Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

Seabirds such as penguins and albatrosses have highly sensitive regions in their beaks that could help them locate food, according to a new study from the University of Cambridge.&nbsp;



“Birds’ bills are their main tactile interface with the outside world. Tactile bill-tip organs associated with specialized foraging techniques are present in several bird groups, yet remain understudied in most clades,” noted the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nerves-and-receptors-in-seabird-beaks">Nerves and receptors in seabird beaks</h2>



By studying over 350 species of birds, the experts found that seabirds have a high concentration of sensory receptors and nerves at the tips of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beak-shape-determined-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beaks</a>. This trait has previously been observed in tactile foragers like ducks. 



According to the scientists, this touch-sensitive area may have originated from a common ancestor. However, further research is needed to determine whether this trait serves a specific function in today’s birds.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensitive-beak-tips-to-assist-in-foraging-nbsp">Sensitive beak-tips to assist in foraging&nbsp;</h2>



Birds use their beaks similarly to how humans and other primates use their hands, interacting with the world around them. Some birds have touch-sensitive beak tips to assist in foraging, but the extent and evolution of this ability have not been well studied.



“Many scientists had assumed most birds had touch-sensitive beaks, but we hadn’t investigated it enough to know whether it’s a common ability, or whether it’s limited to particular families of birds,” said lead author Carla du Toit from Cambridge’s <a href="https://www.esc.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth Sciences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endangered-group-of-seabirds">Endangered group of seabirds</h2>



The large group of seabirds known as Austrodyptornithes - which includes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/albatrosses-put-their-partners-needs-before-their-own/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">albatrosses</a>, petrels, and penguins - has not been well-studied in this context. 



Since many species within this group are critically endangered, understanding how they use their beaks to find food could aid in their conservation.



Du Toit and her colleagues from the UK and South Africa conducted a study of 361 modern bird species, examining fossil and skeletal records as well as birds that had been accidentally killed by fishing gear. They focused on the structure of the beaks and how they are connected to nerves and blood vessels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organs-in-the-beaks-of-seabirds">Organs in the beaks of seabirds</h2>



The researchers discovered that albatrosses and penguins possess organs in their beaks containing dense clusters of sensory receptors and nerves. This feature is commonly found in tactile foragers like ducks, but this is the first time it has been observed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabirds</a>.



“Seabirds aren’t known to be tactile foragers, so it’s surprising to find that they have this organ,” said du Toit. “It’s really exciting when you get to be the first to see something.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-tiny-vibrations-from-prey">Detecting tiny vibrations from prey</h2>



These touch-sensitive beaks might enable seabirds to detect tiny vibrations from potential prey, especially when foraging underwater or at night. Birds with similar abilities are known to use their beaks to detect subtle movements from prey like worms underground.



However, it is also possible that these sensitive regions are a remnant from a common ancestor and may not serve a specific purpose in modern birds, much like certain features found in ostriches and emus.&nbsp;



Further research on live birds will be required to determine the precise function of these touch-sensitive areas, which could also shed light on their evolutionary history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discovery-in-seabird-beaks">Remarkable discovery in seabird beaks</h2>



“In humans and other primates, our sensitive hands and fingers allowed us to master a huge range of environments,” said du Toit.&nbsp;



“Beaks are analogous to hands in a way, but this is the first time we’ve seen touch-sensitive beaks in seabirds. It’s remarkable that no one has ever really studied this in detail, considering that we all learn about evolution from the beaks of Darwin’s finches in school.”



The researchers noted that the bill-tip organ in Austrodyptornithes may be functionally related to nocturnal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/foraging-habits-of-seabirds-altered-by-turbulent-tidal-flows/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging</a> and prey detection under water, or courtship displays involving tactile stimulation of the bill. 



“Ancestral state reconstructions fail to reject the hypothesis that the last common ancestor of Austrodyptornithes had a bill-tip organ; thus, tactile foraging may be ancestral for this major extant clade, perhaps retained from a deeper point in crown bird evolutionary history.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study-nbsp">Broader implications of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers believe that their findings could contribute to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seabirds-need-ocean-wide-protection-to-survive-human-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> of seabirds. Of the 22 known species of albatross, 15 are at risk of extinction, and two are listed as critically endangered. 



One significant threat to albatrosses is commercial longline fishing, which causes about 100,000 bird deaths per year when they get caught in fishing lines and drown.&nbsp;



If scientists can better understand how these birds find their food, it might lead to methods for protecting them.



According to du Toit, if albatrosses and other seabirds are able to detect vibrations from potential prey via their beaks, it could be possible to attach some sort of device to longlines that could repel them, so they are less likely to get caught.&nbsp;



“Of course, the bigger threats to birds like albatrosses are climate change, rising ocean temperatures, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-most-endangered-seabirds-are-also-threatened-by-plastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution</a> and falling fish stocks, but if there’s a way to reduce the risks to seabirds in even a small way, then that’s incredibly valuable,” du Toit concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0259" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



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Seabirds have highly sensitive beaks to locate food

Seabirds such as penguins and albatrosses have highly sensitive regions...

Ever wondered how some primates form strong bonds while others don't? How do these friendships with benefits come to life? A fresh perspective into the world of primates reveals the fascinating dynamics of their relationships.



According to a new study, females play a vital role in shaping primate bonds. Sometimes, it takes more than just a fruit to win over a primate's heart.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primate-bond-more-than-attraction">Primate bond: More than attraction </h2>



Liesbeth Sterck from the Utrecht University and <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/prof.+dr.+julia+ostner+/164051.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Julia Ostner</a> from the University of Göttingen have unraveled the mystery behind primate bonds. Their study, published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, highlights how females steer the course of primate relationships.



Countless scientific theories have attempted to make sense of why some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-primates-struggle-more-with-extreme-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> hit it off better with others, but here's the catch - these theories have mostly been male-focused. 



The current study, however, suggests that female <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visually-striking-primate-features-ease-tension-and-reduce-conflict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> may be the crucial architects of these relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-primate-bonds">Benefits of primate bonds</h2>



By studying hundreds of primate cases over the past decades, our researchers propose that these friendships usually evolve when both parties can benefit. "Our findings show that these bonds aren't just about attraction and affection," said Sterck. "They are also strategic."



"Both male and female primates unconsciously seek out these friendships that provide benefits. The benefits can be protection, better access to resources, or securing the survival of their offspring. For evolution to shape these behaviors, it is not needed that they know when or how the bonds pay off."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-dynamic-of-primate-relationships">Changing dynamic of primate relationships</h2>



The nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-who-are-facially-expressive-make-the-best-leaders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> bonds can change over the course of time. For females, securing protection for their infants might mean seeking male support.



However, once the offspring become independent, these bonds often dissolve. But if a female repeatedly chooses the same male and he's willing to provide ongoing care, a long-term bond is more likely to form.



"Just like our primate relatives, human bonds often involve a mix of affection and strategic partnership," said Sterck. 



"While love and emotional connection are vital, unconsciously there's also an element of mutual benefit, whether it's support, protection, or shared resources."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-primate-family-bonds">Advantages of primate family bonds</h2>



Delving deeper into the world of primate relationships, another layer unfolds - mutual cooperation, often influenced by kinship ties. Primate societies display a remarkable propensity for supporting relatives, which can significantly boost their social status and survival prospects.



