Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a volcanic plume drifting from Anak Krakatau, a small island in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. 



Anak Krakatau, which means "Child of Krakatoa," emerged from the sea in 1927, forming over the caldera of the infamous Krakatoa volcano, which erupted catastrophically in 1883.&nbsp;



This earlier eruption was one of the most violent volcanic events in recorded history, known for its immense power and the global climate impact it had due to the large amount of ash it sent into the upper atmosphere.



Anak Krakatau has been growing continuously since its emergence, with frequent eruptions that have reshaped its structure and size over time.&nbsp;



"Geologists have tallied 57 eruptive periods from this location since the beginning of the Holocene, roughly 11,700 years ago," said NASA. "The most recent eruptive period, which started in May 2021 and continued into December 2023, has featured frequent but generally mild Strombolian blasts of volcanic gases and ash particles."&nbsp;



"Materials ejected from the volcano’s vent are typically lofted a few hundred meters above the summit, and small lava flows occasionally drain down the island's flanks and into the sea."



"Beginning on November 26, 2023, geologists with the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation began to report more intense explosions, with plumes of volcanic material rising up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above the vent."&nbsp;



The public has been warned to stay at least 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the crater. Due to elevated risks of ash in the area, the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center in Darwin, Australia, has issued multiple warnings to the aviation community.



The image was captured on December 2, 2023 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Volcanic activity has intensified on Anak Krakatau

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features a false-color image of Lake Abbe in northeast Ethiopia. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.&nbsp;



"Visible as the large round dark area, Lake Abbe, also known as Lake Abhe, straddles the border of Ethiopia to the west and Djibouti to the east. The lake is 19 km wide and 17 km long and is extremely salty. It is dotted with clusters of steaming limestone chimneys and surrounded by large salt flats, visible in white, and rift volcanoes," says ESA.



"The biggest volcano in the image is Mount Dama Ali, a dormant 25-km-wide shield volcano that rises on the northwest shore of the lake."



"Lake Abbe and Lake Afambo, which is visible at the top of the image, are part of a chain of six connected salt lakes, fed by the Awash River - one of Ethiopia’s biggest rivers.'



Copernicus Sentinel-2’s near-infrared channel highlights vegetation in bright red. This strategy makes it easy to spot algal blooms, such as the one that is visible in Lake Abbe. According to ESA, the light blue color on the west shore indicates sediment discharged into the lake.



"Because of its dry, desert, almost lunar landscape and the steaming, sulphuric vents, Lake Abbe is considered one of the most inaccessible areas on Earth," says ESA. "Earth observation satellites are key in these cases as they are particularly relevant for monitoring remote regions such as this."



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Lake Abbe in northeast Ethiopia

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory </a>&nbsp;features an astronaut photograph of Abu Dhabi, located on the coast of the Persian Gulf.



Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second-most populous city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is also the capital of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the UAE's seven emirates.&nbsp;



Abu Dhabi possesses around 9% of the world's proven oil reserves and about 5% of the world's natural gas. Consequently, oil exports have fueled its rapid development and provided substantial wealth.



"Prior to the formation of the UAE in the 1970s, Abu Dhabi was a municipality of less than 62,000 people. The region experienced a rapid population increase over the past five decades due to its role in the petroleum and financial industries, which enabled the city’s population to grow to about 1.5 million people by the early 2020s," said NASA.



The city places a strong emphasis on promoting Emirati culture and heritage. It hosts numerous events, festivals, and has several museums and cultural centers.



"The landscape of the Abu Dhabi emirate is mainly composed of wind-blown sand, mangroves, rocky outcrops, and intertidal flats. The Abu Dhabi Sabkha, visible along the coastline as brown, non-vegetated land, was produced by wind erosion of ancient dunes and the deposition of tidal sediments," said NASA.



"Sabkhas are flat coastal areas that are characteristically high in salt. The abundance of salt in the soil limits the ability of vegetation to develop on the sabkha."



"In contrast to the barren sabkha, green mangrove forests are present along the coastline as well. Mangrove forests are regions of shrubs and trees with dense root systems that protect the intertidal zones from coastal erosion."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory &nbsp;features...

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission view of Tutuila, a tropical island in the American Samoa archipelago.



American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean. It consists of five main islands and two atolls. The largest and most populous island is Tutuila, where Pago Pago, the capital city, is situated.



The eastern part of the chain of islands forms the American Samoa, while the western part forms the independent state of Samoa.



Tutuila Island is known for its rugged terrain, lush landscapes, and deep harbors. It's the economic and political center of American Samoa, with the majority of the population residing here. The island's geography features volcanic peaks, with Mount Alava and Matafao Peak being the highest points, offering stunning views and rich biodiversity.



American Samoa as a whole has a unique blend of American and Samoan culture. The territory maintains traditional Samoan customs, making it a fascinating place for cultural studies. The economy primarily revolves around fishing and the services sector, with canned tuna being a significant export.



The National Park of American Samoa, partly located on Tutuila, helps preserve the tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan culture. This park is unique because it's one of the only national parks in the United States that's leased rather than owned by the government, reflecting the strong communal land traditions of Samoa.



Image Credit: ESA 



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Tutuila in the American Samoa archipelago 

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the summit crater of Mount Erebus peeking through the clouds. Erebus is the southernmost active volcano on Earth and the second-highest volcano in Antarctica.



Mount Erebus is situated on Ross Island in the Ross Sea. It was discovered in 1841 by the British explorer Sir James Clark Ross, who named it after his ship, the Erebus.



It stands at an elevation of about 3,794 meters (12,448 feet). It's a stratovolcano, characterized by a conical shape and layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash.



Mount Erebus is known for its persistent lava lake, which is visible in the image. "The lake has been active since at least 1972 and is one of only a few long-lived lava lakes on Earth. It constantly churns and occasionally spews bombs of molten rock in Strombolian eruptions," said NASA.



