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This article critiques the tension between public expectations for punitive action in child protection systems and the restorative approach emphasized by these institutions. The analysis highlights that, beyond procedural justice variables, additional factors – such as sensationalized media representation and societal biases – significantly influence public perceptions. Media coverage often amplifies child protection failures, creating narratives that call for punitive responses, while social biases, including racial biases, obstruct the acceptance of restorative justice principles. This article proposes a broader research approach incorporating the effects of bias and structural inequities to understand public perceptions comprehensively. Such an approach is expected to encourage policy changes that promote transparency and foster a more constructive dialogue between child protection services and the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) in Western Australia is 10 years old. While the negative impacts of early contact with justice systems have been well-documented and have resulted in calls to raise the age, research had not examined the public views of MACR in Western Australia. This article presents a novel examination of the knowledge and perceptions of the MACR with a sample of the West Australian public (n = 69). Findings from the semi-structured interviews revealed low levels of knowledge about the MACR, some reacted with surprise when provided with the information. Participants' views shifted in that they expected children knew 'right from wrong', however, they acknowledged discrepancies with other age-dependent social milestones and that the MACR was inconsistent with developmental maturity levels. They supported rehabilitative options unless the crime was serious and concluded the MACR needed to be assessed and applied proportionally on a case-by-case basis so that children who had offended could be held accountable. Finally, most participants supported raising the age from 10 to between 12 and 18. The study thus reaffirms the importance of increasing public awareness of the issue for the success of the 'raise the age' campaign in Western Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Citizen, or community, science initiatives are increasingly recognised as an effective strategy to connect society with nature, science and environmental issues. However, different approaches to the delivery of the programmes can have different impacts on participant awareness, perceptions and behaviour change—especially when working with ecosystems perceived as less popular or uncharismatic, such as coastal wetlands, mangroves and saltmarshes. Using the HSBC Blue Carbon Citizen Science Programme as a case study, we compared two groups of corporate employees from Australia and New Zealand (N = 89) who participated in either: (a) a short duration citizen science experience including educational workshops and fieldwork in a local wetland; or (b) in educational workshops‐only. Questionnaires assessed the impact on participants' knowledge and perception towards wetlands, as well as their likelihood of adopting sustainable behaviours. Results revealed that participants' knowledge and understanding of environmental concepts increased, independent of the type of experience attended. However, the citizen science experience was more effective at fostering participants' intentions to make behaviour changes, with 64% of citizen science participants implementing sustainable changes at home or work, compared to 45% of workshop‐only participants. Our results highlight the importance of immersive citizen science experiences that, even of short duration, can have a valuable role enhancing participant knowledge, perception, and importantly, intention to make long‐term behaviour changes. With the increasing challenges faced by coastal systems globally, incorporating hands‐on, immersive experiences into educational programmes can be a strategic solution to improve ocean and climate literacy, while facilitating the actions required for a sustainable future. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Labels are influential signals in the marketplace intended to inform and to eliminate buyer confusion. Despite this, food labels continue to be the subject of debate. None more so than non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) labels. This manuscript provides a timeline of the evolution of GMO labels beginning with the early history of the anti-GMO movement to the current National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard in the United States. Using media and market intelligence data collected through Buzzsumo™ and Mintel™, public discourse of GMOs is analyzed in relation to sociopolitical events and the number of new food products with anti-GMO labels, respectively. Policy document and publication data is collected with Overton™ to illustrate the policy landscape for the GMO topic and how it has changed over time. Analysis of the collective data illustrates that while social media and policy engagement around the topic of GMOs has diminished over time, the number of new products with a GMO-free designation continues to grow. While discourse peaked at one point, and has since declined, our results suggest that the legacy of an anti-GMO narrative remains firmly embedded in the social psyche, evidenced by the continuing rise of products with GMO-free designation. Campaigns for GMO food labels to satisfy consumers’ right to know were successful and the perceived need for this information now appears to be self-sustaining.

Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) integration in healthcare has emerged as a transformative force, promising to enhance medical diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare delivery. Hence, this study investigates university students’ perceptions of using AI in healthcare. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at two major universities using a paper-based questionnaire from September 2023 to November 2023. Participants’ views regarding using artificial intelligence in healthcare were investigated using 25 items distributed across five domains. The Mann-Whitney U test was applied to compare variables. Two hundred seventy-nine (279) students completed the questionnaire. More than half of the participants (52%, n = 145) expressed their belief in AI’s potential to reduce treatment errors. However, about (61.6%, n = 172) of participants fear the influence of AI that could prevent doctors from learning to make correct patient care judgments, and it was widely agreed (69%) that doctors should ultimately maintain final control over patient care. Participants with experience with AI, such as engaging with AI chatbots, significantly reported higher scores in both the “Benefits and Positivity Toward AI in Healthcare” and “Concerns and Fears” domains (p = 0.024) and (p = 0.026), respectively. The identified cautious optimism, concerns, and fears highlight the delicate balance required for successful AI integration. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing specific concerns, promoting positive experiences with AI, and establishing transparent communication channels. Insights from such research can guide the development of ethical frameworks, policies, and targeted interventions, fostering a harmonious integration of AI into the healthcare landscape in developing countries.

