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.
A study of 166 Australian estuaries found they're warming at twice the rate of oceans and the atmosphere, threatening global aquaculture and wild fisheries worth $152 billion annually. This accelerated impact on estuaries could adversely affect economic activity and ecological biodiversity worldwide.
The Soybean Innovation Lab helps alleviate hunger and boost local economies in Sub-Saharan Africa by providing research-based solutions to farmers. Studies found that smallholder farmers face significant challenges adopting soybeans as a commercial crop, requiring guidance and support from larger systems.
The article concludes that economic growth is not compatible with biodiversity conservation and proposes seven alternative proposals to ensure prosperity beyond growth. The studies outlines actions such as limiting commercialization of resources, restricting extractive industries, and promoting agro-ecological development.
Researchers have identified a gene that can help combat Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), a major threat to wheat crops worldwide. The discovery sheds light on molecular mechanisms making wheat resistant to the pathogen and paves the way for new varieties with improved FHB resistance.
A new study finds deep flaws in EPA's benefit-cost analysis supporting a proposed rule to roll back Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. The analysis ignores scientific evidence and economic best practice, failing to account for recent science and changes in electricity generation.
Researchers at UB and Harvard Business School found that people who base their self-worth on financial success experience pressure and lack of autonomy, leading to negative social outcomes. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving personal relationships in maintaining good mental health.
A modelling study suggests that relaxing control measures in regions outside Hubei province could lead to a second wave of COVID-19 infection, with cases potentially exceeding 1 and resulting in higher health and economic loss. The study advises policymakers to fine-tune control measures using real-time monitoring of transmissibility a...
Researchers confirm early plant cultivation in southwestern Amazonia, dating back to 10,350 years ago, with evidence of manioc and squash. The discovery suggests that the earliest inhabitants were not just hunter-gatherers but also engaged in plant cultivation.
A recent study on Uganda finds that climate change can lead to a 20% decline in economic output due to reduced labor supply and increased food consumption. The analysis suggests that households will need to adapt to changing temperatures through strategies such as crop diversification and irrigation.
Researchers from the University of Bristol used social media data to accurately estimate downtime and recovery of small businesses after natural disasters. The method analyzes aggregated posting activity to infer business status, allowing for 'real-time' forecasting of economic impact.
Charismatic invasive species are more likely to be introduced and establish themselves due to social acceptance. This can lead to one-sided gaps in knowledge and wrongly prioritized protective measures, affecting both ecosystems and invasive species welfare.
Researchers explore using CRISPR in nongenetic model plants, overcoming technical obstacles with adapted transformation systems. Polyploidy studies reveal the biological underpinnings of genetic consequences.
Biofuels have yet to reach cost parity with conventional petroleum fuels, but engineers can engineer plants to produce valuable chemical compounds as they grow. A new study defines the optimal amount of bioproducts plants need to produce for a cost-effective process, promising cheaper alternatives to petroleum fuels.
A Colorado State University economist and his team analyzed the toll of long-term school closures on US health care providers, finding that closures could potentially negate mortality benefits. The researchers' work provides new insights for policymakers as schools nationwide shutter for weeks or months.
Research from Stanford University finds that stress hinders development of informed plans by preventing the use of memory to project oneself forward. Stress can rob individuals of the ability to draw on cognitive systems underlying memory and goal-directed behavior, leading to reduced planning efficiency.
The European Research Council has awarded €450 million in funding to 185 researchers, who will explore innovative ideas in various fields of research. The new projects aim to create 1,800 jobs and address pressing global challenges such as climate change and cancer research.
A study in Finland found that environmental features such as nature destinations and walking-friendly infrastructure are crucial for older adults' physical activity. The research highlights the importance of considering specific neighborhood conditions when planning initiatives to promote older adults' health.
A recent study evaluates and quantifies ecosystem service flows between countries, highlighting the importance of understanding these interregional connections. Researchers found that Germany benefits from ecosystem services provided in other countries, including flood protection, biodiversity conservation, and cocoa production.
All Life is a new open-access journal that will publish multidisciplinary reproducible life science research, focusing on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The journal aims to foster collaboration and information sharing across the life sciences.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that double-walled carbon nanotubes can create a staggered band alignment, allowing for more efficient separation of positive and negative charges in photovoltaic applications. This effect is caused by the interplay of different curvatures between the inner and outer walls of the nanotube.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg have discovered a new quantum state of matter that enables light to be accumulated at a specific point in an optical fiber. This effect, known as a 'light funnel', has the potential to improve the sensitivity of optical detectors and unlock new technological applications.