"Geologists want to learn why an active lava lake has persisted here for so long. Recent research suggests one reason could be the magma’s low water content, which makes it less volatile as it approaches the surface."



Due to its unique features, Mount Erebus is an important site for scientific research. Researchers study its geology, unique gas emissions, and microbial life in its extreme environment.



However, the harsh Antarctic climate and its remote location make it a challenging environment for research. Additionally, its volcanic activity poses risks.



The image was captured on November 25,2023 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Mount Erebus breaks through the clouds

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, and its surroundings. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on February 21, 2023.



"Situated some 50 km south of the North Korean border, the metropolitan area of Seoul appears as the grey area in the center of the image," says ESA.



"The Han River runs through the city, and to the right of the image it can be seen partly covered by ice. It is one of the biggest rivers in the Korean peninsula. It flows westward through Seoul into the Yellow Sea, named so because of the yellowish sand that colours its water."



"Seoul is surrounded by forested mountains, which appear brown in this wintery image. Bukhansan National Park lies just north of the city. The park is like an island, acting as a big green lung for the surrounding urban environment."



The population of Seoul is over 9 million people, and the metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities like Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, is one of the most populous in the world.



Seoul is a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, extensive history, and rapid economic development. The city's skyline is a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, showcasing its rich heritage.



Seoul is a hub for education, with several top-ranked universities and research institutes. The city also thrives in technology and innovation - home to global companies like Samsung and LG. Street markets like Myeongdong and Insadong offer a taste of local life and traditional crafts, while districts like Gangnam are famous for their upscale shopping and entertainment.



Seoul's green spaces, like Namsan Park and the Han River Park, provide a refuge from the urban hustle. The city's blend of history, culture, technology, and nature makes it a unique and dynamic metropolis, attracting millions of visitors each year.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The city of Seoul, South Korea 

Thomas never expected to encounter such a rare scene while he served, or even ever in his life! It’s a strange sight to see four cubs together, and it is even stranger​ to rescue one cub, let alone two! If it wasn’t for his quick thinking, the two cubs may not have made it.

Protect And Serve

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/root-bacteria-protects-plants/">Bacteria</a> that benefit plants are thought to be a critical contributor to crops and ecosystems, but climate change may reduce their numbers, according to a new study by an international team of researchers published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-023-00869-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Food</a>.



The collaboration, including Francisco Dini-Andreote, professor of plant science at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, characterized the abundances and distributions of plant beneficial bacteria (PBB) from soils collected across the globe. The researchers then modeled how these microbial communities may be impacted by fossil-fuel dependent climate change in the next century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-second-genome">The second genome</h2>



Leveraging existing data from the <a href="https://earthmicrobiome.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth Microbiome Project</a>, the researchers identified microbes that may provide services to plants such as biocontrol or limiting impacts of pathogens, plant growth promotion, and stress resistance. Such services implicate these bacteria as key components of productive agroecosystems, which primarily yield food.



“Plants are colonized by a diverse set of microbes on and in their roots, leaves and stems,” Dini-Andreote said. “These plant-associated microbiomes represent an extension of the plant metabolic capacity - often termed ‘the second genome of plants.’”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-community-patterns">Microbial community patterns</h2>



This notion echoes the hologenome concept, which considers the total set of genes contained by an organism and its associated microbiome to make inferences about organismal health and evolution.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, characterizing the biogeography of PBB sets the stage for understanding the variables that govern global microbial community patterns and predicting their future in a rapidly shifting world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights-nbsp">Key insights&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed several trends in PBB diversity, including higher levels of diversity and richness in lower latitudes, with the highest concentration in North America and Africa. A total of 396 genera, the taxonomic rank above species level, were identified.&nbsp;



The researchers found that local environmental variables - climate, in particular - were strong predictors of PBB community composition, likely exerting strong influences on PBB distribution. This suggests that climate influences what bacteria are found where and in what proportion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-scenarios-nbsp">Future scenarios&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate how PBB abundances and distributions may change over the next century, the researchers modeled several climate scenarios based on projections from the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a>. 



Under the fossil-fueled development scenario, which assumes tripled greenhouse gas emissions by 2075, the model predicted that PBB associated with biocontrol and stress resistance would decline by 0.60 percent in 80 percent of global regions, as opposed to 0.07 percent under a Sustainability scenario.&nbsp;



Under all scenarios, middle-latitude regions are projected to experience steady declines, whereas increases in PBB are anticipated in polar and equatorial regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-validation-is-needed">Further validation is needed</h2>



Dini-Andreote noted that predictive studies such as this are broadly impactful but cautioned that models are limited and must be experimentally validated. For instance, in controlled settings, plant-soil systems can be exposed to warming or drought conditions, after which researchers can evaluate shifts based on the impact and adaptation of PBB communities relative to controls.&nbsp;



In other words, experimentation is required to know how PBB will be affected under climate-related stress, and what levels of PBB decline will have a critical impact on plant health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-food-insecurity-nbsp">Addressing food insecurity&nbsp;</h2>



In addition to informing community ecology research, the researchers said they hope to spark agricultural innovation and applications for increased food security. But those innovations are unlikely to include soil probiotics to restore diminished PBB.&nbsp;



Dini-Andreote said that such bioinoculants can often have several shortcomings such as requiring continual application. Additionally, only a small fraction, about 5 to 10 percent, of soil microbes can be cultured, which limits the development of full-spectrum probiotics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance-nbsp">Study significance&nbsp;</h2>



However, Dini-Andreote offered an alternative. “By advancing our understanding of how these distinct PBB survive in association with plants, for instance in the plant rhizosphere, we can develop strategies to engineer crops to produce compounds that feed these beneficial microbes.”&nbsp;



Through this approach, the researchers suggested, plants could recruit beneficial bacteria with no need for the external input of probiotics. The potential impacts of applications like this are untold, Dini-Andreote said, but underscore the importance of exploring the rapidly advancing frontier of microbiomes.