Abstract Background The approval of lecanemab, an anti-amyloid therapy for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), necessitates addressing healthcare preparedness for disease-modifying treatment (DMT) to ensure appropriate, safe, and sustainable drug administration. Understanding public perceptions on this matter is crucial. We aimed to assess discrepancies and similarities in the perceptions of Japanese trial-ready cohort study (‘J-TRC webstudy’) participants and clinical specialists in the fields of dementia treatment and radiology, concerning affairs related to challenges in DMT preparedness. Methods This was a cross-sectional prospective observational study conducted in November–December 2023. The J-TRC webstudy participants were invited to participate in an online survey using Google Forms, and clinical specialists were invited to complete a mail-based survey. Main questionnaire items had been designed to be common in both surveys, and their responses were analyzed for participant attributes, interests, attitudes, expectations, and concerns about DMTs without specifying lecanemab. Results Responses were obtained from n = 2,050 J-TRC webstudy participants and n = 1,518 clinical specialists. Compared to specialists, more J-TRC respondents perceived the eligible proportion for DMT as smaller (59.1% versus 30.7%), perceived the eligible severity for DMT as more limited (58.0% versus 24.5%), and perceived the efficacy of DMT as slightly more encouraging (29.3% versus 34.8%). In terms of treatment prioritization, both J-TRC respondents and specialist respondents exhibited similar levels of acceptance for prioritizing patients to treat: e.g., approximately two-thirds endorsed patient prioritization under hypothetical resource constraints or other reasons. A medical rationale emerged as the most compelling reason for acceptance of patient prioritization across the surveys. In contrast, the need to address vulnerable populations was the reason that led to the least acceptance of prioritization, followed by economic considerations. Conclusions Our findings offer valuable insights into the discrepancies in knowledge and perception between patients and healthcare providers. This could enhance the delivery of patient information in clinical settings and inform the discussion surrounding patient prioritization strategies.

In the context of the 2024 Indonesian presidential election, a new phenomenon has emerged among social media users: the creativity in making memes. These memes, which can take the form of text or images, address issues and events in an evocative style, becoming widely discussed due to their rapid dissemination and commentary on social media. This research aims to describe the signifiers and signifieds in memes related to the 2024 Indonesian presidential and vice-presidential candidates, elucidate the meanings contained in these memes, and explore the connection between memes on social media and the representation of public perception. This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study design by employing semiotic analysis. The markers in these memes include snippets of cartoon and film scenes. The allusions in the memes align with the reality of the Indonesian 2024 presidential and vice-presidential candidate debates. These memes convey statements that contain information and public perceptions regarding the behavior, attitudes, and outcomes of the 2024 Indonesian presidential candidates. The results indicate that public perceptions are represented in the memes of the 2024 presidential candidates, encompassing expressions, perceptions, criticisms, humor, and satire. Furthermore, signifiers and signifieds are identified in each meme. This study reveals that memes play a crucial role in reflecting and shaping public perceptions during the 2024 Indonesian presidential election. Through creative expressions of humour, criticism, and satire, memes capture and communicate public sentiments about the candidates, highlighting their influence as a powerful tool in modern political discourse and public engagement.

