Articles tagged with Soils
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.
Researchers found that caterpillars ingest soil and retain a microbiome similar to the soil itself, allowing them to access 'voicemails' left behind by plants. This discovery sheds light on the impact of soil legacy on insect health and has potential applications for agriculture.
A team of scientists analyzed biodiversity patterns in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica, revealing that biotic interactions are essential for understanding ecosystem dynamics. The study found that biogeography and species interactions are stronger drivers of biodiversity than previously expected.
A recent study found that high levels of inorganic P-fertilizer can reduce microbial functions critical to crop health. Soil microorganisms from treated soils negatively impacted plant yield. The study suggests excessive phosphate fertilizer use may have lasting negative effects on crop productivity.
Researchers discover six new spider species in Colombia, including four unknown to science, and create new genus Stormtropis inspired by Star Wars' clone troopers. The spiders are well adapted to camouflage and burrowing into habitats.
This research project investigates how urban gardens impact ecosystems by analyzing soil health, microbe populations, water quality, and greenhouse gas emissions. The findings will inform policymakers and growers on how to make better land use decisions.
Researchers found that chronic exposure to realistic soil concentrations of imidacloprid affects solitary bees' mass, immature development speed, and adult longevity. Ground-nesting bee species are more susceptible to pesticide effects due to their smaller nest sizes and prolonged underground stays.
Researchers found that agricultural lime alters the strontium isotopic composition of surface waters and plants in non-calcareous soils. This can result in incorrect interpretations of prehistoric people's origins and movement, affecting studies on provenance and mobility.
Researchers have discovered that growing grasses alongside blueberry plants corrects iron deficiency, leading to increased antioxidant content and improved berry quantity. Intercropping with grass species has been shown to provide a natural source of iron chelators, comparable to synthetic treatments.
A new study explores how climate-driven evolution in tree populations changes their interaction with the soil environment, leading to reduced genetic variation and altered soil microbiome. Warmer temperatures result in earlier bud break and leaf-out, reducing genetic variation and affecting soil microbial communities.
Researchers tracked a new RNA pesticide in soils and found it degrades through enzymes and microbes, but also attaches to soil particles, slowing breakdown. The extent of this protection varies by soil type.
Scientists are working to map and understand underwater soils, which affect commercial, recreational, and transportation activities. Data collected provides insights into soil properties and their importance in habitats and ecosystems.
Researchers found nematodes produce distinctive chemical cues that deter Colorado potato beetles and make potato leaves less palatable. This could provide a natural alternative to chemical pesticides.
Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have discovered that irrigation with lake water releases CO2 from bicarbonates, a natural process that has practical applications for agriculture-based communities. The study suggests that understanding this process is essential in combatting rising atmospheric greenhouse gases.
A new study found that collecting soil data at short intervals can increase the success of land reclamation, leading to faster regeneration and lower costs. By fine-tuning fertilizer and lime applications based on soil pH levels, teams achieved significant cost savings, especially in mountainous areas.
CABI will work with governments, universities, and research organizations in India and Ethiopia to share data on soil health, agronomy, and fertilizers, promoting better decision-making for farmers. The project aims to create national data policies and databases for improved access and sharing of agricultural data.
Prairie strips have been shown to significantly reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and increase beneficial insect populations. By converting a small portion of a crop field to prairie, farmers can lower their financial costs while creating numerous ecological benefits.
A University of Vermont study found that farmers' spring and summer decisions on manure application can increase greenhouse gas emissions during winter. The research highlights the importance of considering long-term effects of management decisions, as agriculture is expected to expand in northern regions with warming climates.
A landmark study found forest soils need several decades to recover from bushfires and logging. Soils recovered very slowly over many years from these events.
A study from Indiana University predicts that climate change will lead to increased air pollutants from US forest soils, which can cause smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems. Tree species such as maple, sassafras, and tulip poplar are found to promote the release of nitrogen oxides.
Researchers estimate that saturated buffers, vegetated strips of land between tile-drained fields and waterways, could reduce agricultural drainage nitrogen by 5 to 10 percent. This approach is inexpensive and can be easily integrated with farming practices.
