<p>NatureServe Explorer Species Reports &#8212; NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.</p>
<p>ITIS Reports &#8212; ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.</p>
<p>FWS Digital Media Library &#8212; The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service&#8217;s National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.</p>


Trionyx hurum

<p>Serious wine aficionados often rave about the distinctive flavors in their favorite beverages, attributing the unique tastes to the soil in which the grapes are grown. This concept, known as terroir, refers to how a region's natural environment - including its soil, climate, and topography - influence the flavor of wine. </p>



<p>But what about other crops? Can the microscopic organisms in the soil also play a role in determining the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-trained-an-ai-algorithm-to-taste-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavors</a> of the foods we eat?</p>



<p>In a pioneering study, former PhD student Corrine Walsh and CIRES fellow Noah Fierer led researchers in exploring this intriguing question. The analysis was focused on one particular aspect of plant flavor: the spiciness of mustard seeds. </p>



<p>"I thought that was an interesting question," said Walsh. "We know <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-microbes-in-tea-roots-grow-tastier-healthier-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> and plants communicate via chemicals - could those chemicals impact plant flavor?"</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-deeper-soil-microbes-and-food-flavor">Digging deeper: Soil microbes and food flavor</h2>



<p>Previous studies have shown that soil characteristics significantly affect plant growth, disease resistance, and nutrient uptake. However, due to the complexities involved in isolating these effects, researchers have largely left the potential influence of soil microbes on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/old-trick-turns-plant-based-cheese-into-something-that-actually-tastes-good/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant flavor</a> unexplored.</p>



<p>"It is often claimed that the types of microbes found in soil should influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyber-agriculture-tastier-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop flavor</a>," Fierer noted, highlighting the difficulties in studying soil microbes.</p>



<p>To address this, Walsh and Fierer employed a unique method. They conducted a greenhouse experiment, growing mustard plants with a liquid inoculum of microbes sourced from various Colorado environments, including aspen groves, sagebrush fields, ponderosa pine forests, and agricultural pastures.</p>



<p>To ensure that only the microbial variables were altered, the researchers maintained consistent conditions such as potting soil, temperature, watering, and nutrients.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-spice-of-life-why-mustard">The spice of life: Why mustard?</h2>



<p>The researchers chose mustard for its simplicity to grow and its relevance in the Brassica family, known for producing vegetables with distinct spicy and bitter flavors like broccoli, cabbage, and horseradish.</p>



<p>These flavors primarily stem from glucosinolates, chemicals that defend the plants against pests and diseases. </p>



<p>"When you cook them they have that kind of sulfury smell. The glucosinolates have a sulfur compound in them, and that's what you're smelling when you cook," noted Walsh.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-quest-for-spicy-seeds">The quest for spicy seeds</h2>



<p>After harvesting, the researchers analyzed the mustard seeds for glucosinolate concentrations to measure their spiciness, instead of subjecting them to taste tests.</p>



<p>Although the experiment faced challenges due to the changing nature of the microbiomes, it revealed a connection between the microbiome and seed chemistry. However, the specifics of this relationship, including the direction and mechanisms, remain unclear.</p>



<p>Walsh reflected on the complexity of controlling biological variables. "The way the microbiomes diverged over time throughout the experiment made it hard to test some of our hypotheses of microbes affecting flavor," she said. "We found a relationship, but the direction and mechanism of that relationship remain unknown."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-flavors-the-potential-of-microbial-probiotics">Future flavors: The potential of microbial probiotics</h2>



<p>Despite these challenges, the study provided preliminary evidence that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-microbes-disease-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil microbes</a> might influence the spiciness of mustard seeds. </p>



<p>This discovery opens up exciting possibilities for using microbial "probiotics" to enhance other crop properties, such as drought resistance and productivity, potentially impacting flavor as well.</p>



<p>The research marks an important step in understanding the complex interactions between soil microbes and plant flavors.</p>



<p>"We do now know that microbes are worth considering in this venue. There is excitement about using microbial inoculants to do other things for crops," said Walsh. </p>



<p>This ongoing exploration of microbial influence not only broadens our understanding of agriculture but also hints at future innovations in enhancing the flavors of our favorite foods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Soil and food flavor</h2>



<p>The soil in which food crops are grown can significantly influence their flavor. This effect is due to various factors, including the soil's mineral composition, pH level, organic matter content, and moisture levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These elements affect how the plants absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-proteins-that-control-nutrient-uptake-in-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a> and develop their compounds, which in turn can influence their taste, aroma, and nutritional value.</p>



<p>Certain minerals like selenium, zinc, and magnesium can enhance specific flavors in crops. In addition, the acidity or alkalinity of soil can affect how well plants take up nutrients, altering flavor profiles.</p>



<p>Furthermore, rich organic soil often leads to stronger, more robust flavors in vegetables and fruits.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.19708" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a></em></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Soil microbes may shape the flavor of food

Serious wine aficionados often rave about the distinctive flavors in...

<p>A new kind of global competition is unfolding, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-china-us-economy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China</a> and the United States vying for dominance in the realm of emerging technologies. This fierce battle over artificial intelligence (AI), 5G networks, quantum computing, and more, will likely reshape the international balance of global tech power for decades to come.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battlegrounds-for-global-tech-power">Battlegrounds for global tech power</h2>



<p>Emerging technologies are at the forefront of this geopolitical contest. These technologies are not just tools of economic growth but also instruments of national power and security. They include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-intelligence-ai">Artificial Intelligence (AI)</h3>



<p>Imagine software that goes far beyond just following instructions. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lawless-superintelligence-zero-evidence-ai-control-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI systems</a> are designed to process vast amounts of information, identify patterns, and make predictions based on that data. </p>



<p>They can learn from experience, improving their decision-making over time. This translates to everything from better medical diagnoses to more efficient manufacturing processes, and even the potential for machines to become creative.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5g-wireless-networks">5G  wireless networks</h3>



<p>Think of 5G as the backbone for an ultra-connected world. This next-generation wireless technology isn't just about faster phone downloads. Its real power lies in incredibly low latency (meaning minimal delays) and significantly higher capacity. </p>



<p>This could enable seamless communication between massive numbers of devices, powering things like self-driving car networks, remote surgery, and truly 'smart' cities.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-computing">Quantum computing</h3>



<p>Traditional computers work with bits – the familiar ones and zeros. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum computers</a> operate on a mind-bending level, using quantum bits (or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-outperformed-new-type-traditional-computing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">qubits</a>) that take advantage of the strange behavior of particles at the atomic level. </p>



<p>This could open the door to solving incredibly complex problems that traditional computers simply can't handle. This includes revolutionizing drug development, financial modeling, and materials science.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iot-internet-of-things">IoT (Internet of things)</h3>



<p>Imagine your everyday world infused with connectivity. Not just phones and laptops, but appliances, vehicles, even your clothing becoming smart – gathering data and communicating with each other. This is the internet of things (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greener-energy-is-needed-for-the-internet-of-things/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IoT</a>).</p>



<p>It creates a web of intelligence with the potential to make our lives safer, more efficient, and more convenient, but also raises concerns about privacy and security.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-data">Big data</h3>



<p>Our digital footprints are massive. Every website visited, online purchase, even just moving around with a smartphone generates information. Big data is the science of analyzing this massive information trove. </p>



<p>It helps companies understand consumer behavior, researchers discover hidden patterns, and can potentially drive innovations in various fields. But it also raises ethical concerns about how this data is collected and used.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-china-s-power-ascends-as-global-tech-giant">China's power ascends as global tech giant</h2>



<p>China has demonstrated significant progress in these emerging technological fields. Their investments in research and development, coupled with a strategic focus on these areas, have yielded impressive results.</p>



<p>"China's growing power and expansion in emerging tech are key to driving massive shifts in technology and the geopolitical landscape," says Dr. Maria Papageorgiou from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>. </p>



<p>This rapid development has prompted a response from the United States, which is working to maintain its technological standing. The USA is actively involved in research and development efforts, while also seeking to bolster alliances with other countries to counter China's growing influence. </p>



<p>This intense competition is likely to have significant ramifications for the future trajectory of technological innovation and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-crisis-global-supply-chains-face-25-trillion-in-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global</a> balance of power.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-weapons-vs-future-convenience">Future weapons vs. future convenience</h2>



