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.
New research from the University of Colorado Denver finds that US refugee resettlement programs create systemic barriers to socioeconomic stability. Refugees often face intense scrutiny and calculations of worthiness, leading to limited governmental support.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed predictive analytical models to simplify the design and construction of biorefineries, enabling robust operation and minimizing downtime due to plugging problems. The models address machinery and operating conditions, reducing reliance on chemical agents in ethanol fuel production.
A study found that fine particulate matter increased by 5% between 2016-2018, leading to 9,700 additional premature deaths and $89 billion damages. The rise was associated with economic activity, wildfires, and decreased enforcement of the Clean Air Act.
The George Mason University team will examine the impact of increasing traffic and industrialization in the Arctic on its infrastructure and governance. The five-year project aims to understand the environmental and social implications of a significant increase in people, shipping, and infrastructure needs.
Researchers will explore ways to use renewable energy to increase usable water resources and produce ammonia for fertilizer. The project aims to create a multifaceted economic system sustaining small town and rural communities and maintaining agricultural production.
A recent study suggests that BRICS countries can curb the spread of invasive species by forming networks of researchers dedicated to invasion science. The study proposes a 'facilitated' network model that would allow for rapid responses to emerging alien species and substantial increases in capacity to tackle existing invasions.
A recent study found that pro sports events do not significantly impact hotel demand or revenues in Los Angeles. Despite lower average daily rates and reduced room rentals, hotels still experience no change in overall revenue due to the economic hype surrounding professional sports.
A team of Cornell University researchers will investigate the interrelationships between food, energy and water through a three-year, $2.4 million grant. The study aims to understand how ag-to-energy land-use conversions affect agricultural production, water quality and quantity, as well as electrical grid operational efficiency.
A University of Arizona health sciences researcher is working to identify effective strategies for preventing healthcare-associated infections. The study aims to inform hospital-cleaning protocols and ultimately protect patients and healthcare workers from serious infections.
Undisclosed non-financial measures linked to CEO cash bonuses are associated with worse company performance, new research reveals. However, transparent and measurable non-financial targets related to corporate social responsibility are positively linked to industry-adjusted return on assets.
The US green economy generates over $1.3 trillion in revenue annually, employing an estimated 9.5 million people, with renewables sectors experiencing significant growth. The study highlights the need for new policies to support the green economy's growth and job creation.
Researchers aim to address sustainable food systems for a growing population by developing an optimal food system from an economic and resource-use perspective. The study will examine the role of trade in making resource use more efficient and providing safe and nutritious food.
A team of international researchers recommends establishing a global coordinating body to develop international guidelines and promoting equitable sharing of benefits in the Blue Economy. This will help ensure sustainable and inclusive development, mitigating potential harms on marine environments and human well-being.
A new study by Concordia researchers finds that extreme heat days caused by CO2 emissions lead to lost labor productivity, with lower-income countries experiencing stronger economic impacts. The research estimates that every trillion tonnes of CO2 emitted could cause global GDP losses of about half a percent.
The UW's Optimizing Implementation in Cancer Control Center will develop knowledge and tools to support optimal implementation of proven cancer interventions. The center will focus on optimizing screening evidence-based interventions for cervical, colorectal, breast, and ovarian cancers.
New research published in INFORMS journal Transportation Science reveals that optimizing delivery driver shifts can reduce pick-up time by up to 50%, while choosing restaurants closer to the drop-off location can reduce delivery time by 17%. Additionally, order bundling has a limited cost improvement of less than half a percent.
A new study estimates that endometriosis may be costing the Australian economy as much as $9.7 billion dollars per year due to productivity loss and other expenses. The condition affects around one in nine women born between 1973-78, causing severe pelvic pain and fatigue.
A recent study found that the introduction and withdrawal of financial incentives for GPs had little impact on screening rates but led to an immediate increase in advice provision. Since the scheme's discontinuation, screening rates have decreased, and fewer patients receive brief advice for their drinking.
A study from Lancaster University and the University of Hagen found that parties with less stake in an issue tend to adopt extreme policy positions when creating election pledges. This is because they are more likely to pander to voters by offering attractive but potentially radical solutions. In contrast, parties with strong interests...