Researchers from Colorado State University and nine other universities are exploring best practices for strong, disease-resistant potato crops. The four-year project aims to enhance the environmental quality and economic viability of potato operations nationwide.
A non-biting midge, Eretmoptera murphyi, is found to release large volumes of nutrients into the soil on Signy Island, affecting peat decomposition and biodiversity. The single introduced species can lead to a three- to four-fold increase in nitrogen relative to areas without its presence.
Scientists discovered modifications in a sodium transporter gene, HKT1;1, which enable plants to adapt to varying soil salinity. The study used genomic analysis and sequencing techniques to reveal genetic variations that improve osmotic adjustment and prevent salt toxicity.
Anand Puppala, a professor of civil engineering at UTA, has been recognized as a Fellow of the United Kingdom's Institution of Civil Engineers. He is an expert in geotechnical and ground improvement, stabilization of expansive soils, and sustainable utilization of recycled materials.
A major soil organic matter compound, humic acid, has been found to degrade chronic wasting disease prions and reduce their infectivity in mice. The findings suggest that soil organic material can break down the prions, making them less infectious.
Researchers found pesticide residues in 83% of soil samples from 11 European countries, highlighting the persistence of pesticides in the land. The study suggests that mixes of pesticides are more common than single types, posing a risk to non-target species.
Researchers have discovered 16 novel giant viruses in a forest soil ecosystem, more than doubling the known giant virus diversity. These viruses were found using a non-standard approach that involved flow-sorting microbes into small pools, revealing a wealth of giant viruses previously overlooked.
Researchers found vast network of interconnected termite mounds in northeastern Brazil, covering area similar to Great Britain, with soil excavated over 10 cubic kilometers. The mounds are up to 4,000 years old and were formed by a single termite species that accessed dead leaves safely.
Researchers found that ants select medium-sized soil grains with quartz over feldspar for their structures, potentially altering palaeoclimatic data. This study highlights the importance of considering bioturbatory action in paleontological analyses.
Researchers are using geopolymers and sustainable cement materials to strengthen highway embankments in the Paris, Texas district. This project aims to reduce carbon footprint by replacing traditional materials with waste-based alternatives.
A new study suggests that previous applications of phosphorus fertilizers increase their effectiveness, allowing for more judicious use. This can help farmers save money and reduce environmental pollution by using only as much phosphorus as required.
Invasive Asian jumping earthworms alter US soil composition by creating nutrient-rich aggregates that lock up essential nutrients. Research by Jenelle Wempner reveals the physical effects of worm droppings on soils, with implications for controlling worm populations and understanding land use implications.
A new study has found that a native shrub can effectively share its water with millet plants, boosting production by over 900%. The optimized shrub system involves increasing shrub density and fertilizing the ground with organic matter, improving soil quality and yields.
Research finds that long-term annual application of manure improves most soil quality properties compared to inorganic fertilizer. Manure increases soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and water-stable aggregates, while reducing soil electrical conductivity.
A collaborative study analyzed over 5700 individual samples from 300 localities across Estonia, discovering 52 species of Myriapoda. Notably, six species were found to be at their range limits, while one was introduced by humans.
A new study estimates that climate change will force about 200,000 coastal farmers in Bangladesh to migrate inland due to rising sea levels and salty soil. The study found that farmers who convert from rice to seafood farming can expect a significant increase in crop revenue, but many cannot afford the conversion on a large scale.
Ground penetrating radar can accurately estimate soil water content by analyzing the strength of early time signals. This technology allows for quick measurement across large field sites, enabling farmers to optimize water usage and test irrigation system efficiency.
UTA professor Sahadat Hossain uses recycled plastic pins to strengthen MSE walls, increasing bearing and shearing capacity of foundation soils. The new method reduces excavation and replacement costs, improving pavement maintenance and reducing cracking.
The study reveals that botanic soil amendments with popular weeds like black nightshade and jimsonweed can effectively control nematodes. Researchers report a significant reduction in female nematode populations when treated with weed extracts, making these natural alternatives a promising eco-friendly solution.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed nanoparticles from green mango peel that can break down toxins in oil sludge through chemical oxidation. These plant-based nanoparticles successfully decontaminate oil-polluted soil, providing a novel and effective treatment for oil-contaminated soils.