Studies indicate that kin alliances can lead to increased access to resources and a higher likelihood of prevailing in conflicts with rival groups. 



Kinship-driven cooperation enhances group cohesion and ensures the prosperity of future generations. This remarkable blend of cooperation and familial ties not only fortifies social structures but also highlights the evolutionary advantages of maintaining family bonds.



"While the drive to form strong bonds may stem from evolutionary advantages, emotions like love and affection kick-start these connections," said Sterck.



"These feelings act as the lubricant, smoothing the way for the actions and behaviors necessary to maintain and deepen these bonds over time."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-primate-social-bonds">Impact of primate social bonds</h2>



Understanding primate social structures offers valuable insights into the evolution of human sociality. By examining the roles and dynamics within primate groups, researchers can draw parallels that inform our comprehension of human social behaviors and relationships. 



The parallels highlight shared ancestral traits, such as the importance of alliances, cooperation, and communal living. 



Studying primates provides a unique window into the evolutionary underpinnings of human social interactions. 



The cumulative knowledge gleaned from primate studies reinforces the notion that our social behaviors have deep-rooted evolutionary origins, offering profound implications for fields ranging from anthropology to psychology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-research-is-needed">More research is needed</h2>



While this study does shed new light on the dynamics of primate relationships, Sterck's team believes there's still more to uncover. They call for more research in great apes, New World primates, and even non-primate species living in permanent social groups like wolves and lions.



So, the next time you observe primates at a zoo or on a nature show, you'll have a whole new appreciation for the complexity of their bonds. And who knows, we might even learn something about our own relationships in the process.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090513824001041?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolution and Human Behavior</a>.



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Primate bonds are not just about love - they're strategic

Ever wondered how some primates form strong bonds while others...

Over 39 million people could die from antibiotic-resistant infections by 2050, according to a recent study. The research reveals a troubling rise in deaths related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and provides forecasts for its impact over the next few decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-analysis-of-antimicrobial-resistance">Global analysis of antimicrobial resistance</h2>



Conducted by the <a href="https://www.tropicalmedicine.ox.ac.uk/gram" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) Project</a>, the study is the first comprehensive global analysis of antimicrobial resistance trends over time. 



The research shows that from 1990 to 2021, more than one million people died each year due to antimicrobial resistance.&nbsp;



By 2050, the number of annual deaths directly caused by AMR could rise to 1.91 million, representing a nearly 70% increase compared to 2022.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the overall role of antimicrobial resistance in contributing to deaths is expected to grow significantly, with the number of deaths where AMR plays a role projected to increase from 4.71 million to 8.22 million per year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trends-in-antimicrobial-resistance-deaths">Trends in antimicrobial resistance deaths</h2>



The study highlights that while AMR-related deaths among children under five have halved during this period, there has been a disturbing rise in deaths among those aged 70 and older, increasing by more than 80 percent.&nbsp;



This trend is predicted to continue, with the elderly population bearing the brunt of the future AMR burden. By 2050, AMR deaths among people aged 70 and older are expected to more than double, while deaths in children under five will continue to decline globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-interventions-are-needed">Urgent interventions are needed</h2>



The authors emphasize the need for urgent interventions to prevent this forecasted surge in AMR-related deaths. These interventions include stronger infection prevention measures, increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-vaccination-reduces-mortality-risk-but-only-for-6-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaccination</a> efforts, reducing inappropriate antibiotic use, and accelerating research into new antibiotics.



Mohsen Naghavi leads the AMR Research Team in the <a href="https://www.healthdata.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Health Metrics</a> (IHME), University of Washington.



“Antimicrobial medicines are one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare, and increasing resistance to them is a major cause for concern. These findings highlight that AMR has been a significant global health threat for decades and that this threat is growing,” said Naghavi.



“Understanding how trends in AMR deaths have changed over time, and how they are likely to shift in future, is vital to make informed decisions to help save lives.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-antimicrobial-resistance-over-time">Tracking antimicrobial resistance over time</h2>



The study also reveals that while antimicrobial resistance has long been recognized as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health</a> challenge, this is the first in-depth analysis to track the historical trends of AMR over time and provide future projections. 



The first GRAM study, published in 2022, highlighted the global scale of the issue, revealing that AMR-related deaths in 2019 were higher than those from HIV/AIDS or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revolutionary-model-predicts-malaria-trends-in-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">malaria</a>.



The new GRAM study analyzed data from 204 countries and territories, covering 22 pathogens, 84 pathogen-drug combinations, and 11 infectious syndromes.&nbsp;



The estimates were based on 520 million individual records sourced from hospital data, death records, and antibiotic use data.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-direct-and-indirect-deaths">Direct and indirect deaths  </h2>



Using statistical modeling, the researchers produced estimates of deaths directly caused by AMR and those where AMR played a role. These trends provided projections for AMR's global and regional health impacts from 2022 until 2050.



The analysis reveals that deaths directly caused by AMR rose slightly from 1.06 million in 1990 to 1.14 million in 2021.&nbsp;



During this time, there was a significant age-related shift: deaths among children under five dropped by more than 50%, while deaths in people aged 70 and older increased by 80%.&nbsp;



This rise in older adults' deaths is largely attributed to aging populations and their increased vulnerability to infections.



Certain regions have experienced the highest increases in AMR deaths over the past three decades. These include western sub-Saharan Africa, Tropical Latin America, high-income North America, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-threat-to-older-populations-nbsp">Increasing threat to older populations&nbsp;</h2>



Despite advances in reducing AMR deaths in children, infections have become harder to treat when they occur, particularly in older populations. This underscores the importance of further action.



Study co-author Kevin Ikuta is an assistant professor of infectious diseases at the <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Los Angeles</a>.



“The fall in deaths from sepsis and AMR among young children over the past three decades is an incredible achievement,” said Professor Ikuta.



“However, these findings show that while infections have become less common in young children, they have become harder to treat when they occur. Further, the threat to older people from AMR will only increase as populations age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-trends-uncovered">Alarming trends uncovered</h2>



The study also reveals alarming trends regarding bacterial pathogens and resistance.&nbsp;



Deaths due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) more than doubled globally from 57,200 in 1990 to 130,000 in 2021.&nbsp;



Among Gram-negative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-and-imprint-new-era-dna-transformation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a>, carbapenem resistance increased from 127,000 deaths in 1990 to 216,000 in 2021. These increases highlight the need for new antibiotics to combat the most resistant strains.



Future projections indicate that, without significant intervention, AMR deaths will continue to rise steadily, with an estimated 1.91 million annual deaths directly caused by AMR by 2050.&nbsp;



The broader role of AMR in contributing to deaths is expected to affect over 8 million deaths annually by mid-century. Cumulatively, AMR is forecasted to lead to more than 39 million direct deaths and be associated with 169 million deaths between 2025 and 2050.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antimicrobial-resistance-deaths-could-be-avoided">Antimicrobial resistance deaths could be avoided</h2>



The study also suggests that action could avert many of these deaths. Improved infection care and increased access to antibiotics could prevent 92 million deaths between 2025 and 2050.&nbsp;



This would be especially impactful in regions like South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia, where millions of lives could be saved.&nbsp;



Developing new antibiotics targeting Gram-negative bacteria could prevent over 11 million AMR-attributable deaths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-strategies-are-urgently-needed-nbsp">New strategies are urgently needed&nbsp;</h2>



Dr. Stein Emil Vollset, study author from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, stressed the urgency of addressing antimicrobial resistance.



