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Ten lessons from the virus crisis

A new study identifies ten key factors contributing to the success of some countries in containing the COVID-19 pandemic, including considering globalization, political leadership, and civil society. The research highlights the importance of a systems approach to assess pandemic preparedness and social security provisions.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 21, 2021

A better tool for the job: Laser-based technique to elucidate the mysteries of exosomes

A team of undergraduate students from Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology developed a laser-based technique to measure protein-containing vessels released by cells. The technique, known as dynamic light scattering (DLS), is reliable, convenient, and inexpensive, making it an efficient tool for studying exosomes.

Quality education essential to closing the growing global skills gap

A new study reveals that quantity of education does not necessarily translate to quality, and the global skills gap is widening due to inadequate measurement methods. The Skills in Literacy Adjusted Mean Years of Schooling (SLAMYS) indicator shows a significant gap between high- and low-performing countries.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021

The business of bees

Research finds economic dependence of US crops on insect pollination totaling $34 billion in 2012, with areas producing 80% of value relying on poor pollinator habitats. The study identifies key areas that need improved pollinator habitat to mitigate declining bee populations.

Almost 30% of advanced manufacturing technologies used in Russia are acquired abroad

A recent study by HSE University researchers found that Russian enterprises rely heavily on imported advanced manufacturing technologies, with only a few organizations developing their own solutions. The demand for domestically developed AMT is increasing, particularly in regions with diversified economies.

An ancient economy

A team of archaeologists has discovered that the Chumash Indians in California were using shell beads as currency around 2,000 years ago. The team's findings, published in the Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, challenge long-held assumptions about the origins of money in the Americas.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Anthropological Archaeology·DateJan 28, 2021

Rethink immigration policy for STEM doctorates

A new study from Cornell University and UC San Diego finds that international STEM doctoral students graduating from US universities face a complex and inefficient path to permanent residency, with most following a guest worker visa before obtaining a green card. The researchers argue that this process should be treated differently due...

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021

Producing green hydrogen through the exposure of nanomaterials to sunlight

A research team has developed new nanostructured electrodes to split water molecules under sunlight, paving the way for efficient green hydrogen production. The electrodes, made with titanium dioxide and cobalt oxide, can absorb up to 50% of visible light and produce hydrogen through photocatalysis.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateJan 21, 2021

How clicks on a job platform can reveal bias

Researchers analyzed millions of decisions made by recruiters on a popular job platform, revealing significant bias against immigrants and women. The study found that biases were more pronounced towards the end of the workday and in male-dominated professions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2021