“This high-profile research is a testament to Dr. Dini-Andreote’s impactful and original research on plant-microbe interactions in a One Health context, spanning soil, plant and human health," Seth Bordenstein, director of the <a href="https://www.huck.psu.edu/institutes-and-centers/microbiome-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Health Microbiome Center</a> at Penn State. “His vision for plant hologenome studies and integration with global environmental and geographic data is not only driving textbook-level knowledge, but it also raises the alarm on evidence-backed sustainability challenges,” he concluded.



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Beneficial plant bacteria likely to decline due to climate change

Bacteria that benefit plants are thought to be a critical...

3d,Illustration,Of,A,Landscape,Of,Enceladus,,Saturn's,Moon

Astrophysics and space research have long been intrigued by one persisting question: Is there life beyond Earth? Saturn's icy moon, Enceladus, emerges as a prime candidate in this search. 



Enceladus is known as an '<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-saturns-moon-enceladus-has-all-of-the-ingredients-necessary-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean world</a>' and possesses all three key essential elements for life as we know it -- water, energy, and organic material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-plumes-on-saturn-s-moon-enceladus">Ice plumes on Saturn's moon Enceladus</h2>



NASA's <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cassini spacecraft</a>, during its remarkable 20-year mission, uncovered that Enceladus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-saturns-moon-enceladus-massive-water-plume-has-scientists-wondering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ejects ice plumes</a> at a staggering speed of approximately 800 miles per hour. 



These plumes are not only fascinating but also offer a unique opportunity to study the composition of Enceladus' oceans and their potential to harbor life. The main challenge, however, was the uncertainty of whether organic compounds within these ice grains could survive the high-speed ejection without degradation.



In a significant development, researchers from the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, San Diego</a>, have provided clear laboratory evidence that amino acids in these ice plumes can withstand impact speeds of up to 4.2 km/s. This research supports the possibility of detecting such compounds during space missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aerosol-impact-spectrometer">Aerosol impact spectrometer</h2>



Led by Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry <a href="http://checont6.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Continetti</a>, the team at UC San Diego developed a custom-built aerosol impact spectrometer. 



This apparatus, unique in its ability to handle single particles at high velocities, was initially not intended for studying ice grain impacts but proved to be exceptionally suited for this purpose.



Continetti explains, “This apparatus is the only one of its kind in the world that can select single particles and accelerate or decelerate them to chosen final velocities.” 



The spectrometer's versatility in examining particles of various sizes and materials adds to its significance in understanding particle behavior upon high-speed impact.



In 2024, NASA plans to launch the <a href="https://europa.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa Clipper</a>, aiming for Jupiter's moon Europa. Similar to Enceladus, Europa is another 'ocean world' with icy composition. This mission, along with any future probes to Saturn, holds the promise of identifying molecules in ice grains that could indicate life in the subsurface oceans of these moons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-life-in-the-enceladus-ice">Finding life in the Enceladus ice</h2>



Continetti's team is the first to measure the effects of single ice grain impacts, a crucial step in understanding the survivability of organic molecules during high-speed ejections from moons like Enceladus and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-life-on-europa-co2-discovery-by-webb-increases-the-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>.



The team generated ice grains using electrospray ionization and observed their behavior in a vacuum. They meticulously measured the mass, charge, and impact timing of these grains, providing insights into the survivability of amino acids at high velocities.



Their research bolsters the possibility of detecting extraterrestrial life and opens new avenues in chemistry. The presence of salt in Enceladus' oceans, believed to be more than Earth's, could affect the detectability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amino acids</a>. This aspect of salt altering water's properties and solubility of molecules could lead to more efficient detection methods.



“To get an idea of what kind of life may be possible in the solar system, you want to know there hasn’t been a lot of molecular fragmentation in the sampled ice grains, so you can get that fingerprint of whatever it is that makes it a self-contained life form,” said Continetti. “Our work shows that this is possible with the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/missions/cassini/the-moon-with-the-plume/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice plumes of Enceladus</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-biosignatures">Beyond biosignatures</h2>



Continetti expresses excitement about the broader implications of their work, stating, “The implications this has for detecting life elsewhere in the solar system without missions to the surface of these ocean-world moons is very exciting, but our work goes beyond biosignatures in ice grains.” 



He emphasizes the potential contributions to fundamental chemistry and the continuation of pioneering research in the field.



“It has implications for fundamental chemistry as well. We are excited by the prospect of following in the footsteps of Harold Urey and Stanley Miller, founding faculty at UC San Diego in looking at the formation of the building blocks of life from chemical reactions activated by ice grain impact," Continetti concluded.



The research by Continetti and his team at UC San Diego marks a significant step in the ongoing quest to understand the potential for life beyond Earth. As space missions continue to explore the icy moons of our solar system, this research paves the way for new discoveries and a deeper understanding of the universe we inhabit.



The full study was published in <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2313447120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS)</a>.



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How scientists plan to find alien life on Saturn's moon Enceladus

Astrophysics and space research have long been intrigued by one...

After more than three and a half decades of diligent observation, researchers at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> (MSU) are unraveling some of the enigmatic behaviors of a unique type of mob – those comprised of spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spotted-hyenas-change-their-foraging-behavior-to-adapt/">hyenas</a>.



The findings of this research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.1390" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>, shed light on the intricate relationships and social interactions among hyenas, which influence their decisions to join forces and confront lions cooperatively, a behavior known as mobbing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobbing-behavior-nbsp">Mobbing behavior&nbsp;</h2>



Lead author Tracy Montgomery initiated this project during her doctoral studies under the mentorship of Kay Holekamp at MSU. Her research was bolstered by support from the Dr. Marvin Hensley Endowed Scholarship Fund in Zoology.