The Tata-Cornell Institute will assess challenges facing small-farm aggregation models in India and Mexico, with a focus on creating lessons, tools, and resource pathways to strengthen small farm aggregators. The two-year study aims to identify successful and unsuccessful strategies for making these organizations economically sustainable.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University identified three key factors influencing the interaction between employees' religious identity and workplace: personal preferences, opportunities for expression, and individual worker characteristics. The study recommends ways management can promote inclusivity and reduce conflict by creating a...
A new study in PLOS ONE shows that certain hybrids are naturally density tolerant, improving yield when planted at higher populations. Increasing populations of density-tolerant hybrids can lead to an average extra $40 per acre in profit for growers and up to $120 to $280 per acre for processors.
The article discusses how the rise of AI will shift jobs towards feeling tasks, making emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills vital for success. Research by the University of Maryland suggests that companies and individuals must adapt to this new economy, where firms need to recruit people who excel in feeling tasks.
Researchers analyze data on international emergency events between 1960 and 2015, revealing growing hazards posed by severe events linked to climate change. Economic damages rise sharply worldwide, including in temperate areas, as death tolls from extreme temperature events increase in poor and rich countries.
A study by Oregon State University found that the state's accountable-care model led to decreases in unscheduled, preventable hospitalizations among Medicaid enrollees. The model emphasizes primary care, disease prevention, and population health measurements, which may promote more efficient healthcare resource use.
A new research project will improve solar cell technology and explore new uses for photovoltaic devices. The collaboration includes five universities in three countries, with a focus on additive manufacturing and 3D printing for low-cost solar cell production.
The economic cost of natural disasters has increased disproportionately for major events like hurricanes and tornadoes, while lesser events have seen less growth. Climate change is driving these increases, with the top 1% of damages estimated to rise by $26 million annually.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities remained unchanged at 31.4 percent in September 2019, while the labor force participation rate decreased by 1.2 percentage points. Financial instability is a significant issue for people with disabilities, with many struggling to make ends meet.
Researchers from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School will study heat waves with $190,000 NOAA grant funding, aiming to improve future projections of extreme heat wave events. Heat waves are projected to increase in severity and frequency due to climate change.
Researchers found that social media influencers are creating a new ideal of the 'housewife' as an entrepreneur and consumer, showcasing their glamorous lifestyle on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. This new image challenges traditional notions of femininity and highlights the tension between private and public lives.
Researchers at UNH found a significant decline in frost days and ice days in northern forests across the US and Canada. This change could have serious implications for ecosystems, water supplies, economies, tourism, and human health. Cold temperatures help prevent disease spread and manage insects detrimental to trees.
Maps identifying suitable areas for the spotted lanternfly's establishment in the US and world have been published by Agricultural Research Service scientists. The insect has already spread to several countries and is predicted to become established in most of New England, mid-Atlantic states, and Pacific coastal states.
A new habitat-modeling study reveals large swaths of US and Europe are likely to be vulnerable to the invasive spotted lanternfly if it continues to spread. Suitable habitat for the tree and fruit pest was found in most New England and mid-Atlantic states, as well as parts of central US and Pacific Northwest globally.
Despite advances in communication and travel, international collaborations in science are threatened by political and economic realities. Current tensions between the US and China exemplify these hurdles, with concerns about foreign nations exploiting and undermining US research activities.
Researchers propose introducing sustainability criteria in bank loan agreements and stock exchange listing rules to reduce pressure on seafood resources. This could impact the majority of largest listed seafood companies worldwide, with half of external finance coming from bank loans or stock exchanges.
Reducing diesel emissions from freight trucks can lead to significant improvements in public health and the economy. By 2050, studies predict a decline in mortality rates and annual savings of $38 billion, thanks to improved air quality and technology.
A game of chance experiment revealed that German commercial fishermen are more honest than students when not under suspicion. However, when told to report their results in favor of the EU, almost one in three fishermen answered dishonestly. The study highlights the importance of trust between fishermen and regulatory authorities.
A large-scale international study found that people in economically unequal societies are more supportive of strong, even autocratic leaders. The researchers suggest that economic inequality perceptions fuel a desire for a leader who will restore order by whatever means necessary.
A new tool, HWISE Scale, measures household water insecurity in low- and middle-income countries. It provides actionable information to address the global water crisis, strongly associated with food insecurity, stress, and economic productivity.
A new study found that partial replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, is a viable alternative to total hip arthroplasty for treating displaced femoral neck fractures in patients over age 50. The study reported similar rates of outcome measures between the two techniques, with no significant difference in the incidence of secondary procedures.
