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Impact of climate change on water resources will increase price tag to decarbonize the grid

A new study warns that climate change's impact on water resources will significantly increase the cost of achieving zero-emission grids by 2050. The required investments in generation and transmission infrastructure are expected to be massive, with up to 139 gigawatts of power capacity needed in the Western United States.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 25, 2024

Researchers identify previously unknown compound in drinking water

A team of researchers has identified a previously unknown compound, chloronitramide anion, in chloraminated drinking water. The compound's toxicity is not yet known, but its prevalence and similarity to other toxic compounds warrant further study.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2024

What are the effects of historic lithium mining on water quality?

A new study from Duke University reveals that historic lithium mining is unlikely to contaminate surrounding waters with common pollutants like arsenic and lead. However, high levels of other metals including lithium, rubidium, and cesium were found in the mine's waters.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2024

Study finds health disparities in PFAS levels linked to drinking water, food access and industrial pollution

Researchers found that living in neighborhoods with low food access, contaminated drinking water, and proximity to Superfund sites increases PFAS levels in blood. The study provides evidence for addressing neighborhood-level factors in reducing racial and ethnic environmental health disparities.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 21, 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.

Deciphering the anomalous properties of water

A new theoretical model, CVF, accurately reproduces the thermodynamic properties of water under different conditions, revealing a critical point that explains its unique anomalies. The model has implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases and developing advanced biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

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.

Inland Delaware watersheds impaired by human waste

A new study reveals that human waste, both treated and untreated, is responsible for the microbial impairment in Delaware's inland waterways. The researchers found a majority of microbial signatures in the water matched a human waste signature, indicating infrastructure issues with septic systems may be to blame.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateNov 11, 2024

Incorporating cultural and recreational ecosystem services of freshwater within Israel’s water economy

A study by Aliza Fleischer, Yadin Gindin, and Yacov Tsur from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem introduces a new model that integrates recreational freshwater ecosystem services into water allocation decisions. The researchers found that increasing demand for these services leads to significant changes in water diversion, with a 24% r...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEcological Economics·DateNov 7, 2024

UT Extension program improves safety along local river

The UT Extension program has improved safety along the Buffalo River by installing GPS mile markers, assisting first responders during emergencies. The project, launched in partnership with local organizations, aims to reduce emergency response time and benefit thousands of river visitors annually.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateNov 6, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Droughts’ impact on pasturelands is measured in order toguide extensive livestock management on Spain’s dehesas

A study on Spanish dehesas has developed a tool to model pastureland productivity and water stress, allowing for more efficient grazing management. During severe droughts, grass production can drop by up to 67%, with areas having limited slopes and moderate tree cover being the most productive.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAgricultural Water Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024
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.

Millions in the U.S. may rely on groundwater contaminated with PFAS for drinking water supplies

According to a new USGS study, approximately 71-95 million people in the Lower 48 states may rely on groundwater containing detectable concentrations of PFAS for their drinking water supplies. The predictive model helps understand the potential for PFAS contamination and informs strategic planning for water resources.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 24, 2024

A simpler, more efficient device for harvesting water from the air

A new type of prototype water harvester uses temperature-sensitive materials to pull more water out of the atmosphere in 30 minutes on average than an alternative dehumidifier system using only half the energy. The device is also portable, making it suitable for regions where access to clean drinking water is limited.

SourceOhio State University·JournalTechnologies·DateOct 23, 2024

Forever Chemicals found in bottled and tap water from around the world

A new study discovered toxic 'Forever Chemicals' in tap and bottled water from around the world, with 99% of samples containing PFOA and PFOS. Treatment methods such as boiling and activated carbon filtration can substantially reduce PFAS concentrations, with removal rates ranging from 50-90%.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalACS ES&T Water·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

It could take over 40 years for PFAs to leave groundwater

Researchers found PFAS in groundwater up to 43 years old and concentrations that exceed health advisory levels. The study suggests it could take over 40 years for PFAS to leave contaminated groundwater, highlighting the need for continued cleanup efforts and long-term monitoring.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2024

AI-trained CCTV in rivers can spot blockages and reduce floods

Researchers have developed AI-enabled detection software that can accurately detect natural debris, litter, or waste blocking culverts. The system can be integrated to existing CCTV systems to provide proactive flood defense, improving safety for response teams.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2024
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.

