Research on how people, markets, and policies shape the economy. Covers labor and gig work, consumer behavior, GDP and regional growth, gambling risk, and financial decision-making.
Researchers estimate food pantry services contribute up to $28 billion nationwide, with households spending $40-$60 per trip and $600-$1,000 per year. The study provides valuable insights into the economic value of food pantries, highlighting their importance in addressing food insecurity.
A study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics estimates that access to food pantries provides a value of $600-$1,000 per client household annually. The collective value of food pantry access among pantry client households may be between $19 billion and $28 billion dollars annually.
A new University of Wisconsin Oshkosh study reveals a nationwide 7.5% decrease in US energy consumption in 2020 compared to the previous year. The pandemic led to lockdowns, business closures, and remote work, resulting in significant changes in energy consumption patterns across all 50 states.
The American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) named Dr. Sarah Kamel of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Dr. Ankur Goyal of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences as Melvin Figley and Lee Rogers Fellows in Radiology Journalism, respectively. They will receive expert instruction in scientific writing and communication through the...
The studies will provide evidence for a new global approach to valuing natural habitats and evaluate biodiversity in marine and urban areas. They aim to deliver on the recommendations from the Government's Dasgupta Review and support nature recovery and halt biodiversity loss.
The employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities increased to historic highs in October, while those without disabilities are only reaching pre-pandemic levels. These gains may lead to long-term improvements in workplace integration of people with disabilities.
A recent study by University of Cologne researchers found that the public is more willing to support costly climate policies if other countries contribute as well. This increased willingness is due to individuals expecting these efforts to be fairer and more effective. The team surveyed over 10,000 citizens in four countries and discov...
A new study shows that a simple nutrition care program can improve nutritional status, physical functionality, cognitive function, and psychological well-being in older adults. The program reduced hospitalizations by 40% and associated costs.
New research by Lancaster University and Bocconi University finds that Kenyan parents with access to mass media believe the risk of dying in a terrorist attack is 12 times larger than actual rates. This leads to children being kept out of schools, affecting their education and future earnings.
A new book by Aston University financial regulation expert Dr Daniel Cash proposes a temporary change to the way credit ratings are decided to help poorer countries avoid downgraded ratings and borrow money for vital improvements like healthcare and infrastructure.
A majority of gig economy workers report feeling threatened by online reviews, which can negatively impact their earnings. The study found that algorithms used to rank workers are opaque and volatile, leaving workers vulnerable to malicious customers. This 'reputational insecurity' is creating instability in the workforce, with some wo...
Research suggests that climate change can increase trust among Vietnamese rural households, particularly during periods of poor rice yields. As temperatures rise, communities come together to help each other, leading to increased social cohesion and trust.
Researchers propose experience cocreation to transform shared coupons into a tool for relationship building, suggesting it can boost social goals and alleviate norm conflict. The study recommends three steps for managers to utilize social influence, including sending reminder messages that emphasize economic and social value.
The study focuses on reducing insects and pathogens that threaten crops, with manure serving as a potential solution. Researchers will investigate the most effective ways to apply manure to improve soil health and plant resistance to insect pests.
The study found that fine particulate concentration levels decreased by 2-4 micrograms per cubic meter in host countries with embassy monitors. This reduction led to a significant decrease in premature mortality, resulting in annual health benefits of $127 million for the median city with an embassy monitor.
The September 2022 nTIDE COVID Update shows a slight rise in unemployment for people with disabilities, consistent with an increase in individuals entering the labor force. This trend is linked to poverty and financial hardship among people with disabilities, highlighting the need for continued support.
A new study found that the expiration of monthly Child Tax Credit payments led to a 25% increase in food insufficiency among US households with children. The loss of cash relief benefits disproportionately impacted Black, Latino, Indigenous, and immigrant families, exacerbating racial and economic inequities.
A new study from the University of Waterloo and Statistics Canada finds that inexperienced Canadian women entrepreneurs see more success when partnering with experienced men than women or going solo. The research highlights significant barriers faced by women in business, including negative stereotypes and limited access to financing.
A large marine protected area in Hawaiʻi has led to the recovery of tunas and other large fish species. The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument increased catch rates by 54% for yellowfin tuna, benefiting both the environment and the global tuna fishing industry.
