Articles tagged with Nutrients
Researchers discovered that plants integrate information about food location and competitors to develop unique root growth strategies. This complexity is a level of sophistication previously thought exclusive to animals.
Mid-ocean algae thrive in areas with little to no nitrate, an essential nutrient. Researchers found that these algae obtain nitrate from deep waters, using it for growth and reproduction near the surface.
Plants perceive nutrient availability through NRT1.1 nitrate transporter stimulation, inducing lateral root growth in nitrate-rich patches. This mechanism regulates root branching by controlling auxin accumulation, demonstrating a connection between nutrient and hormone signaling during organ development.
A seven-year experiment shows that pond communities bear a lasting imprint of random events in their past. The study reveals that low-productivity ponds are predictable, while high-productivity ponds exhibit more stochastic behavior, where history matters more.
Holly Michael, assistant professor at the University of Delaware, has received the Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Award to support her research on eutrophication and groundwater interactions. Her study aims to identify subsurface zones where nutrient transformations occur in Indian River Bay.
A new study suggests that reducing nitrogen pollution in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta could help restore the endangered California delta smelt population. The research found that high levels of nitrogen from wastewater treatment plants are affecting the food web and altering the ecology of the system.
The lake's surface waters have reached the warmest temperature on record, affecting fish productivity and ecosystem. Climate change models predict further warming, exacerbating the decline of fish stocks and impacting the region's food security.
Researchers link bacterial spacing to photosynthesis, providing new insights into ancient fossils and the evolution of life. By studying microbial mats, they discovered a consistent one-centimeter spacing that records the maximum distance bacteria can compete for nutrients.
Researchers at Brown University have found that Lake Tanganyika has experienced unprecedented warming over the last century, with surface waters reaching record highs. This warming is expected to affect fish stocks, which are crucial for millions of people in the region, and could have severe consequences for local livelihoods.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have made a breakthrough in understanding how butyrate helps the intestine grow and become more functional. Butyrate increases the creation of intestinal cells and fortifies them by increasing the transcription of a protein called GLUT2, which plays an important role in intestinal function.
A study by Harvard researchers found that overeating in mice activates a molecule called PKR, which destroys normal metabolism and leads to insulin resistance. The discovery could lead to targeted drugs or nutrients to regulate PKR and prevent diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Researchers found that corn plants in no-till fields experience intense competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients, leading to reduced yields. The leftover corn residue creates patches of soil with lower temperatures and different nutrient content, resulting in significant height differences among plants.
Researchers at Temple University found that low oxygen and nutrient levels are slowing the biodegradation of oil from the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill. The study suggests that the oil is not disappearing at a rate of 70% as previously thought, but rather at a rate of around 4% per year.
Researchers found that nutrient enrichment caused a steady increase in organisms lower on the food chain but had no effect on predators like salamanders and macroinvertebrates. The study suggests that maintaining patterns of energy flow between predators and prey is critical for healthy ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of Southern California have discovered a new bacterial behavior where Shewanella oneidensis harvests electrochemical energy and swims in response to metal presence. This finding could improve the efficiency of microbial fuel cells, producing usable energy.
A recent study by the American Society for Horticultural Science found that vermicompost derived from pig manure can produce healthy hibiscus plants. The treatment resulted in improved plant growth and flower production, with an average increase of 58% in plant dry weight and 93% more flowers compared to conventional nursery crop inputs.
A study published in HortScience found that ornamental canna plants are effective in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from stormwater runoff. Harvesting the above-ground biomass of canna can effectively remove these pollutants from the treatment system.
Research finds that fruit flies' nutrient storage and consumption are controlled by opposing clocks in neurons and the fat body. The study reveals a complex interplay between metabolic signals and circadian rhythms, with implications for understanding human metabolism and disease.
A team of researchers from nine institutions, including LSU, will drill through the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to directly access a subglacial lake and study its physical, chemical, and geobiological interactions. The project aims to investigate novel microbial species and ecosystems in this extreme environment.
A recent study found that female plants are more likely to be colonized by mycorrhizal fungi than male plants, leading to a shift in population dynamics. This sex-specific interaction may contribute to the spatial segregation of males and females in certain plant species.