Human attitudes towards species and attributes of wildlife contribute to support for conservation. However, there is limited information on how perceptions of conservation as a concept and process influence attitudes towards endangered species conservation. Furthermore, the question of who society attributes as being responsible for the conservation of endangered species still looms. We address how perceptions towards wildlife and endangered species conservation predict ascriptions of responsibility for conservation through a survey of 1,049 residents of Arkansas, USA, about their attitudes towards and understandings of wildlife and endangered species conservation, their perceptions of and experiences with wildlife agencies, and their beliefs about the responsibilities various interested parties bear with regards to conserving endangered species. Respondents held generally positive attitudes towards wildlife conservation and endangered species conservation, as well as government wildlife agencies (US Fish and Wildlife Service and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission). Respondents perceived all interested parties (i.e., all Americans, all residents of Arkansas, licensed hunters/anglers in Arkansas, Arkansas landowners with endangered species on their land, and nongovernmental conservation organizations) as at least somewhat responsible for endangered species conservation in Arkansas. Ascriptions of responsibility to interested parties were often positively predicted by variables related to the importance of wildlife to ecosystem health and conservation costs. Our findings illustrate the perceived value of endangered species as a public resource, suggesting support for conservation efforts and their funding that has implications across the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bariatric surgery is globally stigmatized. There's a lack of international comparative research on public perceptions of this procedure, and existing studies often overlook public perceptions of individuals undergoing it. Our cross-sectional survey investigated attitudes toward obesity, bariatric surgery, and individuals undergoing it in the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom. Of 1807 respondents, the UK displayed more negative attitudes, possibly due to differing beliefs on personal responsibility or national perspectives on obesity treatment. Surprisingly, respondents had positive attitudes toward bariatric surgery patients despite prevailing negative attitudes toward obesity. Perceptions of personal responsibility significantly impacted attitudes toward these patients. Our study challenges the idea of universally negative attitudes toward bariatric surgery and its patients, underlining the importance of understanding these differences to tackle stigma. Further research on cultural, social, and individual influences is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Grand Canal in China, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has received great attention for the revitalization and utilization of its rich cultural heritage. Previous studies have predominantly focused on the tourism preferences and values of tangible and intangible resources while often neglecting a more holistic understanding of public perceptions. Analyzing public perceptions of tourist attractions helps clarify their evolving role in the cultural tourism market from the demand side. This study examined this issue based on complex network theory, social media reviews, and semantic network analysis. It identified hotspots in relevant reviews, examined the overall characteristics of the social cognitive image, and analyzed public perceptions through four types of semantic networks based on natural language processing. This study demonstrates a novel approach to policy implication in the regeneration and utilization of cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citizen, or community, science initiatives are increasingly recognised as an effective strategy to connect society with nature, science and environmental issues. However, different approaches to the delivery of the programmes can have different impacts on participant awareness, perceptions and behaviour change—especially when working with ecosystems perceived as less popular or uncharismatic, such as coastal wetlands, mangroves and saltmarshes.Using the HSBC Blue Carbon Citizen Science Programme as a case study, we compared two groups of corporate employees from Australia and New Zealand (N = 89) who participated in either: (a) a short duration citizen science experience including educational workshops and fieldwork in a local wetland; or (b) in educational workshops‐only. Questionnaires assessed the impact on participants' knowledge and perception towards wetlands, as well as their likelihood of adopting sustainable behaviours.Results revealed that participants' knowledge and understanding of environmental concepts increased, independent of the type of experience attended. However, the citizen science experience was more effective at fostering participants' intentions to make behaviour changes, with 64% of citizen science participants implementing sustainable changes at home or work, compared to 45% of workshop‐only participants.Our results highlight the importance of immersive citizen science experiences that, even of short duration, can have a valuable role enhancing participant knowledge, perception, and importantly, intention to make long‐term behaviour changes.With the increasing challenges faced by coastal systems globally, incorporating hands‐on, immersive experiences into educational programmes can be a strategic solution to improve ocean and climate literacy, while facilitating the actions required for a sustainable future. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel perspective on an evolving policy area. The UK's withdrawal from the EU has led to the creation of a new Agriculture Act and proposals for significant changes to the way farming subsidies are structured in England. Underpinned by a 'public money for public goods' approach, where public goods are those outputs from the farm system which are not rewarded by markets, yet which provide benefits to many members of society. New schemes include the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, where certain aspects of farm animal health and welfare (FAHW) will be subsidised through government support, raising a much-debated issue in the literature regarding the representation of FAHW as a public good. For policy to be responsive to societal demands and accountable to citizens, understanding public attitudes and preferences towards FAHW as a public good, and how the public might prioritise this in relation to a wider suite of environmental public goods from farming, is important. An online survey of 521 members of the UK public was conducted and analysed with descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression. Findings reveal low