Articles tagged with Black Carbon
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study found that China's success in reducing air pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, black carbon, and organic carbon may exacerbate global warming. The reductions, achieved through stringent measures, led to notable public health benefits but also changed the radiative forcing of the earth's temperature.
Researchers found that burned organic matter in sediments ejected from the Chicxulub impact crater likely contributed to the mass extinction event. The analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) suggests a fossil source origin and rapid heating, consistent with rock material ejected during the asteroid impact.
A recent study by Colorado State University atmospheric scientists aims to settle the debate on black carbon's impact on cloud formation. The research found that black carbon is not as important as previously thought for ice particle formation in mid-level clouds.
Research reveals that rivers play a crucial role in transporting burned carbon from wildfires and managed burning to oceans, where it can be stored for tens of millennia. The study estimates that 18 million tonnes of dissolved burned carbon are transported annually by rivers.
Research reveals that organic carbon particles in cookstove emissions are equally potent agents of atmospheric warming as black carbon, with potential health risks from high molecular weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The study's findings have significant implications for regional climate change and Paris Agreement targets.
A new framework reconciles model simulations with laboratory and empirical observations, providing a more accurate understanding of black carbon's climate forcing effect. The study finds that black carbon particles are not uniformly coated, resulting in lower absorption rates than models suggest, but still contribute to climate warming.
Researchers discovered that black carbon catalyzes sulfate production during regional haze events in the North China Plain, leading to significant air quality issues. The study suggests reducing SO2, NOx, NH3, and black carbon emissions is crucial to improve air quality.
A study found that biomass burning in Amazonia can enhance tropical glaciers in the Andes, with aerosols like black carbon increasing melting by 3-4% or 6%. The impact depends on dust content in snow, highlighting climate pressure from global food demand
International researchers have found that most of the black carbon transported to the Atlantic Ocean is 'young' and likely results from recent forest fires. The study, published in Nature Communications, used radiometric dating and molecular composition analysis to quantify and characterize the black carbon flowing in the Amazon River.
Research reveals oceanic black carbon differs significantly from riverine dissolved black carbon, raising fundamental questions about its origin and fate. The new technique uses stable carbon isotope analysis to track terrestrial sources of black carbon in the ocean.
A Swedish study found that long-term exposure to traffic exhaust at home increases the risk of stroke in low-pollution environments. The researchers discovered that black carbon from traffic exhaust was the primary culprit, with a 4% increased risk for every 0.3 micrograms per cubic meter.
Professional drivers, including taxi drivers, experience high levels of black carbon exposure while working in congested cities. Research found that taxi drivers are exposed to an average of 6.5 micrograms of black carbon per cubic meter of air, compared to office workers at home who experience similar levels.
Scientists at Institute of Atmospheric Physics use a new method to track pollution from cooking by applying a black carbon tracer. COA contributes 15-27% to total organic aerosol in summer and even more than 10% during heating periods, with significant enhancements of coal combustion emissions.
A study by ISGlobal found that women using kerosene lamps for lighting had significantly higher exposure to black carbon particles, leading to increased risk of tuberculosis, respiratory infections, and low birth weight. The study's findings highlight the need for alternative energy sources in rural areas.
Researchers developed an affordable sensor network to track black carbon, a significant contributor to global warming and adverse health outcomes. The study found sharp variations in black carbon levels over short distances and time spans, with truck activity associated with high concentrations.
A new study has found that exposure to diesel pollutants can cause subtle changes in the lungs, making people more prone to developing chronic lung disease. The research, published in the European Respiratory Journal, found that breathing in black carbon from polluted air was associated with an increased volume of peripheral blood vess...
A new tool connects environmental impact of shipping industry to geography, economics and policy choices. Policies such as carbon tax, maintenance regulations and compact urban development could save up to 4,000 lives per year by reducing warming contributions.
A new study warns London cyclists of high black carbon levels on main routes during evening commutes, recommending alternative routes with green infrastructure. The research found that cyclists exposed to the dirtiest air suffered twice as much pollution as those taking a cleaner route.
A study by Stockholm University reveals that biomass burning from neighboring regions exceeds fossil fuel emissions in New Delhi during the fall and winter. The researchers found high levels of black carbon aerosols in the city, posing a significant threat to human health.
A five-year study reveals that fossil fuel combustion accounts for 60% of black carbon in the Arctic, while biomass burning becomes more significant in summer. The research highlights the importance of controlling pollutants to mitigate climate change.
