Articles tagged with Economics Research
A new study by researchers at UCSF AIDS Research Institute found that a short-course of antiviral drug therapy and high prevalence of HIV-positive women of child-bearing age can produce a cost-effective outcome. If drug prices are lowered to 25% of the industrialized world cost, treatment for 100 women could cost around $1,014.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories are developing high-temperature electronics to improve geothermal energy production. This could reduce costs by eliminating the need for protective Dewar flasks, which currently add significant expense to drilling operations.
Researchers at Arizona State University have created a cell-like machine that captures light energy and converts it into a usable form, duplicating biological photosynthesis. This breakthrough technology has the potential to power artificial biological systems and could lead to innovations in computing, drug development, and other fields.
A new national study found that young men who switch jobs early in their careers don't suffer from lower wages, and may even earn more than those who stay in the same job. In contrast, women's wage gains are less clear, with some evidence suggesting they may face a 2% penalty for early job stability.
Anthropologist David Price warns that world population's dire Malthusian 'correction' is inevitable due to finite resources. Despite progress in measures to prevent overpopulation, the stakes are higher now than ever, with proportionately more loss expected.
Industry analysts discuss studies on NAFTA's effects since its implementation, exploring trade increases and their causes. Current conditions suggest a positive impact on the chemical industry, with increased production, consumption, and investment among U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
A cost-benefit analysis found El Nino forecasting provides an annual economic return of 13-26% to the US agricultural industry, exceeding the government's minimum standard. The Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere (TOGA) climate research program yields benefits worth $240-266 million annually.
A team of 13 Virginia Tech researchers is developing a comprehensive model to assess the hydrologic, ecological, and economic effects of urban development on watersheds. The project aims to help local governments manage urban growth while sustaining good environmental quality.
The U.S. Geological Survey presents a forum on reducing losses from natural disasters, featuring California's experience in earthquake risk management and mitigation. The event aims to share lessons learned from the Northridge earthquake of 1994 and explore potential models for nationwide disaster reduction plans.
Climate change affects regional economies differently, with some sectors experiencing significant losses while others benefit from increased productivity. A regional model of the Susquehanna River Basin in Pennsylvania suggests that communities can greatly benefit or suffer economically depending on the region.
Penn State researchers investigate climate change's effects on the Susquehanna River Basin, examining vulnerabilities to flooding, waterborne diseases, and policy decisions. They find that effective measures like increased filtration, boiling water, and balanced expenses can mitigate these risks.
A new study by Cornell University labor economist Francine D. Blau found that less-educated women, particularly high school dropouts, are experiencing a deteriorating economic status. They have seen their wages fall and their level of participation in the labor market rise at a slower pace than more highly educated counterparts.
A new Yale University study estimates the lifetime economic cost of each person to society, taking into account global warming and other factors. The study suggests that the shadow price of a person comes out to about 30% of per capita Gross Domestic Product.
A new study by UNC-CH researchers finds that Black workers in North Carolina face a 50% higher job fatality rate than white workers, despite similar job types. Direct personal discrimination at the worksite is a possible explanation for this excess risk.
The new welfare and immigration reform acts are likely to produce unintended consequences, including reduced legal immigration and increased incentives for illegal immigrants. Farm employment in rural California is also linked to poverty and a vicious cycle of rural poverty, with immigrants becoming trapped in low-paid labor.
A recent journal issue concludes that businesses are failing to leverage emerging computer/communications technology for profits. The study highlights the need for commensurate changes in management practices to unlock economic value from technological advancements.
A team of researchers found that the fairness of final economic outcomes does not significantly rely on the fairness of initial allocation methods. They suggest alternative fair and acceptable rules for sharing cost burdens while ensuring cost-effectiveness. Developing countries must prioritize equitable outcomes, mitigate costs, and p...
Researchers found that restrictive policies, such as Medicaid funding limits and 24-hour waiting periods, significantly reduced access to abortion services, leading to a decline in abortion rates. Meanwhile, increased birthrates were observed in regions with limited access to reproductive health services.
A new study by Duke University Medical Center found that heart attack patients who experience a stroke shortly after have significantly higher medical costs, with an average increase of $12,030. The cost disparity is largely due to longer hospital stays and the need for institutional care.
