Hydrogen energy is widely recognized as a sustainable source for the future, but its large-scale production still relies on expensive and scarce platinum-based catalysts. In order to address this challenge, researchers have developed Bis(diimino)palladium coordination nanosheets (PdDI), a novel two-dimensional electrocatalyst that effectively facilitates the hydrogen evolution reactions while minimizing...
Heat from the sun affects seismic activity on Earth
Researchers explore the likelihood that Earth's climate, as affected by solar heat, plays a role in seismic activity. Using mathematical and computational methods, they analyzed earthquake data alongside solar activity records and surface temperatures on Earth and observed that when they included Earth surface temperatures into their model, the forecasting...
Who gets the lion’s share? Ecologists highlight disparities in global biodiversity conservation funding
The extensive loss of biodiversity represents one of the major crises of our time, threatening not only entire ecosystems but also our current and future livelihoods. As scientists realize the magnitude and scale of ongoing extinctions, it is vital to ascertain the resources available for conservation and whether funds are...
A third of children worldwide forecast to be obese or overweight by 2050
Obesity rates are set to skyrocket, with one in six children and adolescents worldwide forecast to be obese by 2050, according to a new study. But with significant increases predicted within the next five years, the researchers stress urgent action now could turn the tide on the public health crisis.
Quantum properties in atom-thick semiconductors offer new way to detect electrical signals in cells
For decades, scientists have relied on electrodes and dyes to track the electrical activity of living cells. Now, engineers have discovered that quantum materials just a single atom thick can do the job with high speed and resolution -- using only light.
Melting Antarctic ice sheets will slow Earth’s strongest ocean current
Melting ice sheets are slowing the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), the world's strongest ocean current, researchers have found. This melting has implications for global climate indicators, including sea level rise, ocean warming and viability of marine ecosystems. The researchers have shown the current slowing by around 20 per cent by...
Climate Change Increases the Risk of Tree Mortality in Urban Boreal Forests
Climate change poses a particular risk to pine trees growing in dry areas, a new University of Eastern Finland study conducted in an urban recreational forest in Helsinki shows.
Tree Diversity Increases Carbon Sequestration
Forests planted with many different tree species have substantially higher aboveground carbon stocks and greater carbon fluxes than monocultures, shows an international study led by the University of Freiburg.
Scientists Crack the Code to Longer-Lasting Perovskite Solar Technology
Perovskite solar cells could last ten times longer thanks to new research led by the University of Surrey, which suggests alumina (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles significantly enhance the lifespan and stability of these high-efficiency energy devices.
New device could allow you to taste a cake in virtual reality
Novel technology intends to redefine the virtual reality experience by expanding to incorporate a new sensory connection: taste.