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.
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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 at USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have created a unique fingerprinting method to identify the source of soil, distinguishing between soils from rural roads and agricultural fields. This innovation has significant implications for managing wind erosion and promoting sustainable agriculture.
A new study reveals that measurable amounts of mercury emitted by coal-fired power plants are deposited in local soil, contaminating regional watersheds and affecting fish populations. The research found hot spots of mercury contamination tied to specific power plants, highlighting the need for better energy production choices.
A University at Buffalo study found that quantum dots degrade in soil, releasing toxic cadmium and selenium ions. The researchers suggest that modifying the chemistry of nanomaterials could prevent degradation and mitigate environmental impacts.
Researchers have identified a promising conservation tillage technique called undercutting, which can reduce PM10 emissions by 30-70% compared to conventional tillage. This method creates an aerodynamically rougher soil surface, promoting retention of crop residue and reducing wind erosion.
The study found that self-seeding winter cereal cover crops produced consistent growth using wheat cover crop and mechanical seed dispersal. This technique can lower costs and risks while extending ecological functions of cover crops beyond their normal termination dates.
A new University of Minnesota project aims to refine successful farming techniques for corn and soybeans in anticipation of climate change. Scientists will investigate the benefits of precision zonal management, which enables crops to receive optimal nutrients while soil-building processes occur between rows.
A team of experts developed a high-tech, portable device to test soil for carcinogenic pollutants, providing fast and accurate results. The Safe Soil Tester can detect toxins in as little as 12 minutes, offering significant cost savings over traditional lab testing.
A Lithuanian company, Biocentras, has developed a three-stage process that transforms contaminated soil into usable land for growing plants. The process uses biosurfactant and micro-organisms to break down oil pollutants, making it an efficient and natural solution.
A Lithuanian company developed a technique that has cleaned over 22,000 tons of soil using non-genetically-modified bacteria, transforming contaminated soil into usable land for plant growth. The natural process eliminates the need for chemicals or genetically-modified technologies.
Composted dairy manure solids significantly improve soil physical and chemical properties, reducing density and pH while increasing organic matter and nutrient concentrations. The treatment also enhances the establishment and growth of selected ornamental plants.
Researchers found that European alpine soils generally retain similar amounts of phosphate, ranging from 9-145 mmol kg-1, with aluminum oxide concentration being the key factor. Acidified soils retain more phosphate than non-acidified ones.
A new inquiry-based curriculum is helping high school students better understand soil science concepts through research and experiments. The program has shown that students who work on real-world projects tend to perform better than those who only focus on standardized testing.
The planet's soils face unprecedented threats from erosion and human activity, which can lead to loss of food production, carbon storage, and biodiversity. International research efforts aim to develop mathematical models to predict soil changes and design solutions to mitigate these impacts.
A Baylor University geology researcher and scientists from Rice University tested a new soil additive called biochar on common earthworms. They found that wetting the biochar before applying it to the soil reduces harm to earthworms, allowing them to perform essential functions in the soil ecosystem.
A global analysis of invasive plant impacts found that 135 species cause a 40% reduction in native plant abundance and a 50% decrease in species diversity. This study highlights the context-dependent nature of invasions, with impacts varying by species traits, ecosystem type, and duration.
Researchers warn that seed mixtures could increase the risk of pest resistance and reduce choices for growers, highlighting concerns over integrated pest management. The use of biotechnology in seed mixtures may lead to increased pressure on the soil insecticide market as resistance develops.
Researchers have isolated a new species of ammonia oxidizing archaeon from soil, named Nitrososphaera viennensis. The discovery has significant implications for agriculture, as ammonia oxidation affects nitrogen availability for plants and groundwater nitrate levels.
A New Zealand study found that adding biochar to soil can decrease nitrous oxide emissions from grazing animals' urine by up to 70%. The incorporation of biochar also alters nitrogen transformations and reduces ammonia formation, leading to lower nitrate concentrations.
A comprehensive study of British soil biodiversity has been conducted, mapping bacterial distributions for the first time. The research found that acidic soils are dominated by few taxa, while bacterial diversity is strongly related to soil pH.
Researchers found widespread soil liquefaction in Japan, exceeding expectations, and raising concerns about its impact on vulnerable locations such as Portland, Ore. and the Pacific Northwest. The phenomenon can cause structures to shift or sink, significantly magnifying damage.