awareness of the changing agricultural policy context, but strong support for public money being used to provide public goods, particularly for FAHW. Findings also indicate a need for more effective public communication of farming and FAHW issues from farming stakeholders to ensure public policy in this domain is responsive and accountable to its citizens. Further work is needed to inform future debates and engagement surrounding FAHW, including through which combination of funding mechanisms (public or private) it is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Labels are influential signals in the marketplace intended to inform and to eliminate buyer confusion. Despite this, food labels continue to be the subject of debate. None more so than non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) labels. This manuscript provides a timeline of the evolution of GMO labels beginning with the early history of the anti-GMO movement to the current National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard in the United States. Using media and market intelligence data collected through Buzzsumo™ and Mintel™, public discourse of GMOs is analyzed in relation to sociopolitical events and the number of new food products with anti-GMO labels, respectively. Policy document and publication data is collected with Overton™ to illustrate the policy landscape for the GMO topic and how it has changed over time. Analysis of the collective data illustrates that while social media and policy engagement around the topic of GMOs has diminished over time, the number of new products with a GMO-free designation continues to grow. While discourse peaked at one point, and has since declined, our results suggest that the legacy of an anti-GMO narrative remains firmly embedded in the social psyche, evidenced by the continuing rise of products with GMO-free designation. Campaigns for GMO food labels to satisfy consumers' right to know were successful and the perceived need for this information now appears to be self-sustaining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) integration in healthcare has emerged as a transformative force, promising to enhance medical diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare delivery. Hence, this study investigates university students' perceptions of using AI in healthcare. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at two major universities using a paper-based questionnaire from September 2023 to November 2023. Participants' views regarding using artificial intelligence in healthcare were investigated using 25 items distributed across five domains. The Mann-Whitney U test was applied to compare variables. Two hundred seventy-nine (279) students completed the questionnaire. More than half of the participants (52%, n = 145) expressed their belief in AI's potential to reduce treatment errors. However, about (61.6%, n = 172) of participants fear the influence of AI that could prevent doctors from learning to make correct patient care judgments, and it was widely agreed (69%) that doctors should ultimately maintain final control over patient care. Participants with experience with AI, such as engaging with AI chatbots, significantly reported higher scores in both the "Benefits and Positivity Toward AI in Healthcare" and "Concerns and Fears" domains (p = 0.024) and (p = 0.026), respectively. The identified cautious optimism, concerns, and fears highlight the delicate balance required for successful AI integration. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing specific concerns, promoting positive experiences with AI, and establishing transparent communication channels. Insights from such research can guide the development of ethical frameworks, policies, and targeted interventions, fostering a harmonious integration of AI into the healthcare landscape in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon pricing policies can play an important role in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. However, policymakers often cite the lack of public support as a major obstacle to adopting and expanding the coverage of such policies. Using data from a large cross-country survey of about 28,500 people across 28 countries conducted during the summer of 2022, we show that providing information about the costs and benefits of carbon pricing can swing public support. Highlighting the efficacy and revenue recycling potential of carbon pricing increases support, especially in emerging market economies. In contrast, highlighting costs reduces support, but less so for people who report being already significantly impacted by climate change. Moreover, people adopt more negative views of subsidies for renewable energy and low-carbon technologies when the salience of their costs is increased, with the shift being more pronounced for people, especially in advanced economies, who believe that effective climate polices require global efforts. Our results suggest that there is scope to increase public support for climate mitigation measures by providing people with the policy information they may lack. Key policy insights: Support for climate change mitigation policies can be increased through information campaigns that clearly communicate the effectiveness and co-benefits of these policies. Given that the costs associated with climate policies are a key public concern, policymakers should provide clear explanations on how these costs are offset by long-term benefits and potential revenue recycling mechanisms. Increasing public awareness of the immediate human and economic losses caused by climate change at the local level can strengthen support for climate policies despite economic costs. Encouraging local and community-centric approaches to climate action by can help address concerns regarding collective action problems and coordination failures, and enhance support for national policy measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Philippines currently depends heavily on fossil fuels, which are vulnerable to price fluctuations. In response, the 2023-2050 Philippine Energy Plan sets ambitious targets to increase the share of renewable energy in the capacity mix: 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040. Achieving these targets require more than just policy—it needs public understanding and support. This study examines public awareness, perceptions, and attitudes toward renewable energy in the Philippines, specifically among respondents from Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna. Through a structured survey of 386 participants, we assessed familiarity with renewable sources like biomass, geothermal, solar, hydro, ocean and wind, finding that while 70% are generally aware of these sources, only 30% know about local projects or government initiatives. The survey results show strong support for renewable energy’s environmental benefits, with 67% of respondents in favor, though 69% express concerns about high initial