Add BrightSurf on Google Email

USC researchers uncover biological circuit that protects plants from extreme conditions

Plants use their circadian clocks to regulate responses to changes in water and salinity levels, offering a new avenue for creating drought-resistant crops. The discovery of the ABF3 feedback loop reveals a delicate balance between boosting stress tolerance and maximizing growth and yield.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Vitamin B12 adaptability in Antarctic algae has implications for climate change, life in the Southern Ocean

A new study on Antarctic algae reveals that they can survive without vitamin B12, a finding with significant implications for climate change and the carbon cycle. The algae, Phaeocystis antarctica, has a fusion B12-independent methionine synthase protein that enables it to adapt to low B12 availability.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Asparagus and orchids are more similar than you think

A team of University of Copenhagen researchers has created a large reference catalogue of plant cell wall compositions from 287 species, representing the entire plant kingdom. The study reveals that carbohydrate composition is more closely related to a plant's family history than its habitat and growth form.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPlant Cell & Environment·DateJan 30, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Endangered seabird shows surprising individual flexibility to adapt to climate change

Researchers found that individual Balearic shearwaters are adapting to climate change by shifting their migratory range northwards, with a speed of 25km per year. However, this flexibility comes with constraints, as the birds have further to fly back in the autumn, and the impact on breeding success and survival is still unclear.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2024

Use it or lose it: How seagrasses conquered the sea

Research findings show seagrasses have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in marine environments, including genome duplication and fine-tuning of supportive pathways. The study's results provide clues for conserving and sustainably using these important ecosystems.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Climate change can put the planet’s largest reserves of drinking water at risk

An international study of 12 caves worldwide reveals that climate change could threaten the planet's largest freshwater reserves. The study found that temperature variations in caves reflect changes at the surface, posing a threat to unique and adapted organisms that maintain water quality.

SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2024

Colorado State research quantifies greenhouse gas emissions from US irrigation pumping

A Colorado State University study quantifies greenhouse gas emissions from US irrigation pumping, highlighting the significant impact of groundwater pumping and location on emissions. The research estimates that electric pumps can play a key role in decarbonizing irrigation systems as the electrical grid becomes cleaner.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2024

The heat is on: UMass Amherst scientists discover southern Africa’s temps will rise past the rhinos’ tolerance

Rising temperatures caused by climate change will impact southern Africa's remaining black and white rhinoceros populations, scientists report. The region's diverse national parks will struggle to adapt to increasing heat, with some species facing extinction due to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBiodiversity·DateJan 17, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

The extinction of the giant ape: a long-standing mystery solved

New evidence reveals that giant ape species 'Gigantopithcus blacki' went extinct between 295,000 and 215,000 years ago due to its inability to adapt to changing climates and food preferences. The study used multiple dating techniques and environmental analysis to confirm the extinction timeline.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Climate change behind sharp drop in snowpack since 1980s

A new Dartmouth study finds that seasonal snowpacks have shrunk significantly over the past 40 years due to human-driven climate change. The sharpest global warming-related reductions are in the Southwestern and Northeastern United States, as well as in Central and Eastern Europe.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

Some mosquitoes like it hot

New research found significant differences in heat tolerance among mosquito populations, with some more resilient to heat waves than others. Climate factors such as precipitation and humidity play a crucial role in determining their thermal limits, which may impact disease transmission.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Understanding climate mobilities: New study examines perspectives from South Florida practitioners

A recent study assesses the perspectives of 76 diverse South Florida climate adaptation professionals, highlighting a growing consensus on the inevitability of climate mobilities. The study reveals concerns about distributional inequities, socio-cultural disruptions, and financial disparities arising from climate-driven relocations.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalOxford Open Climate Change·TypeSurvey·DateJan 2, 2024

Evolution might stop humans from solving climate change, says new study

A new study by University of Maine researchers reveals that human evolution's core processes might prevent humans from resolving global environmental problems like climate change. The study found that cultural adaptation to the environment, which has driven human evolution, accelerates due to a positive feedback process, making it chal...