<p>The significant concern surrounding this technological competition centers on the potential military applications of these advancements. </p>



<p>Some experts worry that these powerful technologies, like artificial intelligence and advanced computing, could be weaponized, creating significant advantages for the nation that controls them. </p>



<p>For instance, China's development of sophisticated systems raises questions about their ability to potentially bypass or outmaneuver existing US defense mechanisms.</p>



<p>However, it's crucial to recognize the vast potential for civilian applications within these same emerging technologies. These advancements hold the promise of significant improvements in our daily lives. </p>



<p>From revolutionizing healthcare with AI-powered diagnostics to fostering a more interconnected world through 5G networks, the potential benefits are undeniable. </p>



<p>The key question remains: will the focus be on weaponization or harnessing these technologies for positive civilian applications? The outcome of this competition will determine which path we take and the impact it has on the global landscape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-allies-for-global-tech-power">The power of allies for global tech power</h2>



<p>The United States recognizes the limitations of a solo approach in this technological race. To maintain its competitive edge, the USA has actively pursued the development of strategic alliances with other countries. </p>



<p>Key partners include nations like Japan and South Korea, both of which boast significant technological capabilities. This collaborative effort allows them to pool resources for research and development, accelerating innovation across various emerging technology fields.</p>



<p>However, the competition extends beyond software and algorithms. A crucial element lies in the physical infrastructure that underpins these technologies – microchips. These tiny electronic components are the brains behind modern devices, and their production capabilities are a vital battleground. </p>



<p>The USA and its allies are working together to establish a secure and reliable supply chain for microchip production, aiming to lessen dependence on other nations and maintain control over this critical resource. </p>



<p>This collaborative approach highlights the multifaceted nature of the competition, encompassing not just software and theoretical advancements, but also the physical infrastructure that makes it all possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-semiconductors-in-global-tech-landscape">Semiconductors in global tech landscape</h2>



<p>Microchips, often referred to as semiconductors, are the unsung heroes of this technological rivalry. These tiny, intricate circuits are the fundamental building blocks of modern electronics. </p>



<p>They act as the brains behind everything from smartphones and computers to advanced weaponry and medical equipment. Essentially, whoever controls the production and supply of these microchips holds significant influence in the global tech landscape.</p>



<p>This understanding has fueled intense competition between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-plans-to-inhabit-a-space-station-on-the-moon-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China</a> and the United States. Both nations are pouring significant resources into research and development to not only improve chip design and functionality but also to establish independent and robust domestic production capabilities. This drive for self-sufficiency has led to a series of strategic maneuvers. </p>



<p>The USA, for instance, has implemented export controls to limit the flow of advanced chip technology to China. China, in response, has ramped up its own domestic production efforts and aggressively pursued acquisitions of foreign chip manufacturers. </p>



<p>These actions have heightened diplomatic tensions, as each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-every-nations-contribution-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nation</a> seeks to gain an advantage in this critical sector. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-global-tech-power">Future global tech power</h2>



<p>The struggle for dominance in the microchip industry is a complex one, with far-reaching consequences for the global balance of power and technological innovation.</p>



<p>That's the million-dollar question. Will this tech race usher in a better future for everyone? Or will it lead to more division and conflict? Like most things in world politics, there's no easy answer. </p>



<p>However, one thing is certain: the technologies shaping our future are being developed right now in the heat of this competition. It's a fascinating, somewhat scary, but undeniably exciting time to be alive.</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41111-024-00248-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Political Science Review</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Emerging technologies will control the global power balance

A new kind of global competition is unfolding, with China...

<p>Did you know you can read a chicken's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-can-now-decipher-the-emotional-states-of-chickens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>? It turns out our feathered friends have a surprising way of showing their feelings - their faces blush a deeper red when they're distressed. </p>



<p>A revolutionary study has confirmed this, opening up new ways to understand how chickens feel and build better relationships with them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-chickens-express-their-emotions">How do chickens express their emotions?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicken-psychology-birds-smart-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a>, like many animals, experience a spectrum of emotions ranging from joy and excitement to frustration and fear. However, their ways of expressing these emotions differ from ours. They don't rely on facial expressions like smiling or frowning to communicate how they feel.</p>



<p>Instead, changes in chickens' facial coloration offer clues about their inner state. The skin around their faces, including the comb and wattle, is particularly sensitive. These areas maintain a lighter red hue when chickens are relaxed and content. </p>



<p>When chickens experience negative emotions, the blood flow to these areas increases significantly. This causes a visible change as their faces become flushed with a much brighter scarlet shade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-chickens-blush">Why do chickens blush?</h2>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a> (France's National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment) embarked on a detailed investigation to decipher how a chicken's blush reveals its emotions. They focused on Sussex hens, a popular breed of laying chickens. </p>



<p>To ensure accuracy, the research team employed advanced camera technology and specialized software. This allowed them to precisely measure and analyze subtle changes in facial redness.</p>



<p>The researchers exposed hens to various stimuli and carefully documented the changes in coloration. When presented with appetizing feed such as mealworms, the hens did get a bit red but their entire face became scarlet red during negative experiences such as capture. This demonstrated a clear connection between the hens' emotional state and the intensity of their flushing.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, the study also shed light on how chickens perceive humans. Hens who had been gradually accustomed to the presence of a friendly researcher over time showed a reduced stress response. </p>



<p>This was evident in their calmer demeanor and the less intense flushing of their faces in the researcher's presence. In comparison, hens without this positive exposure exhibited a more pronounced stress response when near humans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-in-chickens-and-humans">Emotions in chickens and humans</h2>



<p>The ability to accurately interpret chicken emotions provides invaluable insights for farmers, animal scientists, and veterinarians. Using this knowledge, they can tailor environments and care practices to promote positive emotional states in chickens. </p>



<p>This includes minimizing stressful situations, providing opportunities for enrichment, and fostering a sense of security. Such changes in animal management can lead to improvements in overall chicken well-being and health.</p>



<p>While chickens and humans may seem worlds apart, this study highlights a shared emotional language. By learning to recognize the subtle cues chickens use to express their feelings, we can develop greater empathy and understanding towards them. </p>



<p>This awareness can promote more respectful and compassionate interactions, potentially transforming our relationship with these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zebra-finches-use-both-calls-and-vision-to-coordinate-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> even in backyard settings or small-scale farming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



<p>The study serves as a springboard for numerous exciting avenues of future research. Scientists are keen to delve deeper into the diverse ways chickens might communicate their emotions.</p>



<p>Beyond facial flushing, changes in the position or movement of head feathers could hold clues to a chicken's emotional state. For instance, during moments of excitement, a hen might rapidly raise and lower her head feathers. </p>



<p>Conversely, fear or stress might be signaled by flattened or ruffled feathers. Careful observation and analysis are needed to decode this potential new emotional language.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tech-uses-chicken-feathers-to-generate-clean-electricity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a> live within complex social structures, often with clear dominance relationships. Researchers want to understand how emotional signals play a role in these interactions. </p>



<p>For example, a dominant hen might display specific feather patterns or facial coloration changes to assert her position, while a subordinate hen might exhibit different signals to indicate submission. Understanding these nuances could unlock secrets about chicken communication and social dynamics.</p>



<p>The next time you see a chicken, take a good look at its face. Is it pale, relaxed, and content? Or is it flushed, indicating the chicken might be feeling stressed or worried?</p>



<p>Remember, our awareness and empathy can make all the difference in the lives of animals around us, even backyard chickens.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124001163?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Animal Behaviour Science</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Chickens' faces change color depending on their emotions

Did you know you can read a chicken's emotions? It...

