Technology Policy
Articles tagged with Technology Policy
Millions left behind as digital inclusion funding fails to reach those who need it most
A new study from the University of Surrey highlights the failure of major actors to work together as a major barrier to digital inclusion. Despite improvement in access to mobile networks and digital skills, whole communities remain excluded from education, finance, and basic services due to fragmentation of effort.
As global tensions rise, major EU initiative seeks to scale up scientific cooperation internationally
The EU is launching a major initiative to expand scientific cooperation globally, building on earlier dialogue with 57 countries. The project aims to develop practical guidance for fairer and more effective collaboration between nations.
Electric cars can make power grids more reliable (and earn owners money) – so why aren’t we doing that?
A new study identifies the barriers to vehicle-to-grid (V2G) adoption, including coordination problems, limited infrastructure, and varying regulations. V2G technology can provide backup power during periods of high energy demand and earn EV owners money for supplying energy to the grid.
Stowers Institute appoints former Cerner legal chief as new general counsel
Dan Devers joins the Stowers Institute with over 20 years of experience in law and business. He will lead all legal matters across the Institute, ensuring governance, compliance, intellectual property strategy, and partnerships support the Institute's mission to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.
Winners of Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 announced
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.
Critical raw materials are a vital new currency; Europe’s e-waste is the vault
Critical raw materials are projected to grow from 1 million tonnes in 2022 to between 1.2 and 1.9 million tonnes by 2050. Europe can recover more of these essential materials by improving collection, design, and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Public confidence in U.S. health agencies slides, fueled by declines among Democrats
Public confidence in US health agencies has declined, with sharp decreases among Democrats, according to a new survey. Most Americans lack confidence in HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s ability to provide trustworthy public health information, but have more trust in Dr. Anthony Fauci.
ITU report details US$2.6-2.8 trillion cost to connect everyone meaningfully by 2030
Achieving universal, meaningful internet connectivity by 2030 would require a significant investment of $2.6-2.8 trillion at current prices. The report outlines the challenges, projected costs, and collaborative strategies needed to make sure everyone, everywhere, can use the Internet.
Technology standards currently offer a greater chance of success than regulation
Researchers propose a quality management system for quantum technologies to ensure security, interoperability, transparency and accountability. International standards can facilitate cooperation among countries like China, the US, and Europe, creating trust in new technologies.
AI narrows the productivity gap
Researchers found that an AI app improved efficiency for low-skilled taxi drivers by 7%, while high-skilled drivers saw little benefit. The study suggests AI can help close skills gaps in various professions.
Menstrual tracking app data is a ‘gold mine’ for advertisers that risks women’s safety – report
A University of Cambridge report argues that menstrual tracking app data is a valuable resource for advertisers but poses significant privacy and safety risks to users. The report calls for better governance of the industry to protect user data and urges public health bodies to launch alternative apps.
New crucial guidance to empower nations to develop legal positions on cyber operations
The University of Exeter has unveiled a new Handbook providing practical guidance for states to develop or review their national positions on international law and cyber activities. The 176-page guide offers concrete and accessible steps for government lawyers, policy officials, academics, and experts in this rapidly evolving field.
New study on the global race for future battery technologies
A study reveals an increasing polarisation between Asia and Western nations in future battery technologies, with Europe and the US focusing on improving existing lithium-ion batteries. Meanwhile, countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are investing in high-energy batteries and low-cost alternatives.
Study: Climate change may make it harder to reduce smog in some regions
A new MIT study reveals that climate change will make it harder to reduce ground-level ozone in certain regions, including eastern North America and Western Europe. In contrast, northeast Asia may see improvements in air quality with decreased nitrogen oxide emissions.
Horizon Europe funded Project DeCrises launches at the University of Jyväskylä to support sustainable transition in times of crises with democratic innovation
The DeCrises project explores how governance systems can adapt to overlapping disruptions and ensure equitable responses to societal challenges. It aims to generate actionable insights into citizen engagement, regional social innovation, and governance.