“Social relationships can overcome barriers to mobbing and let hyenas achieve cooperation,” Montgomery said, further adding that greetings among hyenas and the strength of their social bonds play pivotal roles in determining their likelihood to engage in mobbing behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-social-structures-nbsp">Complex social structures&nbsp;</h2>



Spotted hyenas are intriguing social animals characterized by complex social structures similar to those found in baboons and other primates. Researchers study hyenas not only to comprehend cooperative behaviors in wildlife but also to gain insights into such behaviors in humans.



Kenna Lehmann, another lead author who was part of Holekamp’s team during her doctoral studies and is now an assistant professor at MSU, emphasizes the significance of long-term relationships built among hyenas. She notes that their interactions go beyond mere transactional arrangements. “It’s not just, ‘I’ll give you a zebra leg if you help,’” as she puts it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-characteristics-nbsp">Unique characteristics&nbsp;</h2>



Holekamp, who has dedicated 35 years to studying hyenas in Kenya, expresses her fascination with these creatures. “I went to Kenya in 1988 thinking I’d do a dissertation-length project - three or four years - with hyenas, then I'd move on to study dolphins or monkeys or some other animals.” However, the unique characteristics of hyenas kept her captivated.



For example, female spotted hyenas possess pseudo-penises, a biological anomaly that challenges conventional understanding. Although this particular aspect doesn’t directly relate to the current study, it highlights the hyenas’ propensity to defy established biological norms.&nbsp;



“Spotted hyenas appear to violate many of the basic rules of mammalian biology,” Holekamp said, thus making them intriguing subjects for scientific investigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



Both Tracy Montgomery and Kenna Lehmann, under the guidance of Kay Holekamp, became intrigued by the rules governing hyenas’ behavior when mobbing lions. They sought to understand why hyenas engage in this risky behavior and what motivates them.&nbsp;



Notably, their research revealed that lions were responsible for the deaths of hyenas in over 25 percent of cases where the cause of death could be ascertained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tangible-benefits-of-mobbing-nbsp">Tangible benefits of mobbing&nbsp;</h2>



Lions and hyenas often share territories, prompting Lehmann and Montgomery to initially examine mobbing behavior through the lens of its tangible benefits, such as protecting food resources from lions.&nbsp;



In a previous report in 2017, the team demonstrated that mobbing was not limited to scenarios with immediate benefits but also occurred without any apparent advantages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-nbsp">New insights&nbsp;</h2>



In their recent study, the researchers delved deeper into mobbing behavior to explore other underlying motivations. During this exploration, they discovered that mobbing was more prevalent when the risk of harm or death to hyenas was lower, even in situations devoid of immediate benefits.&nbsp;



For instance, hyenas were more likely to engage in mobbing when there were no male lions present, as male lions are larger and more hazardous to hyenas. Conversely, among spotted hyenas, where females are larger than males, females were more inclined to participate in mobbing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meticulous-observation-nbsp">Meticulous observation&nbsp;</h2>



However, the most noteworthy aspect of mobbing behavior was its social dimension, a discovery made possible by the meticulous observation of hyenas spanning several generations within the same habitat over 35 years.&nbsp;



Throughout this extended period, the research team maintained a continuous presence at their research camp in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, with multiple collaborators contributing to the project.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-commitment-nbsp">Long-term commitment&nbsp;</h2>



The significance of the long-term commitment to this research became evident as mobbing events are relatively infrequent. Over the course of three decades, the team witnessed approximately 1,000 interactions involving hyenas and lions, with only a fraction of those interactions providing the comprehensive data required for detailed analysis.&nbsp;



These interactions are typically fast-paced, involve numerous hyenas and lions, and are characterized by rapid movement, making precise data recording a significant challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-data">Valuable data</h2>



Out of the roughly 1,000 interactions observed, only 325 yielded sufficiently robust data for Montgomery and Lehmann to conduct their analyses and make their discoveries. They credit the dedication and efforts of students, research assistants, and other collaborators over the past 30 years for their ability to standardize and organize field observations into usable datasets.



The researchers continue to explore the wealth of insights that these datasets may hold. “Finding these results was really exciting, but I feel like the fun part of science is you answer a question and you immediately have 50 more. There are so many more things that we need to do with this data,” Montgomery concluded.



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'Friendly' hyenas more likely to engage in mobbing behavior

After more than three and a half decades of diligent...

A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing dimension to sushi beyond its well-known combination of fish and seaweed. Researchers from <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tohoku University</a> have discovered that wasabi, that zesty green condiment traditionally paired with sushi, can significantly enhance both short-term and long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/">memory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-change">Dramatic change</h2>



According to Rui Nouchi, the study’s lead researcher and an associate professor at the university’s Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, the outcomes, though derived from a relatively small sample of subjects devoid of preexisting health issues, exceeded their initial expectations.&nbsp;



“We knew from earlier animal studies that wasabi conferred health benefits,” Nouchi said during an interview conducted in northeastern Japan. “But what really surprised us was the dramatic change. The improvement was really substantial.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The principal active constituent within Japanese wasabi is a biochemical compound named 6-MSITC, recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, a rarity in the plant kingdom, as noted by Nouchi.&nbsp;



The research, executed as a double-blind, randomized study, featured 72 healthy participants aged between 60 and 80. Half of the participants were administered 100 milligrams of wasabi extract at bedtime, while the remaining half received a placebo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-wasabi">Key findings about wasabi</h2>



After three months, the group treated with wasabi extract demonstrated significant enhancements in two aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>: working (short-term) memory and the more enduring episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>. These improvements were gauged through standardized assessments of language skills, concentration, and the ability to perform simple tasks. 