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJan 2, 2024

In coastal communities, sea level rise may leave some isolated

A new study reveals that accelerating sea level rise will exacerbate existing social inequality in coastal areas, with minority populations facing the most severe burdens. Rising sea levels disrupt transportation networks and roads, leading to increased isolation and reduced access to essential services.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 29, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Growing pains? SFU research tracks 100 years of salmon adaptation to climate change

A new Simon Fraser University-led study tracks 100 years of salmon growth and finds that juvenile salmon are growing larger due to climate change. The study suggests maintaining freshwater habitats can help salmon adapt to warming temperatures, with relatively deep lakes becoming more important.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

The color of dragonflies changes throughout the year

Researchers discovered that dragonflies change their average coloration seasonally, with darker colors absorbing heat and lighter colors protecting against overheating. This adaptation allows them to regulate their body temperature in response to changing solar radiation conditions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2023

Finding new ways to adapt to a growing weather threat

A new study finds that tropical cyclone exposure is increasing globally, with vulnerable populations facing greater risks. The analysis reveals a significant increase in the number of people at risk from these storms, particularly among those over 60 and socioeconomically deprived.

SourceStanford Woods Institute for the Environment·JournalNature·DateDec 20, 2023

Low economic growth can help keep climate change within the 1.5 °C threshold

A new study by ICTA-UAB shows that pursuing higher economic growth may jeopardise the Paris goals and leave no viable pathways for humanity to stabilise the climate. Slower growth rates make it more feasible to achieve the Paris goals, with lower economic growth reducing CO2 emissions by 10-13% by 2030.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 19, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Genetic sequencing uncovers unexpected source of pathogens in floodwaters

Researchers found local rivers and streams to be the source of Salmonella enterica contamination after Hurricane Florence, contradicting assumptions about pig farms. The study has critical implications for disease control and prevention in coastal regions affected by tropical storms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGeoHealth·TypeCase study·DateDec 19, 2023

Air conditioning has reduced mortality due to high temperatures in Spain by one third

A study published in Environment International found that air conditioning reduced heat-related mortality in Spain by up to 31.5%, while heating systems contributed to a decrease of 50.8% in extreme cold-related fatalities. However, the effect may be attenuated by an ageing population.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

ASU research reveals regions in U.S. where heat adaptation and mitigation efforts can most benefit future populations

New ASU research models the benefits of combining heat adaptation strategies with mitigation efforts to lessen extreme heat exposure in major US cities. The study finds that Northeast and Midwest regions can expect greater benefits, while Sun Belt cities face limited reductions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Cities·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 18, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Navigating climate challenges: UVA engineers and environmental scientists aid Virginia’s eastern shore

A team of UVA civil and environmental engineers and environmental scientists have developed a web-based decision-support tool, called the Climate Equity Atlas, to help residents deal with the challenges caused by climate change. The tool combines historical environmental data and socioeconomic data to create a sophisticated predictive ...

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 15, 2023

Twenty-year study confirms California forests are healthier when burned — or thinned

A 20-year study confirms that prescribed burning and restoration thinning can reduce wildfire risk and boost forest health. The treatments improve tree resilience to drought and bark beetles without harming biodiversity. Combining thinning with fire produces the best results, making forests more resilient to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEcological Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

In hotter regions, mammals seek forests, avoid human habitats

A study by the University of California, Davis, found that North American mammals consistently depend on forests and avoid cities, farms, and other human-dominated areas in hotter climes. This suggests that preserving forest cover will be increasingly important for wildlife conservation as the climate warms.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 4, 2023

New methods for improving water management to develop sustainable cities

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a system to assess water quality challenges in Suzhou, China. The study found that the city's water capacity has increased since 2001 due to effective water management measures.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalWater Resources Management·TypeCase study·DateDec 1, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Riding the whims of the wind

Researchers develop a mathematical model that analyzes the future survival of plants in a changing climate by studying how far wind can carry seeds. The model provides fast and reliable predictions of seed movement, considering factors like seed type, plant height, and wind speed.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEcological Modelling·DateNov 30, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Scientists create framework to guide development and assessment of urban climate action plans

A new framework for urban climate action planning has been developed to aid local governments in developing and assessing their climate action plans. The framework includes 43 globally recognized criteria across three stages of climate planning, with over half of existing urban plans having a medium level of suitability.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateNov 29, 2023

Human rights are a low priority for many national climate change adaptation policies, new Concordia research finds

A Concordia-led study found that human rights are frequently absent from national climate change adaptation policies. The researchers assessed 147 countries and discovered that vulnerable groups, including poor people, elderly individuals, and Indigenous communities, are often excluded from planning and decision-making processes. This ...