costs, and 57% are wary of reliability issues. Using statistical analysis, we found that age significantly affects awareness levels (p < 0.001), while gender, income, and location have minimal influence. These insights underline the need for public engagement to support the goals of the 2023-2050 Philippine Energy Plan. Our findings suggest that more targeted education, financial incentives, and community involvement could boost public support and address perceived barriers, providing valuable direction for policymakers to enhance renewable energy adoption across the Philippines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Those who can't do, teach." This adage is common, perhaps because the general public does not fully understand what teachers do. Here, we describe our findings from a collaborative project, GIFT (Graduate Identity Formation through Teaching), in which STEM graduate students (GSs) taught science content to teacher candidates (TCs) and received a semester-long introduction to lesson planning and general instructional theories. GIFT was not originally intended to impact public perceptions of science teaching and science education nor was its purpose to cultivate future educators amongst the STEM GSs. Despite this, the data indicate that STEM GSs were impacted by this partnership and indeed thought about K-12 teaching more deeply after participating in GIFT. The results of this study indicate that purposeful interventions involving GSs (and perhaps undergraduate students) engaging in teaching may prove to be an impactful experience for those students and vital to the public support of science education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence from high-income countries suggests that greater media coverage of climate change is associated with greater public concern, while societal "shocks" reduce concern. Conducted in 2021, this UK study of adults (n = 6082) investigates climate change concern, its identification as among "the most important issues" and as "the single most important issue" facing the UK. It does so in the context of increased media coverage of climate change associated with the UK's hosting COP26 and the COVID19 pandemic with its associated restrictions on everyday life. In analyses that took account of sociodemographic factors, neither increased media coverage around COP26 nor the COVID19 pandemic had an effect on climate change concern or its identification as an important issue for the UK. Its identification as the single most important issue was at its lowest at the height of the COVID19 pandemic, with no evidence that increased climate change coverage affected its issue salience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Design Setting Participants Measurements Findings Conclusions To understand how the US public defines recovery from opioid misuse and the recovery‐related resources it views as most helpful, and to compare differences by opioid misuse history and demographic characteristics.Observational study of data from the nationally representative AmeriSpeak® Panel survey administered in October/November 2021.United States.6515 adults (≥ 18 years).Respondents ranked 10 definitions of recovery (religious in nature; spiritual in nature; physical/mental in nature; contributing to society; enhanced quality of life; seeking professional help; having a sense of purpose; moderate/controlled substance use; no drug use; abstaining from all substance use) and 9 resources that might contribute to recovery (primary care physician; intensive inpatient program; residential rehabilitation program; self‐help group; therapist/psychologist/social worker; prescribed medication; talking to family/friends; spiritual/natural healer; faith‐based organization). We explored differences in rankings by opioid misuse history (personal vs. family/friend vs. no history) and demographic characteristics (race, sex, age) using multivariable ordinal logistic regression.Seeking professional help was the most endorsed recovery definition overall [mean (M) = 6.97, standard error (SE) = 0.03]. Those with personal opioid misuse history ranked enhanced quality of life (B = 0.16, P = 0.049) and having a sense of purpose (B = 0.16, P = 0.029) significantly higher, and ranked abstaining from substance use (B = ‐0.20, P = 0.009) significantly lower as recovery definitions than those without a history of opioid misuse. Compared with White respondents, Black (B = 0.60, P < 0.001) and Hispanic (B = 0.55, P < 0.001) respondents defined recovery as more religious in nature. Residential rehabilitation program was identified as the most helpful resource for recovery (M = 7.16, SE = 0.02), while prescribed medication received a relatively low ranking overall (M = 4.05, SE = 0.03). Those with family/friend opioid misuse history ranked prescribed medication as less helpful than others (B = ‐0.14, P = 0.003).The general US public's views around recovery from opioid misuse appear to focus on abstinence and formal treatment receipt, while people with a history of opioid misuse place less emphasis on abstinence and greater emphasis on other aspects of well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article focuses on the complex relationships between forests and water, particularly the effects of forests on streamflow during meteorological droughts. The impact of forests on water resources is a long‐standing research topic, but there are also many common beliefs that are not based on scientific evidence or only selective evidence. We critically examine the origin of some of the common public misconceptions and review the wealth of studies on how forests impact precipitation, soil water dynamics, evapotranspiration, and streamflow. Generally, reforestation increases evapotranspiration and decreases groundwater recharge and streamflow. However, some of the evaporated water will return as precipitation, potentially offsetting some of the increased evapotranspiration losses. Where reforestation leads to more extensive infiltration and recharge due to the effects of forests on the soil's hydraulic properties, it might increase streamflow during dry periods. Although these individual processes have been studied, predicting the impacts of forests on streamflow remains challenging as the effects are site‐specific and depend on many factors, such as the climate, the forest‐ and soil‐characteristics before and after reforestation, and the hydrogeological setting. However, a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the role of forests on hydrology and a better ability to predict where and when the net effects of reforestation are positive or negative is crucial for sustainable forest and water management.This article is categorized under: Science of Water > Science of Water Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change Science of Water > Hydrological Processes Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The approval of lecanemab, an anti-amyloid therapy for