The reports found that every county in Massachusetts saw some economic benefit from the construction, with benefits growing with proximity to Springfield. The study also revealed that two-thirds of construction workers and the construction budget went to Massachusetts-based firms.
A recent study reveals that inland fisheries are providing vital micronutrients and animal-source protein to sustain 159 million people. The global economic value of inland catch is estimated at $24 billion, highlighting its importance in local rural economies.
A new study found that excessive athletic training can lead to mental fatigue, including reduced activity in a portion of the brain important for making decisions. The athletes also acted more impulsively, opting for immediate rewards instead of bigger ones that would take longer to achieve.
A new study estimates that human decisions and actions can reduce the uncertainty in climate response, limiting economic impacts to under 1% of global GDP. The research suggests humanity has control over its future and can choose a path through its actions.
A multidisciplinary team at the University of Pittsburgh is developing novel research paradigms to address the complex challenge of global waste through circular economy design. The project aims to advance fundamental science behind circular economy solutions, including product design and life-cycle assessment.
New research reveals global liquidity shocks have a significant impact on house prices worldwide, with emerging markets being more vulnerable. Effective policy responses, such as housing-related macroprudential measures, can shield housing markets from global shocks.
A $1.2M grant will establish a network of recirculating aquaculture systems to produce Atlantic salmon in the US, increasing sustainability and reducing imports. The project aims to develop environmentally friendly land-based systems that can replace imported seafood, promoting domestic production and reducing trade deficits.
Researchers analyzed DNA samples from over 17,000 individuals and found that people with specific chromosomal changes tended to live in more deprived areas. The study suggests that these genetic changes may have cumulative effects on socioeconomic status even in the absence of a medical diagnosis.
Researchers from Michigan State University and Johns Hopkins University analyzed 1,461 hospital breaches between 2009 and 2019, revealing that 169 million people had some form of information exposed. The study classified data into three categories: demographic, service/financial, and medical information, highlighting the risks of ident...
A study of 1,461 hospital data breaches found that 71% compromised sensitive demographic or financial information, putting patients at risk of identity theft. The breaches also revealed a lack of transparency about the types of information compromised, sparking calls for policymakers to require standardized documentation.
A new international study by Swansea University found that kindness is the top quality people look for in a long-term partner, accounting for 22-26% of their budget. The study also revealed sex differences in mate preferences, with women prioritizing good financial prospects and men favoring physical attractiveness.
A team of Wayne State University researchers is working to better understand the physical, chemical, and biological character of fatbergs through advanced analysis. Their study aims to identify contaminants in fatbergs and inform targeted prevention and mitigation efforts.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a new type of composite material made from discarded stone waste and polymers, which increases the strength and conductivity of the final product. The materials can be used in various applications, including decorations, sanitation products, and even aerospace.
Researchers developed three new models to quantify the impact of transport links on property value in the North of England, finding a premium for ease of access to employment, with rail adding 14% to home value. The study also identified other factors contributing to property value, including access to local facilities and parks.
Researchers at U-M aim to collect individual-level data across all parts of the criminal justice system, linking it with social and economic data to examine previously unanswerable research questions. The project will create a nationally integrated repository for crime data to support research and evidence-based policy.
The adoption of ox-drawn plows led to a decoupling of wealth from labor, driving growing economic disparities between landowners and land-poor families. This transformation made land more valuable and labor less so, ultimately resulting in substantial wealth inequalities.
Researchers found that continuous communication, strategic partnerships, education, and integrated systems are crucial for effective disaster response. Community-based organizations and public health agencies must work together before a disaster strikes to build resilience in disaster-prone areas.
Researchers at Swansea University have created a system that uses a freshwater lens to improve visibility in cloudy waters, allowing scientists to identify fish species with greater accuracy. This breakthrough technology has the potential to monitor wildlife communities around marine renewable developments globally.
A national survey of over 1,000 adults reveals widespread misperceptions about racial economic progress, with 97% of participants underestimating the Black-White wealth gap. The researchers argue that cognitive factors and stereotypes contribute to these misperceptions.
Researchers identified six corporate actions that can promote environmental stewardship: aligning vision, mainstreaming sustainability, license to operate, financing transformations, radical transparency, and evidence-based knowledge for action. These changes can be implemented by large corporations to ensure long-term sustainability.