A clinical study found that cutting back on processed and fried foods, high in AGEs, reduces inflammation and restores natural defenses. The 'AGE-less diet' reduced blood AGE levels and improved biomarkers of vascular function by 60%, even in people with kidney disease.
Researchers have mapped the large-scale distributions of dissolved organic nitrogen and phosphorus over the Atlantic Ocean, finding that these nutrients dominate surface waters and play a crucial role in export production. The study suggests that nutrient-poor regions, like subtropical gyres, rely on these nutrients to sustain life.
Wildlife biologists found that the carcasses of moose killed by wolves at Isle Royale National Park create nutrient-rich hotspots in forest fertility. This discovery highlights an unexpected connection between predator-prey interactions and biochemical processes on the landscape.
Researchers warn that climate variability can affect deep-sea ecosystems, potentially disrupting food chains and carbon cycles. Long-term monitoring is crucial to understand the impact of global warming on these vulnerable ecosystems.
A new study has solved a ten-year-old mystery about the source of an essential nutrient in the ocean. Researchers have discovered that Trichodesmium, a marine phytoplankton group, produces and consumes phosphonate, a rare form of organic phosphorus. This finding is important for understanding the global carbon and nitrogen cycles.
The USDA's $320 million initiative aims to support programs in 12 states, enabling farmers to implement conservation practices that reduce nutrient runoff and improve wildlife habitat. The program underscores the agency's commitment to sustainable land stewardship and cleaner water.
Researchers found that carnivorous plant traps are cheaper to make than leaves, contrary to evolutionary predictions. This discovery sheds light on how complete food webs operate, highlighting the benefits and trade-offs of nutrient allocation in plant ecology.
Researchers evaluated three growing methods, finding that advanced matted-row system and cold-climate plasticulture systems have less negative effects on natural resources than conventional matted row system. The AMR and CCP systems also showed lower pesticide levels and nutrient runoff compared to CMR.
Researchers studied golf course putting greens to understand nutrient and chemical changes that occur over time. The study found that organic matter accumulation in the root zone contributes to increased retention of nutrients, while replacing peat with soil in the root zone can reduce construction costs and aid in nutrient retention.
Researchers at Carnegie Institution's Department of Plant Biology have cloned genes for membrane proteins that regulate nutrient and water fluxes in cells. The donated clones will help unravel the interaction of these proteins across species, with potential applications in understanding kidney diseases and engineering better crops.
A systematic review of over 50,000 papers found no evidence that organically produced foods are nutritionally superior to conventionally produced food. Organic foods have comparable nutrient content to conventionally produced foods, with only minor differences detected.
Research using mice suggests that assisted reproductive techniques like IVF and ICSI can increase the incidence of metabolic problems in offspring, including higher blood pressure, increased fasting glucose levels, and more body fat. The study found altered expression of genes important for nutrient transport in the placenta.
The Gulf of Mexico's dead zone is smaller than expected this year, measuring 3,000 square miles, but severe in some areas. The area was predicted to be larger by NOAA models, driven by high nitrate loads and freshwater flows from rivers.
A new science review highlights multiple health benefits of dairy foods, including improved bone health, lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of obesity. Dairy consumption is recommended for children and adults to meet daily nutrient needs.
Aggressive algae injure and kill competitors to gain access to their cells' nutrients, similar to blood-sucking insects. This behavior may be a key mechanism in the formation of toxic plankton blooms.
Scientists predict a massive dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico, threatening commercial and recreational fisheries. The predicted size could be as large as New Jersey, caused by nutrient runoff from agricultural activity.
A Stanford University study reveals dramatic differences in fertilizer use between China and sub-Saharan Africa, with excessive use in China causing environmental harm while inadequate inputs in Africa lead to soil depletion. The report warns against a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to managing global food production.
A new study published in Social Science & Medicine suggests that parents' dietary choices have a limited impact on their children's eating habits. The research found weak to moderate resemblance between children's and their parents' diets, with factors like community and peer influence playing a bigger role.
Scientists have discovered a mutant form of Arabidopsis with twice the amount of suberin, allowing them to test the theory that suberin blocks water and nutrient absorption. By adjusting suberin levels, plants can be engineered to absorb beneficial nutrients more efficiently.