“There has been real progress in tackling AMR, particularly among young children, but our findings indicate more must be done to protect people from this growing global health threat,” said Dr. Vollset.



“By 2050, resistant infections could be involved in some 8 million deaths each year. To prevent this from becoming a deadly reality, we urgently need new strategies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-challenge-of-antimicrobial-resistance">Growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance</h2>



Despite the progress, the authors note several limitations in their study. A lack of data from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) calls for better data collection and infrastructure to improve the accuracy of future AMR forecasts.&nbsp;



Additionally, some of the individual records used in the study may contain biases or errors, and limited reporting of AMR data before 2000 may have affected the accuracy of historical estimates.



In a related comment, Professor Samuel Kariuki of the <a href="https://www.kemri.go.ke/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kenya Medical Research Institute</a>, who was not involved in the study, praised the model for effectively assessing the changing trends in AMR mortality. 



“These data should drive investments and targeted action towards addressing the growing challenge of AMR in all regions,” concluded Professor Kariuki.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01867-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a>.



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Antibiotic meds resistance could cause 39 million deaths by 2050

Over 39 million people could die from antibiotic-resistant infections by...

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms," is rapidly capturing the attention of healthcare experts and policymakers as a potential treatment for chronic depression.



As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers approving psilocybin for depression treatment in the near future, we are inching closer to what could be a transformative milestone in modern medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-would-benefit-from-psilocybin-therapy">Who would benefit from psilocybin therapy?</h2>



The possibility of legalizing psilocybin therapy brings a compelling question to the forefront: how many individuals could truly benefit?



A peer-reviewed study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a>, the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a>, and <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Berkeley</a>, offers unprecedented insight.



The findings suggest that psilocybin-assisted therapy for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> could have a substantial impact in the United States.



The study estimates that between 56 and 62 percent of patients currently receiving treatment for depression - about 5.1 to 5.6 million individuals - could qualify for this therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-of-psilocybin-therapy">The potential of psilocybin therapy</h2>



“Our findings suggest that if the FDA gives the green light, psilocybin-assisted therapy has the potential to help millions of Americans who suffer from depression,” said Syed Fayzan Rab, an Emory MD candidate and lead author of the study.



The researchers analyzed national data, revealing that nearly 15 million adults in the U.S. are affected by depression, with about 9 million currently receiving treatment each year.



Using recent clinical trial criteria, the experts assessed this population to determine eligibility for psilocybin therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eligibility-for-psilocybin-treatment">Eligibility for psilocybin treatment </h2>



The findings present a range of possibilities. A conservative estimate indicates that 24% of patients will be eligible if strict trial criteria is applied, while a more moderate scenario estimates that 56% of patients will be eligible under real-world medical conditions.



At the higher end, 62% of patients could qualify for psilocybin treatment, factoring in additional considerations such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/korean-red-ginseng-may-alleviate-alcohol-addiction-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use</a> disorders.



Notably, the inclusion of these co-occurring conditions, which evidence suggests psilocybin may treat effectively, accounted for nearly a third of the increased eligibility. 



Even so, the 62% figure might still be an understatement, as it only includes individuals who are already receiving treatment and does not consider the potential influx of new patients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-real-world-implementation">Challenges in real-world implementation</h2>



While the potential impact of psilocybin therapy is promising, the researchers caution that several real-world factors could limit its widespread adoption. 



“While our analysis is a crucial first step, we've only scratched the surface in understanding the true public health impact psilocybin therapy may have,” said study co-author Dr. Charles Raison.



Insurance coverage, regional access to care, and availability of trained practitioners could significantly affect its uptake.



Moreover, if the FDA approval includes off-label use for conditions beyond depression, the demand for psilocybin therapy could surge unpredictably.



As the psychedelic renaissance continues to gain momentum, further research will be critical in refining our understanding and ensuring equitable access to this potentially transformative treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-the-therapy">The science behind the therapy</h2>



Psilocybin, the naturally occurring compound found in certain species of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mushrooms</a>, has long fascinated scientists for its profound effects on the human brain. 



When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin and interacts with serotonin receptors - particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which is known to play a role in mood regulation. This unique interaction is believed to produce the intense sensory and emotional experiences that are characteristic of psychedelic trips.



Recent research has suggested that psilocybin could offer more than just temporary changes in perception. 



Scientific evidence indicates that psilocybin might facilitate deeper, long-lasting shifts in the brain’s neural connectivity, potentially "rewiring" pathways associated with depression, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lsd-can-treat-crippling-anxiety-with-a-single-dose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a>, and addiction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-psilocybin-treatment">The future of psilocybin treatment </h2>



According to previous research, a single guided session with psilocybin can lead to significant reductions in depressive symptoms, with some patients reporting relief lasting several months.



However, while the therapeutic potential is exciting, psilocybin therapy requires careful supervision in controlled settings, ensuring that patients receive proper guidance before, during, and after treatment. 



The success of psilocybin-assisted therapy hinges not just on the chemical effects but also on the therapeutic environment, often referred to as the "set and setting," which significantly influences the patient's experience and outcomes.



As research into psychedelics continues to evolve, psilocybin remains at the forefront, holding promise as a potentially transformative treatment for a range of mental health disorders. Yet, questions about the scalability, accessibility, and long-term effects of such therapies remain. 



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Psilocybin mushrooms could help millions who suffer from depression

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms," is rapidly...

Agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges as our world undergoes a whirlwind of changes fueled by the escalating effects of climate change. 



This environmental upheaval has brought global agriculture to the forefront, as its impacts are becoming impossible to overlook. 



From shifting weather patterns to increasing pressure on food systems, the industry is in the crosshairs of a rapidly changing planet.



Even more alarmingly, research published in the journal Science suggests that climate change and agriculture are locked in a dangerous dance - one that threatens to spiral into a self-perpetuating feedback loop.



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



As climate change intensifies, it forces farmers to adopt practices that could further degrade the environment, creating a vicious cycle that amplifies both global warming and the strain on our food supply.



Dr. Lewis Ziska is an associate professor of environmental health sciences at <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia Mailman School of Public Health</a>.



"It is important to recognize that the impact of agriculture on public health, from pesticide usage to water quality, is almost certainly going to be exacerbated with climate change," noted Dr. Ziska. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-rise-in-agricultural-emissions">Rapid rise in agricultural emissions</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenhouse gas emissions</a> from agriculture have skyrocketed at an alarming rate, and are now 18 times higher than they were in the 1960s. Agriculture has become a significant contributor to about 30% of the total global warming effect.



This rapid rise in emissions emphasizes the urgent need for changes in farming practices to curb their environmental impact.