However, there was no observable improvement in other cognitive domains, including inhibitory control (the capacity to maintain focus), executive function, or processing speed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-plasticity-nbsp">Neural plasticity&nbsp;</h2>



The subjects who received the wasabi treatment exhibited an average 18 percent surge in their episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-improves-memory-formation-and-recall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> scores, with an overall average score 14 percent higher than the placebo group.



The researchers postulated that 6-MSITC may contribute to a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress levels within the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-connection-between-scent-and-memory-may-help-combat-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory functions</a>, thereby promoting neural plasticity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-verbal-episodic-memory">Verbal episodic memory</h2>



In comparison to the control group, the study reported that individuals who were administered wasabi “showed improved verbal episodic memory performance as well as better performance in associating faces and names, which is often the major memory-related problem in older adults.”



Wasabi belongs to the mustard family of plants, and the piquant paste derived from it garnered esteem in Japan centuries ago due to its antimicrobial properties, making it effective in combating foodborne pathogens such as E-coli and staphylococcus. Furthermore, its distinctive flavor and aroma make it an ideal complement to seafood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasabi-as-a-daily-supplement">Wasabi as a daily supplement </h2>



Rui Nouchi, a specialist in dementia prevention, turned to wasabi as a treatment option after experiencing high dropout rates with conventional methods for preserving cognitive health, such as the Mediterranean diet, exercise regimens, and music therapy.&nbsp;



Nouchi reasoned that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taking-a-daily-multivitamin-improves-memory-and-slows-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily supplement</a> would be more sustainable, particularly for older adults, while delivering greater benefits than other anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spices like ginger and turmeric.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-nbsp">Future research&nbsp;</h2>



The Tohoku University research team now has plans to extend their investigations to include individuals from various age groups and explore whether wasabi could potentially slow down cognitive decline in dementia patients.



However, there is a significant caveat to these findings: the piquant paste served at nearly all sushi establishments, even in Japan, is almost certainly an imposter. What is far more prevalent is a convincing imitation, typically composed of ordinary white horseradish dyed green.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-authentic-wasabi-nbsp">Authentic wasabi&nbsp;</h2>



Authentic wasabi, indigenous to Japan, is notoriously challenging to cultivate. The plant necessitates nearly two years to mature and demands precise conditions involving temperature, shade, gravel composition, and water quality. Astonishingly, its production cost per pound can even surpass that of the finest-grade tuna it often accompanies.



Genuine wasabi must be consumed fresh, with the rough rhizome or stem of the plant grated tableside just before consumption. On a positive note, even a small serving of genuine wasabi offers equivalent benefits to the capsule supplements employed in the Tohoku study, delivering 0.8 milligrams of 6-MSITC.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/21/4608" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrients</a>. 



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Wasabi significantly enhances both short-term and long-term memory

A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing...

Close,Up,Of,Colorful,Atomic,Particle,Background,Science,3d,Illustration

In a groundbreaking announcement, physicists from University College London (<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL</a>) have presented a radical theory that unifies the realms of gravity and quantum mechanics while preserving the classical concept of spacetime, as outlined by Einstein. 



This innovative approach, detailed in two simultaneously published papers, challenges over a century of scientific consensus and proposes a revolutionary perspective on the fundamental nature of our universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dichotomy-in-modern-physics">Dichotomy in modern physics</h2>



Modern physics rests on two contradictory pillars: quantum theory, which rules the microscopic world, and Einstein’s theory of general relativity, explaining gravity through spacetime curvature. These theories, despite their individual successes, have remained irreconcilable, creating a significant rift in our understanding of the universe.



Traditionally, scientists have believed that a quantum version of Einstein's theory of gravity was necessary. This belief fueled the development of string theory and loop quantum gravity. However, the new theory from UCL takes a divergent path.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ucl-theory-a-postquantum-perspective">UCL theory: A postquantum perspective</h2>



Professor Jonathan Oppenheim of UCL Physics &amp; Astronomy, the lead proponent of this theory, argues for a "postquantum theory of classical gravity." This radical idea, as elaborated in his paper in <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/accepted/d6078Ke1S941110a26ad9584bc2567e68f9f76c1e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review X (PRX)</a>, suggests that spacetime may remain classical and not subject to quantum mechanics. 



Instead of altering spacetime, this theory revises quantum theory itself, predicting unpredictable and significant fluctuations in spacetime. These fluctuations, larger than those anticipated by quantum theory, could render the weight of objects uncertain at precise measurements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimental-tests-and-implications">Experimental tests and implications</h2>



A second paper in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-43348-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>, led by Professor Oppenheim’s former PhD students, proposes an experiment to validate this theory. The experiment involves measuring a mass (like the 1kg standard previously used by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France) with extreme precision to detect potential weight fluctuations over time. 



Professor Oppenheim, Professor Carlo Rovelli, and Dr. Geoff Penington -- leading proponents of quantum loop gravity and string theory, respectively -- have placed <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/oppenheim/pub/quantum_vs_classical_bet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a bet</a> with 5000:1 odds on the outcome of the experiment, or any other evidence that might emerge, which would confirm the quantum versus classical nature of spacetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravity-spacetime-and-quantum-theory">Gravity, spacetime, and quantum theory</h2>



For the past five years, the UCL research team has been rigorously examining this theory and its implications. Professor Oppenheim notes the importance of resolving the contradiction between quantum theory and general relativity.



Oppenheim stated, "<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/relativity_quantum-mechanics_Isaac-Young_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum theory</a> and Einstein's theory of general relativity are mathematically incompatible with each other, so it's important to understand how this contradiction is resolved. Should spacetime be quantised, or should we modify quantum theory, or is it something else entirely? Now that we have a consistent fundamental theory in which spacetime does not get quantised, it’s anybody’s guess.”