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. announces winners of RFS Awards in Science 2024
The RFS Awards in Science 2024 recognize outstanding peer-reviewed research by women and underrepresented minorities in STEM. The awards honor the best papers written in 2024, with winners receiving a $1,000 cash prize and free access to their publications for 90 days.
Identifying a novel factor in Canavan disease pathogenesis
A new study reports on five patients with Canavan disease who have a novel variant identified through targeted long-read sequencing, revealing an SVA_E retrotransposable element that disrupts gene function. The findings enhance genetic diagnostics and enable improved guidance for families.
UTEP launches artificial intelligence think tank to address regional challenges
The University of Texas at El Paso has launched the AI Institute for Community-Engaged Research (AI-ICER), an interdisciplinary think tank leveraging artificial intelligence technologies to address pressing regional challenges. The institute aims to foster collaboration between researchers, public and private sector groups, and industr...
Keeping Big Tech in check: News media must reinvent their watchdog role
Researchers argue that news media have failed to critically scrutinize Big Tech's impact on society. Alexandra Schwinges suggests a 'software update' for journalism, focusing on data journalism and cross-border collaboration to safeguard democratic values like transparency and accountability.
Machine learning model to predict the fitness of AAV capsids for gene therapy
A new machine learning model accurately predicts the fitness of AAV capsids based on their amino acid sequence, enabling more efficient and cost-effective gene therapies. The model's robustness and generalizability have been demonstrated through tests on independent datasets, offering a promising tool for capsid engineering.
Dr. Venkataramana Gadhamshetty appointed Editor-in-Chief of Environmental Engineering Science
Dr. Gadhamshetty, a leading expert in environmental engineering, brings over 25 years of experience to the role. He aims to expand the journal's influence and promote transformative research that addresses critical environmental challenges.
NTU Singapore launches new interdisciplinary research centre to tackle health risks of climate change
The new centre will focus on air quality, extreme heat, and water supply issues, bringing together experts from across NTU and regional partners. It aims to develop evidence-based policies and real-world solutions to address the growing health threats posed by climate change in tropical regions.
Popular CT scans could account for 5% of all cancer cases a year
A new study suggests that CT scans could account for 5% of all cancer cases each year, primarily due to radiation exposure. The largest risk is among infants, followed by children and adolescents. To mitigate this risk, reducing the number of scans and doses per scan can help save lives.
Evaluating different types of GOSE scores among patients treated in trauma centers in the US
Researchers evaluated different types of Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) scores among US trauma center patients. They found that GOSE-All scores capture the combined effect of brain and extracranial injuries, while GOSE-TBI scores exclude extracranial injury effects.
Government urged to tackle inequality in ‘low-carbon tech’ like solar panels and electric cars
Researchers at University of Sheffield find socioeconomic inequalities persist in low-carbon technology adoption, particularly among disadvantaged groups. The report advocates for targeted interventions and community-level support to level the playing field.
Enabling Indonesia’s small farmers to embrace innovation
A new report reveals that Indonesia's small farmers can increase productivity and market access through technology-driven innovations. The report outlines ten best practices for agritech startups and wider ecosystems to enable and shape the country's rural startup ecosystem.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles improve survival in mice exposed to high-dose irradiation
A new study found that mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles significantly enhance survival and facilitate substantial peripheral blood recovery in mice exposed to high-dose irradiation. The treatment promoted hematopoietic recovery, with increases in red blood cell, platelet, white blood cell, and hemoglobin levels.
New study analyzes how Reddit communities are adapting to AI
Reddit communities are adapting their policies to address AI-generated content, with subreddits featuring AI rules more than doubling in 16 months. AI rules are most common in art and celebrity-focused communities, which address concerns about image, audio, and video quality.
Many older adults send their doctors portal messages, but who pays?
A study found that 76% of people aged 50+ have patient portal accounts, with 65% sending at least one message in the past year. However, 13% report paying co-pays or charges for these interactions, especially those with Medicaid or low incomes.
WVU, RAND research partnership launches with initial focus on workforce needs
The partnership aims to identify workforce trends and solutions, with a focus on apprenticeships, stackable credentials, and career pathways. Initial research findings are expected by the end of this year and will serve as a model for other states.