Researchers from seven countries analyzed atmospheric black carbon emissions in the Arctic during winter and summer. The study found that fossil fuel combustion dominated BC emissions in winter and biomass burning in summer, contributing to global warming and climate change.
Researchers have discovered a universal power law describing black carbon's light absorption, which could help climate scientists build more accurate models. The findings suggest that warming due to black carbon may have been underestimated by current climate models.
A new study finds that preindustrial fire emissions were stronger than previously believed, leading to an underestimated cooling effect on past climate. Fire-induced aerosol particles increased cloud brightness and reflected sunlight, offsetting warming from greenhouse gases.
Researchers developed a model that predicts black carbon's direct radiative effect with high accuracy, considering particle size and mixing state. The study finds that accurately describing these factors is crucial to understanding black carbon's contribution to climate change.
A two-year study in Vancouver and Toronto reveals large trucks are the greatest contributors to black carbon emissions close to major roadways. The study suggests retrofitting older diesel trucks with better emission treatment systems can improve air quality in cities.
A review of Asian transport microenvironments found pedestrians exposed to up to 1.6 times higher fine particle levels than in European cities, while car drivers face nine times more pollution. The study highlights a significant gap in research on rural and semi-rural city exposure to air pollution.
Researchers at the University of Zurich discovered that black carbon can age for millennia on land and in rivers before being exported to the ocean, forming a major long-term sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide. This finding adds a significant piece to the puzzle of understanding the global carbon cycle.
A Norwegian study reveals that wood stove emissions have a complex effect on the climate, with black carbon being the primary warming agent. The research suggests that reducing soot emissions from wood stoves could also improve air quality and mitigate health risks.
Researchers created a composite material combining natural rubber with nanocarbons derived from compost, demonstrating improved electrical resistivity and potential applications as sealants and sensors. The study provides an eco-friendly alternative to carbon black fillers, which are commonly used in rubber products.
The Low Emission Zone in Leipzig has significantly reduced the concentration of black carbon and ultrafine particles, which are believed to be most dangerous due to their carcinogenic trace compounds. The reduction of these particles resulted in a significant improvement of air quality and a reduced health risk for the population.
Researchers studied black carbon aerosols from biomass burning under different combustion conditions, finding varying mixing states. The study revealed intense coagulation during flaming combustion, resulting in a thicker coating on rBC particles.
Researchers found algae significantly reduce ice sheet's albedo and contribute to its melting. Algal darkening is responsible for 5-10% of total melt each summer, according to the study.
Estimates of early industrial emissions of black carbon are inexact due to limited sampling before the mid-1950s. Researchers found regional black carbon concentrations peaked during the first decade of the 20th century and were linked to coal consumption, with concentrations becoming decoupled after 1960.
Researchers used bird specimens to track air pollution levels over 135 years, revealing a sharp drop in black carbon during the Great Depression and a rebound after World War II. The study shows that efforts to address urban smoke pollution had a lasting impact on reducing pollution.
Exposure to fine particulate matter and black carbon during daily commutes to school impairs children's cognitive development, according to a new study. The study found an association between air pollution exposure and reduced growth of working memory, with boys being more sensitive than girls.
Researchers have found that significant amounts of black carbon can persist in both pristine and non-pristine areas of snow, impacting climate change predictions. The study used molecular analysis to track the origins of black carbon, finding evidence of wildfires burning thousands of miles away in remote areas.
Researchers found that brown carbon released into the air from wildfires is more likely to travel to the upper levels of the atmosphere, where it can cool or warm the air. Brown carbon appears more likely than black carbon to have a greater impact on climate due to its altitude.
A new analysis by an international research panel suggests that reducing short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) like methane and black carbon could yield major health benefits and slow global warming over the next 25 years. Curbing these emissions would also provide substantial benefits for investing in sustainable development.
Researchers have discovered a new conducting additive, Super P carbon black (SPCB), that exhibits high capacity and cycling stability for reversible lithium and sodium ion storage. SPCB shows a higher capacity for lithium ion storage than sodium ion storage due to its reaction mechanism.
Research discovered that black carbon alters bacteria's ability to survive and combat antibiotics, increasing the risk of infection. The study also found that air pollution can change the way bacteria behave and cause disease.
