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Global poverty and the cost of a healthy diet

A new poverty metric assesses global well-being by incorporating the cost of a healthy diet, revealing significant regional differences and shifting the focus from sub-Saharan Africa to South Asia. The study highlights the long-term health consequences of malnutrition and calls for a revised approach to resource allocation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalFood Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2025

Breakthrough in oil spill remediation: a robust MXene aerogel with photothermal properties

Researchers have developed a multifunctional aerogel for efficient crude oil cleanup, exhibiting high compressive strength, hydrophobicity, and photothermal conversion. The aerogel's unique structure enables rapid absorption of viscous crude oil, addressing environmental concerns related to increasing oil spills.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2025

Riding the AI wave toward rapid, precise ocean simulations

Researchers developed a machine learning-powered fluid simulation model that significantly reduces computation time without compromising accuracy. The new surrogate model maintains the same level of accuracy as traditional particle-based simulations while reducing computation time from approximately 45 minutes to just three minutes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalApplied Ocean Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 3, 2025

Introducing 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space': the ISS National Lab’s new podcast exploring the future of space innovation

The ISS National Lab's new podcast, 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space', offers exclusive insights from scientists, engineers, and visionaries on the future of space research. The first episode explores the groundbreaking science happening on the International Space Station, including its impact on medicine, technology, and industry.

From economic struggles to culture wars: New study reveals how GDP influences polarization around the globe

A new study from City St George's University of London found that lower-income countries focus on material concerns like economic issues, while richer nations debate personal freedoms and identity-related issues. The research analyzed 40 years of global data to explore how modernization influences ideological divides.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCross-Cultural Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2025

Latin American intensivists denounce economic and cultural inequities in the global scientific publishing system

A study published in The Lancet highlights disparities and obstacles faced by low- and middle-income countries in gaining recognition for their scientific contributions. Researchers propose increasing visibility of journals from low- and middle-income countries, reducing publication fees, and ensuring a fairer peer-review process to fo...

Democracy first? Economic model begs to differ

Historical analysis of bureaucracy suggests that quality nation-building holds more importance than democratic institutions in economic growth. The study found a negative correlation between universal suffrage and the quality of current institutions in nations with low-quality bureaucracies.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Development Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 12, 2025

Better poverty mapping: New machine-learning approach targets aid more effectively

A new machine-learning approach to mapping poverty has been developed by Cornell University researchers, aiming to help policymakers and NGOs better identify the poorest populations in poor countries. The approach uses national surveys and Earth observation data to create actionable terms for policymakers, outperforming previous methods.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2025

Rising wages drive innovation in automation technology

A new study by UZH economists found that higher minimum wages lead firms to develop more automation technologies to reduce production costs. The study analyzed past labor market reforms and their impact on innovation trends, showing a 2% to 5% rise in innovation in response to a 1% wage increase.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Political Economy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 25, 2025

Promoter editing enables researchers to develop heat-tolerant cotton germplasms in response to global warming

Researchers use CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cpf1 genome editing to precisely edit the promoter region of key high-temperature-responsive gene GhCKI, leading to improved anther development and heat tolerance in cotton. The breakthrough provides novel genetic resources for breeding heat-tolerant cotton varieties.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2025

Grating the cheese of networks: New tool finds critical points in everything from cybersecurity to ecological conservation

Researchers introduce 'fitness centrality,' a faster method to identify crucial elements in any network, with practical applications in supply chains, ecological conservation, and cybersecurity. The approach streamlines analysis, making it practical for vast networks.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalJournal of Physics Complexity·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 28, 2025

What to do with aging solar panels?

A three-year project aims to proactively ensure circularity of solar panels by providing solutions to barriers throughout the supply chain. The team will develop reverse logistics models and next-generation data-driven supply chains for recycling solar panels and reusing critical materials like silicon and silver.

NTU Singapore, India’s Energy Department of the Government of Odisha, and Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar collaborate to advance R&D in sustainable energy technologies

The collaboration aims to drive innovation in renewable energy technologies, focusing on advancements in solar, wind, and other new and renewable energy systems. Research efforts will also study microgrid technologies, grid management solutions, and explore energy-efficient buildings and processes.

Direct discharge electrical pulses for carbon fiber recycling

Researchers developed a novel method for carbon fiber recycling that leverages Joule heat generation, thermal stress, and expansion forces to separate fibers without chemicals. The technique is more effective than traditional methods, preserving longer fibers with higher strength and reducing environmental impact.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2025

Crafting the perfect bite of meat

Researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have pioneered the use of metamaterials to replicate the texture and structure of traditional meat. Their novel approach enables the mass production of whole cuts of meat at a cost of $9 per kilogram, making sustainable protein alternatives more accessible.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2025

New computational method uncovers surprising variability in Neolithic building practices

A recent study introduces a new computational approach to analyze architectural remains, uncovering insights that qualitative methods might overlook, including quantification of defined angles in structures as early as the Natufian period. The research highlights architectural diversity during the Natufian and early Neolithic period, s...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalArchaeological Research in Asia·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 18, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists develop 3D concrete printing method that captures carbon dioxide

Researchers have developed a 3D concrete printing system that captures and stores carbon dioxide, offering a promising alternative to traditional cement-based construction methods. The innovation improves printability, increases strength, and enhances mechanical properties, resulting in stronger and more eco-friendly buildings.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalCarbon Capture Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2024

Better environmental performance boosts profits and cuts costs

Researchers analyzed financial and environmental data from 8,547 companies across 34 countries, revealing that stronger environmental engagement leads to better financial outcomes. Companies with superior environmental performance demonstrate better financial results and attract greater interest from investors.

SourceKyushu University·JournalCorporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

ETSU secures $900k defense grant

The US Department of Defense has awarded East Tennessee State University's Research Corporation over $900,000 to create a biomanufacturing facility that turns waste streams into valuable products. The project aims to bolster domestic bioindustrial manufacturing and advance sustainable manufacturing goals in Northeast Tennessee.

Harnessing multi-element perovskites as catalysts for selective oxidation of light alkanes

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully developed a multi-element perovskite catalyst that selectively oxidizes light alkanes to alcohols with high yield and selectivity. The breakthrough catalyst operates under mild conditions and exhibits excellent stability and reusability.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2024