Researchers developed a theory of relaxation in hexagonal ice, which can indicate water purity and quality through dielectric polarization changes. The study used spectroscopy to analyze ice under different temperatures, revealing non-Arrhenius behavior.
Researchers in Brazil develop an effective method to minimize lost coffee berries during mechanical harvesting, reducing soil compaction and improving profit margins. The study suggests using a subsoiler followed by a crusher as the most cost-effective solution.
Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism behind quinoa's ability to store salt in its bladder cells, allowing it to thrive in saline soils. This unique adaptation enables quinoa to transfer excess salt to final storage sites without harming the plant.
A new study led by University of Kansas researcher Pamela Sullivan is analyzing changes in soil structure and their influence on water quality and availability. The research aims to develop mathematical models to understand the interactions between biogeochemistry, soil structure, and environmental conditions.
Researchers found that soil's health can be improved through agronomic management, such as cover crops and conservation tillage. This approach can help preserve crop yields and mitigate the effects of climate change on global food supply.
A new study found that ancient animal herders in Africa added to the ecological richness and diversity of the savanna thousands of years ago. Their practice of penning cattle, goats, and sheep at night created nutrient-rich grassy glades, or hotspots, that still attract wildlife and have increased habitat diversity in the region.
A recent study shows that common soil carbon measurement methods, including clod, core, and excavation, yield significantly different results. The core method was found to greatly underestimate soil organic carbon stocks, particularly in deeper soil layers.
Researchers at Oregon State University found that removing timber harvest residue during logging can increase the abundance and diversity of wild bees. The study suggests that managing forests to promote soil-nesting bee habitats could be an effective strategy for conserving these important pollinators.
Researchers found that using legume cover crops reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer by up to 35% compared to cereal cover crops or no cover crop at all. This simple technique can help farmers maximize sweet potato yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.
Researchers found genetic variation in pea plant variants to be crucial for developing beneficial microbial partnerships, leading to improved growth. This discovery holds promise for reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting sustainable agriculture.
A new study finds that forest soils have been overestimated as methane sinks by up to 50% worldwide. Methane uptake by forest soils has declined globally, especially in regions with increasing precipitation.
Researchers report significant declines in forest soils' methane uptake, attributed to increased precipitation and hydrological flux. A literature analysis reveals a 77% global average decrease in methane uptake from 1988 to 2015.
Research reveals that tropical pioneer tree species employ physical and chemical defenses to survive, with seeds relying on different strategies based on their persistence time. The study's findings have implications for crop production, weed management, and understanding natural plant community dynamics.
A new study reveals that climate change is altering soil microbial networks, affecting plant communities and ecosystem function. The research found that drought increases the abundance of a certain fast-growing grass, leading to decreased soil moisture.
Research reveals that liming can unlock previously unavailable phosphorus in soils, but the relationship is complex and depends on soil history and enzyme activity. Increases in phosphorus availability are relatively small, highlighting the need for combined lime and added phosphorus to meet crop needs.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that soil microorganisms degrade films composed of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), a biodegradable polymer. This discovery demonstrates the true biodegradation of a plastic material in soils, offering a potential solution to plastic pollution.
Researchers have demonstrated direct evidence of biodegradation of polymers like PBAT in agricultural soil, tracking carbon into CO2 and microbial biomass. The study suggests polyesters as a practical alternative to alleviate detrimental plastic accumulation.
A new study reveals that ancient communities in the Amazon used intensive farming methods to expand crop production without depleting soil nutrients. This approach, known as polyculture agroforestry, has left a lasting impact on modern forest ecosystems.
A new quick soil test aims to determine nitrogen need by measuring protein presence. This method has the potential to reduce fertilizer waste and mitigate environmental problems associated with excessive nitrogen use.
Researchers from the University of Guelph found that climate warming-induced advances in treeline movement may be halted by unsuitable soils, hindering plant growth. This discovery is important for preserving individual species or entire ecosystems.