A new paper published in Global Strategy Journal argues that understanding locational strategy can give businesses an edge over competition. Locational decisions affect branding, human resources, and research and development. The study authors refine their approach to the topic by merging corporate strategy with economic geography.
A UK trial found that offering up to £400 in shopping vouchers to pregnant women can more than double the proportion who remain smoke-free by late pregnancy. However, most women relapsed after giving birth. The study suggests that financial incentives can be an effective tool to reduce smoking during pregnancy and improve health outcomes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant shift in Americans' opinions toward government and markets, with increased support for bigger government and redistribution. Despite this, the authors found no evidence that this shift will lead to specific policies or government functions.
A new study suggests that the US economy's supply chains cannot compensate for local production losses from hurricanes if climate change continues. The researchers found that even under moderate warming scenarios, hurricane damages will exceed the economy's coping capacities, leading to indirect economic effects and price increases for...
The proposed SEC rule would require all US publicly traded companies to report their climate-related financial risks, including transition risk and liability risks. This disclosure is crucial for the stability of the financial system, as seen during the Great Recession.
Researchers predict that reduced Ukrainian grain exports due to the war will lead to increased food insecurity and higher carbon dioxide emissions. The study estimates a potential increase in global agricultural land use of 16.3-45 million acres, driving up carbon emissions by 527-1.6 billion metric tons.
A recent MU study found that COVID-19 significantly impacted the academic experiences of African international students, with travel limitations, restricted employment opportunities, and family concerns making it difficult to focus on studies. The findings highlight the need for tailored support from universities during times of crisis.
A new study by University of Waterloo professors Seda Oz and Steve Fortin found that daily box office earnings can accurately predict stock market returns for up to five days, creating upward pressure on stock prices.
A study of over 4 million claims found that Black women had less access to new mammography technology, even when receiving mammograms at the same institution. The disparities in digital breast tomosynthesis use among Black and white women began to subside after 2016.
Scientists explore the dynamics of soft materials like toothpaste and hair gel using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS). The technique reveals microscopic dynamics and helps understand properties like viscosity and elasticity. Insights gained can aid in designing consumer products, nanotechnologies, and drug delivery systems.
A new pan-European study reveals a worrying increase in the prevalence of several digestive diseases since 2000, including chronic liver diseases, pancreatitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. The report estimates that digestive diseases affect over 300 million people across Europe, with significant economic costs.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh will develop an open-source digital toolkit to enhance entrepreneurship resources, leveraging a $484,000 grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. The 18-month project aims to create tools and connections for university-based and entrepreneur-led economic development.
Employment numbers remained positive for people with disabilities, increasing their employment-to-population ratio and labor force participation rate. The trend suggests an inclusive workforce, but also highlights the need to boost household income.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals how cattle ranchers in Brazil cope with weather shocks. The research found that ranchers make decisions based on rainfall patterns and anticipate extreme dry seasons by selling animals for slaughter or to confinement operations, which can decouple food sources from current weather.
A decades-long study found that cash changed the Ju/’hoansi economy, allowing individuals to keep their earnings and fill their own needs. The study also revealed a decline in the traditional system of gifting and sharing, which had previously distributed possessions throughout communities.
Researchers at CNIC have identified metoprolol as a neuroprotective agent after a stroke, greatly reducing cerebral inflammation and neuronal death. The study's findings suggest that metoprolol may also offer benefits in treating severe Covid-19.
A US study found that mothers' consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of overweight or obesity in their offspring. The study suggests refining dietary guidelines and removing financial and social barriers to improve nutrition for women of childbearing age.
Researchers found a 'zero-price effect' in Japan's child healthcare system, where zero cost increases demand for health services. However, this can lead to poor allocation of resources and overuse of antibiotics.
New research by Cornell University ILR School tracks the rise of militant leadership in California Nurses Association, adopting fixed-duration strikes to build a more militant membership and resist concessions. The fixed-duration strike proved highly effective in protecting worker interests, imposing financial costs on employers.
A recent analysis published in Contemporary Economic Policy found that 6-week paid family leave in California saved 339 infant lives from 2004-2008. The study also revealed a significant reduction in post-neonatal mortality rates for infants with married mothers and boys.