<p>In the East Asian skies, monsoon winds are not just reshaping weather but are also unexpectedly carrying large amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-hole-has-been-slowly-shrinking-over-two-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a>-depleating substances into the stratosphere. </p>



<p>This discovery, as highlighted by the U.S. National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFS</a>) and NASA, challenges previous assumptions about the rate of ozone recovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monsoons-and-ozone-recovery">Monsoons and ozone recovery</h2>



<p>Monsoons were primarily associated with seasonal shifts in rainfall, influencing agriculture and impacting local communities.</p>



<p>However, recent research reveals a more complex role for monsoons. The intense winds associated with monsoons, especially in Asia, can act as conveyor belts for pollutants. These powerful upward air currents carry pollutants from the Earth's surface to much higher altitudes.</p>



<p>Climate change is intensifying the East Asian Monsoon system. This means an even greater potential for transporting large amounts of harmful chemicals into the upper atmosphere.</p>



<p>When carried high into the atmosphere, particularly the stratosphere, pollutants can interact with and deplete the ozone layer. Scientists are increasingly concerned about the transport of pollutants that were previously deemed less harmful due to their shorter lifespan. The monsoon now acts as a shortcut for these chemicals to reach the ozone layer</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-very-short-lived-pollutants">Very short-lived pollutants</h2>



<p>For many years, scientists identified chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the major threat to the ozone layer. CFCs are incredibly long-lasting; they stay active in the atmosphere for decades or longer, causing continuous damage to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-ozone-holes-have-re-emerged-over-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a>.</p>



<p>The Montreal Protocol was an international agreement aimed at phasing out CFC production and consumption. The treaty has been remarkably successful and is a testament to how collective action can address environmental challenges.</p>



<p>Scientists are now worried about a new class of pollutants called "very short-lived" ozone-depleting substances (VSLS). These chemicals, used in various industries, were assumed to be less harmful because they degrade faster in the lower atmosphere.</p>



<p>Industrialization, particularly in South and East Asia, has led to a significant increase in VSLS emissions. This poses a new challenge for protecting the ozone layer.</p>



<p>Even though VSLS break down relatively quickly near the Earth's surface, the question is: What happens if these chemicals get transported higher into the atmosphere? If they manage to hitch a ride directly to the stratosphere, where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-pollution-threatens-the-health-of-plants-and-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a> layer is, their shorter lifespan becomes irrelevant. The ozone-depleting potential of VSLS still poses a threat, even if for a briefer period.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monsoons-hamper-ozone-recovery">Monsoons hamper ozone recovery</h2>



<p>The NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (<a href="https://ncar.ucar.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCAR</a>) and <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> study, part of the Asian Summer Monsoon Chemistry and Climate Impact Project (<a href="https://www-air.larc.nasa.gov/missions/acclip/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACCLIP</a>), paints a worrying picture. Scientists made airborne observations of the monsoon system finding:</p>



<ul>
<li>Compared to the South Asian monsoon, the East Asian monsoon showed significantly higher levels of pollutants – a nasty cocktail including some surprisingly high concentrations of carbon monoxide.</li>



<li>Worryingly, the scientists found large quantities of VSLS, such as dichloromethane and chloroform. These chemicals are increasing due to industrial activities, mainly in East China.</li>
</ul>



<p>"It was a real surprise to fly through a plume with all those very short-lived ozone-depleting substances,” says NSF NCAR scientist Laura Pan, the lead author of the study. “These chemicals may have a significant impact on what will happen with the ozone layer, and it’s critical to quantify them.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-escalator-for-harmful-pollutants">Escalator for harmful pollutants</h2>



<p>The Montreal Protocol aimed to limit long-lived ozone-depleting substances to give the ozone layer a chance to heal. Yet, this monsoon-driven boost of VSLS could complicate that recovery.</p>



<p>This is a grim reminder that climate change isn't just about rising temperatures. It also creates these unintended consequences, like strengthening the East Asian Monsoon, which acts as an escalator for harmful pollutants. Scientists will need to take these findings into account when modeling the ozone layer's future and the impacts on our climate.</p>



<p>This research raises important questions about the combined impact of pollution, monsoon patterns, and climate change on the ozone layer. To get a complete picture, scientists need to track these VSLS more closely and figure out how they interact with the ozone layer at those altitudes. </p>



<p>"The potential impacts of the high levels of these chemicals will need to be taken into consideration for projections of both the recovery of stratospheric ozone as well as climate change,” explained Laura Pan.</p>



<p>The fight to protect our ozone layer continues. Just when we thought we were making progress, this study reminds us that in our interconnected world with changing climate patterns, new threats can always emerge.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2318716121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Monsoons launch ozone-depleting substances into the stratosphere

In the East Asian skies, monsoon winds are not just...

<p>Historically, heavy rainfall has been considered the primary culprit for introducing contaminants into coastal waters. However, a recent study underscores the changing dynamics of water quality. Researchers found that "sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>," driven by rising sea levels, can also lead to increased levels of fecal bacteria, prompting a re-evaluation of water safety protocols.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-sunny-day-flooding">What is sunny day flooding?</h2>



<p>Sunny day flooding, also known as nuisance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-floods-what-turns-a-rainstorm-into-a-catastrophe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> or high-tide flooding, occurs when high tides – often influenced by the moon's gravitational pull – rise higher than usual and inundate low-lying coastal areas. </p>



<p>This can include streets, storm drains, and even some properties. The key point here is that this flooding happens on days with clear skies and no rain.</p>



<p>The moon's gravitational pull exerts a significant influence on Earth's oceans, causing them to bulge outwards on the side closest to the moon and on the opposite side. These bulges create high tides, while the regions between them experience low tides. </p>



<p>Twice a month, during new and full moons, the gravitational forces of the sun and moon align, leading to particularly strong high tides known as spring tides.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frequency-of-sunny-day-floods">Frequency of sunny day floods</h2>



<p>Sea levels are rising due to climate change, primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels. This rising water level effectively raises the baseline for the ocean, meaning that even on days with normal high tides, water levels can reach higher than before, inundating areas that previously remained dry. This is why sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-year-floods-will-likely-be-annual-events-by-the-end-of-the-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> events are becoming more frequent and severe.</p>



<p>While they may not be the dramatic, raging floods we typically picture, sunny day flooding events can still have significant consequences, as this study demonstrates. The floodwaters can overwhelm storm drains, leading to backups of potentially contaminated water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contamination-from-sunny-day-flooding">Contamination from sunny day flooding</h2>



<p>The new study by <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> found that "sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-some-plants-resistant-to-flooding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>" isn't just an inconvenience. These events introduce a range of contaminants into coastal waters, most notably fecal bacteria, raising concerns about potential health risks.</p>



<p>While these elevated bacteria levels typically dissipate within a few hours, scientists caution that the situation warrants attention. With rising sea levels, sunny day flooding is expected to become a more frequent and widespread issue, potentially leading to longer periods of water contamination. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-this-happen">How does this happen?</h2>



<p>“Historically we see the highest levels of fecal bacteria contamination in coastal waterways after it rains, because the rain washes contaminants into the waterways,” said Dr. Natalie Nelson, a lead researcher on the study.</p>



<p>Rising sea levels create a surprising issue: street flooding even on perfectly sunny days. High tides push water back up through stormwater systems. This causes shallow, contaminated puddles that are often dismissed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunny-day-flood-bacteria">Sunny day flood bacteria</h2>



<p>To track just how bad these sunny day floods are, Dr. Nelson's team spent two summer months collecting daily water samples in coastal North Carolina. They were particularly interested in what happened during the "perigean spring tides" – super-strong tides due to the moon's position.</p>



<p>Sure enough, the floodwaters were contaminated. “We found that the floodwaters themselves had relatively high levels of fecal bacteria,” said Dr. Nelson. </p>



<p>The impact on larger coastal areas was not as clear. Sometimes the receding tide seemed to cause a spike in bacteria, but other times it didn't; and the spikes usually fizzled out within a few hours.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-and-safety">Public health and safety</h2>



<p>While your beach vacation likely isn't in jeopardy, there's still cause for concern. This study focused on a specific coastline, and water conditions can indeed vary. However, the fact that sunny day flooding led to any increase in bacteria highlights a potential risk that scientists like Dr. Nelson want to further investigate.</p>



<p>“Sea levels are going to continue rising for the foreseeable future. So we are definitely going to see more sunny day flooding, and those floods will be getting worse," said Dr. Nelson.</p>



<p>"We need to continue studying the impact that these tidal floods have on our water quality, because the more we understand, the better able we will be to make informed decisions about public health and safety.”</p>



<p>The next time you see street flooding on a sunny day, don't think "just seawater." Be mindful that the water is probably more polluted than it looks, especially for a few hours after the tide goes out. </p>



<p>While scientists are still figuring out the exact risks, it's good practice to avoid letting kids play in this water, and thoroughly rinse off any gear (or yourself) that comes into contact with it. </p>



<p>The study is yet another reminder of the complex ways that climate change can affect our everyday lives.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GH001020" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GeoHealth</a></em>.</p>



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Sunny day flooding increases fecal bacteria in coastal waters

Historically, heavy rainfall has been considered the primary culprit for...

