Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Cape Cod peninsula, located in the easternmost portion of Massachusetts. The peninsula extends into the Atlantic Ocean and is a significant feature of the East Coast of the United States.



Cape Cod peninsula is characterized by its beaches, villages, and seafood. It's a popular tourist destination, particularly in the summer months, with people visiting for its beautiful landscapes and unique culture.



Cape Cod consists of 15 towns, including Provincetown, Hyannis, Falmouth, and Chatham. Each town has its own distinctive character and attractions. For example, Provincetown, located at the tip of the peninsula, is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, while Hyannis is famous as a ferry gateway to the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.



The Cape Cod National Seashore, a national park covering much of the Outer Cape, including the entire east-facing coast, provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and beachgoing.



Historically, Cape Cod was a landmark for early explorers of the Americas. It was among the first places settled by the English in North America in the Pilgrim Fathers' era, and it played a key role in the early history and development of the United States.&nbsp;



Today, the Cape's history is preserved in numerous museums, historic sites, and lighthouses. In addition, a variety of wildlife can be found in the region, such as whales, seals, and many species of birds.



"The variety of ecosystems within Cape Cod National Seashore sustain over 450 species of amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds, and mammals, including 32 species that are rare or endangered," says NASA. "One of those species is the American oystercatcher, a large shorebird that uses a knife-like bill to eat shellfish."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Cape Cod peninsula in the northeastern United States

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Amundsen Gulf in northern Canada, where ice is typically covered with ice that is fastened to surrounding coastlines. According to NASA, the breakup of this ice tends to be rapid when the melting season arrives in spring.



"Patches of fast ice remained in the eastern part of the gulf in late May, but summer weather will ultimately clear it away as well. The Amundsen Gulf, the western entrance to the Northwest Passage, is usually ice-free by August," says NASA.



Walt Meier, a senior research scientist at the National Snow and Ice Data Center, said that winds play an important role in the breakup of the ice. He noted that an area of low pressure centered south of the gulf prior to the breakup fueled strong easterly winds and large waves that broke up the ice and sent chunks of it drifting west.&nbsp;



This year's spring breakup occurred earlier than usual, which aligns with the overall trend in the Beaufort Sea region in recent decades, noted NASA.



“Over a period of two decades, the Amundsen Gulf had the highest interannual variability of anywhere across the entire Northwest Canadian Arctic,” said Eleanor Wratten, a researcher at Northumbria University and the lead author of an analysis of decades of MODIS observations of fast ice in the Northwest Canadian Arctic.&nbsp;



“We saw the timing of breakup change considerably from one year to the next, but the general pattern looked similar to what you see here. Ice usually remains in the southern bays the longest, with breakup veering toward the strait in the southeastern portion of the gulf.”



The image was captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite on May 30, 2023.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Spring ice breakup in the Amundsen Gulf

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Nova Scotia, where unusually large fires have led to the evacuation of thousands of people. The photograph, which was captured by an astronaut on the International Space Station, shows smoke rising from a fire near the town of Shelburne on May 29, 2023.



"By the morning of May 31, after four days of burning, the fire had scorched 17,000 hectares (66 square miles) near the southern tip of Nova Scotia," says NASA. "It became the largest forest fire in the province’s history, according to CBC Nova Scotia, exceeding the area burned by a fire in Guysborough County over six days in June 1976."



"Fires have burned in Canada for weeks, as the western part of the country experienced a record-breaking streak of hot weather in mid-May."&nbsp;



"Several regions in Canada also had an abnormally dry spring; Nova Scotia received about half of the usual amount of rainfall in April. Authorities classified both the Halifax and Shelburne County fires as uncontrolled on May 31 and expected the fires to grow as dry and windy conditions continued."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Smoke rises from fires in Nova Scotia

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Lake Hamun, a seasonal lake in the Sistan region on the Afghanistan-Iran border. The lake and surrounding wetlands have been shrinking as a result of persistent drought, leading to reduced vegetation and exposed dust. These changes have transformed the basin into a major source of dust storms.



"While dust storms are most common in the summer, they happen year-round as long as the lake is dry and the winds are strong. That was the case on January 12, 2023, when the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-20 satellite captured this image of dust streaming from the dry lake bed," says NASA.



In January 2023, a team of experts led by UCLA reported that airborne dust has likely increased by 55 percent on a global scale since pre-industrial times. The researchers said this is largely due to more frequent dust storms in Asia and North Africa.&nbsp;



The team estimates that the cooling effect of airborne dust has likely masked about eight percent of the warming caused by greenhouse gases since the preindustrial era.



“Our findings imply that greenhouses gases alone could cause even more climate warming than models currently predict,” said UCLA atmospheric physicist Jasper Kok. “This is of tremendous importance because better predictions can inform better decisions of how to mitigate or adapt to climate change.”



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Lake Hamun is a major source of dust storms

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Typhoon Mawar, also known as "Betty," which is the first typhoon of the season in the northwest Pacific. The intense storm struck Guam and the Philippines before heading toward Taiwan and southern Japan.



"With sustained winds that reached 295 kilometers (185 miles) per hour on May 25, the super typhoon grew to be one of the strongest May storms on record," says NASA.&nbsp;



"The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite acquired this natural-color image of Mawar at 05:20 Universal Time on May 30, 2023. Though the storm appeared to be bearing down on Taiwan, it was in the process of turning north and away from the island."



"After rapidly intensifying between May 24 and 25, Mawar then weakened significantly as it encountered cooler water temperatures and less favorable wind shear conditions as it neared Taiwan."



NASA reports that although Mawar did not strike the Philippines or Taiwan directly, the outer bands of the storm brought heavy rains to northern Luzon and rough seas to the eastern coast of Taiwan.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Typhoon Mawar is one of the strongest May storms on record

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Messina Strait, a channel in the Mediterranean Sea that separates Sicily and Calabria. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station



The Messina Strait is 20 miles long with a depth of 820 feet, and joins the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the south.&nbsp;



"Waves that follow the tide from west to east are visible in the right half of the photo. These are caused by internal waves, a process where stratified water layers of changing density and increasing depth horizontally propagate beneath the water surface. The waves are illuminated by sunglint—an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is directly reflected off the water and into a satellite’s sensor, or in this case, the astronaut’s camera," explains NASA.



