Experts recommend altering the insurance industry by investing in open-source risk models to enhance society's ability to recover from disasters linked to climate change. The models should provide a long-term view of climate risk and link to insurance solutions.
Preppers in the US are no longer portrayed as extreme right-wing individuals, but rather as those responding to general fears of economic collapse, cyber-attacks, and environmental disasters. Research by Dr Michael Mills found that prepping is a nuanced response to modern American society's culture of fear.
A team led by Dr. Mert Atilhan and Dr. Cafer Yavuz developed a new porous polymer that can store natural gas more effectively than current methods. This breakthrough material has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by storing cleaner-burning fuels, such as natural gas, instead of coal or oil.
Researchers have discovered that natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes follow a power law distribution, where smaller events occur more frequently. However, some events like forest fires deviate from this pattern and follow a lognormal distribution, contradicting previous studies.
A PSU professor is conducting a four-year research project to understand how households in Nepal recover from natural disasters, with a focus on the long-term impacts of the 2015 earthquake. The study aims to identify key factors driving recovery and social transformations in communities affected by disasters.
Diane Jones Allen, UTA associate professor, has been elected as an ASLA Fellow, honoring her contributions to landscape architecture and resilient design. Her research focuses on transit deserts, social justice, and sustainability, shaping the future of resilient design practices.
Radiotherapy patients experiencing hurricane disasters had significantly worse overall survival rates than those completing treatment in normal circumstances. Longer disaster declarations were associated with increasingly worse survival outcomes.
Research in Haiti highlights the need for longer-term approaches to rebuilding, focusing on local community empowerment and trust development. Locally-based social entrepreneurs like Steve and Gabi have successfully mobilized villagers to build new schools, toilet centers, and farmers' cooperatives.
Researchers have discovered a previously unreported strategy employed by the virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles to powerfully inhibit natural killer cell function. This impairment enables the virus to paralyze natural killer cells, rendering them unable to respond to target cells, thereby evading the immune response.
Researchers found that marine oil snow transfers oil's negative impacts from the water column to seafloor sediments, delivering oxygenated compounds to organisms in the sediments. This process can increase toxicity in deep-sea ecosystems.
A team of researchers found that methane emissions from natural gas in Pennsylvania are significantly lower than those from coal, but not negligible. The study used a ratio of methane to ethane to determine the sources of emissions and estimated that natural gas production has about half the carbon footprint of coal mining.
A Rutgers study found that 65% of economically vulnerable Sandy survivors plan to take active steps to protect themselves and families in advance of the next major disaster. The researchers recommend public awareness campaigns, community focus groups, and better-equipped evacuation shelters to help these communities prepare for future ...
Consumer demand for natural ingredients challenges perfumers to find sustainable scents. Many natural ingredients lack responsible sources, driving prices and supply fluctuations.
A new project at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology aims to discover a thousand new ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) using synthetic biology and automation. The project uses an automated robotic system, called iBioFAB, to identify new RiPPs and create new molecules.
A 3-year longitudinal study shows that repeated media coverage of collective traumas can fuel a cycle of distress, exacerbating fear about future adversities. The study found that individuals who have experienced violence or mental health issues are more susceptible to this pattern.
Scientists from the University of East Anglia have discovered a unique group of oil-eating bacteria in the Mariana Trench, which is located approximately 11,000 meters below sea level. The bacteria are capable of consuming hydrocarbons similar to those found in crude oil and natural gas.
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel polymer membrane that dramatically improves the efficiency of natural gas purification while reducing environmental impact. The membrane can process natural gas quickly and effectively, removing more carbon dioxide than traditional materials.
The new commentary on the 'Warning to Humanity' paper emphasizes that societies in developing countries are more dependent on natural resources while being less responsible for the ecological crisis. The authors argue that excessive resource consumption and ecosystem-destructive practices in Western lifestyle are prioritized over addre...
A new research project aims to develop an automated resilience management system (ARMS) to improve the city's power grid in case of a power outage. The system will utilize distributed solar photovoltaics, distributed energy resources, fault detection sensors, and distribution monitoring equipment to enhance critical infrastructure and ...
A UCL-led study found that engaging households in evidence-based face-to-face workshops increases long-term disaster preparedness. Households that received training showed significant improvements in safety measures such as securing objects and having functioning smoke detectors.
