Articles tagged with Sunlight
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 University of Arizona-led research team has measured the dynamics and ever-changing hot gas shell from where the solar wind originates. The study helps scientists answer fundamental questions about energy and matter moving through the heliosphere, affecting space weather events and planetary orbits.
A novel photodynamic platform combines antibacterial action, hemostasis and pain relief under natural sunlight, enabling painless, antibiotic-free therapy for infected diabetic wounds. The treatment demonstrates rapid hemostatic capability and a pronounced analgesic effect.
A study found that the week after the autumn clock change is associated with a reduction in demand for NHS services for anxiety, cardiovascular disease, depression, and psychiatric conditions. However, there is little evidence to suggest that the spring clock change has any short-term effect on health conditions.
Researchers found that indoor tanning users in their 30s and 40s have more skin mutations than people twice their age, particularly in areas exposed to tanning beds. This can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
A study published in Annals of Translational Medicine found that intense light therapy can lower troponin levels and increase ANGPTL4 protein, protecting heart tissue. The treatment may reduce the risk of myocardial injuries after non-cardiac surgery, which affects 20% of patients and increases one-year mortality rates.
Astronomers captured dark coronal loop strands with unprecedented clarity during an X1.3-class flare, measuring 48.2 km in width, the smallest ever imaged. The team's high-resolution images offer a potential breakthrough in resolving the fundamental scale of solar coronal loops and improving space weather forecasting.
Researchers have found that cicadas begin their loud choruses when the sun is precisely 3.8 degrees below the horizon, corresponding to civil twilight. The team analyzed field recordings and developed a mathematical model inspired by magnetic materials to explain this precision.
Researchers discovered that sunlight's oscillating electric field plays a crucial role in enhancing interfacial water evaporation. The stronger the electric field, the faster water evaporates. This finding has implications for engineering more efficient water-evaporation technologies.
The global ocean has experienced a significant reduction in the depth of its photic zones, home to 90% of all marine life, leading to widespread ocean darkening. This change could have profound implications for the planet's marine species and ecosystem services.
The NRL's Narrow Field Imager (NFI) has captured its first light images, primarily focused on calibrating the instrument and confirming pointing accuracy. The NFI will enable scientists to study the Sun's corona in unprecedented detail, helping to understand and predict coronal mass ejections.
A research team found that stages of 'dimming' and 'brightening' correspond with increased air pollution and implementation of clean energy solutions. The study suggests that reducing air pollution can lead to more sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, which could have compounding benefits for solar power production.
A Cornell University-led collaboration has developed a low-cost method to produce carbon-free 'green' hydrogen via solar-powered electrolysis of seawater. The process produces 200 milliliters of hydrogen per hour with 12.6% energy efficiency directly from seawater under natural sunlight.
A team from the University of Illinois found that traditional breeding methods are unlikely to improve soybean light-harvesting efficiency. Gene editing is likely needed to unlock soybean potential. The researchers gathered detailed measurements throughout an entire growing season to understand photoprotection relaxation in soybeans.
The NRL-developed Narrow Field Imager is a compact coronagraph that will image the transition of the Sun's atmosphere to the solar wind, gaining insights into space plasma environments. The PUNCH mission aims to improve prediction and mitigation of space weather events like coronal mass ejections.
Researchers developed a numerical tool to quantify sunlight intensity and its influence on plant growth, enabling accurate predictions of sunlight patterns. The model can help farmers optimize greenhouse conditions and planting schedules, leading to improved crop yields.
Researchers have successfully imitated one of the first steps of natural photosynthesis by creating a stack of dyes that absorbs light energy and transfers charge carriers. This breakthrough has significant implications for artificial photosynthesis, which could potentially produce hydrogen and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a method of artificial photosynthesis that uses sunlight and water to produce energy and valuable organic compounds from waste organic compounds. The technique, called APOS, represents a significant step toward sustainable energy and chemical production.
Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology developed bifacial perovskite solar cells with a novel NiO/Ag/NiO transparent electrode, achieving high efficiency, durability, and infrared transparency. The cells demonstrated impressive power conversion efficiencies and high bifaciality factors.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano and Georgia Tech analyzed NASA's DART mission to asteroid Dimorphos, revealing a viable mechanism for ejecta evolution and understanding the impact of an asteroid's shape on deflection. The studies suggest that sending multiple smaller impactors can increase the asteroid push while reducing costs.
