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Science News for August 16, 2019


Doctors help parents talk with their teens about sex, alcohol

A randomized clinical trial found that interventions targeting parents in primary care pediatric settings can improve communications between parents and teens about sexual health and alcohol use. The study showed an increased frequency of parent-teen communications about these topics in intervention groups compared to the control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 16, 2019

Decoding the scent of a plant

Researchers found that herbivores like cutworm larvae can detect and respond to plant volatiles, triggering an immune response and protecting against parasitoid attacks. This unique ability allows the insects to 'smell' chemicals and counteract, revealing a new mechanism of communication between plants and their enemies.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateAug 16, 2019

Doped photovoltaics

A Chinese-German team developed a way to boost electric conductivity of organic solar cells, increasing their performance. By doping metal oxide interlayer with modified organic dye, both efficiency and stability were improved.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 16, 2019

Scientists assess reliability of multiple precipitable water vapor datasets in Central Asia

Researchers evaluated satellite and reanalysis PWV datasets against radiosonde observations in Central Asia, finding ERA5 and MERRA2 perform better in climatological characteristics and interannual variations. The study provides valuable information for future research on water cycle in Central Asia.

Cannabis-related poison control calls for Massachusetts kids doubled after medical pot legalized

Massachusetts kids experienced a doubling of cannabis-related poison control calls after medical marijuana was legalized, with single-substance exposure increasing 140% and edible products linked to most age groups. The study calls for stronger regulations to prevent unintentional exposure among young children and enhanced efforts to p...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 16, 2019