Articles tagged with Nitrogen
Research challenges previous assessments suggesting large increases in soil carbon with rising CO2 levels. Plants can pump nitrogen into soils, but this process cannot keep up with increasing CO2 unless essential nutrients are added as fertilizers.
Researchers are searching for signs of life on Mars by analyzing the distribution of a specific type of nitrogen in Martian rocks, soil, and water. They found that organisms leave behind unique nitrogen 'fingerprints' on rocks, which could be used to detect biosignatures of past or present life.
A research team led by Virginia Tech's Marr will use a van-mounted instrument system to measure air pollutant emissions in various locations. The project aims to improve understanding of air pollution and inform policy decisions.
A new Stanford University study found that organic fertilizers produced less environmental harm than synthetic chemicals, reducing nitrogen pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Organic farming also promoted the growth of beneficial denitrifying bacteria, which converted excess nitrates into harmless gases.
Children with asthma living in multi-family housing are at risk due to high indoor nitrogen dioxide levels. The study found that homes with gas stoves had significantly higher concentrations than those with electric stoves, posing a greater threat to respiratory health.
Researchers discovered that single-celled cyanobacterium Synechococcus fixes nitrogen gas at night, converting it into biologically useful compounds. This finding sheds light on how hot-spring microbial communities obtain essential nutrients, and highlights the complex metabolic strategies of these microorganisms.
A new study reveals that plant metabolic rates are driven by nitrogen content, which has significant implications for understanding the global carbon cycle. By estimating nitrogen content, scientists can model plant metabolism and better assess the global plant metabolic rate.
Researchers found that plants respond differently to bacteria that efficiently produce nitrogen, with root nodules growing bigger in response to good sharers. This complex relationship suggests that agricultural practices could disrupt these interactions and create plants with reduced ability to choose among root bacteria.
Scientists successfully cultivated a marine bacterium, N. maritimus, which is believed to play a significant role in the global carbon and nitrogen cycles. This breakthrough, supported by the National Science Foundation, provides new insights into the mechanisms of this microorganism and its relationship with other microbes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that current nitrogen recommendations are faulty and balanced fertility is key to efficient crop use. Higher planting rates and crop residues impact soil nitrogen cycling and availability, requiring adjustments in nitrogen fertilization methods.
A Duke University study found that high carbon dioxide levels stimulate pine needles to grow more, even under drought conditions. The factor most affecting needle volumes was the amount of nitrogen present in the soils.
A USC oceanographer's long-term study confirms that the marine food chain depends largely on atmospheric nitrogen, which nourishes teeming life near the surface. The finding also demonstrates the oceans' substantial role in absorbing greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide.
Cornell researchers presented several studies on ecological issues, including a new study that found fruit-eating fish in South America may become extinct due to overfishing. Another study revealed that coral-disease systems are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, with small changes having significant impacts on the ecosystem.
Researchers have successfully synthesized ammonia from nitrogen using a simple compound of iron and hydrogen in solution, marking a significant step toward achieving one of chemistry's coveted goals. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production of ammonia, a vital fertilizer for global food supply.
A recent study by Michigan State University researchers found that fungi are more important in plant nitrogen nutrition than previously thought. The team discovered that over a third of the total nitrogen taken up by plants comes from fungal sources.
New research reveals that nitrogen oxide emissions from soil are much greater than expected, totaling over 40 million metric tons annually, and surpassing fossil fuel combustion by up to 70%
Researchers discovered anammox bacteria in Atlantic Ocean, removing ammonium and releasing nitrogen gas, contradicting decades-long theory. The new findings have significant implications for the global nitrogen cycle, models of climate predictions, and marine ecosystems.
A nationwide study by UCI researcher found that nitrogen fertilization can have a devastating impact on rare plant species, causing a decline in diversity and even local extinction. The study analyzed 967 plant species across various ecosystems and identified simple plant traits as predictors of species risk.
The US exports nitrogen pollution beyond its borders, with most deposits found near their sources. The study estimates that the US loses track of nearly 6 million metric tons of nitrogen emissions each year, which are possibly transported to Western Europe.
Researchers used high-altitude airborne imaging spectroscopy to identify two invading plant species, Myrica faya and Kahili ginger, in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The study found that these invaders are altering the forest ecosystem by changing leaf nitrogen and water content, with potential domino effects on native species.