A new study from the University of Toronto finds that diesel trains can emit nine times higher levels of black carbon and ultrafine particles in cars directly behind locomotives compared to busy city streets. Practical steps for passengers include avoiding front cars during peak emissions periods.
A new study reveals that residential heating and transport are major sources of black carbon in the Russian Arctic, with an estimated 35% and 38% contribution respectively. This finding highlights the importance of reducing black carbon pollution in the region to mitigate climate change.
A study found that physically active children had reduced airway inflammation but also higher exposure to black carbon and diesel exhaust. Exercise did not counteract the negative effects of high pollutant levels on lung health.
Scholars studied archaeological and paleoenvironmental records to understand the intensification of agriculture in northern China, revealing a significant impact on fire frequency and natural environments. The findings suggest that millet cultivation played a crucial role in the emergence of ancient Chinese civilization.
Researchers used unmanned aircraft to measure turbulent kinetic energy, aerosol particle concentration, and temperature fluctuations near the Earth's surface. The study found that black carbon aerosols suppress turbulence in the atmospheric boundary layer, exacerbating human health impacts and extreme weather events.
Leading health professionals call for drastic reductions in CO2 and short-lived climate pollutants to stabilize the climate and reduce major health threats. Reducing these pollutants can prevent up to 2.4 million premature deaths annually, they argue.
A new study from University of Toronto researchers reveals that gasoline-direct injection (GDI) engines, touted for their fuel efficiency, may actually emit more climate-warming black carbon and toxic pollutants than conventional engines. The study found that GDI engines ranked in the 73rd percentile for black carbon emissions, while v...
A study by Naomi Zimmerman and colleagues found that newer fuel-efficient engines may actually increase global warming due to higher black carbon emissions. Installing particulate filters in these engines could help balance this impact, but factors like engine design and location play a role.
Current simulation models consistently underestimate black carbon aerosols in Arctic air, but fine-grained simulations using powerful supercomputers can mitigate this underestimation. The research found that more realistic modeling of weather and climate patterns is possible with finer grids and larger computational power.
Researchers found less soot than expected, but discovered two types: a younger pool that absorbs into the environment every 100 years and an ancient reserve stable for millennia. Black carbon is a strong agent of climate change, absorbing sunlight and trapping heat on Earth.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Earth Science found that climate change is likely to increase the input of black carbon to the Arctic Ocean. The team, led by University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography scientist Aron Stubbins, discovered that black carbon stored in Arctic soils is being exported to the oceans.
A Dartmouth-led study contradicts previous findings that soot and dust cause Arctic snow to darken. The research suggests degradation of satellite sensors is responsible for the decline in reflectivity, which will likely disappear with new measurements.
Researchers identify nanoparticulate carbon black as main culprit in emphysema. The material accumulates in dendritic cells and antigen-presenting cells, causing inflammation and DNA damage. Studies find that size and dose of particles affect toxicity.
A study by Mrs Lee Koh found that walking on side-street routes instead of main roads can reduce peaks in harmful air pollution. By avoiding busy streets, individuals can minimize their short-term and long-term exposure to black carbon particulate matter, a major component of urban air pollution.
Researchers are studying peat fire emissions, which are a major contributor to carbon emissions and climate change. The study aims to understand the impact of peatfire smoke on human health and the climate.
A new study finds that traditional yak dung burning in Tibetan households releases high levels of fine particulate matter, including black carbon. The pollution poses a significant health risk to the local population, who spend most of their time indoors during the cold season.
A large-scale survey of impurities in North American snow found regional patterns of soot and dirt, with agricultural practices playing a significant role. The study suggests that land use and farming practices may matter as much as diesel emissions in many parts of the Great Plains.
Researchers have developed a process that uses flash pyrolysis to produce fuels and raw materials from biomass and waste, including plastics and tires. The process produces bio-oil with a high energy density and can be used to replace petroleum-based products.
A new study finds that black carbon pollutants from wood smoke may increase women's risk of cardiovascular disease, with the health effects exacerbated by co-exposure to motor vehicle emissions. Women living closer to highways were found to have three times higher blood pressure than those away from highways.
Researchers from Los Alamos National Laboratory and Carnegie Mellon University uncover key attributes of brown carbon, a toxic airborne particle that warms the atmosphere. The study reveals that brown carbon shares a common production mechanism with black carbon, leading to significant underestimation of warming effects in climate models.