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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 22


Page 22 of 37

Climate change: How could artificial photosynthesis contribute to limiting global warming?

Scientists calculate that an area the size of Germany could suffice for artificial photosynthesis to remove 10 gigatonnes of CO2 per year. This technology could potentially balance climate carbon budget and reduce emissions. However, large investments in research and development are required to make it a reality.

From emergence to eruption: Comprehensive model captures life of a solar flare

A team of scientists developed a single, cohesive computer model to simulate the entire life cycle of a solar flare, from energy buildup to explosive release. The comprehensive model captures the formation of tangled magnetic field lines and roiling sunspots, which can impact Earth's power grids, communications networks, and astronauts.

How manganese produces a parkinsonian syndrome

Researchers discovered manganese's role in disrupting protein transport, leading to parkinsonian symptoms. Manganese accumulates in cellular vesicles, disturbing nerve cell function and affecting Parkinson's disease-like symptoms.

SourceCNRS·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateJan 16, 2019

New research confirms US Fed right to hold news conferences after every meeting

A new study from the University of Toronto found that holding news conferences after every FOMC meeting may have done the opposite, setting markets up for unnecessary surprises. The research highlights the potential risks of treating meetings differently, which could reduce transparency through delayed information release.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateJan 16, 2019

The Lancet: Diet and food production must radically change to improve health and avoid potentially catastrophic damage to the planet

Feeding a growing population of 10 billion people by 2050 with a healthy and sustainable diet will require significant changes to eating habits, food production, and reducing food waste. The new dietary pattern promotes whole grains, plant-based protein sources, and high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 16, 2019

Proteins use a lock and key system to bind to DNA

Researchers discovered that proteins use the DNA's three-dimensional structure as a type of keyhole to select specific binding sites, rather than just patterns in the genome's code. Over 80% of proteins bind to a specific shape pattern in the genome, which helps explain how they avoid confusing different sequences.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Systems·DateJan 16, 2019

What is clean breathing water?

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that showering, using sinks, and flushing toilets can expose people to Legionella pneumophila bacteria, which causes pneumonia-like disease. The researchers recommend setting a risk-based concentration limit for indoor water quality to prevent outbreaks.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 16, 2019

Feathers: better than Velcro?

Scientists at UC San Diego discovered that barbules on bird feathers are spaced consistently across species, leading to potential breakthroughs in adhesives and aerospace materials. The study's findings also shed light on the growth patterns of bird bones, particularly the humerus.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 16, 2019

Ammonia by phosphorus catalysis

Researchers have discovered black phosphorus as an excellent catalyst for the electroreduction of nitrogen to produce ammonia. The material exhibits high selectivity and efficiency in this process, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods. However, further improvements are needed to prevent degradation over time.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 16, 2019

Nearly a quarter of antibiotic prescriptions for children and adults may be unnecessary

A new study found that nearly a quarter of antibiotic prescriptions for children and adults may be unnecessary, with 1 in 7 patients receiving antibiotics for cases that were not medically justified. This highlights the need to reduce antibiotic overuse and its consequences, including contributing to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Advancing environmental research

The new grant will support activities at four partner institutions, including the University of Delaware, to build up the state's research expertise and workforce for future jobs. The project aims to improve water quality, focusing on salinization and its effects on drinking water and freshwater habitats.

New conservation practice could reduce nitrogen pollution in agricultural drainage water

Researchers estimate that saturated buffers, vegetated strips of land between tile-drained fields and waterways, could reduce agricultural drainage nitrogen by 5 to 10 percent. This approach is inexpensive and can be easily integrated with farming practices.

Keeping roads in good shape reduces greenhouse gas emissions, Rutgers-led study finds

A Rutgers-led study found that extending pavement life through preventive maintenance can reduce greenhouse gases, save energy, and cut transportation agency spending. The research used the LTPP database to measure the environmental impact of roadway repairs on carbon dioxide emissions linked to global warming.

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Transportation·DateJan 15, 2019