A recent study examines California's climate over a centuries-long time period, linking long-term wind patterns to future wildfire risks. The research provides a stronger foundation for evaluating regional natural hazards in the state.
A new policy perspective published in Science warns that a ten-year delay in emissions reductions could negate natural climate solutions' benefits. Natural climate solutions like forest enhancement and carbon sequestration are not enough to meet the Paris Agreement's goals without rapid mitigation efforts.
A UCF study found that high general intelligence is not enough to stop ecological disasters, highlighting the importance of social intelligence in managing shared resources. The research used a digital game to simulate an ecosystem and found that teams with high social intelligence were more effective at optimizing resource use.
Climate change is expected to increase the likelihood of violence through three indirect effects: increased irritability, economic instability, and eco-migration leading to intergroup conflicts. These factors can create a perfect storm for political violence, civil wars, or wars between nations.
Research on Twitter use during natural disasters highlights the importance of targeting average users with meaningful networks to spread life-saving information. Average Twitter users with small local networks increase their activity more than those with larger networks in disaster situations.
A new UTA study highlights the critical role of non-profit organizations and businesses in providing support and funding during disasters. The research found that voluntary groups are essential for successful post-disaster coordination and recovery, but need government funding to improve their capabilities.
A new study found that prenatal maternal depression affects infants' temperament, with those born to depressed mothers experiencing greater distress and lower emotional regulation. The negative impact was amplified when pregnant women lived through Superstorm Sandy.
A study from Tufts University found that cardiovascular disease hospitalization rates rose precipitously after Hurricane Katrina's landfall, lasting more than a month. The increase was higher among the older black population compared to the older white population.
A new study found that children in regions affected by major bushfires demonstrated poorer academic outcomes in some subjects compared to those in less affected areas. The researchers tracked the academic performance of elementary-school children over a four-year period after the Black Saturday bushfires in Australia.
Researchers found that climate-driven economic losses can offset natural warming feedbacks, but this comes with increased inequality and reduced resources for mitigating climate change. The study suggests that climate-related economic activity slowdowns can temporarily reduce atmospheric CO2 levels.
Researchers found that disaster media coverage can have lasting effects on children's mental health, impacting not only in school but also in response to future disasters. Teachers and parents are often the first source of support for students affected by disasters.
Researchers identified common characteristics among resilient food organizations, including formal emergency planning, staff training, and redundant supply chains. These factors enable the recovery of smaller, less-resourced organizations in crisis situations.
Recent studies highlight the need for updated adaptation plans to address severe weather events, with hard-adaptive measures like seawalls increasing long-term vulnerability. Increasing hazard awareness through education can reduce vulnerability, while effective communication strategies can mitigate flood damages.
Research by a University at Buffalo-led team reveals that community organizations with broad, cross-cutting presence are crucial to equitable disaster recovery. These organizations can help mitigate poverty rates and foster economic growth in affected communities.
A research group at RIT is measuring hospitality industry contributions to disaster recovery efforts, valuing non-financial resources such as staff training and community support. The study aims to provide a holistic understanding of the hotel industry's role in supporting local communities during crises.
The University of Cincinnati is studying landslides to improve public safety and understanding of these natural disasters. The research aims to add specific details on landslides to Nevada's map of known hazards, including areas prone to wildfires, flash-flood zones, and earthquake fault lines.
A new study found that cultural differences play a significant role in how young people cope with natural disasters. The research used a new method to assess coping among disaster-affected youths and found that middle-class teen girls in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, used different coping strategies than low-income, predominantly Afri...
Researchers at KAUST developed a metal-organic framework that selectively adsorbs hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas, making it cleaner-burning and more environmentally friendly. The technology could also promote increased use of natural gas worldwide, potentially yielding large environmental and economic benefits.
People who daily commute through natural environments show improved mental health, with active commuting showing stronger benefits. The study, PHENOTYPE, analyzed over 3,600 participants from Europe, finding a 2.74-point higher score for those commuting daily.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a fast and accurate method for estimating local geomagnetic fields using machine-learning techniques. This approach can detect changes caused by earthquakes and tsunamis, enabling unprecedentedly early warnings before these natural disasters strike.
