Tokyo University Finds a Solution to the Problems of Hydrogen Fuel Production: Rust!

For decades, scientists have looked for an inexpensive, efficient and safe way to produce hydrogen. One of the most interesting methods to achieve this is through the use of solar energy: light is used to accelerate the reaction that causes water molecules to divide into oxygen and hydrogen. In this method, the most popular catalyst is titanium dioxide, but new research has found a substitute that is not only cheaper but also up to 25 times more efficient: rust.

(more…)

Continue ReadingTokyo University Finds a Solution to the Problems of Hydrogen Fuel Production: Rust!

New technology produces electricity from air humidity

A team of researchers from the University of Massachusetts – Amherst has developed a device that uses a natural protein to create electricity from the humidity present air, a new technology which, as they explain in the study “Power generation from ambient humidity using protein nanowires “, published in Nature, could have significant implications for the future of renewable energy, climate change and the future of medicine.

(more…)

Continue ReadingNew technology produces electricity from air humidity

Education: learning advantages of longhand over laptop note taking

A study conducted by Pam A. Muller of Princeton University and Daniel M. Oppenheimer of the University of California has led to the conclusion that, when it comes to learning,  notes taken by hand are much more effective than those generated via electronic devices.

(more…)

Continue ReadingEducation: learning advantages of longhand over laptop note taking

Jair Bolsonaro: the president of Brazil signs a project that allows the exploitation and destruction of indigenous reserves

In early February, Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro signed a bill that allows mining and electric power generation in indigenous reserves.
(more…)

Continue ReadingJair Bolsonaro: the president of Brazil signs a project that allows the exploitation and destruction of indigenous reserves

Joy Milne: her keen sense of smell could lead to early diagnosis for Parkinson’s (video)

This 69-year-old lady is a former nurse from Perth (United Kingdom) and is able to recognize diseases thanks to her extraordinary sense of smell. An exceptional gift that is now being studied by the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology for research into early diagnosis of Parkinson’s.

(more…)

Continue ReadingJoy Milne: her keen sense of smell could lead to early diagnosis for Parkinson’s (video)

Bees pollinate more flowers in the city than in the countryside – and it’s not good news

Urbanization significantly affects biodiversity and can have negative impacts on many animal species, including pollinating insects. At the same time, however, bees seem to be thriving more in the city than in the countryside. And it’s not good news.

(more…)

Continue ReadingBees pollinate more flowers in the city than in the countryside – and it’s not good news