SourceConcordia University·JournalClimate Policy·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 28, 2023

Pioneering research method reveals bluefin tuna’s fate

Rising sea temperatures in the Mediterranean may drive juvenile bluefin tuna out of their nurseries, where they'll be caught in existing fisheries, requiring adaptions to fishery methods. The research found that waters above 28 degrees Celsius will adversely impact bluefin growth.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·DateNov 27, 2023

Green Climate Fund fails to strengthen private sector engagement

The Green Climate Fund has struggled to mobilize financial resources from the private sector, with only a small share of its $40 billion budget coming from private sources. A new study suggests that this is due to perceptions of unprofitable investments and lack of attractive business models, particularly in climate adaptation.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalClimate Policy·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 27, 2023

Coastal river deltas threatened by more than climate change

The study identifies five critical risk factors to delta sustainability: land subsidence, population density, ineffective governance, economic capacity, and crop land use. Local and global approaches, combining hard and soft adaptation methods, can mitigate risks.

SourceLund University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateNov 20, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Inequality hotspot map shows where women in agriculture are hit the hardest by the climate crisis

A new hotspot map reveals where women working in agri-food systems face the highest climate risk, with central, east, and southern Africa, as well as west and south Asia, being among the most vulnerable regions. Women's exposure to climate hazards and systemic gender inequalities converge to increase their vulnerability.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2023

Climate engineering could slow Antarctic ice loss, study shows

A study led by Indiana University researchers explores the potential of climate engineering to slow Antarctic ice loss through stratospheric aerosol injection. The approach could buy time to address climate change and avoid catastrophic sea-level rise.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateNov 15, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How mega-floods can be predicted

A new research project uses data from over 8,000 gauging stations across Europe to predict mega-floods, reducing the surprise factor of their occurrence. By considering hydrologically similar areas, flood disasters can be anticipated and mitigated, saving lives.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 10, 2023

Cracking the code: Genome sequencing reveals why songbirds are larger in colder climates

Scientists have unlocked the genetic basis underlying the remarkable variation in body size observed in song sparrows, one of North America's most familiar and beloved songbirds. The study found eight genetic variants associated with body mass, largely responsible for the nearly threefold difference in body size across the species' range.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 7, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New model adds human reactions to flood risk assessment

A new land change model simulates interactions between urban growth, increased flooding, and human adaptation, offering deeper insights into adaptive capacities and identifying communities with limited resources. The model reduces projected developed land exposed to flooding by 5-24% depending on flood hazard zone.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

New study finds electric vehicles are driven less than gas cars

A large study of used cars and SUVs found battery electric vehicles driven almost 4,500 fewer miles than gas cars annually. This challenges current assumptions about emissions savings from EVs, highlighting the need for better understanding of driver behavior to accurately predict emissions reductions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJoule·DateNov 6, 2023

Video technology could transform how scientists monitor changes in species evolution and development

Researchers have made a breakthrough in studying species evolution by using robotic video microscopes and computer vision to measure embryo characteristics. The study found huge changes in an embryo's observable traits before and after developmental events, suggesting that measuring timings of development is just the tip of the iceberg.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

Keeping an eye on the regions when it comes to climate change

Researchers found that climate models are accurate at simulating global temperature trends but struggle to capture regional variations, particularly over long periods. This disparity has significant implications for planning and implementing climate adaptation measures.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

Measuring the impact of desert greening

A recent KAUST study used satellite data to investigate the effects of managed vegetation on surface temperature in arid regions. The results showed that vegetation can reduce daytime temperatures by up to 4 degrees Celsius compared to bare soil, providing an extra cooling effect on hotter days.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEcological Indicators·DateNov 5, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Green spaces can save lives, according to urban big data

Researchers found that green spaces alleviate extreme heat's negative impacts on human health, while densely packed buildings increase mortality risk. Urban design strategies incorporating different types of greenery are recommended to mitigate heatwave-associated mortality.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2023

NSF funds holistic approach to help farmers adapt to climate change

The National Science Foundation has awarded $1.6 million to Emory University researchers to develop predictive models for farmers to adapt to climate change in Georgia, Iowa and Ohio. The project aims to create a public online tool to explore possible futures of agriculture at regional and state levels.

SourceEmory University·DateOct 30, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

UMaine, UVM researchers conduct first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change

A team of researchers from UMaine and UVM have conducted the first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change in US crops. They found that farmers are already adapting their practices to better match crops to recent changes in climate, with some regions showing significant changes in crop selection.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateOct 30, 2023