A significant portion of these emissions comes from excess fertilizer left on farm soils, which is broken down by bacteria into nitrous oxide - a potent greenhouse gas that is 300 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-environmentally-friendly-agriculture">Need for environmentally friendly agriculture </h2>



The widespread use of synthetic fertilizers, combined with inefficient management practices, exacerbates the problem - pushing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5-degrees-celsius-would-save-billions-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> closer to dangerous thresholds.



The stakes are high, with climate-agriculture feedback pathways poised to dramatically increase agricultural emissions.



"We need agriculture, but the future of humanity also requires that we reduce agriculture’s environmental harms," said David Tilman, a professor at the <a href="https://system.umn.edu/dearmn?gad_source=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Minnesota</a> College of Biological Sciences and co-author of the study. 



Professor Tilman emphasized the need for policies like a farm bill that rewards both food production and environmental stewardship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-consequences-of-climate-change">Unseen consequences of climate change</h2>



Beyond rising temperatures, climate change affects agricultural practices by increasing water usage and scarcity, soil degradation, and emissions of nitrous oxide and methane. 



The research team also found that pest pressure, biodiversity loss, and pollution from pesticides and nitrogen further complicate the issue.



The feedback loop between agriculture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> could make it nearly impossible to meet the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5–2 degrees Celsius.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sustainable-future-for-agriculture">A sustainable future for agriculture</h2>



Despite the challenges, the research offers hope. Emerging sustainable agricultural practices and technologies can significantly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reduce emissions</a> if implemented on a large scale.



By removing socioeconomic barriers, governments can make climate-resilient solutions more accessible to farmers and food producers.



The researchers emphasize the importance of exploring an integrated approach that includes farming efficiency and pollutants like nitrous oxide alongside <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-air-pollution-could-greatly-boost-carbon-sequestration-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sequestration</a>. 



Practices such as precision fertilizer use, crop rotation, and nitrogen fixation can help prevent the climate-agriculture feedback loop from developing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-agricultural-practices">Transforming agricultural practices</h2>



To ensure a more stable future for agriculture, stakeholders should accelerate the adaptation of climate-friendly techniques, such as agrivoltaics, perennial crop integration, and on-farm robots. 



Research on feedback pathways and new technologies will be critical to transforming the industry and safeguarding the global food supply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-the-destructive-cycle">Breaking the destructive cycle</h2>



As the agricultural industry grapples with the escalating effects of climate change, it becomes clear that a coordinated, global effort is essential to avoid the destructive feedback loop between agriculture and the environment. 



Collaboration between governments, farmers, researchers, and private industries is vital to ensure the widespread adoption of sustainable farming practices. 



Incentivizing climate-friendly agriculture, promoting education, and investing in innovative technologies like genome editing and precision farming are just a few strategies that can significantly reduce agriculture’s environmental impact.



In the face of these challenges, the path forward requires bold actions. Governments must prioritize policies that support both agricultural productivity and environmental conservation, while farmers need access to the tools and knowledge to implement more efficient practices. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn3747" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Climate and agriculture are locked in a destructive feedback loop

Agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges as our world undergoes a...

You know that feeling, when you lock eyes with a pooch and feel an unspoken connection? Well, it's not just a feeling, it turns out. Experts have found out that human and canine brains sync up in these moments, proving we share a more profound connection with dogs at a neurological level.



Researchers in China have broken new ground, discovering a unique inter-species neural synchronization between humans and dogs. The research builds upon past studies that show similar brain activity synchronization among humans, particularly when they communicate or work together.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-activities-of-dogs-and-humans">Brain activities of dogs and humans</h2>



The research team, led by biologist Wei Ren from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>, employed a set of ingenious experiments to uncover this phenomenon.



Teams of human-dog pairs were put together and had their brain activities recorded. To do so, electrodes were placed over their heads. These pairs then engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-imitate-human-actions-from-2d-videos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nonverbal communication</a> such as mutual gazing, or a friendly pat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-test-and-control">Test and control </h2>



In one set of tests, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interacting-with-dogs-can-ease-physical-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-dog</a> duos interacted with each other, while during other tests they shared the same space but did not interact. 



The researchers noticed an increase in inter-brain correlations in the frontal and parietal regions of the brain during the mutual gaze.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frontal-and-parietal-brain-regions">Frontal and parietal brain regions</h2>



In human brains, joint attention is associated with activity in both the frontal and parietal regions. Previous research has shown that human frontal lobe activity increases when we pet our dogs, signaling emotional engagement and focused attention. 



However, it was unclear whether similar activity was happening in dogs' brains. The study has finally shed light on this unknown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-and-dog-brains-sync-up">Human and dog brains sync up</h2>



To pinpoint whether the human or dog was initiating the neural sync, the researchers used a unique mathematical algorithm to analyze the data.



The results indicated that it was the human brains that led this harmonized neural activity — revealing that the more we interact, the stronger our bond grows.



When participants were asked to simultaneously pet the dogs and gaze into their eyes, the study found even greater connectivity in the inter-brain activity.



"We observed that inter-brain correlations in frontal and parietal regions dramatically increased during mutual gaze," noted the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-dog-brains-mirror-humans">Do dog brains mirror humans?</h2>



Interestingly, the study has implications beyond just understanding our bond with dogs. Experts hypothesize that social cognition deficits found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might result from diminished brain synchronization.



To test this, the team repeated the experiments, but this time with dogs that exhibited similar characteristics to humans with ASD.



In this new set of tests, the human-dog pairs showed lessened synchronization, which suggested reduced joint attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lsd-and-neural-synchronization">LSD and neural synchronization?</h2>



Diving deeper into the ASD connection, dogs with ASD-like characteristics were given a dose of LSD. This drug has been known to enhance social behavior in mice in past studies.



Interestingly, the LSD seemed to improve the dogs' synchronization with their paired humans in this study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-oxytocin-the-bonding-hormone">Role of oxytocin - the bonding hormone</h2>



Oxytocin, often dubbed the "love hormone," plays a crucial role in establishing social bonds, including those between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humans and dogs</a>. 



This hormone is released in response to close interactions and has been shown to promote trust and social connections. The study further revealed that both human and dog brains experience increased oxytocin levels during mutual interactions, such as petting and eye contact.



This hormonal surge not only strengthens the emotional connection but also supports the neural synchronization observed in the experiments. 



The findings highlight the biological underpinnings of the human-dog bond and suggest that oxytocin might be a key player in facilitating the enhanced inter-species neural connectivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study </h2>



While more extensive research is called for, this study contributes significantly to our understanding of the social deficits associated with ASD. It suggests that such dogs, along with studying the brains of humans, could provide valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying these social deficits.



The research also opens up the possibility of using inter-brain activity as potential biomarkers for diagnosing ASD. This pioneering work could lead to the development of specially engineered, non-hallucinogenic versions of LSD to correct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-smell-human-stress-and-it-makes-them-feel-gloomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social deficits</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202402493" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Science</a>.



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Dog and human brains sync up during eye contact

You know that feeling, when you lock eyes with a...