Zach Weller-Davies, a co-author and key contributor to the theory, highlights that this discovery not only challenges our understanding of gravity but also provides a method to probe its potential quantum nature. "If <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/precision-mass-measurement_Isaac-Young_2medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spacetime</a> doesn’t have a quantum nature, then there must be random fluctuations in the curvature of spacetime with a particular signature that can be verified experimentally," he explains.



“We have shown that if spacetime doesn’t have a quantum nature, then there must be random fluctuations in the curvature of spacetime which have a particular signature that can be verified experimentally," Weller-Davies continued. “In both quantum gravity and classical gravity, spacetime must be undergoing violent and random fluctuations all around us, but on a scale which we haven’t yet been able to detect. But if spacetime is classical, the fluctuations have to be larger than a certain scale, and this scale can be determined by another experiment where we test how long we can put a heavy atom in superposition* of being in two different locations."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-gravity-implications-for-quantum-theory">Beyond gravity: Implications for quantum theory</h2>



Co-authors Dr. Carlo Sparaciari and Dr. Barbara Šoda emphasize the significance of these experiments in determining the correct approach to understanding gravity.



Dr Šoda said, “Because gravity is made manifest through the bending of space and time, we can think of the question in terms of whether the rate at which time flows has a quantum nature, or classical nature. And testing this is almost as simple as testing whether the weight of a mass is constant, or appears to fluctuate in a particular way.”



Dr Sparaciari elucidated, “While the experimental concept is simple, the weighing of the object needs to be carried out with extreme precision. But what I find exciting is that starting from very general assumptions, we can prove a clear relationship between two measurable quantities – the scale of the spacetime fluctuations, and how long objects like atoms or apples can be put in quantum superposition of two different locations. We can then determine these two quantities experimentally.”  



This postquantum theory extends its influence beyond understanding gravity. It negates the need for the problematic “measurement postulate” in quantum theory. Quantum superpositions would naturally localize due to their interactions with classical spacetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-in-physics">A new era in physics</h2>



Originating from Professor Oppenheim's efforts to solve the black hole information problem, this theory allows for the possibility of information destruction, contradicting standard quantum theory but aligning with general relativity’s predictions about black holes.



This announcement marks a potential paradigm shift in physics. As Professor Sougato Bose of UCL Physics &amp; Astronomy, not involved in this specific announcement but a pioneer in related research, remarks, “Experiments to test the nature of spacetime will take a large-scale effort, but they're of huge importance from the perspective of understanding the fundamental laws of nature.”



Indeed, these efforts could lead to a unified understanding of gravity and quantum mechanics, resolving one of the most profound dilemmas in modern physics. The implications of this theory, if proven correct, are vast, potentially reshaping our understanding of the universe at its most fundamental level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-theory-of-relativity">More about the theory of relativity</h2>



As mentioned above, Einstein's theory of relativity, a cornerstone of modern physics, revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. This theory comes in two parts: Special Relativity and General Relativity.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-special-relativity-1905">Special Relativity (1905)</h3>



Albert Einstein introduced Special Relativity in 1905. This theory fundamentally changed our perception of space and time. It asserts two key principles:



The Laws of Physics are the Same for All Non-accelerating Observers: No matter how fast an observer is moving, they will measure the same speed of light and observe the same laws of physics.



The Speed of Light is Constant: The speed of light in a vacuum is the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion or the motion of the light source.



Special Relativity led to several groundbreaking conclusions:



Time Dilation: Time passes slower for objects moving at high speeds compared to those at rest. This effect becomes significant only at speeds close to the speed of light.



Length Contraction: Objects contract in length along the direction of motion as they approach the speed of light.



E=mc²: This famous equation relates energy (E) to mass (m) with the speed of light (c) as the constant of proportionality. It implies that energy and mass are interchangeable, laying the groundwork for nuclear energy and weapons.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-general-relativity-1915">General Relativity (1915)</h3>



Ten years later, Einstein expanded on his theory with General Relativity, which addresses gravity and acceleration:



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravity-as-curvature-of-spacetime">Gravity as Curvature of Spacetime</h4>



Einstein proposed that gravity is not a force between masses but rather a result of the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy. Massive objects like stars and planets warp the space around them, and other objects move along these curves, which we perceive as gravitational attraction.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-equivalence-principle">Equivalence Principle</h4>



This principle states that the effects of gravity are indistinguishable from the effects of acceleration. For instance, being in a closed room on Earth's surface (where gravity pulls you down) feels the same as being in a room in a spaceship that accelerates upwards.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-general-relativity-has-passed-numerous-tests">General Relativity has passed numerous tests</h3>



Light Bending: It predicts that light bends in a gravitational field. Observations during solar eclipses have confirmed this, where stars' positions near the sun appear shifted due to the sun's gravity bending the light.



Time Dilation Due to Gravity: Clocks run slower in stronger gravitational fields. This effect, tested using precise atomic clocks at different altitudes, is integral for the accuracy of GPS systems.



Gravitational Waves: Predicted by Einstein, these ripples in spacetime, caused by massive accelerating objects (like merging black holes), were directly detected in 2015, confirming a major prediction of General Relativity.



In summary, Einstein's theory of relativity redefined our understanding of the universe. Special Relativity showed that space and time are relative and interconnected, leading to phenomena like time dilation and mass-energy equivalence. General Relativity further advanced this by describing gravity as the curvature of spacetime, profoundly influencing cosmology and astrophysics.