Existing international law can help secure peace and security in outer space, study shows
A recent study by Chris O'Meara from the University of Exeter Law School argues that existing laws can be used to limit when and how states may lawfully target satellites using ASAT technologies. This could help address pressing international concerns regarding space militarization and the fear of wars between states.
Administration is weakening U.S. research capacity and endangering Americans, nation’s leading scientists warn
Approximately 1,900 US scientists warn that the Trump administration's actions are slowing scientific advances and harming Americans. The experts argue that gutting funding for research, firing scientists, and removing public access to data will damage the economy and national security.
Joint clinical commitment will advance integration of telehealth, value of patient care
The American Heart Association and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill are building virtual care resources together. They share common priorities in advancing telehealth programs through evidence-based research and education.
Adulting is hard on the heart: Teen to young adulthood is a critical time to address risk
Many teenagers enter adulthood with significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and emerging adulthood is a key time to address these risks. Interventions such as health practices, lifestyle changes, and improved access to healthcare can help reduce the risk of developing future cardiovascular disease.
Technology for all: Ensuring innovation serves the most vulnerable
A national computing research agenda prioritizes ethical development practices, inclusive resources, and accountability measures to prevent technology harm. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between cutting-edge innovation and real-world social impact for vulnerable populations.
Major themes and growth areas in the application of AI in the neurosciences shown in inaugural issue of AI in neuroscience
A new review article identifies major themes in AI application to neurosciences, including a 5-fold increase in AI-related publications. The study also notes a surge of over 13-fold in clinical neurology AI-related publications in the past decade.
Accuracy of the 15.5-day G7 integrated continuous glucose monitor in adults with diabetes
The Dexcom G7 CGM device demonstrated an accuracy of 8.0% in a study involving 130 adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, setting a new standard for continuous glucose monitoring devices.
Results of the INHALE-3 extension study: inhaled technosphere insulin plus insulin degludec in T1D
The INHALE-3 extension study found that a regimen of inhaled technosphere insulin and insulin degludec reduced post-meal hyperglycemia in adults with type 1 diabetes. The treatment showed significant improvements in mean time in range, with 43% of participants expressing interest in continuing the regimen.
JMIR aging invites submissions on the social and cultural drivers of health in aging adults
This theme issue explores digital health solutions to address social isolation, health literacy, and cultural influences on aging health. Contributors are encouraged to submit their work by September 30, 2025.
Whole Health Consortium at Virginia Tech funds teams to tackle community health challenges
The Whole Health Consortium at Virginia Tech has funded several research projects, including one that uses geospatial analysis to improve healthcare access for veterans. Another project aims to develop a 'just-in-time' intervention for chronic pain and opioid use disorder in Appalachia.
Innovations in core-shell nanoparticles advancing drug delivery and precision medicine
Core-shell nanoparticles offer effective drug encapsulation, shielding from degradation, and controlled release. This innovation enables targeted drug delivery, improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects. The versatility of these nanoparticles allows for tailored materials to suit different therapeutic needs.
Translating citizen input into urban action
A study developed an integrated assessment framework to help policymakers and urban planners translate digital participation data into actionable strategies. The framework balances transparency and representativeness in decision-making, highlighting the need for long-term tracking of participation outcomes.
Innovative startup awarded $10,000 to tackle cardiovascular disparities
CerTracker LLC, a digital credential management platform, aims to streamline compliance and onboarding for healthcare professionals. The company will use the $10,000 grant to reduce administrative burdens and improve workforce efficiency in healthcare settings.
Midwestern field trials suggest overuse of rootworm-resistant corn reduces farmers’ profits
A new study reveals that overusing genetically engineered corn resistant to rootworm pests has reduced farmers' profits in the Midwest. The research found that pest pressure has shifted towards other areas, making the technology less effective, and its use has become increasingly costly.
Computing leaders propose measures to combat tech-facilitated intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation
The Association for Computing Machinery's Technology Policy Council issues brief calls on policymakers and tech companies to address tech abuse in intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation. The report highlights disturbing statistics and recommends expanding laws and regulations to protect users.