Chemical engineers at the University of Illinois are developing carbon-based sorbents to remove hydrogen sulfide from coal-gas streams, increasing efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The new materials can effectively capture hydrogen sulfide and convert it into valuable byproducts.
Researchers from Michigan Technological University are studying the effects of landscape structure on plant species, habitat quality, and economic output in public forests. Their goal is to develop a computer model that can help land managers select timber harvesting methods for optimal biological diversity and economic sustainability....
The Society of Actuaries Foundation hosts a forum on math mentoring at the elementary school level, bringing together teachers, actuaries, and companies implementing a $120,000 two-year grant program. The session focuses on feedback from the first year and adjusting projects for the second year.
Researchers found a strong correlation between government size and jobless rates in the world's seven largest countries. Larger governments tend to impose higher tax rates and provide public health and unemployment insurance, which can reduce job opportunities.
The newly designated Masoala National Park will protect a unique ecosystem with rare species such as the red-ruffed lemur and serpent eagle. The park blends conservation with sustainable land use and local community development, ensuring long-term preservation of the region's biodiversity.
A bioreserve system in the DMZ could foster trust and collaboration between North and South Korea, Dr. Ke Chung Kim suggests. Creating such a system would also provide economic opportunities through ecotourism and resource conservation.
New research from Cornell University suggests that African women working outside the home may face
Nearly 30% of US workers are employed in non-traditional jobs, such as part-time and contract work, suffering severe wage and benefit penalties. The studies found that women and minorities disproportionately hurt by these arrangements, with limited access to benefits like health insurance and pensions.
A study examining childbearing intentions in low-fertility societies like the US found that people value children beyond their economic benefits. Respondents ranked importance of social and economic priorities, with many considering children a vital source of social capital.
Despite financial gains by some African Americans, racism may be getting worse in the US due to individual and institutional barriers. Expert James M. Jones recommends six steps to reduce prejudice, including joint cooperation, intergroup contact, and a greater appreciation of individual differences.
The study estimates ecosystem services' value between $16 and $54 trillion per year, with coastal environments accounting for 43% of this value. The research highlights the importance of valuing ecosystem services in decision-making processes.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified a new aircraft repair technique, using a bonded composite doubler, for Delta Airlines' L-1011. The patch reinforces the plane's right mid-section access door and has proven to be effective in reducing maintenance tasks.
Researchers suggest restoring natural wetlands in floodplains as a solution to address flooding problems. The strategy is based on lessons learned from the 1993 Upper Mississippi River floods and has cultural and economic implications for landowners and communities along the Illinois River.
Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories and France Telecom have developed a prototype memory-retention device that uses embedded protons to preserve information. The 'protonic' device is inexpensive, low-powered, and simple to fabricate, and can retain data even when power is turned off.
Resources for the Future (RFF) is studying the economic implications and commercial possibilities of satellite remote sensing. The research aims to find a reliable way to measure the value of NASA's technology transfer to the public and private sectors.
A new ultrasound technique has been developed to improve food inspection by spotting defects as small as 10 microns in size, which is one-fifth the diameter of a human hair. The technology allows for the non-destructive detection of voids, air, water, or protein strands in plastic-sealed containers.
A recent analysis suggests that developed countries will win while underdeveloped countries lose $82 billion and $40 billion annually respectively due to global climate change. Countries such as Canada, the US, and China are expected to benefit from a shift in climate conditions.
Researchers analyzed obsidian blades from workshops in Mexico, finding that the number and type of mistakes made can indicate a craftsman's level of skill. By ranking workshops according to their aggregate skill, archaeologists can better understand the economic complexity of ancient societies.
The RFF briefing papers provide topical, timely, and non-technical information and analysis on climate change policies. Key policy lessons and economic implications are outlined, including the role of economics in addressing climate change risks and costs.
The Pacific Northwest's high-tech industry may be hindered by proposed federal funding cuts for research and development. The region's universities, which receive significant funding from the federal government, are particularly vulnerable to these reductions, as they rely heavily on this support to fuel their research and innovation.
Researchers at Duke University found a significant decrease in disability rates among older people in the US between 1982 and 1994, with a relative decline of 14.5%. The number of functional problems also decreased, particularly among those aged 65-74, 75-84, and 85 and older.
