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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 34


Page 34 of 38

UB study challenges the classical view of the origin of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current and warns of its vulnerability

A new study from UB and CSIC challenges the classical view on the origins of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, a key regulator of the planet's climate. The research reveals that the current dates later than the beginning of the Antarctic glaciation, making it sensitive to changes in climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Study reveals significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches

A new study from Stanford University found significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches, leading to vastly different conclusions about who lives in poverty. The research suggests that the choice of measurement approach can completely change the extent to which programs and policies reach vulnerable populations.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Solving an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Microbial division of labor produces higher biofuel yields

Scientists have developed an artificial microbial community consisting of two engineered yeast strains to produce more ethanol per unit of plant sugars. The team discovered that adding the xylose-fermenting yeast specialist to the mixture first, followed by the glucose specialist, dramatically boosted ethanol production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Improving climate predictions by unlocking the secrets of soil microbes

Researchers developed a new model incorporating genetic information from microbes to better understand soil carbon sequestration and plant-microbe interactions. This approach enables more accurate prediction of global carbon cycle changes in climate models, informing agricultural strategies to preserve carbon and mitigate climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Mystery of moths’ warning sound production explained in new study

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered how ermine moths produce ultrasonic warning sounds using an 'aeroelastic tymbal'. The mechanism involves the snap-through buckling of a corrugated membrane, amplifying sound production through resonance. This study sheds light on the biomechanics behind moth defense mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider Category 6 hurricanes

Researchers introduce a hypothetical Category 6 hurricane classification to address increasing intensity and damage from hurricanes. With global warming projected to increase storm risks by up to 50% near the Philippines and doubling in the Gulf of Mexico, the new classification aims to raise awareness about the growing threat.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Influence of voting advice web tools is limited during elections with authoritarian candidates, study shows

A new study published in Electoral Studies found that voting advice applications have short-term effects on voter attitudes and choices in competitive authoritarian regimes. However, these effects are relatively small and dissipate within two months, limiting their practical value in such contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Stable binder boosting sulfide solid electrolyte thin membrane for all-solid-state lithium batteries

Researchers have developed a new polymeric binder that enhances the mechanical strength and stability of sulfide solid electrolyte membranes. This breakthrough improves the energy density of all-solid-state lithium batteries, enabling longer cycle life and higher performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Understanding how soil traps carbon

Researchers found that electrostatic charges, structural features of carbon molecules, and surrounding metal nutrients play major roles in soil's ability to trap carbon. The study aims to help predict which soil chemistries are most favorable for trapping carbon.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Green steel from toxic red mud

Scientists at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung have developed a method to produce green steel from toxic red mud using an electric arc furnace and hydrogen plasma, potentially saving 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2. The process is also economically viable, requiring only 30-40% iron oxide in the red mud.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2024

Primary care housing intervention linked to improved patient health outcomes

Participation in a primary care-based housing program was associated with reduced outpatient visits, improved physical and mental health, and increased feelings of connection to healthcare clinics. The study found that integrated support from the program's care team led to better health outcomes and more stable housing solutions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

New study points to more climate extremes

A new study by Flinders University and Argentinian researchers found similarities between long-term climatic changes in South Australia and temperate agricultural areas in Argentina. The research highlights an increase in maximum and minimum temperatures, less precipitation, and more intense droughts and heatwaves.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWater·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

New guideline details acute pain management strategies for adolescent, adult dental patients

The American Dental Association has released a new clinical practice guideline recommending the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alone or with acetaminophen to manage short-term dental pain in adolescents and adults. The guideline also provides recommendations for prescribing opioid medications, emphasizing caution ...

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateFeb 5, 2024