CABBI researchers have developed a triad of innovative tools to engineer low-pH-tolerant yeast Issatchenkia orientalis for production of valuable bioproducts. The three tools facilitate genetic expression, DNA assembly, and stability in the yeast strain, enabling its use as a robust organic acid producer.
A new study reveals that flavorings containing benzaldehyde can form benzene when exposed to light, posing a risk to consumer health. The long-term solution lies in protecting these flavorings from light, particularly during production and storage.
A new mathematical model developed by Princeton and Carnegie Mellon researchers improves epidemic tracking by accounting for disease mutations. The model provides critical insights into the effects of countermeasures, such as quarantines, on epidemic spread.
Researchers found that phasing out coal can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% worldwide, while saving 1.5% of global economic output by 2050. The benefits of a coal exit outweigh the costs, with local and short-term impacts on public health and biodiversity being most significant.
A new IIASA study shows that higher levels of education and increasing workforce participation can offset the economic burden of an aging population in Europe. The 'productivity-weighted labor force dependency ratio' reflects the impact of expanding education and labor market participation, particularly among women and the elderly.
Andrey Golubov, a leading expert on mergers and takeovers at the University of Toronto, has received the Bank of Canada's Governor's Award. The award provides financial support for his research on mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and firm value and performance.
Researchers at Aalto University developed a new graphene-carbon nanotube catalyst to improve the efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells and water electrolyzers. The catalyst's electrocatalytic activity can be altered depending on the material it is deposited on, offering a promising strategy for producing green technology.
A new study by Margaret Walls and colleagues found that national monuments in the US West increase establishment growth rates near the monument. The research indicates that fears of economic restriction after monument designation are unwarranted, as designated areas do not affect existing jobs or traditional industries.
A new study published in Science Advances reveals that national monuments have positive effects on local economies in the American West. The study found that designations led to a 10% increase in nearby business establishments and an 8% rise in jobs, primarily in service industries like business services, financial services, and constr...
Dr. Walter Reichman has been named a Fellow of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) for his outstanding contributions to pro-social I-O. As a pioneer in the field, he has made significant impacts through research, teaching, advocacy, and mentoring.
A group of researchers used a poverty simulation game called SPENT to study people's beliefs about poverty and economic inequality. The study found that playing the game helped develop stronger recognition of situational causes of poverty and reduced support for economic inequality.
Researchers found that machine-harvested edamame is more profitable at lower densities, with optimal rates ranging from 35,200 to 48,600 plants per acre. The new guidelines are specific to the unique aspects of the crop and aim to maximize profitability for US growers and processors.
A study by Hiroshima University found that financial literacy is key to understanding existing legal and social services for people with dementia. Financially literate individuals are more aware of systems like adult guardianship and civil trust, which can help prevent misuses of power and ensure continued economic participation.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University economist Mark Votruba found that involuntary job loss leads to a dramatic increase in criminal behavior. Displaced workers experienced a 20% increase in criminal charges the year after being laid off, as well as decreased earnings and full-time opportunities.
A new study by MIT economists reveals that the decline in labor's share of GDP is primarily driven by market concentration among large companies. The study found that top firms in various sectors have gained market share, while smaller firms with higher labor shares have lost out.
A study of 109,908 non-migrant individuals found that routine childhood vaccination was associated with 0.2-0.3 additional schooling grades among adults, a significant link across socioeconomic and demographic factors. The finding supports the long-term benefits of vaccines beyond health outcomes.
A new study by West Virginia University researchers found that economic development incentives may contribute to the decline of middle-class jobs. The study examined the impact of tax breaks on employment trends in two cities, San Antonio and Birmingham, and found that incentivizing creative-class industries led to job losses in workin...
A $20 million cooperative agreement renewal will focus on developing tools and best practices to aid local governments in disaster preparedness. The project, led by OU engineers, aims to provide practical application of modeling results to community stakeholders.
The University of Surrey's 'SMART' project investigates interlingual live subtitling via respeaking to broaden accessibility, empowering different user groups and enabling a more inclusive society. The project aims to equip language professionals with optimal skills and develop guidelines for making live events accessible.
