Articles tagged with Biomass
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.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
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 low-dose application of nonionic surfactant applied directly to seed as a component of a seed treatment significantly increases seed germination rate and synchrony. Under deficit irrigation conditions, this coating promotes seedling emergence and plant growth, offering potential for water conservation in urban landscapes.
Researchers found specific hemp cultivars, such as Ferimon, Anka, and Jutta, consistently produced high yields of biomass and seeds in eastern Canada. The study provides valuable information on adapting industrial hemp to the region's wetter conditions.
Scientists found that fungi can break down biomass to release heat without emitting fine particles or VOCs. To achieve sustained use, optimal conditions must be determined for nutrient, moisture, and temperature.
A study published in Nature Climate Change found that Amazon forests with greater plant diversity can better adapt to climate change, enabling substantial regrowth in vast areas after a few hundred years. However, high biodiversity is crucial for long-term survival and resilience, particularly under moderate climate change scenarios.
Researchers at Rice University have created a method for producing extremely pure levoglucosan, an organic compound with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and synthetic chemistry. The team's process is more economical and operationally simpler than existing methods, offering new possibilities for the production of LGA.
A population-based study of nearly 6,000 people aged 60 and over found that Indian women who cook with biomass fuels were nearly 50% more likely to have visually impairing nuclear cataracts compared to those using clean fuels. The association was stronger for women cooking with longer duration of biomass fuels.
Researchers at UMass Medical School have developed a computational network model called iCEL1273, which enables the analysis of nutrient interactions in C. elegans. The study provides new insights into how different macro- and micronutrients contribute to energy generation and biomass production.
A new study confirms that preserving marine biodiversity can benefit people as much as it benefits the oceans. Communities with more species are more productive and resilient to rising temperatures, while those with fewer species suffer significantly under fluctuating temperatures.
Researchers will identify and overcome barriers to using biomass from fuels-reduction and forest-restoration treatments. The goal is to sustainably use forest-based feedstocks to offset fossil fuels, improving environmental sustainability and human health while minimizing costs.
The northern Galapagos Islands of Darwin and Wolf are home to the largest shark biomass reported to date, indicating a healthy marine ecosystem. However, excessive fishing has reduced reef fish abundance, highlighting the need for strong enforcement of the new marine sanctuary.
The study found that fisheries management types, distance to fish markets, and water temperatures are crucial in predicting fish biomass levels. It also suggests a recovery time of 8.1 years for individual reef systems to reach a critical level of 1,150 kilograms of fish biomass per hectare.
A research group has developed a method to measure fish DNA in seawater, revealing the distribution of marine species. The study found that environmental DNA (eDNA) concentration reflects the biomass within 10-150 meters of the location.
Researchers have identified blueberry cultivars with genetic resistance to Phytophthora cinnamomi, a soilborne pathogen causing root rot. The most resistant cultivars include 'Aurora', 'Legacy', and 'Reka', while susceptible ones are 'Bluetta' and 'Bluecrop'.
A new study suggests that biomass burning from African and Asian fires may play a larger role in climate change than previously thought. Researchers found high concentrations of ozone and chemicals associated with fires in the tropical Pacific, particularly above Guam.
A new laser-based technique, LIBS, has been developed for rapid analysis of inorganic species in biomass, showing accuracy comparable to ICP-OES methods. The technique's low cost, rapid turnaround time, and minimal sample preparation make it an attractive option for biomass analysis.
A new study found that manure applications in high-input greenhouse environments can lead to significant nitrogen accumulation and loss, potentially resulting in economic losses. The research suggests reevaluating the role of manures to balance economic benefits with environmental risks.
A recent UCLA-led study quantified the direct impact of climate on ecosystems worldwide, finding that it has a strong and immediate effect on forest productivity. The research restores scientific consensus on the topic after a controversial 2014 paper questioned the correlation between climate change and ecosystem growth.
Researchers found significant environmental and public-health benefits from co-firing oat hulls with coal, including 90% reduction in filterable particulate matter. Burning oat hulls also reduced hazardous air pollutants by 41% and heavy metals by 51%.
After 10 years of monitoring, a UCSB analysis reveals that MPAs in the Channel Islands network are enhancing ecological communities. Fish species targeted by fishermen have greater density and biomass inside MPAs, while unprotected areas show increases in fished species.