"Alternating currents, relatively low water temperature, and high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen contribute to the region’s aquatic biodiversity. The strait hosts several deep-sea fish species such as Sloane’s viperfish (a predatory dragonfish) as well as commercially valuable fish like yellowtail and snapper. On the left side of the image, thin, white lines are likely ship wakes, some of which may belong to fishing boats."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Messina Strait in the Mediterranean Sea

Although many people wouldn’t have dared to pick up one of these giant crabs, they are actually friendly giants. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arsenic-in-connecticut-wells-linked-to-former-fruit-orchards/">Orchard</a> made sure that Mark didn’t have any cuts, otherwise, a tetanus shot may be required. As with all cuts, you may get from wildlife.

Although Mark’s hands were fine, Orchard did warn him of something else. Photo Credit:
washingtonpost.com

A Warning

Astronomers have recently discovered an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-building-blocks-of-life-may-come-from-asteroids/">asteroid</a> that tags along with our planet during its annual journey around the sun. Dubbed 2023 FW13, this asteroid is considered by experts to be a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite,” since it orbits the sun in a similar time frame as the Earth does, although it is only slightly influenced by our planet’s gravitational pull.



The asteroid – measuring only 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter and located at a distance of about nine million miles (14 million kilometers) from the Earth – was first spotted on March 28, 2023 by the <a href="http://www2.ifa.hawaii.edu/research/Pan-STARRS.shtml">Pan-STARRS</a> survey telescope, located on the top of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano on the Hawaiian Island of Maui.&nbsp;



Soon after, its presence in the Earth’s vicinity was confirmed by the <a href="https://www.cfht.hawaii.edu/">Canada-France-Hawaii telescope</a> and two observatories in Arizona (the <a href="https://kpno.noirlab.edu/">Kitt Peak National Observatory</a> and <a href="https://skycenter.arizona.edu/content/visit-skycenter">Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter</a>). On April 1, it was officially listed by the <a href="https://www.minorplanetcenter.net/iau/mpc.html">Minor Planet Center</a> at the International Astronomical Union, an organization responsible for designating new planets, moons, and other astronomical objects in our solar system.



<h2 id="h-classifying-2023-fw13">Classifying 2023 FW13</h2>



This news caught the attention of journalist and astronomer Adrien Coffinet, who used an orbit simulator developed by amateur astronomer Tony Dunn to map the asteroid’s path. The model showed that 2023 FW13 travels around the sun in the same amount of time the Earth does, while also circling around our planet, which led Coffinet to classify it as a “quasi-moon.”&nbsp;



However, as Alan Harris – a senior research scientist at the <a href="https://www.spacescience.org/index.php">Space Science Institute</a> in Boulder, Colorado – stresses, since the Earth plays essentially no role in the asteroid’s motion, its classification as a “quasi-satellite” may be a bit far-fetched.



<h2 id="h-our-cosmic-companion">Our cosmic companion&nbsp;</h2>



Regardless of its classification though, 2023 FW13 seems to have been our planet’s cosmic companion since at least 100 BCE and will most likely continue to follow the Earth in its orbit around the sun until around 3,700 CE. “It seems to be the longest quasi-satellite of Earth known to date,” Coffinet said.



Fortunately, despite hovering relatively close to our planet, this asteroid is unlikely to be on a collision course with the Earth. “The good news is, such an orbit doesn’t result in an impacting trajectory ‘out of the blue,’” Harris said.



According to Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the <a href="https://www.mit.edu/">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a> (MIT), astronomical objects such as this one could act as “stepping stones” to Mars, meaning that they could soon be accessed by spacecraft due to their relative low velocity caused by their near-match to the Earth’s orbit. A space mission trying to reach such asteroids “makes sense as a way to practice deep-space missions, before committing a crew and hardware to a longer mission to Mars. It’s a shakedown cruise,” Binzel concluded.



<h2 id="h-what-is-a-quasi-moon">What is a quasi-moon?</h2>



An asteroid and a quasi-moon are not mutually exclusive categories; rather, they are terms that describe different aspects of an object's nature and behavior in space.



An asteroid is a small, rocky object that orbits the sun. Most are found in the asteroid belt, a region of space located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, although there are many asteroids that have orbits that bring them closer to Earth (these are known as Near-Earth Asteroids).



A quasi-moon, on the other hand, is a term that describes an asteroid that's caught in a synchronized orbit with a planet. It's not a true moon because it doesn't orbit the planet in a simple, closed path. Instead, it moves in a complex, looping orbit that takes it around the planet, but also away from it.



One example of a quasi-moon is 2006 RH120, a tiny asteroid that, for a while, orbited Earth along with the Moon. In reality, this object was in a 1:1 resonance with Earth; its orbit around the Sun was the same length as Earth's, but the gravitational influence of Earth caused its path to be irregular and complex.



While it's not correct to call such objects "second moons" for Earth, they're an interesting category of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and a testament to the intricacy of gravitational interactions in our solar system.



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By <a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com">Andrei Ionescu</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer



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Earth's new “quasi-moon” will stick around for hundreds of years

Astronomers have recently discovered an asteroid that tags along with...

Blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) are well-known carriers of pathogens that are responsible for a variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-food-diets-linked-to-rise-in-autoimmune-diseases/">diseases</a>, including Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne illness in North America.&nbsp;



Over the past years, these ticks have significantly expanded their range across the Eastern United States and Midwest, challenging previous assumptions regarding their preferred habitats. While climate change has often been hailed responsible for these range shifts, it is not yet clear why ticks are abundant in some areas and rare in others.&nbsp;



To better understand how changes in temperature affect ticks, a team of researchers led by <a href="https://wsu.edu/">Washington State University</a> (WSU) has set up a large field study at three military bases across the U.S. East Coast. The results are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ecm.1572">Ecological Monographs</a>.



