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Northumbria University


New technology can help combat climate crisis

Scientists have developed a novel technology that uses bacteria grown on a synthetic semiconductor device to convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into acetate and oxygen. This process produces high-value fuels and chemicals powered by renewable energy, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the global energy crisis.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 3, 2022

New research harnesses the power of movement

Researchers have developed a unique design for sensors capable of using human movements, such as bending and stretching, to power wearable technology devices. The self-powered pressure sensors can detect health conditions and measure performance in sports, with potential applications including smart watches and fitness trackers.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 25, 2022

Previously unrecorded Chilean tsunami identified

A large earthquake off the coast of south-central Chile in 1737 may have caused a substantial tsunami that was absent from historical records. Researchers analyzed sediments and found evidence of widespread sandy layers, dating to the same time as the earthquake, similar to deposits made by tsunami waves in other areas.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateDec 9, 2021

Fungi in a warmer world

A $1m research project will examine fossilised fungi from 15-17 million years ago to forecast the impact of predicted rises in current global temperature on present day species. The study aims to understand how fungi respond to past warm climates, which could provide valuable information for adapting to climate change.

Evidence for a new fundamental constant of the sun

A team at Northumbria University discovered a distinctive marker on magnetic waves in the Sun's corona, indicating that sound waves from inside the Sun excite these waves. This finding suggests a new fundamental constant of the Sun and has significant implications for our understanding of stellar atmospheres.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 7, 2019

Is being a night owl bad for your health?

Research reveals an increased risk of ill health in people with evening preference, including erratic eating patterns and consumption of unhealthy foods. The study also found that glucose levels increase when night owls eat shortly before bed, negatively affecting metabolism.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·DateNov 30, 2018

Howzat: Limitations of batsmen rankings revealed

A new study analyzed 2,855 test match cricketers to reveal significant uncertainty in current rankings, with players like Joe Root and Kane Williamson having uncertain positions between 9th and 343rd. The study found that batting last is difficult and playing away from home is equivalent to playing on a pitch in its third innings.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalJournal Of The Royal Statistical Society·DateOct 2, 2018

Cold climates contributed to the extinction of the Neanderthals

A recent study suggests that climate change contributed to the decline and eventual extinction of the Neanderthals. The researchers found that prolonged extreme cold periods coincide with a near complete absence of archaeological artefacts from the Neanderthals. This indicates that climate change played a significant role in their demise.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2018