Researchers at Queen's University discovered that silver nanoparticles can be highly toxic to microbial communities in Arctic soil, compromising the ecosystem's ability to fix nitrogen. The study's findings highlight the need for further consideration of innovation's impact on the environment.
A Purdue University study suggests that drought-exposed leaves may negatively impact soil nutrients by accumulating high levels of tannins. These tannins can interfere with critical enzymes in soil, potentially slowing down decomposition and nutrient cycling.
USDA scientists tracked E. coli's journey from soil to leafy greens, finding the pathogen's survival in roots is sporadic and not a significant food safety concern. The study suggests that E. coli is unlikely to become internalized through plant roots, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
Researchers used satellite imagery and an artificial neural network to classify and monitor irrigated crops, achieving high accuracy rates. The study aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and reduce water waste in Mediterranean countries.
Studies by CSIRO and the University of Sydney found that ants and termites can increase wheat crop yields by up to 36% under low tillage conditions. The insects improve soil nitrogen and water infiltration, reducing runoff and evaporation. This breakthrough has significant implications for dryland agriculture in hot and dry climates.
Researchers explore why large, successful Maya communities were built near wetlands, finding that ancient environments and agricultural practices contributed to their success. The project sheds light on the Maya's 'edge farming' technique, which created fertile soils along the interface between uplands and swamps.
Recent UC research on ancient Maya agroforestry and water-management systems at Tikal reveals that the forests were insufficient to meet the needs of Late Classic Maya populations, highlighting the importance of sustainable management techniques. The study also sheds light on how the ancient Maya built their water management systems, u...
A new study found that biochar can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions from intensive grazing systems. The research, conducted in New Zealand, showed a 70% decrease in nitrous oxide fluxes when biochar was added to the soil. This effect was attributed to reduced ammonia formation and its adsorption onto biochar.
Researchers found that seedlings grow best with distant relatives in field soils but struggle with close relatives. This contradicts Darwin's idea that competition will be strongest between close relatives.
A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey and University of California, Los Angeles, found that climate change will lead to increased dust storm activity in the Southwest due to reduced perennial vegetation cover. However, biological soil crusts prevented wind erosion from occurring at most sites.
The article highlights the importance of soil in addressing societal and ecological pressures. Soil scientists recommend refocusing research on urgent issues, broadening their vision to entire ecosystems, and improving communication to protect the planet's fragile home.
A Purdue University scientist discovered genetic evidence of how some plants adapt to live in unfavorable conditions. He found that the Arabidopsis thaliana plants with high sodium levels had a weak form of the gene HTK1, which regulates sodium intake distribution to leaves.
Male Schizococa ocreata wolf spiders adjust their signaling modes based on environment to increase mating chances. In natural habitats, vibrations on leaf litter were found to be significantly more effective than other substrates, leading to successful mating over 85% of the time.
Researchers found that approximately 44% of fields demonstrate rapid atrazine degradation activity due to recent use, soil pH, and organic matter content. Growers can predict enhanced degradation with multiple atrazine applications and high soil pH above 6.3.
A study by North Carolina State University aims to evaluate the role of legume cover crops in sucking carbon out of the air and sequestering it in the soil. The research will also examine different methods of killing cover crops before planting cash crops and their effect on soil carbon levels.
Researchers found elevated manganese levels in 20 of 21 soil samples from a ridge at Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory, with 53% attributed to atmospheric deposition from industrial sources. The excess manganese can be toxic to trees and other vegetation, highlighting the legacy of past iron furnaces.
A Greek trade emporium on Egyptian soil thrived under the protection of powerful Eastern empires. The Greeks who inhabited Naukrtis formed a unique culture despite being from warring city-states, emerging with a national Greek identity. This arrangement enabled the exchange of art and culture between Greece and Egypt.
A study published in American Journal of Botany found that cacti like Ariocarpus fissuratus use root contraction to move deeper into the soil and escape high temperatures. While this method helped protect plants growing in rocky soils, it was not enough to prevent death in sandy soils
Researchers at NC State University have developed a sensor that allows engineers to assess scour potential of soils without excavation. The 'in situ scour evaluation probe' (ISEP) measures scour rates and behavior, helping authorities prepare for and minimize impact of natural events.