A recent study by researchers at George Washington University found that poor, elderly Puerto Ricans faced a persistent risk of dying after Hurricane Maria. The study estimates there were 2,975 excess deaths in Puerto Rico during the six-month period after the storm.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals how malaria infection triggers the immune system's first line of defense by activating natural killer cells through the MDA5 receptor. Treatment with a small molecule that activates MDA5 restores the ability of non-responder natural killer cells to clear infected red blood cells.
Purdue University researchers have created a 3D-printed cement paste that gets tougher under pressure, inspired by arthropod shells. The technique could lead to more resilient structures during natural disasters.
The Image Permanence Institute will study the recovery of modern museum inkjet print collections affected by water disasters through freezing and freeze drying methods. The three-year project aims to determine if these methods are safe and effective for recovering damaged inkjet prints.
New UK reports summarize scientific evidence on Natural Capital, providing insights into valuing the nation's natural assets. The reports cover floodplains, soil, afforested peatlands, private sector assessments, and temporary rivers.
Scientists investigate the type characteristics of extreme precipitation events and their flood risk in the Yangtze-Huaihe River Valley. Persistent EPEs are linked to continuous flood peaks and severe floods. The study also identifies areas with high flood risk, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions.
Researchers have developed a unique approach using augmented reality tools to provide surgical expertise to less-experienced doctors in war zones and natural disasters. The system uses computer vision algorithms to track and align virtual notes and marks with the surgical region, allowing trainees to remain focused on the procedure.
A new study published in Scientific Reports suggests that severe trauma from war, torture, and natural disasters may not necessarily lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees. However, those who struggle to control their memories are more likely to exhibit symptoms of PTSD.
A new study found that human-induced landslides have increased globally, causing over 5000 deaths in India's Kedarnath landslide. The research highlights the need for regulation and education to prevent such accidents.
The review identified gaps in using technologies, with a lack of information on extreme temperatures and flooding. Despite limitations, big data and ICT hold promise for potential solutions to harness diverse and chaotic data in disasters.
Research from Rice University and the University of Pittsburgh finds that damage from natural disasters and FEMA aid increases wealth inequality between races in the US. Whites accumulate more wealth after disasters, while residents of color accumulate less, leading to an increase in racial wealth gaps.
The workshop discussed how AI can help victims of disasters, including using unmanned aerial vehicles to find survivors and robots to communicate with trapped victims. The goal is to leverage AI to better deliver resources and people to those in urgent need.
Researchers used official government records to estimate a higher death toll from Hurricane Maria, with approximately 1,139 deaths surpassing the official count of 64. The study aimed to inform future weather disaster preparedness and response.
A new tool called DesignSafe is helping researchers improve their ability to predict hurricanes, move people out of harm's way, and build homes that can survive the worst nature can throw at them. The platform provides critical information about natural hazards and enables engineers to design safer structures.
A study found that natural habitat surrounding farm fields is not always effective in controlling pests, with benefits varying widely across the globe. The analysis, published in PNAS, compiled data from over 6,700 sites in 31 countries, revealing no one-size-fits-all recommendations for farmers.
A Portsmouth researcher is developing a mathematical model to speed up the delivery of life-saving blood to victims of disasters, reducing blood wastage and loss of life. The model will inform venue and location for temporary blood donation centres, transportation routes, and quantities delivered.
A multidisciplinary team at UC Santa Barbara found that immediate responses to disasters like wildfires and floods can have unintended consequences. By prioritizing long-term planning and adaptation strategies, decisionmakers can mitigate the risks of climate change-mediated disasters.
A new study finds that the shutdown of two nuclear power plants in Pennsylvania will not significantly impact power prices due to low natural gas prices. The research suggests that efficient natural gas power plants have increased capacity, making it difficult for nuclear power to compete with competitive market outcomes.
An analysis of federal food aid delivered after Hurricane Maria found that nearly 10% of items exceeded daily limits for sodium, added sugars, or saturated fats. The study highlights the need for better programs to protect the health of communities affected by disasters.
Researchers from Swansea University found that enriching natural gas with hydrogen is a promising way to reduce UK carbon dioxide emissions. By increasing the hydrogen content to 30%, domestic carbon emissions could be reduced by up to 18% without requiring any changes to appliances.