<h2 id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



By placing over 9,000 ticks in soil core enclosures and closely monitoring their survival and development during a period of three years, the experts found that these parasites are much more resilient to extreme temperatures than previously thought.



Although prior laboratory research suggested that even short periods of particularly warm or cold conditions should easily kill ticks, the new study found that this is only the case for their larvae. By contrast, nymph and adult ticks appeared to survive extreme temperatures with relative ease, dying only when they ran out of energy.



“We thought we would see some evidence that if there was like a very dry period, all the ticks might be at a greater risk of dying,” said lead author Jesse Brunner, an associate professor of Biological Sciences at WSU. “However, just the larvae were impacted by heat and dry conditions. Cold weather had even less of an impact. Somehow, they hunker down and survive great.”&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-what-the-experts-discovered">What the experts discovered&nbsp;</h2>



The investigation revealed that, although extreme weather conditions do not significantly affect tick mortality, it does make them burn through their food faster, suggesting that hotter weather could shorten the window of time for ticks to locate a potential host walking by. This finding was particularly true for tick larvae, whose median survival times were halved when exposed to frequent periods of hot and dry weather.



Moreover, the scientists were surprised to find that soil core enclosures located just a few meters apart from each other frequently exhibited highly different rates of tick mortality. For instance, while in one container 80 percent of ticks survived, in another located right next to it none of them did. Although the cause of these extreme variations is unclear, environmental factors such as arthropods or fungi could possibly play a major role.



Considering the massive impact of tick-borne diseases on public health, the implications of this study could be far-reaching. For instance, the findings highlight the importance of targeting interventions during the larval stage, when ticks are most vulnerable. Focusing on this stage of development, scientists hope to develop effective strategies, such as vaccinating host species, which can significantly reduce tick populations and mitigate the rates of disease transmission.



<h2 id="h-more-research-is-needed">More research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



Further research is needed to clarify the factors leading to localized tick mortality and the role host species such as mice, deer, and humans play in tick survival.&nbsp;



“The ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive framework that can predict and effectively manage tick populations. This could in turn lead to improved public health outcomes,” Brunner concluded.



<h2 id="h-more-about-black-legged-ticks">More about black-legged ticks</h2>



Black-legged ticks, scientifically known as Ixodes scapularis, are primarily found in the northeastern and midwestern regions of the United States, as well as parts of southeastern Canada. They are also commonly referred to as deer ticks.



<h3 id="h-key-points-about-black-legged-ticks">Key points about black-legged ticks:</h3>



<h4 id="h-appearance">Appearance</h4>



Black-legged ticks are small arachnids, with adult females measuring about 3 to 5 millimeters in length, while adult males are slightly smaller. They have a dark brown to black colored body and are characterized by their eight legs.



<h4 id="h-habitat">Habitat</h4>



These insects thrive in wooded areas, particularly in forests with a dense understory and abundant leaf litter. They prefer a humid environment and are often found in areas with tall grasses and shrubs.



<h4 id="h-life-cycle">Life Cycle</h4>



Black-legged ticks have a complex life cycle that involves four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. They require a blood meal at each stage to progress to the next. Small mammals, birds, and reptiles typically serve as hosts for the larval and nymphal stages, while larger mammals, including humans, are preferred hosts for adults.



<h4 id="h-feeding-habits">Feeding Habits</h4>



Black-legged ticks are parasitic and feed on the blood of animals, including humans. They attach themselves to their hosts by biting into the skin, and their feeding process can last several days. During feeding, ticks can transmit disease-causing pathogens, such as the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi).



<h4 id="h-disease-transmission">Disease Transmission</h4>



Black-legged ticks are the primary vectors of Lyme disease in North America. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and a characteristic skin rash. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more serious complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system.



<h4 id="h-prevention">Prevention</h4>



To protect yourself from black-legged ticks and reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases, it's important to take preventive measures. These include wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes when venturing into tick-prone areas.



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By <a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com">Andrei Ionescu</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer



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Ticks are highly resilient to extreme temperatures

Blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) are well-known carriers of pathogens that...

Obesity is known to negatively impact a variety of bodily systems, including the brain, with many studies providing neuroscientific evidence of accelerated brain aging in obese individuals.&nbsp;



Recently, a team of researchers led by the <a href="https://in.bgu.ac.il/en/Pages/default.aspx">Ben-Gurion University of the Negev</a> in Israel has tested the effect of weight loss following 18 months of lifestyle intervention in a sub-study of 102 participants from the large-scale, long-term clinical trial The Dietary Intervention Randomized Controlled Trial Polyphenols Unprocessed Study (DIRECT-PLUS).&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that&nbsp;as little as one percent of body weight loss induced by following a “Green Mediterranean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-can-lead-to-longer-life/">diet</a>” resulted in an 8.9 months’ reduction of brain age, which was significantly associated with improved liver biomarkers and decreased liver fat.



DIRECT-PLUS is the first study to examine how a green-Mediterranean, high polyphenols diet impacts brain health in a cohort of 300 participants followed during a period of 18 months. This diet is distinct from the traditional Mediterranean one due to its more abundant dietary polyphenols (secondary metabolites of plant compounds providing a variety of health benefits) and lower red and processed meat.&nbsp;



Besides a daily intake of 28 grams of walnuts, the green-Mediterranean dieters had to consume 3-4 cups of green tea and one cup of Wolffia-globosa (Mankai) plant green shake of duckweed per day during the length of the study. According to the scientists, this aquatic green plant can be a better substitute for meat since it contains high amounts of bioavailable iron, B12 vitamin, 200 kinds of polyphenols, and protein.



