POSTECH analyzed the contribution of wildfires to changes in fine particulate matter PM_2.5 concentrations during drought periods.

Research groups led by Qing-Yuan Meng from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Xiu-Long Yang from Hebei University recently reported a novel acylation reaction for photocatalytic cleavage of olefin double bonds. Using a metal-free continuous photoredox catalytic strategy, they achieved a tertiary amine-mediated acylation of aromatic olefins via carbon-carbon double bond cleavage under mild conditions, resulting in the synthesis of a series of α-aryl ketones. Through controlled experiments and theoretical calculations, they explored the reaction mechanism, including the cleavage of both the π and σ bonds of the olefins, providing a new strategy for functionalization based on olefin double bond cleavage. This method exhibits excellent functional group compatibility and has potential applications in the synthesis and structural modification of bioactive molecules. These results were published as an open access article in CCS Chemistry, the flagship journal of the Chinese Chemical Society.

Mediterranean vineyards face a growing threat from heavy rains and soil degradation that strip away fertile topsoil. New research led by scientists at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, shows that adding biochar, a carbon-rich material made from plant waste—can dramatically reduce erosion and improve the soil’s ability to store water.

In a remarkable study that sheds new light on the potential of biochar to enhance phosphate solubilization, researchers are exploring how biochar can promote the solubilization of FePO4 through modulating organic acids excreted by Talaromyces pinophilus. The study, titled "Biochar Promotes FePO4 Solubilization Through Modulating Organic Acids Excreted by Talaromyces pinophilus," is led by Prof. Quan Chen and Prof. Min Wu from the Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Carbon Sequestration and Pollution Control at Kunming University of Science & Technology in Kunming, People's Republic of China. This research offers valuable insights into the role of biochar in enhancing phosphate availability for plants.

Rice University’s Han Xiao has been awarded the David W. Robertson Award for Excellence in Medicinal Chemistry by the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) Division of Medicinal Chemistry, recognizing Xiao’s pioneering contributions to therapeutic discovery.

A new study in Biochar reveals that nitrogen-fortified nanobiochar could significantly improve soil fertility and rice yields while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Researchers from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, India, found that combining a reduced nitrogen fertilizer dose with nanobiochar enhanced both soil properties and crop performance in nitrogen-deficient soils.

In a comprehensive analysis that offers a global view of carbon emission trends, researchers are exploring the factors driving CO2 emission peaks in countries worldwide. The study, titled "Carbon Emission Peaks in Countries Worldwide and Their National Drivers," is led by Prof. Chao He from the Collaborative Innovation Center for Emissions Trading System Co-Constructed by the Province and Ministry in Wuhan, China, and the National Science Library (Wuhan) at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This research provides critical insights into the national drivers behind carbon emission peaks, offering a detailed understanding of global emission trends.