates, but permit requirements significantly lower these rates. Combining both measures could be an effective strategy to reduce firearm-related fatalities.
A comprehensive meta-analysis found that interventions increasing access to vaccines and providing transportation assistance tripled vaccination odds, particularly in low-income countries. Financial incentives also showed a moderate effect, but were less impactful.
A study found that city-level sugar-sweetened beverage taxes are associated with lower body mass index percentile among youth. Policymakers may consider implementing such taxes to prevent or reduce youth overweight and obesity, ultimately reducing chronic disease risk, particularly among children under 12.
A recent survey study found increased self-managed abortion attempts following federal abortion protection changes in the US. The study revealed that marginalized groups predominantly used ineffective methods, highlighting the need for expanded access to safe and effective abortion care.
Aalto University Professor Frank Martela advocates for a more precise definition of well-being to improve policy decisions. His theory combines life satisfaction and positive feelings, arguing that economic growth can be counterproductive to humanity's future. By targeting cuts in areas with the least well-being, governments can promot...
Medical debt exacerbates the mental health treatment gap among US adults, particularly those with depression and anxiety. The study highlights the need for new policies to protect against this financial barrier and ensure access to mental health care.
A stable childhood home environment has been shown to have a protective association against adult depression. Policies supporting settled childhoods should be promoted to reduce adulthood depression risk.
A new analysis found that surge facilities reduced the time to reunify unaccompanied migrant children with their families by 30%, preventing a delay of nearly 50 days without such facilities. This study underscores the importance of timely infrastructure for vulnerable groups.
A Massachusetts statewide standing order policy led to a 32% increase in emergency contraceptive fills at pharmacies. The policy's impact was largely attributed to increased prescription-only ulipristal fill rates, which more than doubled after the policy was implemented.
A new dataset reveals that lynchings in Latin America are often triggered by alleged theft or murder, with groups of 20-99 individuals involved. Close-knit community ties and peer pressure play a significant role in ordinary civilians taking part in acts of violence against alleged wrongdoers.
A study by Boston University School of Public Health found that over 1 in 10 FQHC patients experience major social risk factors such as food insecurity, housing insecurity, and financial strain. These challenges are significantly higher among FQHCs serving historically disenfranchised groups.
A new study examines the design characteristics of quasi-governmental organizations (QGOs) to provide insights on how to improve climate adaptation governance. The research finds that some QGOs are useful for overcoming politicization or fostering multi-level stakeholder coordination, but none prove optimal for both simultaneously.
A recent study published by CU researchers found that 26% of physician respondents reported large ethical or religious barriers to participating in medical aid in dying, but many were willing to discuss MAiD with patients. Despite these barriers, physicians were less likely to participate directly in MAiD.
Researchers create standard yardstick to measure value in accountable care organizations (ACOs), finding average improvement potential of 24%. The proposed approach can also be applied to individual hospitals and other health care providers, pinningpointing areas for improvement.
A study on Oregon's state-run retirement savings program found significant benefits for previously uncovered private workers and lower-income, single, older workers. The analysis revealed a 12% increase in Individual Retirement Account ownership among Oregon workers after the program's roll-out.
Immediate electronic release of patient results can lead to misinterpretation and negative outcomes, as seen in CU doctor Benjamin Vipler's experience with his mom. The 21st Century Cures Act aims to empower patients with their health information but requires further study on its impact.
A recent study at the Hebrew University examines the impact of memorial days on national unity amidst political polarization, revealing a notable decline in affective polarization during Holocaust Memorial Day. The research suggests that sadness plays a pivotal role in temporarily reducing societal divisions and safeguarding cohesion.
Experts from 39 countries and over 300 delegates gathered to discuss the importance of robust knowledge in policy-making, particularly in times of crisis. The conference highlighted the need for inclusive approaches to science advice and diplomacy to address local-to-global challenges.
A Dartmouth-led study found that people in New England, particularly those who frequently consume seafood, face an increased risk of PFAS exposure. The researchers recommend setting safety standards to limit seafood consumption and highlight the need for more stringent public health guidelines.
A new study reveals a strong correlation between universities' sustainability performance and local innovation, while showing little connection to community environmental sustainability. The research suggests universities contribute to economic development, but struggle to drive broader sustainable transformations.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health reveals that nearly half of Las Vegas concertgoers who survived the 2017 mass shooting experienced major depressive episodes within the past year. The study also found that over 63% of survivors reported post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during the same time period.
A recent study suggests that pairing climate change policies with other measures like pausing EPA regulations or social justice can reduce public support, especially among liberals and moderates. However, economic redistribution measures may increase appeal, particularly among Democrats.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) has improved pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) for students with disabilities, but challenges remain. Research highlights the need for targeted technical assistance, support, and innovation to improve outcomes.
A study from Bentley University's Center for Integration of Science and Industry found that US drug approvals were aligned with the US, but not global, burden of disease. The increasing number of expedited approval programs may make this gap worse, as these programs tend to favor conditions with lower disease burden.
The Supreme Court's shift to the right has led to a significant erosion of public trust and legitimacy, with Democrats seeing the court as less legitimate and Republicans viewing it more positively. The court's dramatic change since the 2022 Dobbs ruling has polarized the public along partisan lines for the first time in decades.
A new EWG study has found chlormequat, a little-known pesticide, in 77% of urine samples from people tested between 2017 and 2023. The chemical is linked to reproductive and developmental problems in animal studies, suggesting potential harm to humans. EWG calls for increased research and regulation on chlormequat.
A new study finds that regulated cryptocurrencies create the most efficient markets, providing protection for investors. Unregulated ICOs were found to be the least efficient, while IEOs and exchange-based regulation approached traditional stock market levels of efficiency.
Researchers found that increased polarization in Congress leads to longer periods of stasis and fewer bills passed, but the ones that do pass are larger and more impactful. This dynamics has become exaggerated, making it harder to change the status quo, resulting in bigger changes when they occur.
A recent study analyzed a prominent dark web fentanyl-selling operation that grew at an alarming rate, offering consumers significant discounts. The organization's sales growth and price markups made it difficult for law enforcement to shut down, allowing other organizations to fill the gap.
A Lancaster University-led study found improvements in mental health and reductions in burglaries among residents involved in the Big Local community empowerment initiative. However, benefits were unequally distributed, with men and those with higher education reporting better outcomes.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a predictive model for accessing prenatal care services in rural Amhara, Ethiopia. The model incorporated data on education, income source, diet, and history of previous pregnancies, identifying factors that predict failure to attend prenatal care visits.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that 90% of pregnant women in high-income countries lack key vitamins necessary for healthy pregnancies and fetal development. The situation is expected to worsen as more people adopt plant-based diets, leading to increased risk of nutrient deficiencies.