<h2 id="h-weight-loss-and-brain-age">Weight loss and brain age</h2>



In the sub-study investigating the relationship between diet-induced weight loss and brain age, the participants received a brain scan at the beginning and end of the trial, along with other tests and measurements capturing biological processes affected by obesity, such as liver health.&nbsp;



The investigations revealed that a diet-induced reduction in body weight of one percent led to the participants’ brain age – a measurement showing how old their brain appears on detail scans, regardless of its chronological age – being nearly nine months younger than at the beginning of the study. This attenuated aging was linked to changes in other biological measures, such as decreased liver enzymes and liver fat.



“Our study highlights the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including lower consumption of processed food, sweets, and beverages, in maintaining brain health,” said lead author Gidon Levakov, who conducted the study during a doctoral studentship in Cognitive and Brain Sciences at Ben-Gurion.



<h2 id="h-more-research-is-needed">More research is needed</h2>



These findings provide clear evidence that lifestyle interventions which promote weight loss can have a highly beneficial impact on the aging trajectory of the brain witnessed in obesity. With rates of obesity rising worldwide, identifying efficient interventions to promote brain health in obese individuals could have major clinical, educational, and social impacts.&nbsp;



However, further research is needed to examine to what extent slowing down obesity-driven brain aging can result in better clinical outcomes for patients. The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.83604">eLife</a>.



<h2 id="h-more-about-brain-aging">More about brain aging</h2>



The human brain is an incredibly complex organ that changes throughout our lives. However, as we age, our brains undergo a variety of alterations that can affect our cognitive abilities, memory, and other mental functions.&nbsp;



Brain aging is a natural process, but its impact can vary greatly between individuals due to factors like genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Here's a brief summary of what happens to the brain as we age:



<h3 id="h-shrinkage">Shrinkage</h3>



Starting around the age of 60, the brain tends to lose volume, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, which are areas involved in higher cognitive function and encoding new memories. The ventricles, which are fluid-filled spaces in the brain, also tend to enlarge.



<h3 id="h-reduced-blood-flow">Reduced blood flow</h3>



Aging can result in reduced blood flow to the brain, limiting the supply of oxygen and nutrients.



<h3 id="h-neurotransmitter-changes">Neurotransmitter changes</h3>



Levels of certain neurotransmitters - the chemicals that transmit signals between neurons - change as we age. This can affect a wide range of functions including sleep, mood, and mental alertness.



<h3 id="h-neuron-loss">Neuron loss</h3>



Neurons, or nerve cells, do not regenerate as other cells in our body do. With age, we may lose neurons in certain parts of the brain, which can affect various cognitive functions.



<h3 id="h-changes-in-synaptic-density">Changes in synaptic density</h3>



Synapses are the points of communication between neurons. Synaptic density, or the number of synapses, tends to decline with age, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. This could potentially contribute to declines in cognitive function.



<h3 id="h-increased-inflammation-and-oxidative-stress">Increased inflammation and oxidative stress</h3>



Aging is associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can damage cells.



<h3 id="h-buildup-of-protein-aggregates">Buildup of protein aggregates</h3>



Proteins such as beta-amyloid and tau can build up in the brain, forming "plaques" and "tangles," respectively. While these are most commonly associated with Alzheimer's disease, some degree of these changes are often found in the brains of older adults with no cognitive impairment.



<h3 id="h-white-matter-changes">White matter changes</h3>



White matter in the brain is composed of myelinated axons, which facilitate the communication between different brain regions. Aging is associated with changes in white matter, including loss of myelin, which can slow down the speed of communication between neurons.



However, it's important to note that brain aging isn't synonymous with cognitive decline or dementia. Many people maintain their cognitive function well into old age, thanks to factors like cognitive reserve (the brain's resilience to damage) and neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections).&nbsp;



Additionally, there are strategies to promote healthy brain aging, including maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical and mental exercise, adequate sleep, and social engagement.



-—



By <a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com">Andrei Ionescu</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer



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A healthy diet can reduce brain aging

Obesity is known to negatively impact a variety of bodily...

Man,,Chess,And,Hands,With,Bishop,On,Board,,Strategy,Challenge

Do you ever wonder if smart people think quicker? Well, wonder no longer, because we have the answer. A surprising finding has emerged from the laboratories of the <a href="https://www.bihealth.org/">Berlin Institute of Health</a> (BIH) and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin in collaboration with a team member from Barcelona. Contrary to popular perception, intelligent individuals don't necessarily think faster.&nbsp;



In fact, the researchers discovered that those with higher intelligence scores were only quick at handling simple tasks, whereas they took more time in solving complex problems than subjects with lower IQ scores.



<h2 id="h-study-used-personalized-brain-models">Study used personalized brain models</h2>



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-38626-y">Nature Communications</a>, was focused on personalized brain simulations. The researchers used data from 650 participants to delve into the decision-making mechanics of our grey matter.&nbsp;



The experts found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/differences-in-the-mammalian-and-reptilian-brain-revealed/">brains</a> with less synchrony among various regions were prone to making hasty decisions without waiting for upstream brain regions to process the necessary information for solving the problem. However, for those with higher intelligence, their brain simulations took longer to solve the tougher tasks but committed fewer errors.



Decoding the brain, with its estimated 100 billion neurons and a thousand connections for each neuron, is no small feat. It's this complexity that both accounts for our brain's astounding capabilities and makes it so challenging to understand.



Professor Petra Ritter, who leads the Brain Simulation Section at BIH and the Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, is at the forefront of this investigation. The current project, she says, aims to comprehend how the brain's decision-making processes function and why people make varying decisions.



The team employed digital data from brain scans, like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and mathematical models grounded in theoretical knowledge about biological processes. From this, they developed a "general" human brain model, which they then refine using individual data to create "personalized brain models."



The data for this particular study was sourced from the Human Connectome Project, an American initiative that has been studying neural connections in the human brain since September 2010. Professor Ritter explained that it's the "right excitation-inhibition balance of neurons that influences decision-making and more or less enables a person to solve problems."



<h2 id="h-artificial-brains-behave-like-biological-brains">Artificial brains behave like biological brains&nbsp;</h2>



The team successfully reproduced the activity of individual brains, finding these "in silico" brains behaved differently from each other, mirroring their biological counterparts. The simulated brains accurately represented the intellectual performance and reaction times of the original human brains.



