Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Murky lakes now surpass clear, blue lakes in US

Research reveals a significant shift from clear to murky lakes in the continental United States over the past five years. Murky lakes have increased by 12% while clear lakes declined by 18%, posing concerns for water quality and aquatic life.

SourceWiley·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateAug 22, 2018

The secret life of lobster (trade): Could we be in hot water?

A recent study maps the global trade routes for lobster, revealing that a growing number of nations are acting as middlemen, making it difficult to trace seafood origins and anticipate market demand changes. The Asian market, particularly China, appears to be significantly larger than previously thought, putting Maine's industry at risk.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJul 11, 2018

Implications of targeted observation for ENSO prediction

Researchers studied targeted observation for ENSO prediction, finding that observing central equatorial Pacific improves skill by 25%, while eastern Pacific observations during April-October boost accuracy by 62%. Implementing targeted observation weakens the spring predictability barrier, significantly improving prediction skill.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 25, 2018

Translating elephant seal data into a symphony provides surprising insights

Researchers used GPS tracking data to visualize and sonify elephant seal group dynamics, creating a 45-minute symphony that showcases remarkable coordination in their ocean exploration. The study successfully compressed 10 years of data into a condensed musical composition, providing new cutting-edge research opportunities at KAUST.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 23, 2018

Losing sleep over climate change

A new study found that warmer nights due to climate change can lead to increased instances of insufficient sleep, with the poor and elderly being most affected. The research shows that a single month of nightly temperatures averaging 1 degree Celsius higher than normal could result in 9 million more nights of insufficient sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 26, 2017

Interdisciplinary studies reveal relationship between solar activity and climate change

Researchers have found a significant relationship between solar wind speed and North Atlantic Oscillation, suggesting a faster mechanism of solar influence on atmospheric systems. The team also developed a physical model to depict the interdecadal response of air-sea systems to solar activity.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 24, 2017

Sea scorpions: The original sea monster

Researchers at the University of Alberta have found that sea scorpions likely used their serrated tail spines to kill ancient early vertebrates. The study suggests that these prehistoric predators could slash their tails from side to side, using a horizontal slashing motion to capture and dispatch their prey.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateApr 18, 2017

Catch shares slow the 'race to fish'

A study by Duke University economists found that catch shares reduce the 'race to fish' that compresses fishing seasons. This allows fishers to time their catches with market demand, reducing occupational hazards and improving fish quality. While exceptions exist, benefits still outweigh negatives.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2017

Biofuel produced by microalgae

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have identified the key enzymes responsible for oil synthesis in microalgae. The research reveals that four lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferases (LPATs) play a crucial role in the formation and growth of lipid droplets, where TAG biosynthesis occurs.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateFeb 28, 2017

Graphene under pressure

Researchers discovered that the shape and dimensions of graphene nano-bubbles provide information on its elastic strength and interaction with substrates. The balloons can be created intentionally to make tiny pressure machines capable of withstanding enormous pressures.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 25, 2016