<p>While many parents of preschool and elementary-aged children aim to provide balanced, nutritious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-vegetarian-diets-maintain-similar-growth-and-nutrition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>, certain strategies intended to promote healthy eating may not always produce the desired outcomes, according to insights from the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital <a href="https://mottpoll.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Poll on Children’s Health</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accommodation-to-children-s-diet-preferences">Accommodation to children’s diet preferences</h2>



<p>A significant finding from the report indicates that three in five parents will prepare different meals if their child rejects the family's meal choice, demonstrating a high level of accommodation to children’s preferences.</p>



<p>Additionally, the poll reveals that one in eight parents enforces a rule requiring children to finish everything on their plate.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-diets-for-children">Healthy diets for children</h2>



<p>Moreover, despite recognizing that the standard American diet, rich in saturated fats and sugars, is not ideal for children, only a small proportion of parents have explored alternative, potentially healthier diets at home.</p>



<p>“Feeding young children can be challenging due to general pickiness, hesitancy to try unfamiliar foods, and constantly evolving food preferences,” said Mott Poll co-director and Mott pediatrician Susan Woolford, M.D., emphasizing the crucial nature of early childhood as a period for establishing lifelong healthy eating patterns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Parents’ concern about whether their child is eating enough or if they’re getting the nutrients they need may lead them to adopt practices that actually sabotage their efforts to get kids to have healthy eating habits in the short and long term.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standard-american-diet-and-children-nbsp">Standard American diet and children&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The poll, based on responses from 1,083 parents of children aged 3-10 surveyed in February, provided a broad overview of parental beliefs and practices concerning their children's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-nutritional-wisdom-we-eat-what-our-body-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrition</a>.</p>



<p>The results revealed that a third of parents believe the standard American diet is healthy compared to half who rank the Mediterranean higher in nutritional value. However, few have tried alternative diets for their child.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-excess-intake-of-calories">Excess intake of calories</h2>



<p>“Parents may recognize the standard diet in the U.S. includes high amounts of saturated fats, added sugars, sodium, and refined carbohydrates, which can generate an excess intake of calories beyond nutritional needs and contribute to health problems,” Woolford said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“However, despite this recognition and evidence suggesting that other diet options may help avoid many illnesses, only about 9% have tried the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-keeps-the-brain-sharp-even-in-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean diet</a> for their children and fewer have tried giving their children a vegetarian diet.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balanced-approach-to-children-s-diets">Balanced approach to children’s diets</h2>



<p>In addition, Woolford stressed the importance of ensuring that children receive sufficient nutrition when experimenting with diets that exclude certain food groups. For instance, diets that limit animal products need to incorporate alternative protein sources like meat substitutes, tofu, or legumes.</p>



<p>The poll also explored family dining rules, which can either promote or hinder a child's healthy diet. About fifteen percent of parents enforce a rule that children must finish what’s on their plate, potentially encouraging overconsumption, particularly if portion sizes are too large.</p>



<p>Woolford advocates for a more balanced approach: “Requiring children to eat everything on their plate, or withholding dessert unless all other foods are eaten, can lead to overconsumption, especially if portion sizes are too large for the child’s age.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offering-a-healthy-range-of-foods">Offering a healthy range of foods</h2>



<p>Instead, she supports a model where “parents provide, and the child decides.” This strategy involves parents offering a range of healthy foods and letting children decide which to eat and how much, thus respecting their natural hunger cues and preferences.</p>



<p>According to Woolford, sixty percent of parents prepare separate meals if their children reject what's served at mealtime, which often results in less nutritious alternatives.</p>



<p>“Rather than allowing the child to choose an alternate menu, parents should provide a balanced meal with at least one option that their child is typically willing to eat,” she advised.</p>



<p>Woolford also emphasizes the importance of parental modeling in dietary habits, noting that children often emulate the behaviors they observe. Moreover, avoiding snacks between meals is also likely to help children have a better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disadvantaged-stimulate-appetite/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">appetite</a> and increase their willingness to eat offered foods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-challenges-faced-by-parents-nbsp">Biggest challenges faced by parents&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The survey confirmed that parents often face significant challenges when it comes to ensuring their children eat a healthy diet. Key issues include dealing with picky eaters, the higher cost of nutritious food, and concerns about food waste. A smaller number of parents reported that time constraints make it difficult to prepare healthy meals.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-vegetables-nbsp">Introducing vegetables&nbsp;</h3>



<p>According to survey data, nearly all parents have attempted at least one strategy to encourage their children to eat vegetables, which includes daily servings, preparing vegetables in a way that appeals to their children, introducing new vegetables, and allowing children to choose vegetables during shopping.</p>



<p>Some parents also engage their children in the preparation of vegetables, incorporate vegetables into other dishes, or offer rewards for eating vegetables.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Unsurprisingly, parents said pickiness and getting kids to eat veggies were among major challenges during mealtimes,” Woolford said. “Parents should try to include children in meal decisions, avoid pressuring food consumption and provide a variety of healthy options at each meal so kids feel more control.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-portion-control">Portion control</h3>



<p>Portion control presents another difficulty for many parents, as properly sizing meals is crucial for preventing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood obesity</a>. </p>



<p>The survey revealed that nearly 70% of parents serve their children slightly smaller portions than those given to adults, while others let children decide their portion sizes, rely on pre-measured portions, or serve children adult-sized portions.</p>



<p>To aid in appropriate portion sizing, Woolford recommends utilizing resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture's “<a href="https://www.myplate.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MyPlate</a>,” which offers visual guidelines for balancing food groups and managing portion sizes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-unhealthy-food-options-at-the-grocery-store">Identifying unhealthy food options at the grocery store</h2>



<p>Grocery shopping is a critical starting point for healthy eating. Parents in the survey indicated that they limit their children's intake of foods with added sugars and processed ingredients. However, identifying unhealthy options can be challenging due to deceptive marketing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Parents should read labels, avoiding the marketing on the front of packages and focusing instead on the details on the back. They should pay particular attention to nutrition information and ingredient lists - especially if they’re long with unrecognizable items - as well as sodium, added sugars, and fat,” Woolford advises.</p>



<p>She also suggests making grocery shopping an educational and engaging activity for children. “Have them help in the process of choosing the healthiest options, not ones that necessarily directly advertise to children, but foods that they are willing to try that are lower in sugar, fat and salt,” she said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Spend most of the time in the produce section and try to make it fun by maybe selecting new options from different parts of the world that they haven't tried before.” This approach not only promotes healthy eating but also encourages children to explore and enjoy a variety of foods.</p>



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Feeding children healthy diets can be very challenging

While many parents of preschool and elementary-aged children aim to...