Researchers used a computer model to simulate the effects of 100 years of farming on claypan soils in Missouri, finding a significant increase in herbicide runoff and decline in crop yields. The study provides insights for farmers, policymakers, and conservation agents to make informed decisions about best practices.
Researchers found that 81% of urban vegetable gardens in Boston had lead levels above the EPA limit, rising to an average of 336 micrograms per gram in just four years.
Researchers created a technique using computer models that can analyze tiny samples of soil to predict its behavior in relation to foundations. This technology could be applied to build structures on the moon or remote locations where traditional testing is impractical.
Researchers from USDA's Agricultural Research Service found that subsurface injection of liquid manure can reduce ammonia emissions from dairy farms by 65% compared to surface broadcasting or shallow incorporation. This method limits manure nitrogen losses from volatilization, improving air quality and soil health.
Researchers found that fertilizing soils with biosolids introduces triclosan into the environment, with levels averaging 15.5 milligrams per kilogram in treated biosolids. Biological degradation of triclosans resulted in significant loss after 7-9 months, with up to 96% removal after 16 months.
The American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) are presenting various scholarships and fellowships to students pursuing careers in agronomy and plant sciences. The scholarships include the Hank Beachell Future Leader Scholarship, United Soybean Board Fellowship...
A study comparing 31 commercial strawberry farms found that organic farms produced more flavorful and nutritious berries while leaving the soil healthier and more genetically diverse. The research team analyzed multiple sampling times on over two dozen fields, finding significant advantages of organic farming systems.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that organic strawberry farms produced more flavorful and nutritious berries while leaving the soil healthier and more genetically diverse. The researchers also discovered that organic soils excelled in various key chemical and biological properties, including carbon sequestration and microbial biomass.
A new technique developed by NIST scientists can detect biochemical changes in a decomposing cadaver, making it easier to find hidden graves. The device uses an alumina-coated column with a motorized pipette to pull in air samples, detecting trace amounts of ninhydrin-reactive nitrogen.
New eco-friendly cremation methods use low-heat processes and break down corpses into soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A corpse composting method turns bodies into natural soil without a sealed casket, providing environmentally friendly burial options
Phytophthora blight affects all cucurbits and peppers, causing up to 100% crop loss in parts of the state. Illinois-grown processing pumpkins account for nearly 95% of US supply, with a gross value exceeding $160 million per year.
A five-year study found that one-time tillage did not negatively impact grain yield or soil structure in no-till crops. However, it may help manage perennial weeds and reduce phosphorus stratification. The researchers concluded that tilling should only be done to address specific problems, as it increases erosion risk.
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.
Researchers found that improving soil structure was a significant variable contributing to positive potato yield. Supplementing traditional soil sampling with spectral measurement provided detailed insights into how the potato crop interacts with its environment.
Research using geoscientific observatories reveals high levels of manganese in certain soils linked to nearby industrial activities. The study contributes to understanding the impact of human activity on soil formation and fertility.
Scientists have developed a faster technique for testing soils around oil spills, allowing for on-site analysis of petroleum contaminants in moist soil samples. The new method uses visible near infrared light with diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to rapidly evaluate soils for oil contamination.
A new model has estimated that large amounts of organic nitrogen are stored in the soil beneath fields in Nebraska and Maryland, where corn and soybean crops are grown. The study found that leaching accounted for most of the nitrogen lost from the soil, particularly in irrigated areas.
USDA ARS scientists collaborated with NRC experts to model radioactive material movement in the vadose zone. They found that gaps in fine-material layers significantly affect tracer transport in soils and shallow groundwater.
CSIRO researchers have developed a salt-tolerant durum wheat that yields 25% more grain than the parent variety in saline soils. This breakthrough will enable wheat farmers to achieve higher yields of durum wheat in salty areas.
A team of researchers from the University of Arizona revisited evidence pointing to a cataclysmic event that wiped out North American megafauna, including mammoths and Dire wolves. The study found no conclusive link between an extraterrestrial impact and the extinction of these species.
A study found that leaving logging debris behind suppresses the growth of invasive plant species like Scotch broom and blackberry, allowing native plants to thrive. This method saves costs but may increase fire risk, making it a more favorable approach for forest management.