Recent research took a plunge into a tale about the discovery of a new species of fish that's less than 2 centimeters long and carries a 'grumpy' demeanor. The tiny creature sports a perpetually disgruntled face, hence its fitting name: the grumpy dwarfgoby.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fierce-grumpy-dwarfgoby">Fierce grumpy dwarfgoby</h2>



The grumpy dwarfgoby, in spite of its small size, doesn’t do subtle. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dietary-shift-to-forage-fish-could-prevent-millions-of-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a>’s large canines and intense expression pull off a macho vibe. 



"I imagine in its own tiny world, it is a fearsome predator. Its grumpy expression and large canines certainly make it look the part, despite its small size," remarks Lucía Pombo-Ayora, who gifted the species its unique common name.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-in-the-deep-camouflage-or-statement">Red in the deep: Camouflage or statement?</h2>



What's fascinating about the grumpy dwarfgoby is its coloration strategy. The species boasts a vibrant red color, which sticks out to us -- however, in their natural environment, it's a perfect camouflage.



They frequent sections of coral reefs blanketed in red coralline algae, and use the algae as a hideout, hopping from one small hole or crevice to another. 



Additionally, those large canines aren't just for show; they’re used to capture tiny invertebrates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-the-grumpy-dwarfgoby">Finding the grumpy dwarfgoby</h2>



The research was led by Dr. Viktor Nunes Peinemann who was at the forefront of this discovery during a diving expedition intended to explore the diversity of coral reef <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-lionfish-global-domination-mediterranean-sea-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishes</a>. 



They first found specimens in Saudi Arabia's Farasan Banks, and later near Thuwal in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-fish-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red Sea</a>. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/fish_Grumpy-dwarfgoby_Sueviota-aethon_new-species_credit-UWashington_1b.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/fish_Grumpy-dwarfgoby_Sueviota-aethon_new-species_credit-UWashington_1s.webp" alt="Specimens of Sueviota aethon sp. nov. a UW 203365, holotype, freshly collected b UW 203367, freshly collected, showing the yellow variation of the species c UW 203365, holotype, preserved in 75% ethanol. Credit: University of Washington/Pensoft" class="wp-image-1944840"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Specimens of Sueviota aethon sp. nov. a UW 203365, holotype, freshly collected b UW 203367, freshly collected, showing the yellow variation of the species c UW 203365, holotype, preserved in 75% ethanol. Credit: University of Washington/Pensoft</figcaption></figure>



Initially, the team believed they'd rediscovered the fiery dwarfgoby, Sueviota pyrios, a solitary specimen known from a 1972 collection. However, they were in for a fascinating surprise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-so-deja-vu">Not so déjà vu</h2>



Upon further analysis, the team from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KAUST</a>) and the University of Washington (<a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW</a>) realized they were swimming in uncharted waters -- a brand-new species they'd never seen before.



"The ongoing discovery of distinctive new species like this grumpy dwarfgoby shows how much biodiversity remains undiscovered in the Red Sea," underlines Peinemann.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eroding-edifice-of-biodiversity">Eroding edifice of biodiversity</h2>



The Red Sea is celebrated for its rich endemic species, with our little grump adding to its roster. However, the sea's environment has taken a severe hit due to climate change, leading to widespread coral bleaching and mortality. 



The fact we're still discovering new species in this volatile ecosystem underlines the urgency for continued research and conservation efforts.



"This is concerning given the recent environmental changes in the region. In some cases, species could go extinct before we even describe them," Peinemann encapsulates the issues and stakes aptly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-the-grumpy-dwarfgoby">Preserving the grumpy dwarfgoby</h2>



In light of the ecological challenges that beset the Red Sea, initiatives to preserve its unique marine life have never been more critical. 



Conserving the grumpy dwarfgoby involves not only protecting its immediate habitat but also strengthening broader reef ecosystems.



Efforts encompass strategic measures such as establishing marine protected areas, regulating fishing activities, and promoting responsible tourism. 



Additionally, advancing scientific understanding through research and fostering education on the importance of marine biodiversity can galvanize public support for conservation. 



Each new species we uncover should be a reminder of the delicate intricacies that make up our planet's biodiversity, and the imperative to shield them from harm.



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



"The ongoing discovery of distinctive new species like this grumpy dwarfgoby shows how much biodiversity remains undiscovered in the Red Sea," Viktor Nunes Peinemann explains. 



"This is concerning given the recent environmental changes in the region. In some cases, species could go extinct before we even describe them." The identification of the grumpy dwarfgoby heralds a promising future for marine exploration and biodiversity research. 



The Red Sea, though significantly studied, harbors countless mysteries that, when unraveled, might revolutionize current biological frameworks and conservation methodologies. 



Peinemann and his team are committed to continuing their exploration, paving the way for a deeper comprehension of marine life and its vulnerabilities. 



"It's a thrilling time for marine biology," says Peinemann, "as each discovery offers not just answers, but intriguing new questions."



The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://zookeys.pensoft.net/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ZooKeys</a>.



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Scientists discover 'grumpy dwarfgoby,' a tiny fish with a big attitude

Recent research took a plunge into a tale about the...

A new study suggests that microplastics can infiltrate the base of the brain. The research team confirmed the presence of plastic particles and fibers in the olfactory bulbs of human cadavers. 



"The presence of microplastics in the human olfactory bulb suggests the olfactory pathway as a potential entry route for microplastics into the brain, highlighting the need for further research on their neurotoxic effects and implications for human health," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-the-human-body">Microplastics in the human body</h2>



Our lives are more intertwined with plastic than we realize. From our morning cup of coffee to the clothes we wear, plastic has stealthily slipped into almost every aspect of our daily lives. 



Yet, there's another side to this story that's far less visible but markedly more invasive: the threat of microplastics. These tiny tormentors have made their way into our bodies.



The recent study on human cadavers was led by Luís Fernando Amato-Lourenço, a respected microplastics investigator at the <a href="https://www.fu-berlin.de/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Free University of Berlin</a>. The team discovered timy shards of plastic lodged in human nose tissue, precisely in the olfactory bulb.



This discovery poses the scary question, could these particles travel to other parts of the brain?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-evidence-of-our-plastic-crisis">More evidence of our plastic crisis </h2>



The trajectory of these microplastic intrusions within our bodies is dictated by factors like their size, shape, and the body's defensive responses.



Logic suggests that the smaller the enemy, the easier it is for it to go unnoticed by our body's defense system to breach our brain and spinal cord. The study has confirmed that this is, in fact, the case. 



For Phoebe Stapleton, a professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology at <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers University</a>, this revelation is but a reflection of our plastic cumulated reality.



“I’m not really surprised,” Stapleton told CNN. “I really do think that plastics are going to be in every place in the body that we look. This is just more evidence.”



Yet, not every scientist is buying into the microplastic scare. The skeptics demand concrete evidence and reliable studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hazardous-chemicals-in-microplastics">Hazardous chemicals in microplastics</h2>



A wave of recent studies is reinforcing one truth: our bodies are playing unwilling hosts to these nearly invisible invaders. 



From unsuspected areas like our brain, testes, lung tissues to places as sacred as a mother's milk and a child's placenta, these minuscule enemies, smaller than a strand of hair, are everywhere.



What really ups the ante of their threat level is the sinister cargo they carry: hazardous chemicals such as bisphenols, phthalates, flame retardants, and heavy metals.