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



As also discussed above, quantum mechanics, a fundamental theory in physics, describes the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. It emerged in the early 20th century as scientists explored phenomena that classical physics couldn't explain. Here are some key aspects of quantum mechanics:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wave-particle-duality">Wave-Particle Duality</h3>



Quantum mechanics introduces the concept of wave-particle duality. Particles, such as electrons and photons, exhibit both particle-like and wave-like properties. For example, electrons can produce interference patterns (a wave property) in a double-slit experiment, while also showing particle characteristics in other contexts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertainty-principle">Uncertainty Principle</h3>



Werner Heisenberg formulated the Uncertainty Principle, a cornerstone of quantum mechanics. It states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. The more precisely you measure one, the less precise the measurement of the other becomes. This principle challenges the classical notion of determinism.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-superposition-and-entanglement">Quantum superposition and entanglement</h3>



Quantum Superposition: Quantum particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, as illustrated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conscious-awareness-when-does-our-sense-of-purpose-emerge/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schrödinger's</a> cat thought experiment. A particle in a superposition state doesn't have a specific position, energy, or other physical property until it's measured.



Quantum Entanglement: Particles can become <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">entangled</a>, meaning the state of one particle instantly influences the state of another, regardless of the distance separating them. This phenomenon, famously described by Einstein as "spooky action at a distance," defies classical ideas of spatial separation and information transfer.



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



Quantum tunneling occurs when particles pass through barriers that they shouldn't be able to, according to classical physics. This effect is crucial in many modern technologies, such as semiconductors and superconducting devices.



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



Upon measurement, a quantum system 'collapses' from a superposition of states to a single state. This collapse is instantaneous and is at the heart of many interpretations of quantum mechanics, including the famous Copenhagen interpretation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-of-quantum-mechanics">Applications of quantum mechanics</h3>



Quantum mechanics has led to numerous technological advancements:



Semiconductors: The foundation of modern electronics, including computers and smartphones, relies on quantum mechanics.



Quantum Computing: Quantum computers use quantum bits or qubits, which can be in superpositions of states, offering potentially exponential increases in computing power for certain problems.



Medical Imaging: Techniques like MRI and PET scans depend on principles of quantum mechanics.



In summary, quantum mechanics reveals a strange, counterintuitive world at the smallest scales, fundamentally different from our everyday experiences. Its principles have not only deepened our understanding of the universe but also driven significant technological progress.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-43348-2">Nature Communications</a>.



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Radical new theory finally unites gravity, spacetime, and the quantum realm

In a groundbreaking announcement, physicists from University College London (UCL)...

A high-speed stream from a coronal hole is expected to lead to G2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storming on December 4 (UTC Day) and G1 (Minor) storming on December 5, 2023, according to an alert this morning from the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPC</a>).



Coronal holes are striking features of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-storms-will-intensify-then-slow-as-the-solar-cycle-peaks-in-early-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun</a>, often appearing as dark regions in the solar corona when observed in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and soft X-ray solar images. These areas are notable for being cooler and less dense compared to the surrounding plasma. The darkness of coronal holes is attributed to their nature as regions of open, unipolar magnetic fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-magnetic-fields-in-coronal-holes">Role of magnetic fields in coronal holes</h2>



The open magnetic field line structure of coronal holes is a critical aspect of their behavior. This structure allows 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>, a stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun, to escape more easily into space. The result is a stream of relatively fast solar wind, often referred to as a high-speed stream in interplanetary space analysis.



Interestingly, coronal holes can develop at any time and place on the Sun. However, they are more common and persistent around the years of solar minimum. The more persistent coronal holes can last through several solar rotations, each spanning about 27 days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevalence-and-stability-of-coronal-holes">Prevalence and stability of coronal holes</h2>



Coronal holes are most prevalent and stable at the solar north and south poles. These polar holes can grow and expand to lower solar latitudes. Additionally, coronal holes can develop in isolation from polar holes, or an extension of a polar hole can split off to become an isolated structure. Persistent coronal holes serve as long-lasting sources for high-speed solar wind streams.



As the high-speed stream interacts with the slower ambient solar wind, a compression region forms, known as a co-rotating interaction region (CIR). From the perspective of a fixed observer in interplanetary space, the CIR will lead the coronal hole high-speed stream (CH HSS).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-cir-on-planetary-conditions">Effects of CIR on planetary conditions</h2>



The CIR can cause particle density enhancement and interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) strength increases before the onset of the CH HSS. As the CH HSS approaches Earth, solar wind speed and temperature rise, while particle density begins to decrease. After the passage of the CIR and the transition into the CH HSS flow, the overall IMF strength typically starts to weaken.



Coronal holes located near the solar equator are most likely to affect Earth with CIR passage and/or higher solar wind speeds. Strong CIRs and the faster CH HSS can significantly impact Earth’s magnetosphere, causing geomagnetic storms to the G1-G2 levels (Minor to Moderate) on the NOAA Space Weather Scale. 



In rarer cases, stronger storming may occur. The larger and more expansive coronal holes can be a source of high solar wind speeds that affect Earth for extended periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forecasting-a-coronal-hole">Forecasting a coronal hole</h2>



Forecasters closely analyze coronal holes for their potential to cause escalated geomagnetic activity and possible storming. They are noted on the daily synoptic drawing. 



The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) forecasters consider the effects of CIR and CH HSS activity when forecasting the anticipated levels of overall planetary geomagnetic response for each 3-hour synoptic period over the next three days, as detailed in the 3-day forecast. Predicted CIR or CH HSS influences are further elaborated in the forecast discussion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coronal-holes-and-auroras">Coronal holes and auroras</h2>



Coronal holes play a significant role in the creation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aurora-borealis-seen-as-far-south-as-the-equator-after-largest-known-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auroras</a> on Earth. These dark areas on the Sun's surface, characterized by open magnetic fields, allow solar winds to escape more easily into space. When these high-speed solar winds, often emanating from coronal holes, reach Earth, they can interact with the planet's magnetosphere. This interaction involves the solar wind's charged particles colliding with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.