<p>In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Melbourne</a> has identified a swift and unusual type of evolutionary change among local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-secrets-how-bat-teeth-adapted-to-their-diverse-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bat</a> populations. The experts suggest that two distinct groups of leaf-nosed bats, initially thought to be different species due to their significant size differences, are actually proof of a rare case of parallel evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-sizes-similar-dna">Different sizes, similar DNA</h2>



<p>Although these two species share the same environment, they have independently developed similar traits. The smaller species, <em>Hipposideros diadema</em>, is widespread, inhabiting not only the Solomon Islands but also regions in Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia. In contrast, the larger species, named <em>Hipposideros dinops</em> or the Fierce Leaf-Nosed Bat in 1905, is exclusive to the Solomon Islands.</p>



<p>“Although they are very different sizes, the bats’ DNA is very similar. They use very different sonar frequencies, they probably eat different food, and even when they live in the same cave together they don’t interbreed. That is why no one has ever really questioned whether they were different species,” explained lead author Tyrone Lavery, a mammalogist at the University of Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-evolution-of-larger-bodied-bats">Rapid evolution of larger-bodied bats</h2>



<p>According to the scientists, despite their independent origins, each group of larger bats has evolved to look the same, averaging more than double the weight of the small bat. “Our research suggests the rapid and repeated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vampire-bats-live-blood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of larger bodied bats from smaller bats, each happening independently on separate islands,” said Lavery.</p>



<p>“When we created family trees using the bats’ DNA, we found that what we thought was just one species of large bat in the Solomon Islands was actually a case where bigger bats had evolved from the smaller species multiple times across different islands.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallel-bat-evolution-nbsp">Parallel bat evolution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This phenomenon of parallel evolution, where separated populations of the same species evolve similar traits in similar environments, is exceedingly rare and seldomly observed in real-time, especially among mammals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts suggest that these larger bats might be evolving to exploit food sources not accessible to their smaller counterparts, although they are theoretically capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interbreeding-survival-early-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interbreeding</a>.</p>



<p>“Something very strong is pushing or selecting for these big bats, and it is strong enough for it to happen multiple times on different islands. We think these larger bats might be evolving to take advantage of prey that the smaller bats aren’t eating. Although they could probably interbreed, they don’t for some reason,” Lavery said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-dietary-preferences-nbsp">Diverse dietary preferences&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The differences in sonar frequencies between the groups suggest diverse dietary preferences, with the larger bats likely targeting bigger prey such as larger insects or even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-addressing-environmental-threats-to-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a>. </p>



<p>The study, which included measuring 103 bat specimens from various international museums, confirmed no overlap in body size between the two groups, reinforcing their distinct developments despite genetic similarities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-islands-and-bat-evolution">Islands and bat evolution</h2>



<p>According to Lavery, this pattern of parallel evolution in leaf-nosed bats has been observed in the Solomon Islands on Guadalcanal and in the Western Province, but more research is needed to see if the same pattern occurs on other islands.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We may think of evolution as a very slow process, but it can happen rapidly when the conditions are right and two groups are separated and stop interbreeding. They can begin to evolve on different pathways,” he said.</p>



<p>“Islands are famous for helping us to observe and understand the processes for how species evolve in real time. They’re also places that are very vulnerable to the types of disturbance that humans create. It’s important that we look after these incredible landscapes in Solomon Islands before we lose these stories even before we find them,” he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-bat-evolution">More about bat evolution</h2>



<p>Bats represent a remarkable example of mammalian evolution, having developed unique adaptations that allow them to thrive across diverse environments globally. The evolution of bats is particularly notable for their development of flight and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-share-social-information-through-echolocation-calls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echolocation</a>, which have played crucial roles in their ability to occupy ecological niches that other mammals cannot.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-bats">Early bats</h3>



<p>The fossil record suggests that bats first appeared at least 50 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. These early bats already possessed the wing structures necessary for flight, indicating that their ability to fly evolved quite rapidly in evolutionary terms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This quick adaptation to flight is believed to have significantly contributed to their global spread and diversification.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echolocation">Echolocation</h3>



<p>Echolocation, the ability to navigate and find food using sound waves, is another key evolutionary development in bats, although it is not universal among all bat species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Echolocation likely developed after flight, with different bat species evolving this ability independently. This suggests a strong evolutionary pressure to optimize feeding strategies in dark environments, like night skies or dense forests.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convergent-evolution">Convergent evolution</h3>



<p>Molecular studies have provided insights into bat phylogeny, showing that bats are divided into two main suborders: the largely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruit-bats-suffer-no-consequences-from-their-high-sugar-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fruit-eating</a> megabats and the echolocating microbats. </p>



<p>Interestingly, some megabats have also developed echolocation, albeit through different mechanisms than microbats, showcasing convergent evolution - where different species independently evolve similar traits.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-morphological-changes-and-diet">Morphological changes and diet</h3>



<p>Bats have also adapted to a wide range of dietary preferences, from insects and fruit to vertebrates and blood, each adaptation allowing bats to exploit new or underserved ecological niches. </p>



<p>These dietary adaptations are accompanied by morphological changes, such as tooth and jaw structure, digestive enzymes, and flight adaptations, enabling them to specialize and thrive.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/evolut/qpae039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Rare type of parallel evolution found in island bats

In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by...

<p>For the first time since November 2023, <a href="https://voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA’s Voyager 1</a> spacecraft has started transmitting useful data back to Earth about the status and functionality of its onboard systems. </p>



<p>The mission team is now preparing for the spacecraft to resume sending back scientific data. Voyager 1, along with its sibling Voyager 2, are the only spacecraft to venture into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-received-laser-communication-from-10-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar space</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-malfunction-in-voyager-s-computers">Malfunction in Voyager's computers</h2>



<p>Voyager 1 had ceased transmitting intelligible science and engineering data on November 14, 2023. Although the spacecraft appeared to be receiving instructions and operating as expected, the data it sent back was unreadable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In March, the engineering team at NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) in Southern California diagnosed the problem as being related to a malfunction in one of the spacecraft’s three onboard computers, specifically the flight data subsystem (FDS). This system is responsible for organizing the science and engineering data before it is sent to Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resurgence-of-voyager-data">Resurgence of Voyager data</h2>



<p>The resurgence of data transmission in April 2024 was met with celebrations by the Voyager team at JPL. The malfunction was traced back to a single memory chip within the FDS that had failed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This chip was crucial as it held part of the FDS's memory, including segments of its software code, essential for processing the data sent to Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With the chip non-functional and irreplaceable, the team attempted to reassign the code to different parts of the FDS memory. However, no single section of the memory was sufficiently large to accommodate the entire code.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-retrieving-the-voyager-data">Process of retrieving the Voyager data</h2>



<p>The solution involved fragmenting the code into smaller segments and reallocating these across several memory locations. This intricate process required adjustments to ensure the fragmented code could operate seamlessly as a whole. This also involved updating references to the code’s location in the FDS memory.</p>



<p>The focus initially was on the segment of the code responsible for collating the spacecraft’s engineering data. This was successfully relocated within the FDS memory on April 18. Given Voyager 1's immense distance - over 15 billion miles (24 billion kilometers) from Earth - it takes about 22 ½ hours for a signal to travel from Earth to the spacecraft and another 22 ½ hours for the response to return.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enduring-missions">Enduring missions</h2>



<p>When communications were reestablished on April 20, the team confirmed that the adjustments were successful, marking the first time in five months that they could verify the spacecraft's operational health and status.</p>



<p>In the upcoming weeks, the Voyager team plans to reposition and modify the remaining sections of the FDS software, which are crucial for resuming the transmission of scientific data.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/voyager/voyager-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voyager 2</a> remains fully functional. Launched more than 46 years ago, the Voyager spacecraft - both Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 - are the most enduring and farthest-traveling spacecraft ever launched. Prior to entering interstellar space, each spacecraft conducted flybys of Jupiter and Saturn, with Voyager 2 also visiting Uranus and Neptune.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-voyager-mission">More about the Voyager mission</h2>



<p>The NASA Voyager mission consists of two spacecraft, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, which were launched in 1977 to explore the outer solar system and beyond. The primary goal of the mission was to take advantage of a rare planetary alignment that allowed for a grand tour of the outer planets - Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This alignment occurs only once every 176 years, and the mission's timing capitalized on this to extend our knowledge of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-worlds-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant worlds</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-1">Voyager 1</h3>



<p>Voyager 1's trajectory took it past Jupiter in March 1979 and Saturn in November 1980, providing detailed images and data on the planets and their moons. After its encounter with Saturn, Voyager 1's path was adjusted so it would pass close to Saturn's moon Titan and then head out of the solar system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-2">Voyager 2</h3>



<p>Voyager 2, on a longer trajectory, passed Jupiter in July 1979, Saturn in August 1981, Uranus in January 1986, and Neptune in August 1989. Each flyby yielded significant scientific discoveries, including the first detailed images of these planets' atmospheres, magnetic fields, rings, and numerous moons.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-space">Interstellar space</h3>



<p>After completing their primary missions, both Voyagers continued into the heliosheath - the outermost layer of the heliosphere where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar wind</a> is slowed by the pressure of interstellar gas. Voyager 1 entered interstellar space in August 2012, making it the first human-made object to do so. Voyager 2 followed into interstellar space in November 2018.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-communication-nbsp">Ongoing communication&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Despite their vast distance from Earth, the Voyagers continue to communicate with the NASA Deep Space Network to send back scientific data.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This enduring mission has expanded our understanding of the heliosphere and provides unique insights into the nature of the interstellar space beyond our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-delicate-balance-of-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a>. </p>



<p>The spacecraft carry a golden record containing sounds and images selected to portray the diversity of life and culture on Earth, intended as a message for any intelligent extraterrestrial life that might find them.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Voyager 1 resumes sending data to Earth from interstellar space

For the first time since November 2023, NASA’s Voyager 1...