Sherri “Sam” Mason is the director of sustainability at Penn State Behrend in Erie, Pennsylvania. 



“The chemicals can be carried to your liver and your kidney and your brain and even make their way across the placental boundary and end up in an unborn child,” noted Mason, who was not involved in the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-olfactory-bulbs">Microplastics and olfactory bulbs</h2>



The recent study brought to light microplastics in the olfactory bulbs of more than half of the cadavers studied. However, the experts could not pinpoint the source of exposure or why only some cadavers carried this evidence.



Amato-Lourenço hypothesizes that a swollen nasal lining might pave the way for these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a>. According to him, airborne microplastics could originate from synthetic fabrics and common household items.



The most frequently found culprit was polypropylene, a commonly used plastic that is generally considered safe. But a conflicting study presents an alarming connection between polypropylene microplastics and accelerated progression of breast cancer in human bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-concern">A global concern</h2>



Amid this alarming reality, there's a shred of hope. Guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that we can minimize our chemical exposure by reducing the use of disposable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-microplastics-are-here-to-stay-so-what-can-we-do-now/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastics</a> and switching to reusable alternatives.



Microplastics are a global concern, as they continue to spread across continents and ecosystems. They are polluting our marine ecosystems, threatening our soil through wastewater sludge, and indirectly affecting us through seafood consumption.



The scale of this problem demands a united global response and comprehensive policy-making.



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



The disturbing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">presence of microplastics</a> bears crucial importance on the need to strategize effective ways to minimize exposure and comprehend the long-term health implications.



By harmonizing scientific exploration with practical interventions, we can aim to mitigate microplastic pollution.



The discovery of microplastics in the base of the human brain is a wake-up call. Until the scientific community reaches a solid consensus on the impact of this invasion, it's up to us to limit our exposure and take proactive measures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2823787" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Microplastics are infiltrating the human body - even the brain

A new study suggests that microplastics can infiltrate the base...

The beauty of nature lies in its intricate, minute details, and a small yet profoundly significant part of this beauty is owed to the diverse microbes residing in the mysterious depths of our oceans.



These tiny, often-overlooked beings, each with their own unique food preferences, play a crucial role in the vast, complex, and seemingly invisible process of carbon sequestration, a process vital to regulating Earth's climate and supporting life on the planet.



Recent insights from a Science publication titled "Microbial dietary preference and interactions affect the export of lipids to the deep ocean" shed light on how the dietary preferences of bacteria influence the efficiency of carbon storage in the oceanic depths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-microbes-dietary-preferences">Ocean microbes' dietary preferences</h2>



"In our study, we found incredible variation in what the different microbes preferred to digest. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-form-memories-and-pass-them-on-to-future-generations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacteria</a> seem to have very distinct diet preferences for different lipid molecules," explained Benjamin Van Mooy, senior scientist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>).



"This has real implications for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-a-new-ocean-carbon-sequestration-process/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sequestration</a> and the biological carbon pump." 



The biological carbon pump refers to the process where sinking biomass transports carbon from the ocean surface to the deep ocean.



Lipids, carbon-rich fatty acid biomolecules, make up about 5 to 30% of the surface ocean’s particulate organic matter, serving as a crucial component in marine ecosystems.



These lipids not only act as energy storage but also play a key role in facilitating essential cellular functions for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes that inhabit the ocean</a>.



As the organic matter sinks to the deep sea, diverse and complex communities of resident microbes degrade and utilize these lipids, significantly influencing global CO2 concentrations and contributing to the regulation of Earth's climate system.



Understanding this process is crucial to improve our ability to forecast global carbon fluxes in changing ocean regimes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-and-deep-ocean-carbon-regulation">Microbes and deep ocean carbon regulation</h2>



"Bacteria isolated from marine particles exhibited distinct dietary preferences, ranging from selective to promiscuous degraders," the study explains. 



These dietary choices modulate lipid degradation and, consequently, affect how efficiently lipids are transported through the ocean's mesopelagic zone, which extends about 200-1000 meters below the surface.



"I was thrilled to see how much there is to learn about the functioning of the ocean by combining two technologies -- high-end chemical analysis and microscale imaging -- that have historically never been used together," noted co-author Roman Stocker, professor at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>.



"I believe that work at the interface between these exciting technologies will continue to yield important insights into how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes shape our oceans</a>, now and into the future," he continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lipid-preferences-in-ocean-microbes">Lipid preferences in ocean microbes</h2>



"Scientists are starting to understand that lipids in the ocean can vary significantly depending on different environments, such as the coast versus the open ocean, and the season," Van Mooy enthused.



Researchers can now begin to consider whether some regions efficiently sequester lipids, while others may see inefficient sequestration.



"What excites me about this paper is that it shows bacteria are not just eating any type of lipid but are very specialized and, like us, have specific food preferences," added Lars Behrendt, associate professor at <a href="https://www.uu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uppsala University</a>.



"This changes how we think about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-greenland-ice-sheet-is-teeming-with-microorganisms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microorganisms</a> consume food in their natural environment." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bacterial-communities-and-degradation-dynamics">Bacterial communities and degradation dynamics</h2>



The study also examined how multispecies communities of bacteria affect degradation rates, revealing that co-cultures exhibit different dynamics compared to species in isolation. 



This complexity emphasizes the importance of understanding microbial interactions in natural environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-and-the-huge-carbon-sink">Microbes and the huge carbon sink</h2>



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/">Phytoplankton</a> are the main reason the ocean is one of the biggest carbon sinks, absorbing as much carbon as all the plants on land combined," said Uria Alcolombri, senior lecturer at <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a>. 



These microscopic organisms and their interactions with deep-sea microbes play a crucial role in regulating global carbon levels.



-----



This research was funded by a variety of international organizations, including the Moore Foundation, Simons Foundation, and National Science Foundation, underscoring the global recognition of the importance of understanding the role of ocean microbes in carbon sequestration.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aab2661" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Ocean microbes eat a different diet that affects climate change

The beauty of nature lies in its intricate, minute details,...

When we consider the immense journey of pregnancy, it's no surprise that the body goes through significant changes to prepare for impending motherhood. 



You're likely familiar with the physical changes; from the obvious growth of the belly, to the hormonal roller coaster that triggers mood swings, cravings and morning sickness. But here's something that probably didn't make it onto your radar: pregnancy changes the brain too.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-s-impact-on-brain">Pregnancy's impact on brain</h2>



The complex hormonal shifts brought on by pregnancy have a profound impact on the brain, a sphere of human anatomy that's been relatively untouched in pregnancy studies. 



A research team led by Professor Emily Jacobs from <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Barbara</a>, however, decided to navigate the uncharted waters to reveal an astonishing reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-world-of-the-gestating-brain">Dynamic world of the gestating brain</h2>



The project's aim was to understand the trajectory of brain changes across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnancy-may-speed-up-aging-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">span of pregnancy</a>. Unlike previous studies which presented before and after snapshots of the brain, this research monitored these changes as they happened. 



The study revolved around a first-time mother, with her brain scanned at regular intervals from pre-pregnancy through to two years postpartum.