As the solar wind penetrates the magnetosphere, it can cause <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noaa-alert-strong-geomagnetic-storm-warning-issued-due-to-strong-solar-flare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geomagnetic storms</a>, especially if the incoming solar wind is strong and fast. These storms disturb the magnetosphere and lead to the acceleration of electrons and protons. When these accelerated particles collide with gases in Earth's upper atmosphere, such as oxygen and nitrogen, they excite these gases, causing them to release photons - the basic units of light. This release of photons results in the shimmering lights known as auroras.



The intensity and frequency of auroras often depend on the strength of the solar wind and the geomagnetic storms it induces. Coronal holes, being significant sources of fast solar winds, can enhance the likelihood and intensity of auroras. During times when Earth encounters streams of solar wind from these coronal holes, the chances of observing auroras at higher and sometimes lower latitudes increase. This phenomenon makes coronal holes an essential factor in predicting and understanding auroral activities on Earth.



In summary, understanding coronal holes and their associated phenomena is crucial for anticipating and mitigating the impacts of solar activity on Earth’s magnetosphere and space weather conditions.



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"Coronal hole" in the Sun prompts aurora alert for southern states

A high-speed stream from a coronal hole is expected to...

In an alarming development, the <a href="https://www.globalcarbonproject.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Carbon Project</a> science team has reported that global carbon emissions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/">fossil fuels</a> have surged to record levels in 2023.&nbsp;



The annual Global Carbon Budget, a comprehensive study involving over 120 scientists from around the world, has projected fossil carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to be 36.8 billion tons this year, marking a 1.1 percent increase from 2022.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insufficient-reductions-nbsp">Insufficient reductions&nbsp;</h2>



This rise in carbon emissions comes despite a decline in some regions like Europe and the United States. However, these reductions are not sufficient to offset the overall global increase.&nbsp;



The scientists warn that the pace of global action to cut fossil fuels is lagging far behind what is necessary to prevent catastrophic climate change.



The report also highlights a slight decrease in emissions from land-use changes, such as deforestation. Still yet, these reductions are not enough to be counterbalanced by current levels of reforestation and afforestation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-fuel-emissions-in-10-year-plateau">Fossil fuel emissions in 10-year "plateau"</h2>



Consequently, the total global CO2 emissions, including both fossil fuels and land-use changes, are projected to reach 40.9 billion tons in 2023.&nbsp;



This is about the same as 2022 levels, and part of a 10-year “plateau” - far from the steep reduction in emissions that is urgently needed to meet global climate targets, noted the experts.&nbsp;



The study was conducted by institutions including the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/undergraduate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, the University of East Anglia (UEA), CICERO Center for International Climate Research, and Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-pace-of-action">Slow pace of action</h2>



Study lead author Professor Pierre Friedlingstein from Exeter’s Global Systems Institute expressed dismay at the slow pace of action against fossil fuel emissions.&nbsp;



“The impacts of climate change are evident all around us, but action to reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuels remains painfully slow,” said Professor Friedlingstein.



“It now looks inevitable we will overshoot the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement, and leaders meeting at COP28 will have to agree rapid cuts in fossil fuel emissions even to keep the 2°C target alive.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-5-c-global-warming-threshold">1.5°C global warming threshold</h2>



The researchers also investigated the time remaining before the world consistently exceeds the 1.5°C global warming threshold. With the current emission levels, there's a 50% chance that this limit will be consistently breached in about seven years.&nbsp;



This forecast, however, comes with significant uncertainties, particularly due to the unknown additional warming from non-CO2 agents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasingly-serious-impacts">Increasingly serious impacts</h2>



Professor Corinne Le Quéré from UEA’s School of Environmental Sciences emphasized that the latest CO2 data clearly shows that current efforts are insufficient.&nbsp;



“The latest CO2 data shows that current efforts are not profound or widespread enough to put global emissions on a downward trajectory towards Net Zero, but some trends in emissions are beginning to budge, showing climate policies can be effective," said Professor Le Quéré.



“Global emissions at today’s level are rapidly increasing the CO2 concentration in our atmosphere, causing additional climate change and increasingly serious and growing impacts.”&nbsp;



“All countries need to decarbonize their economies faster than they are at present to avoid the worse impacts of climate change."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-key-findings-on-fossil-fuel-carbon-emissions">Other key findings on fossil fuel carbon emissions</h2>



<ul>
<li>Regional trends vary dramatically. Emissions in 2023 are projected to increase in India (8.2%) and China (4.0%), and decline in the EU (-7.4%), the USA (-3.0%) and the rest of the world (-0.4%).</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Global emissions from coal (1.1%), oil (1.5%) and gas (0.5%) are all projected to increase.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Atmospheric CO2 levels are projected to average 419.3 parts per million in 2023, 51% above pre-industrial levels.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>About half of all CO2 emitted continues to be absorbed by land and ocean “sinks”, with the rest remaining in the atmosphere where it causes climate change.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Global CO2 emissions from fires in 2023 have been larger than the average (based on satellite records since 2003) due to an extreme wildfire season in Canada, where emissions were six to eight times higher than average.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Current levels of technology-based Carbon Dioxide Removal (ie excluding nature-based means such as reforestation) amount to about 0.01 million tonnes CO₂, more than a million times smaller than current fossil CO2 emissions.</li>
</ul>



The Global Carbon Budget report, now in its 18th annual edition, is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/essd-15-5301-2023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth System Science Data</a>.



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Carbon emissions from fossil fuels hit an all-time record high in 2023

In an alarming development, the Global Carbon Project science team...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

The center intends to reunite the cubs with their mother once they are strong enough if it can be possible. And of course, there’s one person who has kept a keen eye on their progress every day!

Heroic Trooper

Thankfully, the little cubs made a speedy recovery and their carers put it down to their constant company. Most rescued animals take time to recover due to stress and isolation, but these two had each other!