A new study by WCS found that coral reef diversity 'hotspots' in the southwestern Indian Ocean prioritize fish biomass over location for conservation. Reefs with high fish biomass (>600 kg/ha) should be prioritized for protection.
The BioLEGO web application enables single and two-step multiorganism fermentation process design, maximizing feedstock conversion rates. It also evaluates possible biomass-to-product yields and recommends media changes to increase process efficacy.
Researchers at the University of Illinois investigated threonine biomass as a lower-cost alternative to fish meal for pig diets. Threonine biomass was found to contain more crude protein and have higher protein digestibility compared to fish meal, making it a promising source of protein for pigs.
Coral reefs can recover if a minimum target of 500 kilograms of fish biomass per hectare is maintained. The study found that most degraded reefs lack key species and require time for recovery, with estimated times ranging from 35 to 59 years.
A global study found that nearly 83% of fished coral reefs have lost more than half their fish biomass, highlighting the need for effective management and conservation strategies. Marine reserves can recover fish populations in approximately 35 years, while heavily depleted reefs take around 60 years to recover.
A new measurement method using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) estimates the distribution of aquatic animals in water by quantifying target DNA copies. This technique offers higher accuracy than existing methods, especially at low environmental DNA concentrations.
Scientists at the University of Tokyo have created a selective catalyst that enables the hydrogenolysis of carbon-oxygen bonds in phenols and aryl methyl ethers, key components of lignin. This breakthrough could lead to the use of plant biomass as a primary feedstock for the chemical industry.
Researchers used a new endocrine-based approach to determine the age at sexual maturity for wild stocks of western Atlantic bluefin tuna, finding they mature at a considerably younger age than currently assumed. This discovery could lead to changes in fisheries scientists' estimates of population size.
New findings suggest that microbiome studies may have prematurely proposed links to disease due to laboratory contamination. The study found that DNA extraction kits, chemical reagents, and environmental contaminants can introduce bacteria into samples, affecting results.
A study published by University of Notre Dame scientists estimates that bighead and silver carp biomass in Lake Erie could be up to 25 metric-tons/km2, potentially increasing Yellow perch biomass by 15-50% but decreasing Walleye biomass by 10-40%. The experts emphasize the importance of considering uncertainty in decision-making.
Researchers from the University of York have provided new information on how LPMOs work, enabling the degradation of hard-to-digest biomass into its constituent sugars. This breakthrough aims to improve second-generation biofuel production by fermenting cellulose into bioethanol.
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes have found ways to improve the efficiency of turning straw into biofuel. By varying pre-treatment stages, they increased cellulose conversion and sugar yield.
Researchers used JeDI to map jellyfish biomass in the upper 200m of the world's oceans, revealing that jellyfish are present throughout the globe, with greatest concentrations in mid-latitudes. The study highlights the importance of understanding jellyfish distribution and potential impacts on ecosystems and biogeochemical processes.
Researchers propose a coordinated response plan to study the impacts of biomass burning and haze on Southeast Asian marine ecosystems. The study aims to gather baseline information to inform effective management of threatened marine ecosystems in the region.
New research suggests the UK can produce up to 44% of its energy needs from biomass sources like household waste and agricultural residues. The study highlights the potential for biomass resources to contribute significantly to the country's renewable energy targets.
Researchers have discovered that ocean mesopelagic fish biomass is at least 10 times higher than estimated, with significant implications for the planet's biogeochemical cycles. These deep-sea fish play a crucial role in transporting CO2 to the ocean floor and increasing oxygen consumption.
A team of scientists from Australia and Panama examined the reproductive mechanisms of Saccharum spontaneum to develop better management strategies. The study found that cutting stems into smaller pieces can help prevent flowering and seed dispersal, while timing management actions during specific seasons can also be effective.
A new offset round-bale unroller design has been deemed effective in making mulching more efficient, particularly with organic mulches. The technology allows for better between-row weed control and can be used with various types of mulches.
Researchers found that biomass pellets released lower levels of mercury when burned, reducing environmental concerns. The study suggests that switching to biomass pellets could be an effective way to decrease mercury emissions in China.
A complete genomic analysis of sorghum reveals its potential for alternative uses beyond grain production. Researchers hope to apply the findings to other feedstocks like miscanthus and sugarcane, while improving drought-resistant lines for food and fuel applications.
