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New maps help decision-makers factor albedo into tree-planting decisions

26/03/2024
A new study provides a global analysis of where restoration of tree cover is most effective at cooling the global climate system, considering not just the cooling from carbon storage but also the warming from decreased albedo. The researchers provide a tool practitioners and land managers can use to determine just how much of a problem albedo is for any reforestation or afforestation project on the globe.

Climate change will see Australia's soil emit CO2 and add to global warming

26/03/2024
New research has shown the warming climate will turn Australia's soil into a net emitter of carbon dioxide (CO2), unless action is taken. Soil helps to keep the planet cool by absorbing carbon, however as the climate gets warmer its ability to retain carbon decreases -- and in some instances can start to release some carbon back into the air. A global research team has predicted the changes in the amount of carbon in Australia's soil between now and the year 2100.

Large-scale animal study links brain pH changes to wide-ranging cognitive issues

26/03/2024
The International Brain pH Project Consortium unveils groundbreaking findings in a large-scale animal model study, indicating altered brain pH and lactate levels as a transdiagnostic endophenotype in neuropsychiatric disorders with cognitive impairment. This collaborative effort, involving 131 researchers across six countries, challenges existing notions and may pave the way for novel strategies in understanding and addressing biologically diverse and debilitating disorders impacting cognitive function.

Two coral snakes recorded battling for prey in a scientific first

26/03/2024
Two red-tailed coral snakes have been observed competing over a caecilian in the first documented wild case of kleptoparasitism within the family Elapidae.

Crackdown on illicit drugs detects rise in 'designer' drug substitutes

26/03/2024
As authorities crack down on illicit drugs, experts have issued an alert on the use of the synthetic stimulant pentylone, as new research finds a 75% increase in detections across Australia.

Treatment for blindness-causing retinal detachment using viscous seaweed

26/03/2024
Scientists have created a biocompatible artificial vitreous body derived from algae-derived carbohydrates.

Research lights up process for turning CO2 into sustainable fuel

26/03/2024
Researchers have successfully transformed CO2 into methanol by shining sunlight on single atoms of copper deposited on a light-activated material, a discovery that paves the way for creating new green fuels.

Engineering household robots to have a little common sense

26/03/2024
Engineers aim to give robots a bit of common sense when faced with situations that push them off their trained path, so they can self-correct after missteps and carry on with their chores. The team's method connects robot motion data with the common sense knowledge of large language models, or LLMs.

Novel electrochemical sensor detects dangerous bacteria

26/03/2024
Researchers have developed a novel sensor for the detection of bacteria. It is based on a chip with an innovative surface coating. This ensures that only very specific microorganisms adhere to the sensor -- such as certain pathogens. The larger the number of organisms, the stronger the electric signal generated by the chip. In this way, the sensor is able not only to detect dangerous bacteria with a high level of sensitivity but also to determine their concentration.

Research identifies characteristics of cities that would support young people's mental health

26/03/2024
As cities around the world continue to draw young people for work, education, and social opportunities, a new study identifies characteristics that would support young urban dwellers' mental health. The findings, based on survey responses from a global panel that included adolescents and young adults, provide a set of priorities that city planners can adopt to build urban environments that are safe, equitable, and inclusive.

More exposure to artificial, bright, outdoor night-time light linked to higher stroke risk

26/03/2024
Air pollution and night-time outdoor light each were associated with harmful effects on brain health, finds new study.

GPT-4 for identifying cell types in single cells matches and sometimes outperforms expert methods

26/03/2024
GPT-4 can accurately interpret types of cells important for the analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing -- a sequencing process fundamental to interpreting cell types -- with high consistency compared to that of time-consuming manual annotation by human experts of gene information.

Cancer therapies show promise in combating tuberculosis

26/03/2024
A study has identified a combination of medications that may improve blood flow within granulomas, benefiting drug delivery. The study leverages decades of cancer research to study tuberculosis-affected lung tissue and improve treatment.

Seeing the forest for the trees: Species diversity is directly correlated with productivity in eastern U.S. forests

26/03/2024
When officials make tough calls on which areas to prioritize for conservation, biodiversity is often their top consideration. But there are several types of diversity, and not all of them overlap perfectly. In a new study, researchers analyzed 20-years' worth of U.S. Forest Service data and show that the simplest measure of diversity is the best predictor of healthy forest growth, providing a roadmap for quickly and efficiently protecting ecological resources.

Pairing crypto mining with green hydrogen offers clean energy boost

26/03/2024
Pairing cryptocurrency mining -- notable for its outsize consumption of carbon-based fuel -- with green hydrogen could provide the foundation for wider deployment of renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, according to a new study.

With a new experimental technique, engineers probe the mechanisms of landslides and earthquakes

26/03/2024
Researchers developed a method for 3D experiments that can reveal how forces are transmitted through granular materials, and how the shapes of the grains can dramatically change the outcomes. This could lead to better ways of understanding how landslides are triggered, and how to control the flow of granular materials in industrial processes.

Human brains are getting larger: That may be good news for dementia risk

26/03/2024
A new study has found human brains are getting bigger. The increased size may lead to a brain reserve, potentially reducing the risk of dementia.

2 in 3 parents say their adolescent or teen worries about how sick days may impact grades

26/03/2024
Many parents recognize increasing mental health concerns among children, reflected by the 1 in 5 who say they're open to allowing a child to take a mental health day.

Uncovering the mystery of Dorset's Cerne Giant

25/03/2024
For centuries, the Cerne Giant, a figure carved into a hillside in Dorset, has fascinated locals and visitors to the area. A new paper proposes that the Cerne Giant can in fact be dated to the early Middle Ages, and, as a result, its cultural context and significance more clearly understood.

Promising drug combination for multiple myeloma treatment

25/03/2024
New research has found that venetoclax, a medication currently approved for leukemia, has benefits for patients with multiple myeloma when used in combination with another drug. This discovery offers a new avenue of treatment options for the currently incurable disease.

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