The PUNCH mission will integrate understanding of the Sun's corona and solar wind. The constellation will deploy in polar orbit, enabling scientists to routinely see and understand the solar wind.
Researchers are exploring halide perovskites, a material that converts sunlight into energy efficiently. The team created distinct properties using ultra-cool methods, enabling mass production of solar cells.
Researchers have developed biophotovoltaic systems that convert sunlight into electricity, providing a clean and efficient source of energy. The study reveals the molecular mechanisms driving this technology, including extracellular electron transfer and electron transport chain optimization.
Researchers discovered that plants in shaded conditions receive a larger proportion of green and far-red light, which contributes to photosynthesis. This finding may help growers develop new methods for supplementing natural sunlight with colored light.
New research from Colorado State University finds that wildfire smoke has a modest impact on long-term solar power generation activity in the US. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that power generated from photovoltaics remained relatively stable even in extreme fire seasons, with losses averaging around 5%.
A study found that males spend approximately 52% more time in bright light than females, with this difference beginning in childhood and widening during adulthood. The average first daily timing for bright light exposure was also later for females.
Research found that plants adapted to colder temperatures have a higher rate of photoinhibition repair when exposed to cold conditions. This adaptation allows them to survive in colder regions. The study used Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes from around the world to demonstrate this phenomenon.
Researchers have developed a method to convert black polystyrene waste into reusable starting materials using sunlight or white LEDs. The technique involves adding carbon black and exposing the mixture to high-intensity light, resulting in efficient breakdown of polymer bonds.
Researchers at Utah State University and Polytechnic University of Madrid report a simpler pathway for nitrogen fixation in plants, involving just seven genes. This discovery could alleviate hunger in less-developed areas and reduce the carbon footprint of fertilizer production.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) developed a smart insect screen-inspired film that regulates solar heat and lowers interior temperatures. The breakthrough, published in Advanced Functional Materials, achieves both transparency and radiative cooling performance.
Osaka Metropolitan University researchers developed a new approach to analyze the 3D structure of lab-made photosynthetic antenna protein complex LHCII. Their findings validated natural antenna mimicry in artificial photosynthesis, showing only minor differences between lab-created and natural LHCII.
A McGill University study reveals that vitamin D deficiency early in life can lead to a higher risk of autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes. The research found that an aging thymus causes the immune system to become less effective, increasing the risk of misdirected immune cells attacking healthy tissues.
Researchers have developed a natural fabric that reflects sunlight and allows heat to escape, while blocking the sun's rays and lowering temperature. The fabric leverages radiative cooling, with three layers designed to optimize cooling, promising relief to city dwellers experiencing warmer temperatures.
New research from Binghamton University reveals that Mexican jumping bean larvae respond differently to various lighting conditions, with red light stimulating the most vigorous jumps. However, damage to their 'bean' hosts hinders their ability to jump away from stressors.
The system removes salt from water at a pace that closely follows changes in solar energy, maximizing the utility of solar power. It produces large quantities of clean water despite variations in sunlight throughout the day, making it an attractive solution for communities with limited access to seawater and grid power.
Researchers at KAUST have developed a new cooling system that extracts water from the air using gravity, eliminating the need for electricity. The system can double the rate of water collection compared to alternative technologies and offers significant energy savings.
A new study published in PLOS Mental Health found a relationship between daily sunlight exposure, physical activity, and depressed state. The research used wrist-based activity sensors to collect data from individuals with depression and those without, revealing that more depressed states were associated with lower daytime activity.
The McGill team's light-driven chemical process transforms methane and carbon dioxide into green methanol and carbon monoxide, producing highly valued products. The discovery offers a promising path towards Canada's net-zero emissions target by 2050 and provides a sustainable way to produce industrial products.
The University of Guam study found that under-plant mirrors can increase available ambient light in shaded areas, leading to improved seedling survival and growth. The innovative protocol uses mirrors instead of colored plastic mulch, resulting in a significant boost in plant performance with minimal costs.
A team of GIST researchers developed a new defect passivation strategy for polycrystalline perovskites, leading to improved power conversion efficiency and long-term operational stability. The strategy uses a chemically identical polytype of perovskite to suppress defects in the crystal structure.
A new study found that skin cancer incidence in young adults declined in Sweden around 2015. The decrease in incidence and mortality is attributed to increased awareness of sun protection, reduced access to sunbeds, and changes in lifestyle habits such as spending more time indoors. The study suggests that continued emphasis on sun pro...
