Quantum entanglement is a mind-boggling phenomenon in quantum mechanics that intrigues both scientists and the public alike.



Unlike the predictable nature of classical physics, quantum mechanics thrives on unpredictability, often challenging our everyday perceptions. This is particularly evident in the behavior of entangled particles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-quantum-entanglement">Understanding quantum entanglement</h2>



In quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, a concept known as superposition. Entanglement elevates this idea: when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-laws-thermodynamics-follow-entropy-rule/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles become entangled</a>, their states are interlinked.



A change in one particle's state instantly influences the other, regardless of distance—imagine two distant light bulbs flickering in sync across the cosmos.



Entanglement suggests that information can be shared instantaneously between particles, defying the notion that nothing travels faster than light.



This "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-spooky-action-at-a-distance-persists-between-top-quarks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spooky action at a distance</a>," as Albert Einstein famously termed it, prompts profound questions about the nature of space and time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-measurement">Challenges of measurement</h2>



Measurement in quantum mechanics presents unique challenges. Observing one particle in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">an entangled pair</a> determines the states of both, leading to critical inquiries: What constitutes a 'measurement,' and how does it influence our understanding of reality?



The complex mathematics underpinning quantum mechanics -- incorporating concepts like Hilbert spaces, wave functions, and operators -- can be intimidating, rendering entanglement less accessible to many.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-puzzle">Fascinating puzzle</h2>



Simply put, quantum entanglement is just too complicated for most people to fully understand. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-tunneling-allow-particles-break-light-speed-barrier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">It defies classical intuitions</a>, involves sophisticated mathematics, and urges us to reevaluate our understanding of reality.



That is, until now. 



Enter Professor Carl Kocher, a pioneer of the study of quantum entanglement. He is currently a member of the <a href="https://quantumfoundry.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum Foundry</a> at University of California Santa Barbara and Professor Emeritus at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>.



Professor Kocher is the author of a new article in Frontiers in Quantum Science and Technology, explaining his groundbreaking 1964-67 experiments in quantum entanglement and discussing the 'paradox' of quantum entanglement.



In the following guest editorial, <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Carl-Kocher" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Kocher</a> helps us stretch our minds to understand this apparently paradoxical phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-quantum-entanglement-0">Understanding quantum entanglement</h2>



My new article, ‘<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/quantum-science-and-technology/articles/10.3389/frqst.2024.1451239/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum Entanglement of Optical Photons: The First Experiment, 1964-67</a>’, is intended to convey the spirit of a small research project that reaches into uncharted territory. 



The article breaks with tradition, as it offers a first-person account of the strategy and challenges for the experiment, as well as an interpretation of the final result and its significance. 



In this guest editorial, I will introduce the subject and also attempt to illuminate the question ‘What is a paradox?’



Let’s begin with the gyroscope that I bought when I was eight, from a store that sold novelties and magic tricks. The spinning disk, supported at one end of its shaft, did not fall, but moved slowly around in a horizontal plane. 



This behavior seems mysterious or paradoxical in the context of common experience that excludes gyroscopes, but makes complete sense in the context of Newtonian mechanics, which resolves the paradox by predicting precisely how gyroscopes will behave.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-quantum-theory">Evolution of quantum theory</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum theory</a>, conceived in the mid-1920s, has been impressively successful in accounting for the properties and interactions of atoms and molecules. 



In 1935, Einstein, Podolsky, and Rosen stirred controversy with a thought experiment in which two particles of common origin move apart, noting that quantum theory predicts correlations in subsequent measurements of their spins.



The correlation may seem quite puzzling, as a measurement on one of the particles appears to influence a subsequent measurement on the other, even if the particles do not interact.



In current terminology, these correlations are an example of entanglement, and the correlation phenomenon is known as the EPR paradox.



The puzzle has become a subject for much discussion and analysis, especially because there was (and is) no known mechanism for measurements to communicate with each other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disentangling-quantum-entanglement">Disentangling quantum entanglement</h2>



In 1964 I was intrigued by this unfamiliar effect and began to think of a way to actually perform the EPR experiment -- or at least a version of it -- for observing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">correlation and entanglement</a>. It would be a low-energy experiment that could be set up in a small laboratory.



For the experiment outlined here, the particles of interest are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-photons-used-to-measure-earth-rotation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visible-light photons</a>, which are noninteracting, emitted by excited calcium atoms in a two-stage spontaneous emission process. The polarization states of the photons, which are related to their spins, can be measured simply, with ordinary linear polarizers. 



Photomultiplier detectors count the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individual photons</a>, #1 (green) and #2 (violet), and timing circuits enable the identification of photon pairs from the same atom. A rotatable linear polarizer is mounted in front of each detector.