Alzheimer's disease (AD), necessitates addressing healthcare preparedness for disease-modifying treatment (DMT) to ensure appropriate, safe, and sustainable drug administration. Understanding public perceptions on this matter is crucial. We aimed to assess discrepancies and similarities in the perceptions of Japanese trial-ready cohort study ('J-TRC webstudy') participants and clinical specialists in the fields of dementia treatment and radiology, concerning affairs related to challenges in DMT preparedness. Methods: This was a cross-sectional prospective observational study conducted in November–December 2023. The J-TRC webstudy participants were invited to participate in an online survey using Google Forms, and clinical specialists were invited to complete a mail-based survey. Main questionnaire items had been designed to be common in both surveys, and their responses were analyzed for participant attributes, interests, attitudes, expectations, and concerns about DMTs without specifying lecanemab. Results: Responses were obtained from n = 2,050 J-TRC webstudy participants and n = 1,518 clinical specialists. Compared to specialists, more J-TRC respondents perceived the eligible proportion for DMT as smaller (59.1% versus 30.7%), perceived the eligible severity for DMT as more limited (58.0% versus 24.5%), and perceived the efficacy of DMT as slightly more encouraging (29.3% versus 34.8%). In terms of treatment prioritization, both J-TRC respondents and specialist respondents exhibited similar levels of acceptance for prioritizing patients to treat: e.g., approximately two-thirds endorsed patient prioritization under hypothetical resource constraints or other reasons. A medical rationale emerged as the most compelling reason for acceptance of patient prioritization across the surveys. In contrast, the need to address vulnerable populations was the reason that led to the least acceptance of prioritization, followed by economic considerations. Conclusions: Our findings offer valuable insights into the discrepancies in knowledge and perception between patients and healthcare providers. This could enhance the delivery of patient information in clinical settings and inform the discussion surrounding patient prioritization strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural issues are the topics that attract public attention and impact the sector. This study investigated the salient agricultural issues and perceptions on those issues among Ohio residents. The study employed agenda setting theory to understand how media shapes public perceptions of agricultural issues in Ohio. A quantitative method was used, and a survey instrument was developed after an environmental scan of selected sources to identify five issue categories. From the responses of 515 Ohio residents, the findings suggest that environmental issues, particularly water quality, were the most important among participants. Food quality followed, focusing on aspects like safety, quality, and sustainability. Climate change, animal welfare, and government policy ranked third, fourth, and fifth in importance, respectively. Participants presented a moderate level of awareness about climate change, with a greater emphasis on the conservation of public lands and forest management. In terms of government policy, the recognition of the need to balance economic and environmental interests was observed with a desire for farmland preservation. Additionally, participants perceived food as expensive, with moderate in quality and healthiness. While perceptions of climate change issues were moderate, they acknowledged that the role of human behavior in environment management is paramount. Participants' perception of livestock treatment indicated their concerns for animal welfare. The perceptions toward government policies reflect the recognition of the economic importance of the agricultural sector, yet there is apparent dissatisfaction at the same time. These findings served as a foundation for targeted interventions, stakeholder collaborations, and policy enhancements in addressing agricultural issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 has forced people to rethink the interrelationships between public health, urban environment and transportation. Past studies have attempted to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 on individuals' mobility. Nevertheless, relevant strategies for the urban adaptation and resilience strategies to cope up with the post pandemic situation have not been explored yet in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, especially in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Therefore, this study examines the changes in the urban mobility—trip frequencies by mode and purpose during the different severity periods of COVID-19 in the UAE. To draw strategies for the post pandemic transport management, the study tries to quantify the effects of participants' personal and perceived features on the change in mobility behavior as the severity of the COVID-19 changes. To achieve this objective, data are gathered through a comprehensive web-based questionnaire, yielding 1,964 responses. The data are analyzed via descriptive analyses and random parameter bivariate probit model. The results indicate a shift in the individuals' mobility behavior during the three COVID-19 periods (before the peak, during the peak, and after the peak). More importantly, the individuals' mobility reduced substantially during the during the peak period and recovered back to normal after the during the peak. Moreover, there exists a significant relationship between the respondents' personal and perceived features and the change in mobility as the COVID-19 severity changes from before the peak to during the peak and from during the peak to after the peak. This study underscores the crucial role of integrating public health insights with urban and transportation planning to enhance the resilience and adaptability of cities in the face of future pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, recently introduced a "whole life order" sentence in response to sexually motivated or sadistic homicide offences (Gov.uk, 2023). Effectively, this condemns the recipient to the remainder of their life in incarceration and renders rehabilitative interventions redundant. The purpose of this paper is to explore the literature pertaining to public pedagogy, definitions and convictions, and rehabilitative interventions – all in relation to those considered to have committed sexuallymotivated or sadistic murders, with emphasis on the implications of such. Design/methodology/approach: Through this commentary, this paper explores the following points in line with existing literature: (a) public knowledge of the criminal justice system and those who have committed homicide offences, (b) the manner of defining and convicting sexually motivated and sadistic murders and (c) current access to rehabilitation intervention programmes. Findings: This paper closes by recommending future research initiatives to deliver forensic-specific education for the general public as well as qualitative studies into the discourse around retribution to enable a conjunction between public concern and academic underpinning. Wider implications concerning public understandings, convictions, rehabilitations and politics are discussed. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first paper that explores the practical and theoretical implications of imposing a whole life order on those charged with sadistic or sexual-motivated murders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants makes it difficult to forecast potential epidemiological changes. This study investigates Saudi citizens’ perceptions of COVID-19 during the Omicron wave.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey and a convenience sample of 746 participants. The survey included questions about demographics, anxiety levels, and perception of COVID-19 during the Omicron wave.ResultsOur findings revealed that 27.3% of the participants believed that COVID-19 cases would decrease, while 30.2% believed that cases would increase; the remaining 42.5% were uncertain. When asked about the primary reasons for expecting a rise in COVID-19 cases, the two most frequently cited causes were non-adherence to prevention measures (74.7%) and the high transmissibility of the virus (66.7%). Conversely, when asked about the primary reasons for expecting a decrease in COVID-19 cases, participants cited the availability of free vaccines (60.3%), government measures (59.9%), compliance with preventive measures (57.4%), and health awareness programs (44.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that anxiety about COVID-19 (AOR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.15–1.32) and education level (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.11–2.25) were significant predictors of respondents’ expectations of increases or decreases in COVID-19 cases (p

ABSTRACT Introduction Access to dental services is a core component of public healthcare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the perceptions and experiences of the public regarding access, quality and affordability of dental services in Pakistan. Methods It was an analytical cross‐sectional study based on an online survey. The data collection instrument was based on eight items related to participant perceptions and experiences of dental services in public and private sectors. Pretesting of the survey questionnaire was done, and the target participants were approached through social media, and dental service providers. Results A total of 1007 participants representing all provinces of the country responded to the study questionnaire including 54.32% (n = 547) females and 45.68% (n = 460) males. Education and financial status showed the largest effect on perceptions. Although all groups agreed that dental professionals contribute positively to improving public health, those in the ‘No Education’ or ‘Poor’ groups showed fewer positive perceptions about the accessibility, quality, and affordability of dental services. Perceptions of dental services between genders showed minimal differences. Chi‐squared tests of association showed significant (p

Advances in genetic technology hold promise in managing the increasing problem of invasive pests. The current study sought to improve our understanding of public perceptions, and potential public engagement pathways and information needs as the technology is researched and potentially developed for deployment. A survey of 1,149 Australians was conducted, and the sample was segmented into 4 groups based on their attitudes: Certain Objectors, Fence Sitters, Cautious Supporters, and Certain Supporters. ‘Light touch’ engagement activities appeared to satisfy most people; yet more intensive engagements could be appropriate for a small group who hold negative views towards the technology. Across the board, people wanted to know about the potential risks, and the regulation and controls surrounding the gene editing technology. Those who held more positive views also showed an interest in the scientific processes and techniques, while people who held more negative views wanted to know what was being done to deal with social and ethical issues. The results provide insight into 1) the diversity of views, and associated beliefs and feelings, among the public when confronted with a synthetic biology solution to an environmental problem, 2) how public engagement activities can be tailored to align with people’s engagement beliefs and stated preferences, and 3) what issues biotechnology developers should address as they endeavour to design genetic technology in a socially responsible way.

The uptake of green infrastructure is challenged by a lack of access to financing. Studies have investigated individuals' economic valuation of green infrastructure but understanding public perceptions of a range of potential funding mechanisms is a fundamental step in developing funding measures. Using data collected from a sample of residents in the Oxford–Cambridge Arc, England, this study addresses a gap in our understanding of public perceptions of green infrastructure funding by investigating support for several funding mechanisms, and the extent to which support is associated with attitudinal, contextual and personal capability variables. Results indicate that respondents prefer the funding of small and large-scale infrastructure to be covered by developers, with most opposition being levelled at those involving additional financial obligations from citizens. Altruistic-biospheric values, pro-environmental behaviour and trust in the government significantly affected support. These findings provide valuable insight to policymakers attempting to introduce sustainable green infrastructure funding streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Divergent community and practitioner perceptions of Natural Flood Management (NFM) may impact wide-scale uptake, but are under-researched, especially in peri-urban environments. This mixed-methods study used picture- and scenario-based exercises, interviews and envisioning workshops in a post-industrial, peri-urban area of Greater Manchester, UK. Key differences were unpacked, with community members showing less confidence in NFM, and more confidence in grey infrastructure than professionals. Community confidence in installed NFM measures was, however, higher following a major storm event. Analysis suggests the value of demonstrating how NFM reduces flood risk, together with other co-benefits, through early engagement plus interpretation in the landscape. Uncertainty around effectiveness can be addressed using a learning-through-doing approach, enabled through field observation by community members. There is potential to engage more effectively around multifunctional benefits, framing NFM as green infrastructure that enhances biodiversity