A new study uses observations from NASA's New Horizons spacecraft to measure the cosmic optical background, a phenomenon known as the universe's glow. The results suggest that the glow is roughly 100 billion times fainter than sunlight and provides valuable insights into the history of the universe since the Big Bang.
Researchers propose a leaf-inspired luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) design to overcome scalability limitations. The innovative setup enhances photon collection and transfer, improving efficiency and reducing self-absorption issues.
A study suggests that higher levels of UV radiation in areas with limited sunshine are associated with a drop in deaths due to cardiovascular disease and cancer. Sunbed use was also found to be linked to a reduced risk of these deaths, but further research is needed to confirm the findings.
A 1-year study found that continuous outdoor exposure with high sunlight intensity was associated with less myopic shift in children. Effective outdoor exposure patterns should be prioritized to prevent myopia in children.
The team discovered that the exciton-binding energy of solid materials is affected by how their molecules stack together, known as aggregation. By manipulating molecular aggregation, they found a way to decrease the exciton-binding energy and improve device performance.
Researchers developed a system that passively alternates between capturing and generating water, eliminating manual labor requirements. The system uses mass transport bridges to optimize efficiency and effectiveness, producing 2-3 liters of water per square meter daily.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a simple mechanism for optimal light-use efficiency of photosynthesis inspired by giant clams. This discovery could lead to the development of more efficient solar cells and renewable energy systems.
A UC Riverside study found that large fires in California create a self-sustaining cycle of heat and dryness, making it easier for new fires to start. The extra heat reduces humidity, allowing conditions to become favorable for more fire.
Researchers at Harvard University discovered that giant deep-sea vent tubeworms possess two functional carbon fixation pathways, the Calvin-Benson–Bassham (CBB) and reductive tricarboxylic acid (rTCA) cycles. These pathways are coordinated to enable symbionts to thrive in dynamic and harsh environments.
A German junior research group at the University of Oldenburg is developing precious-metal-free catalysts to convert carbon dioxide into methanol, formaldehyde, and ethylene. The team aims to create inexpensive and durable materials for large-scale industrial applications.
MIT researchers demonstrate that light can break water molecules away from the surface and float them into the air, causing evaporation in the absence of heat. This phenomenon has significant implications for understanding cloud formation and precipitation, as well as designing new industrial processes such as solar-powered desalination.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that marine cloud brightening can account for 60-90% of the cooling effect, increasing cloud cover by up to 50%. The study suggests MCB could be a more effective 'painkiller' than previously thought.
Researchers at ICFO have fabricated a new four-terminal tandem organic solar cell with a high power conversion efficiency of 16.94%, achieving a significant improvement over previous records for four-terminal tandem devices. The device features an ultrathin transparent silver electrode, enabling efficient light transmission and operation.
Researchers at Uppsala University and First Solar European Technology Center have achieved a world record of 23.64 per cent efficiency in CIGS solar cells, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 per cent. The study demonstrates that CIGS thin-film technology is a competitive alternative as a stand-alone solar cell.
A study found that 670 nanometres of red light stimulated energy production within mitochondria, leading to increased glucose consumption and a 27.7% reduction in blood glucose levels. This non-invasive technique has the potential to impact diabetes control by reducing damaging fluctuations of blood glucose.
Researchers at KAUST Solar Center have developed a roadmap for commercializing perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, which combine efficient light absorption and long-term stability. The technology has the potential to meet Saudi Arabia's solar targets and exceed $10 billion in market value within a decade.
A novel transparent spectral converter, GdPO4-GC:Eu3+/Pr3+, absorbs UV photons and re-emits them as visible light, increasing photovoltaic devices' conversion efficiency. This technology shields PCs from UV damage and enhances their sensitivity to UV photons.
EtaVolt's innovative technology rejuvenates old solar cells with intense sunlight, restoring performance and protecting against light and heat damage. This game-changing solution extends the operational lifespan of solar panels, reducing energy loss and e-waste.
A Lancaster University PhD student used a new method to calculate the optical depth of Saturn's rings, revealing their transparency. By analyzing changes in Cassini's Langmuir Probe data during solar eclipses, the researcher determined how much sunlight passed through each ring.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed organic solar cells with record efficiencies and discovered a link between molecular structure and outdoor stability. The study found that fluorine-bearing functional end groups and long hydrocarbon side-chains enhance outdoor stability, protecting the cells...