Beneath the bog: FAU awarded $1.3 million to track carbon and gas flow in peatlands
Researchers will use airborne GPR and ground-based TEM to collect rich geophysical data, estimating carbon storage and gas emissions in peatlands across a latitudinal gradient. The project aims to reduce uncertainty in these predictions and provide valuable information on how to better protect carbon stocks.
New funding to support food security, economic resiliency
The Grubhub Community Fund has awarded the American Heart Association a $2 million grant to support food security, technology innovation, and economic resiliency in New York City and Chicago. The funds will be allocated to up to 12 organizations and entrepreneurs focused on improving health equity and expanding access to capital.
Forcing UK creatives to ‘opt out’ of AI training risks stifling new talent
A report by University of Cambridge experts highlights the risks of unregulated AI use on UK's thriving creative sector. The researchers argue that forcing creatives to 'opt out' of AI training could compromise their livelihoods, particularly those just starting out.
INSEAD webinar on the dual race to AI & global leadership
INSEAD experts Tim Gordon and Theos Evgeniou explore the dual races of AI-driven economic growth and global leadership in a free webinar. They examine risks of market bubbles and discuss strategic implications for businesses and policymakers.
Rethinking energy demand can foster sustainable development and reduce emissions from buildings and transport
A new study by IIASA scientists suggests that a mix of policy measures and behavioral changes can significantly reduce GHG emissions from energy use in buildings and transport. The strategies could reduce CO2 emissions from buildings by 51-85% and transport by 37-91% compared to current policies.
ACC to host Cardio-oncology Conference in Washington and virtually
The ACC Advancing the Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient conference will provide clinicians with tools to improve cardiovascular care of cancer patients. Key sessions will include discussions on pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy, AI and technology in cardio-oncology.
Electricity prices across Europe to stabilise if 2030 targets for renewable energy are met, study suggests
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that hitting Europe's 2030 renewable energy targets could reduce electricity price volatility by an average of 20% across 29 European countries. This would lead to significant reductions in price spikes, with the UK and Ireland expected to benefit the most.
A roadmap for protecting our democracies in the age of AI
The University of Ottawa's AI + Society Initiative proposes a roadmap for protecting democracies in the age of AI, addressing challenges posed by fake news and deepfakes. Four priority actions aim to support institutions against AI interference on elections and democratic processes.
UC San Diego physician-scientist to lead new Lancet commission on U.S. societal resilience in a global pandemic age
The Lancet Commission, led by Eliah Aronoff-Spencer, aims to strengthen communities against pandemics, climate change, and other global challenges. The commission will conduct three phases of work, including planning, fact-finding, and collaborative simulation, to produce a future-oriented report with policy recommendations.
Can AI be governed by an ‘equity by design’ framework?
The 'equity by design' framework proposed by Daryl Lim aims to maximize AI benefits while minimizing harm, particularly for underrepresented individuals. The approach embeds equity principles throughout the AI lifecycle, addressing biases and increasing inequality.
UK parliamentarians urged to make evidence-based policy on safe use of AI in education
The UK parliament has been called upon to develop a framework for the safe and productive use of AI in education, amid concerns about inequalities and digital divides. A key priority is ensuring that policymakers provide training and guidance on AI application, enhancing student learning experiences.
Exploring the ethical frontiers of aware artificial intelligence: EU researchers convene in Uppsala
The workshop explored how to responsibly integrate AI into society, discussing key stakeholders, transparency, accountability, and human-AI collaboration. EU researchers emphasized the importance of addressing ethical considerations in AI design and governance.
China makes progress in carbon neutrality and clean air efforts, report finds
China has achieved significant progress in reducing PM2.5 concentrations by 35.6% since 2015, while also increasing non-fossil energy consumption to 17.5%. However, rising ozone levels and extreme weather events pose new challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptive measures and stricter air quality standards.
Political commitment is discouraged by digital violence
A study by Technical University of Munich finds that digital violence discourages political participation, particularly among women, who experience sexualized online attacks. The survey shows that more than half of those affected modify their behavior, including giving up on politics entirely.