and recreation from the start. These findings hold significance for increasing uptake of NFM worldwide [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture, the world's fastest-growing food production sector, is critical for addressing food security concerns because of its potential to deliver high-quality, nutrient-rich supplies by 2050. This review assesses the effectiveness of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology in enhancing desirable traits in fish species, including growth rates, muscle quality, disease resistance, pigmentation, and more. It also focuses on the potential effectiveness of the technology in allowing precise and targeted modifications of fish DNA to improve desirable characteristics. Many studies have reported successful applications of CRISPR/Cas9, such as knocking out reproductive genes to control reproduction and sex determination, enhancing feed conversion efficiency, and reducing off-target effects. Additionally, this technology has contributed to environmental sustainability by reducing nitrogen-rich waste and improving the nutritional composition of fish. However, the acceptance of CRISPR/Cas9 modified fish by the public and consumers is hindered by concerns regarding public perception, potential ecological impacts, and regulatory frameworks. To gain public approval and consumer confidence, clear communication about the editing process, as well as data on the safety and environmental considerations of genetically modified fish, are essential. This review paper discusses these challenges, provides possible solutions, and recommends future research on the integration of CRISPR/Cas9 into sustainable aquaculture practices, focusing on the responsible management of genetically modified fish to enable the creation of growth and disease-resistant strains. In conclusion, this review highlights the transformative potential of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in improving fish traits, while also considering the challenges and ethical considerations associated with sustainable and responsible practices in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caregivers can forget young children in the back of the car, thereby resulting in the tragic circumstance of infant death. The current exploratory study examined whether the public (N = 171) believes a memory explanation when the defendant caregiver relationship to the child is varied and when expert witness testimony is and is not provided regarding the processes by which these memory failures can occur. Adult participants believed that a memory failure played a role when the defendant caregiver was the grandfather as opposed to when the caregiver was the father. Expert witness testimony did not impact this belief. Other memory-related variables impacted perceptions of defendant guilt when defendant guilt was measured continuously but not dichotomously. Numerous non-memory related outcome variables were also studied. Defendant relationship and expert witness testimony impacted different memory-related and non-memory related outcome variables. Results are discussed in terms of age-related forgetting and collective vulnerability versus prospective memory failures. Implications regarding the legal system are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about patient and the public perspectives on decentralized and hybrid clinical trials in Canada. Methods: We conducted an online survey (English and French) promoted on social media to understand perspectives of people in Canada about decentralized and hybrid clinical trials. The survey had two sections. We co-produced this project entirely with patient, caregiver, and family partners. Results: The survey had 284 (14 French) individuals who started or completed Section 1, and 180 (16 French) individuals who started or completed Section 2. People prefer to have options to participate in clinical trials where aspects are decentralized or hybridized. 79% of respondents preferred to have options related to study visits. There were concerns about handling adverse events or potential complications in decentralized trials, however, communication options such as a dedicated contact person for participants was deemed helpful. Most respondents were amenable to informed consent being done at a satellite site closer to home or via technology and were split on privacy concerns about this. Most preferred travel to a site within an hour, depending on what the trial was for or its impact on quality of life. Due to the response rate, we were unable to explore associations with gender, age, health status, geography, ethnicity, and prior clinical trial participation. Conclusion: Our findings indicate an openness in Canada to participating in trials that decentralize or hybridize some aspects. These trials are perceived to provide benefits to participants and ways to increase equity and accessibility for participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture has been recognised for achieving multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; its further growth depends on understanding, and responding to, societal perceptions in a broader context. Thus, this study aims to understand societal perceptions of aquaculture through a scoping review and media analysis. A scoping review identified 151 academic studies for inclusion in our five identified research clusters: (1) social acceptability, (2) growth and development, (3) media coverage, (4) sustainable aquaculture, and (5) consumer perceptions. Further, newspaper articles (n = 100) were sampled from the United Kingdom, Denmark, France, Spain, Turkey, and China; elsewhere all articles identified were included (Poland, 79; Hungary, 29; India, 70). The findings suggest that scientific and newspaper articles tend to present sustainability aspects in a simplified form. Key stakeholder groups include fish farming enterprises, civil society, governmental officials, scientists, and business leaders both within aquaculture value chains (retailers/wholesalers, technology industry) and outside of them (fisheries, tourism). Also, other stakeholders included the public (indigenous groups, residents, consumers). The stakeholder groups perceived aquaculture differently and depending on the circumstances and context, their perceptions ranged from positive to negative. Many factors influenced their perceptions, including aquaculture's impact on multiple sustainability dimensions, knowledge, transparency, personal interests, types, and location of aquaculture practises, regulations, experience, and sociodemographic characteristics such as age, gender, education, and income. We recommend that aquaculture practitioners focus on context‐specific multifaceted strategies—prioritising transparency, communication, and accountability—and provide essential knowledge to ensure that societal perceptions of aquaculture are based on accurate, empirical information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]