High crop species richness suppresses pest populations, indicating a positive relationship between crop diversity and biological control. The study found that crop diversity enhances the natural enemy-pest ratio, leading to improved pest control on EMS using microlandscape.
A recent study found that the concentration of essential oil in Rocky Mountain juniper leaves varies from 0.335% to 0.799% and is affected by seasonal changes and tree gender, with male trees generally having higher oil content.
A University of Illinois study proposes a contract framework to outline expectations for sustainability practices in biomass crops. The framework aims to designate who will assume the risks and costs associated with these new perennial energy crops, promoting a more stable and sustainable supply.
A new EBI study concludes that biofuels from plant biomass and purpose-grown crops can substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions in California. The report highlights the importance of judicious use of feedstocks and implementation of low-carbon technologies to meet the state's ambitious energy goals.
Researchers develop activated biocarbon to adsorb naphthenic acids, preventing methane gas release. The technology has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the oilsands industry.
The High-Throughput Analytical Pyrolysis (HTAP) tool from NREL can analyze hundreds of biomass samples daily, providing early insights into ideal plant genes. This accelerated method reduces the time required to analyze a sample from two weeks to just two minutes.
Protection of marine areas from fishing significantly increases fish density and biomass. Even partial protection yields a 50% increase in biomass for target species like lobsters and scallops. However, the success of marine protection depends on its size and management style.
Research suggests a significant link between reduced biomass smoke pollution and decreased all-cause mortality, particularly among men. A study in Tasmania found that interventions to reduce wood heater use led to a 40% decrease in particulate air pollution and a 22.8% reduction in respiratory mortality for males alone.
A new study in the Bering Sea found that predator-prey relationships prioritize prey density over total biomass. This discovery challenges conventional management methods, which often rely on biomass data.
Scientists discovered a reaction site on the perimeter of gold-titanium complex that enables catalysis. The oxide surface plays an important role in modifying the metals above it, leading to the creation of valuable hydrocarbon fuels.
Researchers have developed 'nanobowls' to shield metal catalysts from harsh conditions during biofuel refining. The nanoscale structures can be tailored to enhance functionality and specificity, showing promise for improving the efficiency of biofuel conversion.
A recent study by a German-US science team estimates that there is about 4 billion tons of carbon stored in subseafloor microbes, reducing the total amount of carbon stored in living organisms by about one third. This new finding challenges previous estimates based on drill cores taken in nutrient-rich areas.
A comprehensive review of biomass feedstock characterization is crucial for developing biotechnology approaches to bioenergy and bioproducts. Researchers describe formulation, pretreatment, and densification options to improve biomass specifications for co-firing high percentages with coal.
A study estimated the total mass of the human population, defining its distribution by region and proportion due to overweight and obesity. The world's biomass would increase by 58 million tonnes if all countries had the same average BMI as the USA, equivalent to an additional 935 million people.
A new process creates high-energy biofuel from biomass, with potential to be economically viable when crude oil is around $100 per barrel. The method has significant advantages over traditional methods and could become even more economical with a federal carbon tax.
A new study reveals that just a handful of heavyweight trees per acre are responsible for nearly half the biomass in a temperate forest, highlighting their crucial role in photosynthesis and carbon sequestration. The research found that these large trees can dominate even when dead, with snags accounting for 60% of total biomass.
Scientists at Ben-Gurion University have created bioreactors that increase microalgae biomass yields dramatically. The innovative design, which synchronizes photosynthesis with flow patterns and illumination, has the potential to make microalgae an economically viable source of renewable energy.
A recent study by USDA Forest Service researchers found that removing the invasive Tamaligi tree greatly improves the health of its diverse native forests in American Samoa. Native tree species quickly recover and persist after control efforts, while biomass levels are restored to equivalent pre-invasion levels.
A life cycle assessment study reveals that bioethanol from energy crops has considerable potential to render society more sustainable by substituting gasoline. The study's findings suggest that regional biomass utilization systems can significantly reduce fossil fuel resources and greenhouse gas emissions.
A new logistics model for biofuel raw materials is proposed by MSU researchers, utilizing regional biomass processing depots to process feedstocks before shipping to refineries. This approach aims to reduce transportation costs and distances, while providing economic benefits to farmers who own part of the depots.
The study highlights the human cost of biomass burning, with over 2 million premature deaths in 2005, and the environmental impact on deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. The research agenda proposes cleaner cooking fuels and technologies to improve access and adoption.