In simplest terms, the experiment involves counting the rate at which photon pairs are detected, as a function of the orientation of the polarizers. A photon pair detected from the same atom is recorded as a “coincidence count.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theory-and-experiment-agree">Theory and experiment agree</h2>



Quantum theory makes the following predictions:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-photons-create-vortex-when-they-collide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Each photon</a>, taken separately, has a 50% chance of being transmitted by its polarizer, regardless of its angle of orientation. </li>



<li>If the polarizer axes are parallel, both photons from the same atom can pass through their polarizers and be counted. Coincidence counts will be observed. </li>



<li>If the polarizer axes are perpendicular, it never happens that both photons pass through their polarizers. Therefore, no coincidence counts will be observed.</li>
</ol>



Predictions #1 and #2 are not surprising, as the green and violet beams of light are unpolarized.



Prediction #3, discussed further in my article, is a quantum entanglement effect with no analog in classical (non-quantum) physics. It is especially interesting because it can be tested experimentally. I designed the experiment specifically for this purpose.



The results of the experiment, after nearly three years of effort in the laboratory, clearly demonstrate that coincidence counts are recorded if the polarizer axes are parallel, and that no coincidences are recorded if the polarizers are perpendicular. The agreement between theory and experiment is unequivocal and striking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-is-there-a-paradox">So is there a paradox?</h2>



In our brief discussion of the gyroscope, no paradox was acknowledged because Newton’s theory (classical dynamics) fully explains how a gyroscope moves. 



Furthermore, both the theory and the observed gyroscopic behavior are compatible with our life experience and intuitive ability to grasp natural processes in the classical realm.



In the entanglement case, quantum theory accounts for the observed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">correlation of the photon polarizations</a>. But even when a theory predicts experimental results, a paradox may remain if the intuition cannot reach out to connect with it.



Take another look at predictions #1 and #3 above. If we draw on our experience of life in a non-quantum world, we may notice something very strange when the polarizers are “crossed” at 90 degrees. 



If each photon has a 50% chance of transmission through its polarizer, why don’t we get coincidences 25% of the time? Instead, we observe none at all. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stretching-the-mind-to-resolve-the-paradox">Stretching the mind to resolve the paradox</h2>



At first consideration, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">does seem to qualify as a paradox</a>. One possible explanation could involve a missing component of quantum theory - perhaps a causal mechanism that could allow one photon, or one measurement, to communicate with the other. 



However, despite extensive research, no evidence has been found for such a mechanism.



As we do not live in an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overtly quantum world</a>, classical phenomena may influence our thought processes - even when we venture into the quantum realm. It may therefore remain a challenge to assimilate entanglement into the intuition.



I believe that the paradox can be at least partially resolved when further thought and experience, such as the experiment considered here, ‘stretch the mind’ to more fully embrace entanglement and other quantum phenomena.



I have come to view these aspects of nature as ‘strangely wonderful’.



The full paper and study can we read at <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/quantum-science-and-technology/articles/10.3389/frqst.2024.1451239/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Quantum Science and Technology</a>.



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Quantum entanglement: A simple way to fully grasp this 'impossible' concept

Quantum entanglement is a mind-boggling phenomenon in quantum mechanics that intrigues both scientists and the public alike. Unlike the predictable nature of classical physics, quantum mechanics thrives on unpredictability, often challenging our everyday perceptions. This is particularly evident in the behavior of entangled particles. Understanding quantum entanglement In quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, a concept known as superposition. Entanglement elevates this idea: when particles become entangled, their states are interlinked. A change in one particle's state instantly influences the other, regardless of distance—imagine...

A,Field,Of,Staghorn,Corals,(acropora,Sp.),Provides,A,Thicket

The impact of climate change on marine ecosystems is becoming increasingly complex. A recent study offers a new perspective on how climate change and local temperature fluctuations interact to affect marine life.



Study co-author Jon Witman, a professor of Biology at <a href="https://www.brown.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brown University</a>, emphasized the importance of understanding both the steady warming trend and local temperature variability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-organisms-adapt">How organisms adapt</h2>



Witman collaborated with Andrew Pershing of Climate Central and John Bruno from the <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> at Chapel Hill. 



The researchers investigated how marine communities adapt to both gradual and variable changes, reviewing processes that either facilitate or hinder adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-climate-and-the-ocean">Studying climate and the ocean</h2>



"Greenhouse gas emissions are warming the ocean with profound consequences at all levels of organization, from organismal rates to ecosystem processes. The proximate driver is an interplay between anthropogenic warming (the trend) and natural fluctuations in local temperature," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"These two properties cause anomalously warm events such as marine heatwaves to occur with increasing frequency and magnitude."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-fluctuations-nbsp">Temperature fluctuations&nbsp;</h2>



However, the interaction between the steadily warming climate and the spikes in local temperatures tends to be underappreciated, said Witman.