A team of scientists found that solar storms and Arctic winds led to a 60% ozone reduction in the upper stratosphere in 2004. The study used data from seven satellites to conclude that energetic particles from the sun triggered chemical reactions, leading to increased nitrogen oxide levels.
A new study reveals that nitrogen pollution from fossil-fuel combustion is a significant source of watershed pollution, particularly in wet climates. Climate change models predict increased nitrogen pollution in the northeastern US, which could undermine efforts to restore coastal ecosystems like the Chesapeake Bay.
Restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay should cross traditional boundaries and include upland and coastal areas. The approach emphasizes adaptive management and incorporates ecological resilience to withstand perturbation without a fundamental change.
A recent study suggests that climate warming in the arctic tundra may cause the release of more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than previously expected. The research, led by Michelle Mack and Edward Schuur, found that increased nitrogen levels accelerated the breakdown of soil organic matter, leading to a net loss of carbon.
The diatom genome project provides insight into the vital role that diatoms play in mediating global warming by absorbing CO2 and producing oxygen. Diatoms also have a unique urea cycle to reduce their dependence on nitrogen, enabling them to thrive in changing ocean conditions.
The genomic map of Thalassiosira pseudonana reveals surprising insights into its nitrogen, fat, and silica usage, as well as an unusual urea cycle that may reduce its dependence on nitrogen. The research provides new understanding of the diatom's role in mediating global warming.
Researchers found that fertilized tundra soils release significantly more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, offsetting any potential storage by plants. The study suggests a greater positive feedback loop to further warming, potentially leading to increased atmospheric CO2 concentrations.
Researchers found that El Nino climate changes contribute to Antarctic cooling through atmospheric circulation shifts. Deep-sea islands stir and fertilize the upper ocean by mixing cold waters with the surface layer, while Siberian forest fires produced hazardous air pollution in western North America.
Researchers found that unicellular organisms are fixing nitrogen at rates up to three times higher than previously reported for the Pacific Ocean. This influx of nitrogen has significant implications for global carbon sequestration and climate regulation.
Research from the University of Michigan suggests that the current federal plan may not be enough to protect the Gulf of Mexico's half billion dollar a year shrimp industry. The proposed goal of 30 percent nitrogen load reduction is insufficient, and a reduction of 40-45 percent is needed to achieve desired results.
Research reveals that forests in six locations worldwide struggle with nutrient availability, particularly phosphorus, when soils age. Without disturbances like forest fires or volcanic activity, forests will slowly become impoverished over thousands of years.
The detection of molecular nitrogen in interstellar clouds promises to enhance our knowledge of interstellar chemistry and the formation of planets. FUSE, a satellite-telescope designed at Johns Hopkins, allowed astronomers to probe dense clouds where N2 is expected to be dominant.
Researchers found large ozone trends in low latitudes and the Southern Hemisphere, indicating the ozone smog problem has expanded globally. The study suggests that increasing energy use worldwide causes large-scale ozone increases, reducing global air quality.
A study by Texas A&M University reveals Houston's air quality is severely impacted due to industrial emissions and auto exhaust, posing a significant health risk to its 5 million residents. The city must take steps to curb its air pollution problems, including alternative energy sources and more efficient transportation.
Scientists have found that nighttime chemistry removes nitrogen oxides from the marine boundary layer off New England's coast, leading to reduced ozone production. This process can short-circuit some ozone formation and affects air quality forecasts.
Researchers have discovered that carbon isotopic compositions in IDPs are different from those on Earth and in other parts of the Solar System, indicating it was formed in molecular clouds before the formation of the Solar System. The findings help understand the Solar System's formation and the origin of organic matter on Earth.
A team of Cornell University researchers has successfully converted nitrogen to ammonia in a laboratory setting, molecule by molecule, using a zirconium metal complex. The process achieves complete fixation at lower temperatures than existing industrial methods, which require high pressures.
Scientists have long debated the causes of coral reef decline, but new research suggests pollution from land-based sources is a major culprit. A study in the Bahamas found that nutrient levels, particularly nitrogen, play a critical role in seaweed spread and destruction of coral reefs.
A new study reveals that genetic traits within plant species play a crucial role in shaping ecosystem responses to global climate change. The research suggests that these variations should be considered when developing habitat conservation plans.
A new method to monitor sea surface temperatures and height in the North Pacific may help measure wind patterns and ocean dynamics, potentially improving fisheries management. Vegetation growth during warm months slows the increase in summer temperatures, but a temperature rise of 3-5 degrees Celsius could harm vegetation growth and ac...