The University of Illinois has received a $30 million investment from USAID to develop soybean value chains across Sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to remove last-mile obstacles to technology adoption, including seed, productivity-improvement, and credit issues.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that Medicare eligibility at age 65 is associated with significant improvements in health care access and financial strain for low-income adults. The study also found modest effects on higher-income adults, suggesting that lowering the age of Medicare eligibility could advance health equity ...
The Great Salt Lake is losing freshwater input to agriculture and urban growth, causing salt concentrations to spike. Like Iran's Lake Urmia, it's reaching levels stressful for brine shrimp and brine flies, which are essential for migratory birds.
The share of female managers in finance has increased significantly in Finland, but their earnings remain lower than those of male managers. Occupational segregation and differences in educational backgrounds contribute to this disparity. Despite the industry's high wage premium, women are underrepresented in higher-paying roles.
Researchers identified 7 core categories of behaviors important for human-dog bonds, including attunement, communication, and physical affection. These behaviors may be incorporated into robotic systems to provide mental health benefits for humans.
A University of Kansas paleontologist is using a 3-million-year-old fossil record to predict the future of Western Atlantic mollusk species. By analyzing the fossil record, the researcher hopes to identify biological and behavioral traits that gave some species evolutionary success and others extinction.
Researchers at WVU investigate performance of low-energy treatment facilities, assessing nutrient removal and potential environmental impacts. The team aims to create an interactive map with search filters and develop a user manual for modeling lagoon performance.
The global survey highlights intense exposure to extreme heat, water scarcity, and flooding due to climate change, with cities in developing countries facing significant infrastructure gaps. City leaders also report challenges related to private automobiles, biking, and walking, as well as budgetary concerns and mental health issues.
A new Perspective piece calls for a radical response to the climate crisis in science, particularly in agriculture and food systems. The authors emphasize the need for transformative adaptation that prioritizes social equity and brings together all stakeholders.
August COVID Update data show little change in unemployment numbers for people with and without disabilities on temporary layoff or looking for work. Challenges are on the horizon due to inflation concerns, which may lead to a tightening of the labor market and rising unemployment.
A new study challenges the notion that capitalism improved human welfare, finding instead that it led to dramatic declines in real wages, human height, and premature mortality. Recovery from this immiseration occurred only recently, coinciding with the rise of progressive social movements.
A new project aims to explore the tension between managing hurricane risk and achieving equity and economic prosperity in coastal communities. Researchers will develop methods to model long-term hurricane hazards and create a framework for designing policy interventions.
A UK study found that adults struggling with debt management had higher rates of anxiety, depression, and mental health treatment. The research highlights the importance of addressing debt as a threat to mental health, regardless of income level.
A new study from Ohio State University finds that white consumers' preferences played a significant role in driving discriminatory practices by private businesses against Black customers before the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The study analyzed data from the Negro Motorist Green Book and found that counties with more Confederate monument...
A £7M NIHR award will scale clean energy access to improve health, gender equality and climate in sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to address household air pollution, a significant risk factor for global disease, and will focus on informing national strategies to meet the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 7.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that adults with more chronic health conditions are at higher risk of serious financial problems, including late payments, poor credit scores, and bankruptcy. The study analyzed nearly 3 million privately insured adults and found that those with seven or more chronic conditions had three to four...
A new study by Tokyo University of Science researchers reveals that overconfidence in one's ability can lead to a desire for income equality, but with nuances. Participants who experienced a gap between their income and self-evaluated ability were more likely to support reducing income inequality, particularly among left-wing individuals.
Researchers aim to create intelligent drones that can autonomously inspect coal waste storage facilities, detecting cracks and deformities with thermal and visual images. The drones will be equipped with AI-based software to identify potential hazards, providing a faster and long-term solution to prevent environmental damage.
A systematic review of 82 scientific publications found that palm oil boosts local economies and poverty reduction while exacerbating social inequalities. Sustainable palm oil production practices facilitate achievement of SDGs like quality education and access to clean water.
A large-scale experimental study by Harvard, Stanford, and MIT researchers found that weaker social connections on LinkedIn have a greater beneficial effect on job mobility than stronger ties. Weaker ties increased the likelihood of job mobility the most, while strongest ties had the least impact.
Researchers at UTIA are using a $800,000 grant from Shell to investigate the potential of winter oilseed crops as a sustainable solution for agriculture and biofuels. The project aims to identify top oilseed crops for the Mid-South and Southeast regions and develop best management practices to maximize outputs.