Interestingly, both in the human subjects and the brain models, the "slower" brains exhibited more synchrony. The researchers found that greater temporal coordination within the brain allowed the decision-making circuits in the frontal lobe to deliberate longer, as compared to less synchronized brains. The latter would often "jump to conclusions" during the decision-making process.



<h2 id="h-gathering-information-to-make-correct-decisions-takes-time">Gathering information to make correct decisions takes time</h2>



The participants were asked to identify logical rules in a series of patterns, with the tasks becoming progressively complex. In the context of everyday life, a simple task would be stopping at a red light, while a complex task would involve figuring out the best route on a map.



As per the model, decision-making involves a competition among different neural groups, with those having stronger evidence prevailing. However, in complex decisions, clear evidence may not be readily available, forcing the neural groups to make hasty conclusions.



Michael Schirner, the study's lead author, explained that the synchronization or formation of functional networks in the brain changes the properties of working memory. This alteration in turn affects the ability to endure prolonged periods without making a decision.&nbsp;



"In more challenging tasks, you have to store previous progress in working memory while you explore other solution paths and then integrate these into each other," said Schirner.



Professor Ritter expressed satisfaction that the outcomes observed in the computer-based "brain avatars" aligned with those seen in "real" healthy subjects. Her primary focus is on aiding patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Parkinson's disease.



Professor Ritter explained that the digital simulation technology used in the study has made considerable advancements, opening doors to enhanced personalized medical interventions. This could include the planning of surgical and drug treatments, and even therapeutic brain stimulation.



<h2 id="h-digital-simulation-technology-holds-real-world-promise">Digital simulation technology holds real-world promise</h2>



The technology holds the promise of tailor-made solutions for individual patients. As Ritter elaborated, a physician could potentially use these computer simulations to decide which treatment or medication might work best for a specific patient and would cause the least side effects.



In essence, the simulations can be designed to mirror the patient's brain activity and could even predict the patient's response to a given treatment. This, Ritter believes, will prove immensely useful in managing neurodegenerative diseases and improve patient outcomes.



In other words, the research does not merely challenge the common perception of the link between intelligence and speed of thought. It also gives us a glimpse into the potential future of personalized medicine, where individual treatment plans are designed based on a deep, simulated understanding of a patient's unique brain.



While the human brain's vast neural network and its complexities continue to pose significant challenges to scientists, these findings signal a key breakthrough. With each new insight, we get closer to understanding this intricate organ's functionality, ultimately leading to more refined treatments for various brain-related conditions.



As the exploration of the brain's vast and complex networks continues, we are reminded of the intricate interplay between intelligence, decision-making, and problem-solving. These are not just matters of mere speed, but of careful coordination and balance within our brain's neural circuits.



<h2 id="h-more-about-human-intelligence">More about human intelligence&nbsp;</h2>



Human intelligence is an intricate and multidimensional concept that encompasses several mental capabilities, including problem-solving, reasoning, learning, adaptation to environment, abstract thinking, comprehension of complex ideas, and creativity.&nbsp;



It's a combination of various cognitive abilities, not just a single monolithic entity. Despite extensive research, understanding the complete picture of what determines human intelligence remains a work in progress.



<h3 id="h-nature-vs-nurture">Nature vs. nurture</h3>



A significant part of human intelligence is believed to be inherited, with twin and adoption studies showing that genetics play a crucial role. However, environmental factors such as socio-economic conditions, education, and cultural influences also significantly impact intelligence.



One key aspect of intelligence is "fluid intelligence," the ability to reason and solve novel problems independent of acquired knowledge. This aspect is closely related to working memory capacity and speed of information processing, which are believed to be influenced by the number and efficiency of neural connections in the brain.



Recent advances in neuroimaging techniques like MRI have helped us understand the neurological basis of intelligence. It appears that the brain's overall structure, as well as the connectivity and efficiency of specific neural networks, contribute to intellectual abilities.



<h3 id="h-certain-brain-regions-play-key-roles">Certain brain regions play key roles</h3>



Several brain regions have been identified as critical for intellectual function. The frontal lobes, specifically the prefrontal cortex, are involved in higher-order cognitive functions such as problem-solving, decision-making, and social behavior. The parietal lobes are associated with spatial skills and mathematical abilities.



Furthermore, the strength of connections between different brain areas seems to play a critical role in intelligence. Greater connectivity between the frontal and parietal lobes, for instance, has been associated with higher intelligence.



<h3 id="h-neural-connections-and-connectivity">Neural connections and connectivity</h3>



However, intelligence is not simply a matter of having more neural connections. Some research suggests that more intelligent brains may be more selective in their neuronal connectivity, focusing on the most efficient pathways rather than maintaining an extensive but less efficient network. This principle is known as "sparse connectivity," and it's thought to allow for faster and more effective information processing.



The brain's plasticity, its ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences, is another important factor. It enables the development of new neural pathways and the strengthening of existing ones, which in turn can enhance cognitive abilities.



Despite these advances in our understanding, human intelligence remains a deeply complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and many questions about its nature and origins are still unanswered. Future research, combining genetics, neuroscience, and psychology, promises to reveal more about the fascinating puzzle that is human intelligence.



—-



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Intelligent minds take longer to solve difficult problems

Do you ever wonder if smart people think quicker? Well,...

The bountiful region of central Texas, already renowned for its diverse biological landscape, has just revealed an even more astonishing secret.&nbsp;The diligent efforts of Dr. JoVonn Hill, Director of the Mississippi Entomological Museum (MEM) at <a href="https://www.msstate.edu/">Mississippi State University</a>, and his team have led to the discovery of this incredible revelation after conducting scientific expeditions in the area for the past five years.



Unveiling an extraordinary treasure trove, the team successfully discovered seven distinct species of flightless grasshoppers that had not been previously identified. Six out of these seven species are endemic to the Edwards Plateau, a stark testimony to the exceptional biodiversity this region holds.