Optimizing sustainable development in arid river basins: A multi-objective model balances water, energy, economy, carbon, and ecology

A collaborative research team introduced a new approach to sustainable development in arid river basins through a Grey Fractional Multi-Objective Programming (GFMOP) model. The study found that improving water use efficiency can reduce carbon emissions while safeguarding the environment.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 9, 2024

Solar-powered desalination system requires no extra batteries

The system removes salt from water at a pace that closely follows changes in solar energy, maximizing the utility of solar power. It produces large quantities of clean water despite variations in sunlight throughout the day, making it an attractive solution for communities with limited access to seawater and grid power.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Water·DateOct 8, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Water fluoridation less effective now than in past

A recent Cochrane review has found that the dental health benefits of adding fluoride to drinking water may be smaller now than before fluoride toothpaste was widely available. The review analyzed data from over 2,900 children in the UK and Australia, estimating a slight reduction in tooth decay, but with significant uncertainty.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 3, 2024

Making soybeans smarter

Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 30, 2024
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.

ABM releases position statement on breastfeeding in emergency situations

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has released comprehensive guidelines for protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding in emergency situations. The recommendations aim to safeguard the health and well-being of infants in disasters and conflicts by ensuring safe nutrition and immune protection.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 27, 2024

UTA scientist developing drinking water evaluation tool

A researcher at UTA is developing a tracer tool to help water suppliers ensure safe and reliable drinking water during extreme weather events. The tool will enable better management of drinking water in Tarrant County, addressing concerns about water flow and distribution.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 25, 2024

New tool to help decision makers navigate possible futures of the Colorado River

A new computational tool, FRNSIC, developed by Penn State scientists can help decision-makers explore possible futures of the Colorado River and identify consequential scenario storylines. The tool uses exploratory modeling to investigate a large number of plausible future conditions and classify relevant storylines for stakeholders.

SourcePenn State·JournalEarth's Future·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 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.

Location, location, location: Snowpack storage and runoff timing in burn scars depend on site and terrain

Snowmelt rates vary by slope orientation and receive varying amounts of solar radiation. The study found that burned south-facing slopes accumulate less snow and melt earlier than other aspects due to increased solar radiation absorption. This understanding will improve models and tools for water managers.

SourceColorado State University·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2024

The legacy of corn nitrogen fertilizer: Study shows lengthy impact in tile drained systems

A recent study from the University of Illinois provides new insights into the sources and processes affecting nitrogen load in tile drainage water. The research team found a large legacy pool of nitrate in the soil, resulting in a time lag between when nitrogen is added to the system and when it is exported as nitrate in tile drainage.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 12, 2024

What’s really ‘fueling’ harmful algae in Florida’s lake Okeechobee?

Research by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that managing both phosphorus and nitrogen is crucial for tackling toxic cyanobacterial blooms in Lake Okeechobee. Human waste is identified as a major source of nutrients, with elevated nitrogen levels found in urbanized estuaries and the Kissimmee River.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalHarmful Algae·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

New filtration material could remove long-lasting chemicals from water

A new filtration material developed by MIT researchers uses natural silk and cellulose to remove persistent chemicals, including PFAS and heavy metals. The material's antimicrobial properties help keep filters clean, providing a nature-based solution to water contamination.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 5, 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.

Samples from bottled water, tap water and household-treated tap water in San Francisco Bay Area indicate that all sources may have potential health risks, largely from trihalomethanes

A study of bottled, tap, and household-treated water in the San Francisco Bay Area found potential health risks from trihalomethanes in all sampled sources. The researchers analyzed various types of drinking water, including samples collected directly from households, to determine their chemical compositions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·DateSep 4, 2024

New filter removes chemical contaminants from water even at very low concentrations

A team of researchers has developed a new membrane material that can detect and remove pharmaceutical chemicals from water at trace levels. The new approach uses a polymer membrane with an interconnected network of pores, which are designed to capture larger molecules, allowing for more effective filtration.