<p>For centuries, desert travelers have relied on oases as life-giving sanctuaries. These pockets of green have sustained communities, fueled trade, and sparked imaginations. Yet, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thriving-reefs-oases-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oases</a> are under pressure. New research exposes the delicate balance between human intervention and natural forces such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pastoralists-desertification-sahara/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a> shaping the fate of these vital ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-an-oasis">What is an oasis?</h2>



<p>An oasis isn't simply a desert mirage. It's a distinct, well-defined area where vegetation thrives, contrasting sharply with the surrounding arid landscapes. This extraordinary phenomenon is made possible by a dependable water source, which could be:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Groundwater:</strong>&nbsp;Underground water that reaches the surface, creating a natural spring or well.</li>



<li><strong>Mountain runoff:</strong>&nbsp;Water from rain or melting snow that flows down from higher elevations, gathering in low-lying desert areas.</li>
</ul>



<p>Despite covering only a tiny fraction (around 1.5%) of our planet's land area, oases play a disproportionately important role. They provide essential resources and support around 10% of the world's population, offering a lifeline in otherwise harsh, dry environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-efforts-to-expand-oasis">Human efforts to expand oasis</h2>



<p>Recent research offers a surprising insight into the changing nature of oases. Counterintuitively, between 1995 and 2020, the total area of oases worldwide increased by a staggering 85,000 square miles. While this might seem like a positive development, there's a crucial caveat. </p>



<p>The majority of this expansion is not a natural phenomenon but the result of deliberate human intervention. Here's how it happens:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-scale-irrigation-projects">Large-scale irrigation projects</h3>



<p>Governments and private entities embark on ambitious projects to divert water from rivers, lakes, or drill deep wells to tap into underground aquifers. This water is then channeled into desert regions, transforming them into artificially-created oases.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-intensive-agriculture">Water-intensive agriculture</h3>



<p>The primary objective of many artificial <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/heart-shaped-oasis-on-the-nile-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oases</a> is to support agriculture in otherwise barren areas. This involves growing crops that may not be naturally suited to arid environments, leading to high water demands.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-development">Urbanization and development</h3>



<p>In some cases, artificial oases are created to support urban growth or industrial development in desert regions. These projects often require substantial and ongoing water resources.</p>



<p>However, the crucial issue with artificial oasis expansion lies in its potential unsustainability. These projects often rely on water sources that are either finite or overexploited. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desertification-and-oases">Desertification and oases</h2>



<p>On the flip side, a relentless process called <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/desertification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a> poses a severe threat to oases. Desertification is the gradual transformation of fertile land into barren desert, often caused by factors such as climate change, overgrazing, and unsustainable water use. Desertification has led to the loss of approximately 52,000 square miles of oases during the same 25-year period.</p>



<p>“Although the scientific community has always emphasized the importance of oases, there has not been a clear map of the global distribution of oases,” said Dongwei Gui, a geoscientist at the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Science</a> who led the study.</p>



<p>“Oasis research has both theoretical and practical significance for achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and promoting sustainable development in arid regions.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-net-result-of-desertification-precarious-oases-growth">Net result of desertification: Precarious oases growth</h2>



<p>At first glance, the expansion of oases might seem like a promising development – a victory against harsh desert conditions. However, a closer examination paints a far more complex and worrying picture. While the total area of oases has increased by approximately 33,400 square miles, this net growth masks a deeper problem. </p>



<p>Much of the recent growth in oasis areas is a direct result of artificial expansion projects. These human-made oases mask simultaneous losses of natural oases due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-and-dust-storms-have-become-unpredictable-and-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a>.</p>



<p>Many artificial oases depend on unsustainable water practices. This includes tapping into rapidly depleting groundwater sources or diverting water from ecosystems that rely on those rivers or lakes for their own survival. It's a trade-off, sacrificing one area for the short-term growth of another.</p>



<p>This reliance on unsustainable water use casts a long shadow on the future of these oases. As water resources dwindle and ecosystems are disrupted, the artificial expansion will become increasingly difficult to maintain. The very existence of these oases becomes precarious.</p>



<p>The net growth figure, while seemingly positive, hides a troubling reality. It underscores the delicate and vulnerable nature of these ecosystems and raises serious questions about whether this artificial expansion is simply a short-term solution with potentially devastating long-term consequences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-we-save-oases-from-desertification">Why do we save oases from desertification?</h2>



<p>Oases serve as irreplaceable havens in the world's drylands. They:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-provide-essential-water">Provide essential water</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Drinking and domestic needs:</strong>&nbsp;Oases serve as primary water sources for communities living within them, fulfilling basic human needs.</li>



<li><strong>Farming:</strong>&nbsp;Irrigation from oases enables agriculture even in arid regions, providing food and supporting local economies.</li>



<li><strong>Livestock:</strong>&nbsp;Oases provide water to animals raised for sustenance or livelihood, crucial for pastoral and nomadic populations.</li>



<li><strong>Industry and development:</strong>&nbsp;Some oases support small-scale industries or other development projects that depend on access to water.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-biodiversity">Support biodiversity</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Unique habitats:</strong>&nbsp;Oases create distinct micro-ecosystems within harsh desert environments, allowing specialized plants and animals to flourish.</li>



<li><strong>Endemic species:</strong>&nbsp;Some oases harbor plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth, contributing to global biodiversity.</li>



<li><strong>Migratory stopovers:</strong>&nbsp;Oases act as vital resting and refueling points for migratory birds and other wildlife traveling through arid regions.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offer-resilience-against-climate-change">Offer resilience against climate change</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Buffers against drought:</strong>&nbsp;Oases can provide water and sustenance during extended periods of drought, offering respite to both people and wildlife.</li>



<li><strong>Microclimates:</strong>&nbsp;The vegetation and water presence in oases can create slightly cooler and more humid conditions locally, mitigating the harshness of the desert climate.</li>



<li><strong>Adaptation strategies:</strong>&nbsp;Traditional oasis management practices may offer valuable lessons for adapting to water scarcity and climate change in wider regions.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oases-are-under-attack-on-multiple-fronts">Oases are under attack on multiple fronts </h2>



<ul>
<li><strong>Overexploitation of groundwater:</strong>&nbsp;As discussed, excessive pumping of groundwater for irrigation or other needs can deplete aquifers faster than they naturally recharge, endangering the long-term survival of the oasis.</li>



<li><strong>Climate change:</strong>&nbsp;Rising temperatures increase evaporation rates, making water scarcity even more severe. Changing rainfall patterns can disrupt the delicate water balance that sustains oases.</li>



<li><strong>Loss of glaciers:</strong>&nbsp;Glacier meltwater is a lifeline for many oases. As glaciers retreat due to climate change, this essential water source diminishes, threatening the oasis's future.</li>
</ul>



<p>“While higher temperatures increase glacier melt, temporarily boosting oases’ water supplies, as glaciers gradually disappear, the yield of meltwater will eventually decrease, leading to the shrinkage of oases once again,” Gui said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oases-and-desertification">Oases and desertification</h2>



<p>The delicate state of our oases demands a transformative approach. Here's what we can do:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Sustainable water management:</strong>&nbsp;Promote water conservation, efficient irrigation techniques, and find ways to replenish groundwater sources.</li>



<li><strong>Ecological land use:</strong>&nbsp;Halt destructive practices like overgrazing and support traditional land management that works in harmony with nature.</li>



<li><strong>International cooperation:</strong>&nbsp;Many rivers cross borders, and oases depend on them. Countries must work together to protect vital water resources.</li>
</ul>



<p>“Due to the unique mechanism of oasis formation, a river basin often nurtures multiple oases across several countries, making transboundary cooperation key to addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable development,” Gui said.</p>



<p>Oases represent extraordinary resilience. In the face of harsh conditions, they offer life and beauty. Yet, their future hangs in the balance. By understanding the intricate dynamics shaping them and embracing sustainable practices, we have the power to safeguard these fragile wonders for generations to come.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF004086" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Earth's Future</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Oases face severe threats from desertification

For centuries, desert travelers have relied on oases as life-giving...