Excess phosphorus and nitrogen from human activities harm aquatic life and ecosystems; a dual nutrient strategy is needed to tackle both issues. The study highlights the need to consider the entire freshwater-marine continuum for effective nutrient control.
Fertilizing grasslands increases productivity but decreases plant diversity by intensifying competition for light, allowing faster-growing species to outcompete others. Artificially added light can counteract these effects, suggesting that controlling nutrient enrichment is crucial for conserving biodiversity in managed grasslands.
Researchers found diatoms in freshwater and marine environments have distinct size patterns due to nutrient availability, with larger sizes thriving in oceans. Climate change could alter mixing depths and nutrient delivery, potentially reducing carbon sequestration efficiency.
Researchers discovered that dust from certain regions can be toxic to marine phytoplankton, leading to negative effects on the ocean food web. Copper was found to be a primary cause of toxicity, with varying levels of sensitivity among different species.
Scientists found that the mineral composition of these coatings can have a substantial effect on the retention of nitrate and sulfate. Understanding this mechanism is critical to protecting groundwater resources.
Reducing both nitrogen and phosphorus is crucial to alleviate eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems. Policymakers must adopt holistic approaches to address the root causes of pollution, as single-nutrient reduction strategies can lead to downstream problems.
Researchers discovered that small arteries at the brain's surface redirect and widen to maintain a constant blood supply after a stroke. The mesh-like vascular network enables the arteries to compensate for reduced blood cell velocity by increasing diameter, ensuring steady delivery of oxygen and nutrients.
A patented Michigan State University process pretreats corn-crop waste to enhance its usefulness and reduce costs. The AFEX (ammonia fiber expansion) method breaks down cellulose and hemicellulose in plants more efficiently, allowing for the creation of biofuels from cellulose without added nutrients.
The Nile Delta fishery has grown significantly due to the influx of nutrients from fertilizers and sewage discharges, with 60-100% of production supported by these sources. This unexpected expansion raises questions about the value of anthropogenic nutrient inputs to ecosystems.
Researchers found that male neurons more readily withered up and died under starvation, while female neurons conserved energy and stayed alive. The study revealed sex-dependent effects in brain cells, shedding light on metabolic differences between males and females.
International experts cite nutrient pollution as a major force behind increased harmful algal bloom events. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science presents a compilation of research highlighting the role of nutrient pollution in driving these events.
A recent study found that adding human hair waste cubes to commercial growth medium can increase plant yields relative to untreated controls. However, results showed lower yields compared to inorganic fertilizers, suggesting hair waste should not be used as a single source for fast-growing crops like lettuce.
Scientists and environmental groups see biochar as a powerful tool for replenishing soils and combating global warming. Biochar can capture up to 50% of the carbon stored in biomass and establish a significant carbon sink when used as a soil amendment.
Cones starve to death due to structural changes in the retina, disrupting nutrient flow. Researchers propose boosting nutrient levels in cones to preserve daylight vision in patients.
Researchers found that fast-food customers prioritize quickness, accessibility, and taste, but 21% also cite nutritious options. Studies suggest gradual changes in food choices can improve diet quality and meet dietary guidelines.
A non-invasive device has been shown to treat obesity and resolve diabetes in an animal model by altering complex gastrointestinal signals. The procedure resulted in a significant reduction in food intake and weight loss, as well as restoration of normal glucose metabolism.
Freshwater pollution by phosphorus and nitrogen has significant economic impacts, including increased water treatment costs and decreased property values. According to K-State researchers, the estimated annual cost of freshwater pollution in the US is at least $4.3 billion.
Consumer market readiness for tailored nutrition based on genetic profiles is limited due to concerns over personalization and regulation. Key factors hindering adoption include the need for clear scientific consensus and acceptable disruption to daily life.
Research on deep Japanese caldera lakes reveals rising temperatures in southern Japan's deep water, while northern lakes remain unchanged. This can lead to changes in nutrient exchange and oxygen supplies for organisms.
A single molecule in the intestinal wall, activated by gut bacteria waste products, slows food movement and allows nutrient absorption, leading to weight gain. This discovery points to a potential method for controlling obesity by regulating energy intake.
Estimating soil texture-by-feel is an important skill that impacts land-use decisions and various soil properties. The technique allows researchers to provide quick, reliable estimates of soil texture in the field.