The US South's economic transformation from rural farm to industrialized society was driven by government policies, including infrastructure investments and trade protection. Despite initial success, social inequalities persisted, with poverty rates for Black Americans remaining three times those for Whites.
Cornell researchers are investigating the use of grasses as windbreaks to combat the onion bulb mite, a pest affecting New York's $50-75 million annual onion crop. The team is also exploring other management techniques, including manipulating windbreaks and testing chemicals for control.
A study by the University of Illinois found that rural US counties gained greater access to computer networks and digital hardware between 1986 and 1992. Fiber optic mileage in the US multiplied twentyfold during this period, indicating a wider dissemination of digital technology.
A proposed dam in northern Thailand could submerge a golden teak forest, devastating wildlife and biodiversity. The project aims to account for the ecological, social, and cultural implications of such projects.
A workshop on long-term stewardship of the US nuclear weapons complex explored the need for institutions, information, and strategies to protect people and the environment. Key findings include the potential for decades-long cleanup efforts and the importance of reliable institutional controls and waste disposal facilities.
Researchers at Resources for the Future (RFF) and Stanford University are investigating the environmental implications of three alternative tax plans under discussion in Congress. The flat tax, national sales tax, and unlimited savings account (USA) tax plans could have varying effects on economic growth and environmental quality.
Researchers investigate how climate change affects vulnerable populations, including access to public water supply and education levels. The study aims to understand the potential regional-scale effects of climate change on social groups in specific regions.
Researchers examine obstacles to international technology diffusion, including funding limitations, investment distortions, and intellectual property issues. They also investigate strengthening economic incentives for mutually-beneficial technology adoption.
The RFF report reveals that water's value is highest in the drier, more water-scarce Rio Grande and lower Colorado regions for its withdrawal uses. Water's value varies by use, with industrial processing and domestic uses ranking highest.
A team of biologists has discovered a new species of tiny frog in Cuba's Monte Iberia rainforest. The frog, Eleutherodactylus iberia, measures just one centimeter long and is the smallest known tetrapod, a group that includes all animals with backbones except fishes.
The program aims to increase understanding of climate change policy issues, focusing on economic and environmental consequences, policy design, interactions with other policies, equity and efficiency, and development of analytical tools. RFF will conduct research projects and issue papers on selected topics.
A recent University of Illinois study found that using starter fertilizer on no-till corn fields can increase yields by up to 14 bushels per acre. This technique provides early nutrient availability, which is particularly beneficial for no-till farming due to cool and wet soils during the initial growing season.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a process to convert corn into commercial chemicals, reducing reliance on imported oil and expanding domestic agriculture. The new process produces 1,2-butanediol, tetrahydrofuran, N-methyl pyrrolidone, and other essential chemicals for various industries.
Ecological economists suggest that economic growth is unsustainable and must be rethought to prioritize sustainability. The field of ecological economics aims to minimize growth while improving quality of life by exploring new strategies to reach sustainable social and economic systems.
The Endangered Species Act's economic impacts are unclear due to inadequate data, according to a University of Wyoming economist. The lack of scientifically-based national estimates of the economic benefits of most listed species limits decision-making.
Artificial societies, like Sugarscape, allow researchers to grow certain social structures systematically, uncovering fundamental mechanisms that generate macroscopic social structures. These 'laboratories' enable the study of entire civilizations as they grow, prosper, compete and fail, fundamentally changing social science research.
A pilot biomass power plant will be tested in Belarus to decontaminate forests north of Chernobyl. The project aims to capture radioactivity and generate electricity, potentially reducing health risks and economic pressure on the country.
Dr. Ron Siebeling is researching ways to eliminate salmonella among pet turtle populations, which could lead to their revival in the US market. His work may also help scientists develop new methods for dealing with other bacterial infections that harm poultry and livestock.
A team of University of Illinois researchers has developed a new, cost-effective way to filter pollutants from the environment using activated glass fibers. The fibers offer improved contact efficiency, self-containment, and ease of reactivation compared to traditional activated carbon granules.
The University of Wyoming's Institute for Energy Research has developed technology to evaluate deep natural gas resources, which is gaining interest from Asian nations. This technology helps understand fluid-flow relationships and pressure, unlocking hydrocarbon resources in deeper parts of sedimentary basins.