<p>Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt lead, volcanoes that spew lava, and thick clouds of sulfuric acid, Venus provides <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-secret-past-may-have-implications-for-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invaluable insights</a> into the search for life on other planets, according to a new study from <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a>.</p>



<p>“We often assume that Earth is the model of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-habitability-of-a-planet-is-affected-by-the-location-of-its-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a>, but if you consider this planet in isolation, we don’t know where the boundaries and limitations are,” said lead author Stephen Kane, a professor of planetary astrophysics at UCR. “Venus gives us that.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-venus-as-a-reference-point-for-life">Venus as a reference point for life</h2>



<p>The experts gathered extensive data on both Earth and Venus, and positioned Venus as a crucial reference point for better understanding the conditions that might preclude life on other planets.</p>



<p>Despite having an atmosphere that would crush a human instantly, Venus shares many similarities with Earth, such as comparable mass and radius. Given their closeness, it raises the question of why Earth's fate was so different.</p>



<p>Many scientists believe the significant amount of solar energy Venus receives caused its atmosphere to become a runaway greenhouse - a hypothesis that Kane challenges. </p>



<p>“If you consider the solar energy received by Earth as 100%, Venus collects 191%. A lot of people think that’s why Venus turned out differently,” he said. “But hold on a second. Venus doesn’t have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-now-leads-the-solar-system-moon-race-with-145/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, which is what gives Earth things like ocean tides and influenced the amount of water here.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-missions-to-venus-are-needed">More missions to Venus are needed</h2>



<p>The paper also emphasizes the need for more missions to Venus to answer unresolved questions about its core size, rotation rate, magnetic field changes, and atmospheric chemistry.</p>



<p>“Venus doesn’t have a detectable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-shifts-ten-times-faster-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. That could be related to the size of its core,” Kane explained. “Core size also gives us information about how a planet cools itself. Earth has a mantle circulating heat from its core. We don’t know what’s happening inside Venus.”</p>



<p>Understanding the inner workings of Venus is vital because a planet’s interior dynamics greatly affect its atmosphere. This is evident on Earth, where the atmosphere is largely influenced by volcanic activity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-nasa-missions">Upcoming NASA missions</h2>



<p>NASA's upcoming missions, <a href="https://ssed.gsfc.nasa.gov/davinci/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DAVINCI</a> and <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/veritas/">VERITAS</a>, will further explore these aspects. The DAVINCI mission will analyze the planet's thick atmosphere, and VERITAS will focus on the planet's surface without landing.</p>



<p>“DAVINCI will measure the atmosphere all the way from the top to the bottom. That will really help us build new climate models and predict these kinds of atmospheres elsewhere, including on Earth, as we keep increasing the amount of CO2,” Kane said.</p>



<p>According to the scientists, these missions will not only improve our understanding of Venus but also refine our assessments of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-are-helping-astronomers-in-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a> possibilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-venus-to-preserve-life">Studying Venus to preserve life</h2>



<p>“The sobering part of the search for life elsewhere in the universe is that we’re never going to have in situ data for an exoplanet. We aren’t going there, landing, or taking direct measurements of them,” Kane said. “If we think another planet has life on the surface, we might not ever know we’re wrong, and we’d be dreaming about a planet with life that doesn’t have it. We are only going to get that right by properly understanding the Earth-size planets we can visit, and Venus gives us that chance.”</p>



<p>“One of the main reasons to study Venus is because of our sacred duties as caretakers of this planet, to preserve its future. My hope is that through studying the processes that produced present-day Venus, especially if Venus had a more temperate past that’s now devastated, there are lessons there for us. It can happen to us. It’s a question of how and when,” Kane concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intriguing-facts-about-venus">Intriguing facts about Venus</h2>



<p>Venus, often dubbed Earth's "sister planet" due to its similar size and proximity, holds a variety of intriguing characteristics that set it apart in our solar system:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-atmosphere">Extreme atmosphere</h3>



<p>Venus has an incredibly thick atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid, making it inhospitable. This atmosphere creates a runaway greenhouse effect, leading to surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead - about 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius).</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crushing-pressure">Crushing pressure</h3>



<p>The surface pressure on Venus is about 92 times that of Earth, equivalent to the pressure found at about 3,000 feet (900 meters) underwater on Earth. This extreme pressure would crush most human-made objects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retrograde-rotation">Retrograde rotation</h3>



<p>Venus rotates on its axis in the opposite direction to most planets in the solar system, including Earth. This means the Sun rises in the west and sets in the east on Venus. Additionally, a day on Venus (one complete rotation on its axis) is longer than its year (one complete orbit around the Sun). It takes about 243 Earth days to rotate once, but only about 225 Earth days to complete an orbit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-landscape">Volcanic landscape</h3>



<p>Venus is covered with numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanoes-cover-nearly-the-entire-surface-of-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> and has a surface dominated by volcanic plains. It has more volcanoes than any other planet in the solar system, with over 1,600 major volcanoes, many of which are believed to still be active.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-water-vapor">Lack of water vapor</h3>



<p>Despite being similar to Earth in size and composition, Venus has almost no water vapor in its atmosphere, and its surface is a dry, desert-like landscape. Any water that might have been present in the past likely evaporated due to the intense heat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brightest-planet">Brightest planet</h3>



<p>Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system and is often visible from Earth with the naked eye. It can appear as a bright star-like object in the morning or evening sky, which is why it's sometimes called the Morning Star or Evening Star.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-wind-patterns">Mysterious wind patterns</h3>



<p>Despite the slow rotation on its axis, the atmosphere of Venus rotates much faster than the planet itself, a phenomenon known as super-rotation. Winds in the upper atmosphere can reach speeds up to 220 miles per hour (360 kilometers per hour).</p>



<p>These unique and extreme conditions make Venus an interesting subject of study to understand planetary processes and atmospheric dynamics in our solar system.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/link_gateway/2024arXiv240308830K/doi:10.48550/arXiv.2403.08830" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Astronomy</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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How the ‘hellish’ planet Venus can help us find alien life

Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt...

<p>Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-traveling-pathogens-from-melting-permafrost-pose-great-risk-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogen</a> with the highest pandemic potential, according to findings unveiled at a major global congress in Barcelona.</p>



<p>A survey conducted by the VACCELERATE Consortium revealed that 57% of the experts ranked influenza at the top of the list of pandemic threats. This highlights the persistent threat of influenza to global health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-top-pandemic-threats">Exploring the top pandemic threats</h2>



<p>The survey reached out to a broad spectrum of experts from 57 countries, garnering 187 responses that provide a snapshot of the global perspective on infectious threats. </p>



<p>Influenza emerged as the primary pandemic concern due to its ability to mutate and spread widely each season. </p>



<p>Disease X - an undefined pathogen representing emerging diseases - and SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the recent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-iron-may-be-a-key-driver-of-long-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a> pandemic, followed closely.</p>



<p>In their study, the experts evaluated a variety of pathogens, including those listed in the World Health Organization’s R&amp;D Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics. </p>



<p>The blueprint serves as a proactive measure to identify and prioritize research on diseases that pose significant public health risks due to their infectivity, transmissibility, and potential for severe impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritizing-pathogens-with-pandemic-potential">Prioritizing pathogens with pandemic potential</h2>



<p>Besides influenza, the survey highlighted other critical threats. Disease X, a placeholder for potential future pathogens, was ranked highest by 21% of respondents, underscoring the constant vigilance needed against unknown viruses.</p>



<p>Respondents also noted the significant impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-cats-play-a-role-in-spreading-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> and its predecessor, SARS-CoV, which caused the 2002-03 outbreak.</p>



<p>A smaller fraction of experts recognized lesser-known but equally concerning pathogens like the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus and the Ebola virus, noting their deadly outbreaks.</p>