The meticulous approach allowed the researchers to record the dynamic reorganization of the participant's brain with remarkable clarity. It was a revelation, showcasing the impressive neuroplasticity of the adult brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-and-brain-gray-matter">Pregnancy and brain gray matter</h2>



Perhaps the most striking finding lay in the changes in the brain's gray matter, the cerebral cortex. 



As the hormones kicked in during pregnancy, the team observed a notable decrease in gray matter volume. While this may sound alarm bells, the researchers highlighted that a decrease in gray matter is not necessarily a negative scenario.



In fact, this fine-tuning of brain circuits is similar to what happens during puberty when adolescent brains start honing their skills. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-pregnancy-related-deaths-in-the-u-s-skyrocketing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pregnancy</a>, therefore, appears to be another significant period of cortical refinement in adulthood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-matter-in-the-brain">White matter in the brain</h2>



Alongside changes in gray matter, the research team discovered an increase in white matter, which is primarily responsible for communication between different brain regions. 



This increase peaked during the second trimester, returning to pre-pregnancy volumes around birth, providing yet another example of the brain's resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormones-at-play">Hormones at play</h2>



The remarkable transformations within the brain during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/calcium-zinc-are-keys-to-healthier-pregnancy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a> are orchestrated by a symphony of hormones, notably estrogen and progesterone. 



These hormones play a pivotal role in preparing the body for motherhood and are closely linked to brain adaptations. Their influence extends beyond mere anatomical changes; they are crucial in altering neural connectivity and cognitive processing. 



This hormonal interplay is thought to enhance emotional regulation and maternal bonding, possibly as an evolutionary mechanism to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. 



Researchers continue to explore this neuroendocrine symphony, seeking to uncover how these hormonal waves contribute to the holistic metamorphosis of a pregnant brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-the-brain-in-pregnancy">Embracing the brain in pregnancy</h2>



Understanding the adaptations of the pregnant brain extends far beyond mere academic curiosity. It offers profound insights into maternal health and well-being, presenting opportunities for interventions that can support mental health during and after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/knowing-which-fish-to-eat-during-pregnancy-is-very-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a>. 



The research underscores the importance of accommodating the brain's intricate changes into healthcare practices, paving the way for more comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care. 



Looking forward, the field is ripe with potential, as scientists aim to delve deeper into the long-term cognitive and emotional impacts of these neurological transformations. 



This research offers a promising frontier in support of maternal mental health and a deeper appreciation of the complexities involved in becoming a mother.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-neuroscience">New chapter in neuroscience</h2>



What this study essentially does is give us the first-ever map of the human brain during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-and-nicotine-use-during-pregnancy-linked-to-infant-mortality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a>. It recognizes the tremendous changes, adaptations and resilience of the maternal brain. Around 140 million women experience pregnancy each year, making this subject anything but niche.



The dataset generated through this study serves as a solid foundation for future research. In particular, a better understanding of these changes could potentially help identify women at risk of postpartum depression, a condition affecting one in five women.



The team is already moving forward on this path with the Maternal Brain Project, a collaborative effort spanning UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine, and several research centers in Spain. 



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



“Experts in neuroscience, reproductive immunology, proteomics, and AI are joining forces to learn more than ever about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-hormones-during-pregnancy-may-affect-child-iq/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maternal brain</a>,” Jacobs said. “Together, we have an opportunity to tackle some of the most pressing and least understood problems in women’s health.”&nbsp;



Professor Jacobs and her team have, in essence, pioneered a new frontier in neuroscience. With their relentless investigation and dedication to understanding the human brain, they are providing valuable insights that will undoubtedly reshape our perception of pregnancy and women's health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01741-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>.



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How pregnancy changes the brain

When we consider the immense journey of pregnancy, it's no...

After decades of efforts to curb global warming, scientists are now exploring ways to reverse climate change and potentially cool the planet. They are looking into geoengineering - strategies that manipulate Earth's systems to mitigate climate effects.&nbsp;



Geoengineering ideas include brightening clouds to reflect more sunlight, sinking lab-grown seaweed into the ocean to absorb carbon dioxide, or drilling holes into glaciers to slow sea level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-questions-surrounding-geoengineering-nbsp">Complex questions surrounding geoengineering&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> has positioned itself at the forefront of this emerging field by recruiting physicist David Keith, who will lead a climate engineering program. 



Keith plans to build a team of 10 tenure-track faculty and several young researchers. He emphasizes the need for collaboration to tackle the complex questions surrounding geoengineering.&nbsp;



“We cannot understand (geoengineering) with just a bunch of individual people working on this in an isolated way,” Keith explained. “We need to bring together a broad group of scholars and students to debate it in a much richer way.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-radiation-management-nbsp">Solar radiation management&nbsp;</h2>



For a long time, manipulating Earth’s systems was considered taboo, as many scientists viewed it as a distraction from reducing carbon emissions. Some even deemed it too dangerous to explore.&nbsp;



The most controversial method is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geoengineering-can-we-dim-the-sun-to-avoid-climate-tipping-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar radiation management</a>, which involves shooting aerosols into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight and cool the planet. Physicist Peter Irvine recently joined Keith's team at UChicago to study this method. 



Solar geoengineering is expected to mimic the cooling effect of massive volcanic eruptions, such as the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia. That eruption cooled global temperatures and dimmed sunlight for years.&nbsp;



“Solar radiation management is the only (climate intervention) that could be deployed within a single presidential term,” Irvine said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geoengineering-is-becoming-a-necessary-option">Geoengineering is becoming a necessary option</h2>



However, fears remain that promises of yet-to-be-developed technologies could be used by wealthy nations or fossil fuel companies to avoid reducing carbon emissions.&nbsp;



With global emissions still rising and not being cut fast enough, some experts see geoengineering as a necessary option.&nbsp;



As microbiologist Manon Duret, a recent recruit to the UChicago initiative, puts it, “it's not going to happen. We're not going to decarbonize the world so easily. We need to start looking at other options.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-challenges-to-geoengineering">Practical challenges to geoengineering</h2>



Duret will focus on practical challenges to geoengineering, such as material acquisition, logistics, and international regulations.&nbsp;



Her husband, oceanographer B.B. Cael, will evaluate the risks, costs, and scalability of different geoengineering approaches. Both see geoengineering as a stopgap while society works on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buying-time-to-address-larger-issues">Buying time to address larger issues</h2>



Keith has been a leader in geoengineering research since the 1980s, launching one of the first companies to capture carbon dioxide from the air and leading <a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>’s efforts in solar interventions. 



He argues that balancing emissions reduction with other societal priorities, such as equitable development, is essential.&nbsp;



Keith believes that cooling the Earth could buy society time to address these larger issues. “The ethical thing to do is to cut emissions a little more slowly,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-experimenting-with-the-stratosphere-nbsp">Risks of experimenting with the stratosphere&nbsp;</h2>



Although solar geoengineering could reduce extreme weather events, it also carries significant risks. Irvine acknowledges that it might exacerbate droughts, increase acid rain, and thin the ozone layer. These unknowns could affect global food production and biodiversity.



Professor Liz Moyer, an atmospheric scientist at UChicago, shares concerns about experimenting with the stratosphere, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-aerosols-cool-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a> would be injected. 