<h2 id="h-honoring-legendary-texas-musicians">Honoring legendary Texas musicians</h2>



In homage to the rich musical heritage of Texas, Dr. Hill chose to name two of these newfound grasshopper species after the legendary musicians Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker. His intent, he explains, was to honor their "immense contributions" and eternalize the lasting legacy of these musicians within the biodiversity of Texas.



"Melanoplus nelsoni and Melanoplus walkeri, the newly named species, symbolize the enduring impact of these musicians and their intrinsic connection to Texas," said Dr. Hill.



Akin to the sentiments expressed by Willie Nelson himself, Dr. Hill admits that after these extensive years of field studies, he too carries "a little Texas in [his] soul." His personal connection to Texas, as well as his scientific journey, was documented in his study recently published in the academic journal, <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1165.104047">ZooKeys</a>.



In regards to Melanoplus walkeri, Dr. Hill recalls the significant influence of Walker's music on his team during their field explorations. According to him, Walker's songs such as Hill Country Rain, Leavin' Texas, and Sangria Wine have been the source of joy and positivity while journeying between field sites and have greatly contributed to the overall experience of the Edwards Plateau.



With the study additionally revealing the close proximity of the newly discovered species to the location of one of Walker's most influential albums, the bond between art, science, and nature seems to become even more apparent.



<h2 id="h-paying-tribute-to-comanche-and-tonkawa-tribes">Paying tribute to Comanche and Tonkawa tribes</h2>



In another heartening gesture, the team pays tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Comanche and Tonkawa tribes, the original inhabitants of the region, by naming two species, Melanoplus commanche and Melanoplus tonkawa.



"These designations are an acknowledgement of the tribes' significant historical and cultural contribution to the region," said Dr. Hill.&nbsp;



"These seven newly described species, along with two preexisting ones, form a cohesive species group, which spotlights their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships."



According to Dr. Hill, the discovery of this new species group adds substantial value to our understanding of the diverse ecosystems prevalent in central Texas. He further asserts that these findings accentuate the ecological distinctiveness of the region.



Dr. Hill and his colleagues at the Mississippi Entomological Museum continue to reaffirm their commitment to the exploration and understanding of science, the conservation of biodiversity, and inspiring a sense of wonder and appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world. The unearthing of these seven flightless grasshopper species is just another testament to their dedication.



<h2 id="h-more-about-grasshoppers">More about grasshoppers</h2>



Grasshoppers are insects that belong to the order Orthoptera, which also includes crickets and katydids. They are typically characterized by their powerful hind legs adapted for jumping, wings for flying, and a body structure featuring a head, thorax, and abdomen. Grasshoppers are most commonly recognized for their ability to produce sounds by rubbing their hind legs against their wings, a process known as stridulation.



<h3 id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical Characteristics</h3>



Grasshoppers are usually green, brown, or grey, which aids in camouflage within their environment, although some tropical species can be brightly colored. They have a pair of large compound eyes for good vision, two antennae that are typically shorter than their body, and a mouth adapted for biting and chewing vegetation.



Adult grasshoppers have two sets of wings. The front pair is narrow and hard, serving to protect the broader and more flexible hind wings. The hind legs are large and muscular, enabling them to leap distances many times their body length.



<h3 id="h-life-cycle">Life Cycle</h3>



Grasshoppers undergo incomplete metamorphosis in their life cycle. This cycle begins with eggs, which are laid in the ground or on vegetation. When these hatch, they produce nymphs - smaller, wingless versions of the adult grasshoppers. These nymphs will then shed their exoskeletons multiple times in a process known as molting, growing larger each time until they become adults. Unlike complete metamorphosis seen in insects like butterflies, there is no pupal stage in a grasshopper's life cycle.



<h3 id="h-diet-and-habitat">Diet and Habitat</h3>



Grasshoppers are primarily herbivores, feeding on a wide range of plants. Some species are known to be more selective, feeding on single plant types, while others have a more varied diet. However, under extreme conditions, some grasshoppers may resort to cannibalism.



These insects are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields, basically anywhere with ample vegetation for food. They are found worldwide except for extremely cold regions like the poles.



<h3 id="h-ecological-role-and-human-impact">Ecological Role and Human Impact</h3>



Grasshoppers play a significant role in ecosystems. They serve as a food source for various animals, including birds, reptiles, rodents, and other insects. Through their feeding habits, they also contribute to the cycling of nutrients in ecosystems.



On the downside, they can become agricultural pests, especially in the form of locust swarms. Locusts are a type of grasshopper known for their swarming behavior, which can lead to significant crop damage and contribute to famine.



<h3 id="h-cultural-significance">Cultural Significance</h3>



Grasshoppers have cultural importance in many societies. They have been symbols of good luck, abundance, and freedom in various cultures. In some regions, they are also utilized as a food source, contributing to the practice of entomophagy (the consumption of insects).



Overall, while they may seem like simple creatures, grasshoppers are fascinating insects with complex behaviors and significant roles in their ecosystems.



Image Credit: JoVonn Hill



—-



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New grasshopper species named after Willie Nelson

The bountiful region of central Texas, already renowned for its...

Berberine, a dietary supplement derived from the barberry plant and referred to as "nature's Ozempic," is causing quite a stir on the internet. Many users are singing its praises, attributing their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quality-sleep-makes-it-easier-to-achieve-weight-loss-goals/">weight loss</a> success to this natural supplement.&nbsp;



However, while numerous individuals report weight loss, loose pants, and lower scale numbers, the scientific evidence to back up these claims is still scarce. Moreover, some users also shared unpleasant side effects such as constipation and diarrhea.



<h2 id="h-used-for-thousands-of-years">Used for thousands of years</h2>



Berberine, a bitter chemical compound, is not a new discovery. It's been an integral part of Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, and has been used to treat a broad array of conditions from pink eye and itchy skin to high blood sugar and urinary tract infections. However, we should note that the purported benefits of berberine have yet to be proven through large-scale clinical trials.