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateSep 4, 2024

Drought risk and awareness gaps in global society

A growing global understanding of drought's impacts, but significant gaps remain in affected communities and developing countries. Long-lasting droughts heighten awareness, while economic factors influence responsiveness to the issue.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·Journalnpj Clean Water·DateAug 29, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Researchers urge closing outdated water rule to aid Colorado River crisis

Closing Colorado's 'free river conditions' loophole could save millions of cubic meters of water and reduce stress in the region. The loophole allows anyone to take as much water as they want from the river, threatening the success of any payment program for farmers not irrigating their land.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalWater Resources Research·DateAug 28, 2024

Novel strategy proposed for massive water production on moon

A new strategy for massive water production on the Moon has been proposed by Chinese researchers, utilizing reaction between lunar regolith and endogenous hydrogen. The study reveals that one ton of lunar regolith can generate over 50 kg of water, enough for 50 people for a day.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Innovation·DateAug 22, 2024

UCF researcher develops lotus-inspired tech to convert CO2 to fuels, chemicals

A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a nature-inspired filtration and conversion system that extracts carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere to create fuels and chemicals. The device mimics the lotus surface, capturing carbon dioxide with a microsurface comprised of a tin oxide film and fluorine layer.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Why isn't Colorado's snowpack ending up in the Colorado River? New research suggests the problem might be the lack of spring rainfall

A recent study by University of Washington researchers found that warmer, drier springs account for almost 70% of the discrepancy between predicted and actual streamflow in Colorado. The team's findings suggest that plants rely more on snowmelt during dry springs, leaving less water to flow into nearby streams.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 16, 2024

Hydrometeorology and location affect hospitalizations for waterborne infectious diseases in the US

A study published in PLOS Water found associations between weather, geographic location, and urban/rural settings with waterborne infectious disease hospitalizations. Hospitalization rates were higher for enteric and biofilm-forming bacterial pathogens in areas using groundwater, while precipitation increased parasitic infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2024

Weather and geography drive waterborne infectious disease outbreaks

A study analyzing 12 years of data from over 500 hospitals in 25 US states found that weather and geographic location impact hospitalizations for waterborne diseases. Precipitation, soil moisture, and rural locations were linked to increased rates of certain infections.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Water·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 14, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Rice-built reactor yields green ammonia and purified water

A Rice-built reactor system can convert nitrates into green ammonia and purified water, decarbonizing ammonia production and treating nitrate-contaminated water. The innovative three-chamber system uses recyclable ions to improve reaction efficiency and eliminates the need for high concentrations of supporting electrolytes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 12, 2024

Researchers create new device for on-the-spot water testing

A new technology allows for rapid and accurate detection of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in water sources, enabling Environmental Health Officers and groundwater schemes to test more frequently. The portable device provides on-the-spot results in under an hour, helping to prevent outbreaks of infection.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalMicrobiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 7, 2024

Plants show surprising diversity in arid landscape

A KAUST-led study reveals that plant trait diversity increases above an aridity threshold of 0.7, challenging the view that harsh environments reduce biodiversity. The research found that chemical and morphological traits respond similarly to changes in aridity and grazing pressure.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2024
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.

Plucking water from the air

Researchers developed a system that passively alternates between capturing and generating water, eliminating manual labor requirements. The system uses mass transport bridges to optimize efficiency and effectiveness, producing 2-3 liters of water per square meter daily.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2024

Wang receives funding for Experiential Learning Program

Wang will develop an educational simulation game, CyberShield H2O, to enhance awareness and understanding of cybersecurity risks associated with public water systems. The project aims to foster critical systems thinking and prepare students to address cyber risks in municipal water systems.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJul 29, 2024