The stratosphere has seen unpredictable events in recent years, and Moyer cautions that tampering with it without proper monitoring could be dangerous.&nbsp;



“If you're going to do experimental surgery and you haven't thought about what kind of technology you would need to monitor the patient, then you're not thinking about the problem carefully enough for me to trust you with my body,” she said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-burden-on-future-generations">Enormous burden on future generations</h2>



Solar geoengineering would require continuous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intervention</a> - shooting aerosols into the atmosphere every few years. 



Stopping this process could lead to rapid warming, known as “termination shock.” <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>’s Raymond Pierrehumbert, a former UChicago professor, warns that this creates “an enormous burden on the future.”



Pierrehumbert is among more than 500 scientists calling for an international non-use agreement on solar geoengineering. He worries about the lack of a global governing body to oversee the responsible deployment of such technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reckless-use-by-desperate-nations-nbsp">Reckless use by desperate nations&nbsp;</h2>



On the other hand, Irvine believes that avoiding geoengineering research could lead to reckless use by desperate nations.&nbsp;



“The more it's suppressed, the greater the risk of a single nation or small group of nations pushing ahead independently in desperation,” he said.



While some countries like China have already experimented with altering weather patterns, most solar geoengineering research remains confined to computer models.&nbsp;



However, real-world testing has been difficult to approve. Two planned experiments, one in California and another in Sweden, were recently canceled due to public opposition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-and-benefits-of-geoengineering">Risks and benefits of geoengineering </h2>



Keith, who was involved in the Swedish project, remains committed to studying geoengineering to understand its risks and benefits.&nbsp;



He argues that the public and politicians need rigorous research to make informed decisions about deploying such technologies.&nbsp;



“It's definitely not an elite club of scientists' job to decide what the public gets to know or not,” he said.



Still, Pierrehumbert cautions that small-scale experiments might offer a false sense of security. Full-scale deployment would be needed to fully understand the long-term risks of geoengineering. 



“Scientists have a responsibility not to develop technology that could be threatening and destabilizing,” he explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-an-interdisciplinary-team-nbsp">Building an interdisciplinary team&nbsp;</h2>



Despite these concerns, Moyer sees value in UChicago leading this conversation but stresses the importance of involving civil engineers, who are trained to account for risk in large-scale projects.&nbsp;



Although Keith has plans to build an interdisciplinary team, so far, all hires have been in the geophysical sciences, and the university does not have a civil engineering department.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facing-the-unknowns-of-climate-change">Facing the unknowns of climate change</h2>



What all scientists involved agree on is that the Earth is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heating up</a> rapidly, and it will take many years to cool it down, even if emissions are drastically reduced. 



“The climate is rapidly racing toward a state we've never seen before with all sorts of unknown consequences and known consequences that are going to be bad,” Irvine warned.



While some believe the only solution is to eliminate fossil fuel use as quickly as possible, others like Keith worry about a future where geoengineering is the last option, untested and misunderstood.&nbsp;



Keith sees UChicago’s initiative as a way to ensure future generations are prepared. “In the end, this needs to be global, we need to build a field.”



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Should we risk geoengineering to reverse climate change? 

After decades of efforts to curb global warming, scientists are...

On Monday at 10:57 PM ET, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), part of the National Weather Service, issued a G4 (Severe) geomagnetic solar storm alert. 



This follows two Coronal Mass Ejections (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CMEs</a>) that occurred last Friday and Saturday. 



Forecasters anticipate that the storm's intensity will fluctuate between G2 and G3 levels through Tuesday night, with the potential for another period of G4 conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-this-mean">What does this mean?</h2>



According to the <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPC</a>, a G4 storm can cause various issues. You might notice voltage irregularities, which power companies may need to adjust. 



Satellites in low Earth orbit could experience increased drag, and there might be intermittent disruptions to satellite navigation systems and high-frequency radio communications.



To keep power grid operators informed, SWPC has activated the North American Reliability Corporation Hotline. 



Key partners, including the <a href="https://www.faa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FAA</a>, NASA's Space Radiation Analysis Group (<a href="https://srag.jsc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SRAG</a>), and <a href="https://www.fema.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FEMA</a>, are receiving regular updates.



If you live in areas as far south as Alabama or northern California, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the auroras, though they may appear faint.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-geomagnetic-solar-storms">Understanding geomagnetic solar storms</h2>



A geomagnetic storm occurs when solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections (CMEs), disturbs the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a>.



These storms are driven by solar wind, a stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun.



When these particles interact with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a>, they can cause various effects, from beautiful auroras to disruptions in power and communication systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-areas-and-impacts-expected">Areas and impacts expected</h2>



Here’s what could happen during this event:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Power Systems: Voltage irregularities may occur, leading to potential disruptions or false alarms in power grids. Operators should be on high alert for unusual activity.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Satellites and Spacecraft: Satellites in low Earth orbit might experience increased drag and charging on their surfaces, potentially causing orientation problems or reduced lifespan.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>GPS and Navigation Systems: Satellite navigation (GPS) could face intermittent issues, such as loss of signal or increased error in positioning. This could affect not only personal GPS devices but also aviation and maritime operations.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Radio Communications: High-frequency (HF) radio communications might be unreliable, especially in polar regions, which could disrupt aviation, maritime, and emergency services relying on these frequencies.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Auroras: On a brighter note, the geomagnetic storm might produce spectacular auroras, probably visible in the Southern United States.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-storm-activity-overview">Solar storm activity overview</h2>



As of September 17, 2024, solar activity remains at low levels. The most significant flare recorded was a 9.6 from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noaa-warning-strong-solar-storm-headed-to-earth-auroras-expected-sept-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Region 3825 on September 16</a>. 



Regions 3824 and 3825 are showing slight changes, while new Region 3828 has appeared. However, no Earth-directed CMEs have been detected.



Solar activity is expected to rise to moderate levels (R1-R2) today, with a slight chance of X-class flares (R3). 



As we move into September 18 and 19, the likelihood of M-class flares will decrease as Regions 3814 and 3822 rotate around the Northwest limb.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-particle-activity-and-solar-storm-wind">Particle activity and solar storm wind</h2>



In the past 24 hours, the flux of electrons greater than 2 MeV was moderate to high, peaking at 2,240 pfu. The proton flux reached minor levels this morning.



Expect a decrease in the electron flux due to CME influences over the next few days. There is a slight chance that proton levels could reach minor thresholds again.



The solar wind is currently affected by the recent CMEs, with increases in the total magnetic field and solar wind speeds. This surge indicates that the effects of the CMEs from September 13-14 are still impacting us.



Forecasts suggest that solar wind conditions will remain influenced by these CMEs today but should settle down by tomorrow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay-alert-and-stay-tuned">Stay alert and stay tuned</h2>



The current geomagnetic storm presents some exciting possibilities, particularly for aurora watchers. 



While there are some potential disruptions to technology, agencies are prepared to manage these challenges. 



Stay tuned for updates from Earth.com and the SWPC as the situation develops!



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'Severe' G4-level solar storm just hit Earth, auroras expected in Southern U.S.

On Monday at 10:57 PM ET, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&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> Staff Writer 



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video 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



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.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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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.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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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.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&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.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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