Researchers aim to understand the functions of Nostoc punctiforme's 7,000 genes and its potential to domesticate crop plants for nitrogen fixation. They plan to study gene expression and environmental responses to improve the process.
A new report finds that nitrogen availability is a critical factor in ecosystem carbon storage, with current limitations hindering the natural systems' ability to mitigate climate change. The study suggests that we need to incorporate these limits into our models and reduce our reliance on natural ecosystems to combat carbon emissions.
Researchers found that exposure to fine particles of less than 10 micrometers increased the risk of heart attacks in smokers, even at levels lower than current national standards. Air pollution levels in Dijon remained under four on the ATMO index 86 percent of the time.
A new study by Kevin Bronson and colleagues found that in-season nitrogen monitoring can reduce fertilizer use without affecting crop yields. By adjusting nitrogen application rates based on soil moisture and plant growth, farmers can save money and minimize nitrate contamination of waterways.
Researchers discovered that soybean plants penalize rhizobia that don't fix nitrogen by decreasing oxygen supply, favoring cooperation and evolution of beneficial strains. This mechanism helps maintain ancient symbiotic relationships between legumes and soil bacteria.
A renowned chemist has won a prestigious award for his groundbreaking work on creating molecules found in nature, including lapidilectine B. He developed a new method to build nitrogen ring structures and successfully recreated the molecule step-by-step in the laboratory.
A new study by Stanford University researchers found that doubling carbon dioxide levels significantly reduces plant species in the wild. Exposure to high CO2 gas for three years caused a nearly 20% decline in wildflowers and an overall eight percent drop in plant diversity.
The Carnegie Institution's study found that elevated CO2 and nitrogen pollution reduced wildflower diversity, while increased water levels increased overall plant diversity. The four treatment combinations resulted in a decrease in wildflower species but an increase in grasses.
A recent study by Colorado University-led researchers highlights the growing health risks associated with changes in the global nitrogen cycle. The excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers has led to increased crop production in poor nations but poses significant environmental and health concerns for humans worldwide.
Paerl was recognized for his work on understanding aquatic microbial processes, documenting linkages between atmospheric deposition of nitrogen and harmful algal blooms. He has made significant contributions to knowledge in freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems, promising a continuing legacy of scientific excellence.
A study of 114 asthmatic children found that higher exposure to nitrogen dioxide before a viral infection led to more severe asthma symptoms and exacerbations. This suggests that controlling air pollution could reduce healthcare costs associated with treating acute asthma attacks.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have discovered a new polymer membrane that allows for more efficient movement of lithium ions, leading to better battery performance and longer lifespan. The membrane, made from MEEP material, can be molded into any shape and is temperature-tolerant, making it suitable for various applications.
Researchers found that lightning creates significant amounts of nitrogen oxides and ozone in the free troposphere. The study showed that lightning is a major contributor to regional air chemistry, generating more oxidants that help clean up the atmosphere while also producing pollutants like ozone.
Los Angeles-based chemist Christe has developed a new form of nitrogen that can release large amounts of energy when decomposed, making it potentially useful for propulsion applications. The discovery, which was made in collaboration with his research team, is the latest breakthrough in Christe's ongoing work on energetic materials.
Scientists emphasize the need for improved nitrogen management to address its impact on the environment, human health, and agriculture. Targeted research and educational programs can optimize fertilizer efficiency, reducing environmental damage and associated economic costs.
Scientists found that increasing nitrogen fertilizer levels in corn hybrids boosts Bt toxin production, potentially affecting pest management. The study suggests that early-season nitrogen applications may impact the effectiveness of Bt hybrids in reducing insect damage.
Researchers discover that bacteria in coastal wetlands respond to phosphorus, not nitrogen, and that controlling phosphorus is key to maintaining water quality. This finding highlights the importance of considering both nutrients when managing coastal ecosystems.
Scientists at North Carolina State University developed a remote sensing technique to accurately time nitrogen fertilizer applications in wheat, resulting in an 86% success rate across various environmental conditions. This technology allows growers to make informed decisions that balance profitability and environmental stewardship.
Researchers pinpoint high concentrations of air pollutants in eastern US, Europe, and China using data from NASA and European Space Agency satellites. The pollutants vary by season, affecting human health and air quality.
Researchers use tree ring analysis to estimate salmon returns, following historical catch records. The study provides insights into the relationship between tree-ring growth and salmon populations, paving the way for more accurate reconstructions.