A team of social scientists from rival institutions came together to reach a scientific consensus on stereotype formation. They developed a joint theory that combined perceived competence and warmth as key factors, but with nuances depending on the situation.
Researchers developed a process to recover 80-90% of phosphorus from dried distiller's grains with solubles (DDGS), reducing excess phosphorus in manure and minimizing algae production. The process is estimated to add $1 million annually in revenue for ethanol plants, while improving environmental sustainability.
George Mason University's Todd J. Zywicki has received $226,944 from the CFPB to lead a task force on harmonizing and updating federal consumer financial laws. The project aims to improve and strengthen consumer financial laws and regulations by end of 2020.
A study estimates that women worldwide catch 3 million tonnes of marine fish and seafood per year, generating $5.6 billion in value or 12% of global small-scale fisheries catches. The economic impact is even higher at $26 billion when adjusted for purchasing power parity.
Researchers from NJIT and NASA will conduct experiments on colloidal particles at the International Space Station to advance materials engineering. The ACE-T-Ellipsoids investigation aims to learn how periodic arrangement is formed, revealing hidden interrelations between processes driving particle arrangement.
A new study from the University of South Australia shows that the Adelaide Fringe festival plays a crucial role in building the state's social capital, helping to combat 'brain drain'. The festival achieves this through placemaking, regeneration of urban spaces, and creating vibrant experiences for residents and visitors.
Researchers at Lehigh University found that the 'Monday effect' negatively impacts supply chain performance, resulting in longer times between ordering and shipping, and more errors in order fulfillment. Technology solutions such as automated order processing systems can improve Monday performance by up to 90%.
A study found that Chinese firms in provinces with lower GDP growth are more likely to engage in earnings management to prop up provincial GDP figures. This leads to a range of negative consequences for the firms, including high bad debt expenses, inventory write-offs, and asset impairment losses.
A new initiative aims to provide affordable drinking water to Pakistan's South Punjab region, utilizing a raw nanoclay with potential health-giving applications. The project has the potential to improve economic conditions and create employment opportunities for locals.
A nine-year observational study found that Universal Credit's roll-out was associated with a 6.6% increase in psychological distress among unemployed recipients, affecting all social groups equally. The study suggests that the welfare reform may exacerbate pressures on mental health and social care services.
A North Carolina State University study of 32 US states from 1990-2015 found that corporate tax incentives typically leave states worse off. The exceptions were job creation tax credits and job training grants, which generated significant tax revenue.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyzed US energy production data from 1970-2014, finding that nuclear power reduced carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 2 million metric tons annually. The study suggests policymakers consider nuclear power as a low-carbon source to incentivize utilities to shift toward increased nuclear gener...
Research reveals over 8 million to 14 million tonnes of unreported fish catches are traded illicitly annually, costing the legitimate market $9-17 billion. The economic impact is felt heavily in Asia, Africa, and South America, affecting millions' nutritional food security and livelihoods.
A study by the University of Arizona found that individuals with high romantic attachment anxiety and avoidance report low life satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and financial satisfaction. They also engage in more irresponsible financial behaviors and perceive their partners' financial behaviors as irresponsible.
Researchers found that young burglars are initially motivated by a desire for excitement, but eventually driven by the thrill of skill and financial rewards. This understanding could help intervene in habitual offending.
Breast cancer support groups play a crucial role in helping underserved African-American women in Memphis overcome economic, social, and psychological barriers to diagnosis and treatment. The groups act as connectors between healthcare providers and the community, reducing death rates from breast cancer among black women in the city.
Fireflies face numerous threats, including habitat loss and artificial light pollution, which can harm their bioluminescent displays and overall survival. Conservation efforts, such as preserving habitats and reducing insecticide use, can help improve firefly populations and mitigate these threats.
Climate change is projected to reduce the suitable area for growing most olive varieties in Andalusia, particularly Nevadillo, Manzanilla, Lechín, and Picudo, due to less rainfall and soil humidity loss. However, the Picual variety may see an increase in suitable areas in higher regions like Alpujarra.
A study of beverage sales in Cook County, Illinois, found that purchases of taxed beverages decreased by 21%, even after cross-border shopping adjustments. The tax was most effective on larger-volume purchases, with a price elasticity of -0.8.
A European Union-funded study reveals the Spanish compensation system for victims of sexual violence is ineffective, with a lack of interest from the State. The study proposes solutions to improve the system, including identifying and addressing legal and organizational obstacles.