The supplement is easily accessible and affordable. For approximately $30, you can purchase a bottle of 60 supplements from major retail websites such as Amazon. The recommended dosage is one capsule before every meal.



This inexpensive plant-based supplement has garnered attention on social media platforms for being a natural alternative to expensive prescription medications such as Wegovy and Ozempic, which are not always covered by health insurance.



<h2 id="h-functions-differently-than-prescription-weight-loss-drugs">Functions differently than prescription weight loss drugs</h2>



However, it's crucial to understand that berberine functions very differently from these prescription drugs, also known as semaglutide. Wegovy, a higher-dose variant, has been approved for weight loss for those with a body mass index of 30 or more, or overweight individuals with a BMI of 27 or more, who also have a weight-related health condition.&nbsp;



On the other hand, Ozempic is used primarily for treating Type 2 diabetes, but it is often prescribed "off-label" for obesity. Semaglutide triggers weight loss by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone in our brain that manages appetite and feelings of fullness.



There's anecdotal evidence suggesting that berberine can facilitate weight loss. However, large-scale peer-reviewed studies confirming these weight loss benefits are still lacking. Furthermore, the mechanism through which berberine functions as a weight loss supplement remains a mystery.



However, existing research is expanding our understanding of this compound. A 2017 review published in the <a href="https://ijbms.mums.ac.ir/">Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences</a> reported that patients who took two 750 milligram capsules daily for three months experienced a significant weight decrease.&nbsp;



Another study published in the American Journal of Translational Research suggested that berberine might activate brown adipose tissue, fat cells that prompt the body to convert food into energy, thus burning calories.



<h2 id="h-other-health-benefits-of-berberine">Other health benefits of berberine</h2>



Besides weight loss, berberine appears to have other potential benefits. A 2019 analysis in the <a href="https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/browse/endocrj">Endocrine Journal</a> found berberine more effective in reducing blood glucose levels than a placebo.&nbsp;



Studies also suggest it could help manage polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that occurs when ovaries overproduce a certain hormone called androgens, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and unpredictable ovulation. It has also been shown to decrease hemoglobin A1C, an indicator of blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.



However, despite these encouraging findings, the scientific community remains cautious. Since berberine is derived from plants, there's a risk that people may erroneously assume it is entirely harmless. Pregnant women, in particular, are warned against taking it due to the potential risk of brain damage to the fetus or young children.



Furthermore, berberine might interfere with the metabolism of prescription medications for diabetes and other conditions if taken as instructed on the bottle. Its long-term safety is still undetermined, and it's unknown whether the weight loss will be sustained after stopping the supplement. It's also suggested that abrupt cessation of either Wegovy or Ozempic could result in a rapid regain of weight.



Common side effects associated with berberine include diarrhea, constipation, and stomach upset. These experiences shared by users underline the necessity for a comprehensive understanding and scientific scrutiny of berberine's safety and efficacy.



The internet's latest dietary trend is indeed compelling, but until there is solid scientific evidence to support the claims of its weight loss benefits and safety, caution is advised. Until large-scale, peer-reviewed studies are conducted to confirm its benefits and assess its long-term safety, berberine remains a supplement of interest with potential, but unverified, benefits.&nbsp;



For those considering berberine as a weight-loss supplement, it's essential to discuss it with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your individual health situation and potential risks.



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-barberry-plant">More about the barberry plant</h2>



The barberry plant, scientifically known as Berberis, is a large genus of deciduous and evergreen shrubs from 1–5 m (3.3–16.4 ft) tall. They are native to various regions of the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America.



This plant is quite versatile and is known for its attractive and dense growth habit, often adorned with small, oval leaves that may turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red in the fall. It typically blooms in mid-spring, showcasing small, yellow flowers. By late summer or early fall, these flowers give way to small, red berries, which are sometimes used in culinary dishes for their tart flavor.



The berries of the barberry plant have been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to their high berberine content. Berberine is a bioactive compound that is believed to have numerous medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, more research is needed to fully confirm and understand these potential benefits.



Interestingly, the plant also plays a role in the life cycle of a type of wheat rust (a fungus), which is a significant wheat disease. Because of this, cultivation of the plant is often controlled or restricted in many regions to prevent the spread of the fungus.



Despite its potential health benefits, it's important to note that barberry can be toxic if consumed in large amounts, particularly for children and pets. It can cause upset stomach, kidney problems, and worsen certain health conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen.



—-



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Berberine: Plant-derived supplement is the hot new weight loss trend

Berberine, a dietary supplement derived from the barberry plant and...

Nature parks, otherwise known as protected areas, have emerged as invaluable protectors of nature in the battle to save <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-mounds-play-a-critical-role-in-sustaining-biodiversity/">biodiversity</a>. Yet, many of these havens and their inhabitants face constant threats from humanity's encroachment, often due to mounting pressure from resource extraction, agricultural expansion, and population growth.



Recent research from <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/">Princeton University</a> brings forth an important revelation – strengthening the existing nature parks, be it under legal or local community jurisdiction, is equally important for the preservation of biodiversity as the creation of new protected areas.



<h2 id="h-5-000-species-involved-in-the-study">5,000 species involved in the study</h2>



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adg0288">Science Advances</a>, delves into the status of approximately 5,000 species. Alarmingly, around 70% of these species either have zero representation in protected areas, reside in parks that have experienced a downgrade, downsizing, or removal from protection, or face an increased risk of extinction due to prospective land-use changes.



However, not all is lost. The researchers highlight a compelling solution – enhancing the protection of existing parks and extending the existing network of parks across a mere 1% of the earth's land area. This step alone could safeguard the vital habitats of 1,191 animal species teetering on the brink of extinction.



"Parks save species. But they can do so only if the parks themselves are protected against harmful activities," emphasized Professor David Wilcove. "Our study demonstrates just how important it is to protect the places that protect species."