<p>Conversely, experts ranked viruses such as Hantavirus, Lassa virus, Nipah virus, henipavirus, and Rift Valley fever virus lower in terms of immediate pandemic potential, suggesting they pose a lesser immediate threat, yet emphasizing the ongoing need for monitoring and research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influenza-s-pandemic-threat">Influenza’s pandemic threat</h2>



<p>Dr. Jon Salmanton-García commented on the findings: “Each winter we have an influenza season. One could say that this means that every winter there are little pandemics. They are more or less controlled because the different strains are not virulent enough.” </p>



<p>“Yet, every season the strains involved change, that is the reason why we can get influenza several times in life and vaccines change year to year. In case a new strain becomes more virulent, this control could be lost.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-covid-19-pandemic">Insights from the COVID-19 pandemic</h2>



<p>The recent experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly shifted the landscape of pandemic preparedness.</p>



<p>Dr. Salmanton-García explained that the global response to COVID-19 has enhanced our approach to managing respiratory viruses, improving practices in social distancing, hand hygiene, mask usage, and vaccination strategies.</p>



<p>“In the COVID-19 pandemic, we have learned many things on how to approach a respiratory virus pandemic. This includes social distancing, hand cleaning, face masks, a renewed focus on vaccination, and trust in healthcare institutions. In parallel, institutions have also learned a lot. Preparedness and surveillance are now, vitally, better-funded,” said Dr. Salmanton-García.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pandemic-threats">Understanding pandemic threats</h2>



<p>The study paints a clear picture of the infectious disease landscape, identifying influenza, Disease X, and coronaviruses among the top concerns for global health security. </p>



<p>The findings emphasize the need for continued vigilance, research, and preparation to mitigate the impact of potential future pandemics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about pandemic threats</h2>



<p>Pandemic threats are often caused by novel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-have-eyes-and-ears-on-their-hosts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a> or bacteria to which the general population has little to no immunity. The severity and spread of these diseases can be influenced by various factors, including the pathogen's transmissibility, virulence, and the availability of effective treatments or vaccines.</p>



<p>Modern global connectivity through travel and trade, along with urbanization and environmental changes, can exacerbate the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-infectious-disease-landscape-is-changing-and-we-must-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infectious diseases</a>, making pandemics more likely.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The impact of a pandemic can be profound, not only causing widespread health crises but also affecting economies, social structures, and daily life. Governments and international organizations work to monitor and manage these risks through surveillance, preparedness plans, and public health interventions aimed at controlling the spread of diseases and minimizing their impact on society.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Effective response strategies often include measures such as vaccination campaigns, travel restrictions, quarantine, and public education about hygiene practices.</p>



<p>The research will be presented at the <a href="https://www.escmid.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases</a>' (ESCMID) Global Congress in Barcelona later this month.</p>



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Influenza is considered the biggest pandemic threat

Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the pathogen...

<p>Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school attendance decreases and the need for additional student support grows amidst a slew of examinations. </p>



<p>In today's challenging educational environment, the process of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-learn-better-when-their-brain-waves-are-in-sync/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> has become increasingly complex. </p>



<p>Education expert Alex Quigley emphasizes the critical need to shift our focus from merely what students are learning to how they are learning, to effectively overcome these challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-educational-techniques">Reevaluating educational techniques</h2>



<p>Quigley points out that while there has been considerable emphasis on refining curricula, perhaps not enough attention has been given to the actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process of learning</a>. He believes that understanding and adapting to the learning needs of students can significantly enhance their educational success.</p>



<p>In his recent book "<a href="https://www.routledge.com/Why-Learning-Fails-And-What-To-Do-About-It/Quigley/p/book/9781032648767#:~:text=%22Why%20Learning%20Fails%20sets%20out,unreliability%20of%20learning%20necessitates%20failure." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Why Learning Fails</a>," the expert draws from the latest research to provide practical advice for maximizing student engagement and retention. </p>



<p>“In focusing so hard on curriculum – and considering what teachers teach – have we given sufficient attention to how pupils learn? Have we considered pupils’ motivations and emotions as much as their prior knowledge and memory capacity?”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-complexity-of-learning">The complexity of learning</h2>



<p>Quigley explains that a high-quality curriculum is essential, but it needs to be paired with a deep understanding of the diverse learning profiles students bring into the classroom. </p>



<p>“When we focus on creating the conditions for how pupils learn best, we recognize that pupils attend school with different levels of prior knowledge (and misconceptions), different motivations and interests,” he says. “Different beliefs about themselves and what they can learn also play a crucial role."</p>



<p>Moreover, Quigley delves into the myriad ways learning can falter, suggesting that by understanding these pitfalls, teachers can better support their students. </p>



<p>Among the challenges are the constraints of working memory, gaps in foundational knowledge, and the distractions that lead to wandering focus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-working-memory-limitations">Addressing working memory limitations</h2>



<p>Alex Quigley also discusses the critical role of working memory in learning, noting its limitations and the impact on student performance. </p>



<p>“A problem for many teachers is that they don’t have a strong understanding of working memory – its limits, factors that inhibit its functioning, along with practical supports.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-effective-learning">Strategies for effective learning</h2>



<p>To combat these challenges, Quigley recommends strategies that cater to the inherent limits of working memory. </p>



<p>Engaging students through emotive storytelling, chunking information into manageable segments, and employing worked examples are just a few techniques that can enhance learning. </p>



<p>Reiterating information multiple times also helps in reinforcing and correcting misconceptions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-focus-and-planning">Enhancing focus and planning</h2>



<p>The expert further suggests methods to improve student concentration and planning skills, which are vital in a world full of digital distractions.</p>



<p>“Pupils can struggle for focus and concentration in a world of mass distraction. Successful teaching becomes a complex matter of making the curriculum ‘clever and vivid’ for pupils,” explains Quigley.</p>



<p>Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of explicit modeling in teaching students how to manage their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-robots-can-help-students-stay-focused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attention</a> effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-teachers-through-adaptive-expertise">Empowering teachers through adaptive expertise</h2>



<p>Ultimately, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on the support systems available to teachers.</p>



<p>Quigley argues that to convert educational challenges into successes, teachers need extensive support, including time, training, and appropriate tools.</p>



<p>“Crucially, teachers need ample support – time, training, and tools – to move from experienced teachers to adaptive experts,” he states.</p>



<p>Furthermore, adapting teaching methods to accommodate the varied and complex needs of students is essential for overcoming the current challenges in education. </p>



<p>By focusing on how students learn and providing teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, we can foster a more effective and engaging learning environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methods-used-to-help-students-learn">Methods used to help students learn</h2>



<p>Education systems often use a variety of methods to help students learn. These methods cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring a more effective and comprehensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/school-field-trips-linked-to-better-student-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning experience</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Visual learning</h3>



<p>Visual learning involves observing pictures, diagrams, videos, and demonstrations. Visual aids can help clarify concepts and provide memorable references.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Auditory learning</h3>



<p>Students learn by listening to explanations, discussions, lectures, and audio recordings. This method is effective for those who process information better when they hear it.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reading/writing</h3>



<p>Students also learn by reading textbooks, articles, and writing notes or essays. This approach benefits those who learn best through written words and structured information.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kinesthetic learning</h3>



<p>Many children benefit from engaging in physical activities rather than watching or listening. This could include hands-on experiments, building models, or using manipulatives. It's particularly effective for those who need to "do" to understand.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Interactive learning</h3>



<p>Interactive learning includes group activities, class discussions, and collaborative projects, which enhance understanding through social interaction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reflective learning</h3>



<p>Reflective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-brains-sync-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> involves thinking about and analyzing what has been learned. Reflective practices can deepen understanding and help integrate knowledge with personal experiences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Technology-enhanced learning</h3>



<p>Digital tools and platforms like educational software, online courses, and virtual simulations help to reinforce and facilitate learning experiences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Problem-based learning</h3>



<p>This learning method is focused on tackling real-world problems or scenarios, encouraging critical thinking and application of knowledge in practical contexts.</p>



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Understanding how students learn is key to helping them succeed

Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school...

Date	Citation Page	Title
06/14/1976	41 FR 24062 24067	Endangered Status for 159 Taxa of Animals; 41 FR 24062 24067
09/26/1975	40 FR 44392 44333	CITES: Proposed Endangered Status for 216 Species on Convention Appendix I; 40 FR 44392 44333