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Science News Archive June 2019 - Page 39


Page 39 of 41

Grassland areas should be chosen wisely

A new study suggests converting farmland to grasslands near existing natural areas for maximum environmental benefits. The conversion should consider balancing multiple goals, including improvement of nature and aquatic environments, biomass production, and land usage.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateJun 3, 2019

Evidence of multiple unmonitored coal ash spills found in N.C. lake

A new study finds high levels of coal ash contaminants in sediments from Sutton Lake, suggesting multiple unmonitored spills have contaminated the eastern North Carolina lake and potentially other lakes near coal ash ponds. The research highlights the risk of large-scale unmonitored spills occurring at coal ash storage sites nationwide.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 3, 2019

Lack of sleep may increase likelihood of teens engaging in risky sexual behaviors

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that teenagers who didn't get enough sleep were nearly two times more likely to engage in unsafe sex than those who slept in extra hours on weekends. The researchers suggest finding a middle ground for teens and encouraging school districts to delay school start times.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 3, 2019

What causes battery electrode failure?

A study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that lithium-ion battery electrode failure is caused by the heterogeneity of individual particles, leading to inefficiencies in charging. The team used a synchrotron X-ray method to produce results and identified problems with batteries today, including uneven charging rates.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJun 3, 2019

Ready, jet... print!

Researchers from KAUST have exploited inkjet printing to generate high-efficiency solar cells, replacing inorganic semiconductors with lightweight and flexible organic materials. The technique allows for customized designs, rapid design changes, and low-cost manufacturing, making it suitable for a variety of applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateJun 3, 2019

Urban pollution enhances up to 400% formation of aerosols over the Amazon rainforest

Research reveals that urban pollution from Manaus significantly impacts cloud production and rainfall in the Amazon, with far-reaching consequences for regional and global climate patterns. The study found an average increase of 200% in secondary organic aerosols, leading to a 400% boost in aerosol formation.

Phosphorylation of Regnase-1 lets IL-17 run amok

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that phosphorylation of Regnase-1 allows IL-17 to trigger inflammation. Blocking this phosphorylation process could lead to therapeutic agents for treating autoimmune diseases related to IL-17, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 3, 2019

Most detailed X-ray image of batteries yet to reveal why they still aren't good enough

A team of researchers developed a new technique using X-ray technology to map out damage in lithium-ion batteries. They created the most comprehensive view yet of battery electrodes, which are prone to degradation from repeated charging. The study could lead to more reliable and longer-lasting batteries for electric cars and smartphones.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJun 3, 2019

A little formula in first days of life may not impact breastfeeding at 6 months

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that using limited formula in the first days of life does not negatively impact breastfeeding at 6 months. However, it may alter maternal attitudes towards breastfeeding and lead to shorter breastfeeding duration. The study tracked 164 babies born at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals and P...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 3, 2019

How a leap of faith can take science forward

A new study found that uncertainty in early-stage inventions can lead to lower budgetary support. Researchers investigated how university-based academic inventions are selected for support and discovered that background familiarity and scientific complexity improve support chances. The study aims to develop models and tools to access, ...

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalResearch Policy·DateJun 3, 2019