<h2 id="h-more-evidence-proving-the-importance-of-protecting-biodiversity">More evidence proving the importance of protecting biodiversity</h2>



The team's findings align with a growing global recognition of the urgency to safeguard the Earth's species diversity through the creation of new protected zones. This sentiment was echoed at the United Nations biodiversity conference COP15 in December 2022, where countries pledged to earmark 30% of the world's land and seas as protected areas.



Beyond this commitment, the Princeton study highlights an often-overlooked aspect of wildlife conservation, namely, ensuring that existing protected areas continue to serve as safe sanctuaries for biodiversity.



Yiwen Zeng, lead author of the study, commented, "Our study pinpoints where new parks can be created, but also where to restore and reinforce existing parks in order to boost wildlife conservation."



"Many global discussions on conservation rightfully focus on the need to create new protected areas, but our study also shows the importance of ensuring that protected areas remain effective at keeping out harmful human activity," said Zeng, who is currently a research assistant professor at the National University of Singapore's Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions.



This aspect is crucial because protected areas are not impervious to human activities that could undermine their conservation value, especially in the absence of adequate enforcement or political support for wildlife conservation.



<h2 id="h-what-happens-when-parks-lose-their-protection">What happens when parks lose their protection</h2>



The loss of protection or downgrading of parks, usually resulting from government decisions, reduces the degree or extent of protection, leaving them vulnerable to infrastructure expansion, mining, and other activities that could lead to habitat loss or degradation.



To illustrate, the research pointed out that as of 2021, more than 278 million hectares of parks have undergone such types of degradations. The Megophrys damrei, a critically endangered frog exclusive to Cambodia, continues to suffer habitat degradation within and around the national park boundaries, despite the area's protected status.



Moreover, expanding the network of protected areas could be a lifeline for species whose habitats currently lack sufficient protection. As the study suggests, shielding an additional 330 square kilometers of natural landscapes within Indonesia could secure the suitable habitats of 53 species currently deprived of protected area coverage and limited habitat areas.



Rebecca Senior, a former postdoctoral researcher at Princeton and currently an assistant professor of ecology at Durham University in the UK, warns of the dangers of complacency. "There are many wonderful examples in conservation of people fighting to protect species, but there is always a risk that when you take your eye off the ball, pressure builds and hard-won protection is lost," she cautioned.



Senior further emphasized the need for practical, sustained conservation efforts. "Designating parks on paper is not enough; they need to be in the right places, with the right management, and they need to last."



<h2 id="h-research-team-calls-for-two-pronged-approach">Research team calls for two-pronged approach</h2>



This study brings into sharp focus the need to view conservation as a two-pronged effort: creating new protected areas and ensuring the continued integrity of existing ones. As the research has demonstrated, these two strategies are not mutually exclusive but complementary, and both are essential to curbing the loss of biodiversity.



In a world increasingly threatened by human activity and climate change, the research provides a compelling case for not just the creation, but also the strengthening, of protected areas. The study underscores the essential role these areas play in biodiversity conservation and offers a roadmap to achieving better outcomes for species protection.



If heeded, their findings might just be the key to ensuring that parks continue to serve as refuges for thousands of species at risk, ultimately safeguarding our planet's rich tapestry of life for generations to come.



<h2 id="h-more-about-protected-areas">More about protected areas</h2>



Protected areas are regions of land or water specifically managed for the conservation of biodiversity and natural or cultural resources. These areas can take many forms, including national parks, wildlife reserves, marine protected areas, and community-managed conservation areas, among others.



The importance of nature parks to Earth's biodiversity is immense, as they provide a refuge for a wide variety of species, including many that are threatened or endangered.



<h3 id="h-habitat-protection">Habitat Protection</h3>



Protected areas are crucial for preserving habitats that species need to survive. They can shield ecosystems from destructive human activities, like deforestation, mining, and overfishing, which degrade habitats and make them uninhabitable for many species.



<h3 id="h-species-preservation">Species Preservation</h3>



Protected areas are often established to preserve species that are endangered or have special significance. They provide a safe haven where these species can live without threats from hunting or habitat destruction.



<h3 id="h-genetic-diversity">Genetic Diversity</h3>



By preserving a wide array of species, protected areas also safeguard genetic diversity. This diversity is crucial for the health and resilience of ecosystems and can provide genetic materials for future scientific discovery and potential use in medicine, agriculture, and other fields.



<h3 id="h-climate-change-mitigation">Climate Change Mitigation</h3>



Protected areas, especially those that contain forests, mangroves, or peatlands, can also help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Additionally, by preserving ecosystem integrity, these areas can help species adapt to changing climate conditions.



<h3 id="h-cultural-importance">Cultural Importance</h3>



Many protected areas also hold significant cultural value. They can protect lands that are sacred or important to Indigenous peoples and local communities, maintaining cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.



<h3 id="h-ecotourism-and-economy">Ecotourism and Economy</h3>



Nature parks often support local economies by attracting tourism. They provide opportunities for recreation, education, and nature appreciation, contributing to the overall quality of human life.



Despite their importance, protected areas face numerous challenges. Encroachment from human activities, insufficient funding for proper management, and climate change can all degrade these spaces and diminish their ability to preserve biodiversity. It's vital that these areas are not just designated, but also effectively managed and enforced, to ensure they can continue to fulfill their crucial role in biodiversity conservation.



—-



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Protecting existing nature parks is just as important as creating new ones

Nature parks, otherwise known as protected areas, have emerged as...

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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

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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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

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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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

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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 biggest one I’ve seen is about 4.5kg in weight, and about one meter across,” Orchard said, “No one really knows for sure how old they are. The 2-3 kg crabs are about 50 years old”.
He told Mark that they are a gigantic cousin to the water-based hermit crab that we all know and love. Then he asked Mark to show him his hands. Photo Credit: Betterhelp

Looking For Something

When Max Orchard came to the scene, Mark pointed him to the creatures that remained resting beside him.

With a smile, Max Orchard told Mark that he knew exactly what they were. They were Coconut crabs, a species of crab that has lived on Christmas Island for decades. But Mark picked one up – are they dangerous? Photo Credit: Travel2Unlimited