“Climate change studies often focus on the trend of global warming. But organisms in the ocean are also experiencing temperature fluctuations, and that’s less studied and therefore less understood," explained Witman.&nbsp;



"What we’re trying to do is to add more reality into ocean climate change studies by considering both the smooth, upward trend of climate warming as well as the variability on top of that trend.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-conditions">Local conditions</h2>



"Marine communities are made up of species that are adapted to the prevailing local conditions. Thermal conditions can be characterized by the mean temperature, the amplitude of the annual cycle, and the interannual variability," wrote the researchers.



"These characteristics of ocean temperature strongly influence countless aspects of the physiology and ecology of marine organisms, the composition and diversity of marine communities, and even the structure and dynamics of marine food webs."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abrupt-heat-spikes">Abrupt heat spikes</h2>



The research highlights that while marine organisms like coral attempt to adapt to gradually rising temperatures, they are also subjected to abrupt spikes, like heat waves, which have dire consequences.&nbsp;



These heat spikes can lead to consequences like coral bleaching, where stressed corals expel algae and turn white, potentially leading to death if conditions don't improve.&nbsp;



Witman pointed to the increased incidence of such events in regions like the Mediterranean, which have seen significant coral bleaching and death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temporal-ocean-climate-variation">Temporal ocean climate variation </h2>



"Aspects of temporal variation such as the frequency of repeated temperature anomalies and delays in ecological changes (legacy effects) following anomalies are central to understanding the different ecological impacts of climate change. These processes can either accelerate or slow the rate of change and adaptation," wrote the researchers.



"There is growing evidence that sessile organisms like corals in more variable thermal habitats are more resistant to thermal anomalies via ecological hardening."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-ecosystems-nbsp">Vulnerable ecosystems&nbsp;</h2>



Extreme events such as heat waves may alter or damage marine ecosystems in ways that leave them more vulnerable to both progressive climate change as well as the next temperature fluctuation, Witman added.&nbsp;



A more realistic model may help scientists better identify areas where coral is more likely to die off in an extreme event leaving coral-dependent organisms at risk over time, he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variable-events">Variable events</h2>



Witman said the responses to variable events like heat waves compound (and are compounded by) the effects caused by rapidly and steadily increasing ocean temperatures.



The study highlights the necessity of considering both steady and variable changes in climate studies.&nbsp;



“If we just study how organisms respond to the smooth trend, we miss all the variability, which is driving ecological change,” Witman said. “It’s not just a matter of worsening physiological stress over time; there are also variable events that have their own ripple effects.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smooth-and-spiky">Smooth and spiky</h2>



"The purpose of this review is to advance our understanding of how marine ecosystems have changed and will change in response to climate change," wrote the researchers.



"We are specifically interested in understanding the limitations of current approaches and identifying experimental, conceptual, and theoretical approaches necessary to understand the new ocean."



"A key theme of our review is that climate change in the ocean is both smooth and spiky. By smooth, we mean that there are clear temperature trends driving change. For example, Harris et al. interpreted warming as a press perturbation. By spiky, we mean that there is natural, inherent variability on top of the trend."&nbsp;



"The smooth trends and spikes from variability interact, and understanding how processes within organisms and communities filter these interactions is the key to understanding how marine ecosystems will change over the next century."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regions-of-concern">Regions of concern</h2>



A global model developed by the team pinpointed regions of particular concern in the Gulf of Maine, the Caribbean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. In these areas, there are high probabilities of exceptional warming events and “ecological surprises,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“These areas, especially, warrant investigation to improve our understanding of what's going to happen in the future - as well as our conception of what we’re calling, ‘the new ocean,’” said Witman.



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



"Published models of species range changes assume a smooth future of gradual change where species declines are due to the trend rather than infrequent extremes (variance), they do not consider geographic variability in temporal variability, and they assume that dispersal and range expansion are smooth (and largely unlimited)," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Future modeling efforts need to incorporate these aspects in order to make more realistic predictions."



"Future marine climate change ecology should consider both the temperature trend and inherent temperature variability, how they interact to exceed thresholds producing extreme events, and how they vary regionally to affect individuals, populations, and communities."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-022323-082123" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annual Review of Ecology Evolution and Systematic</a>.&nbsp;



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Ripple effects of climate change have created a 'new ocean'

The impact of climate change on marine ecosystems is becoming...

3d,Printer,Print,Burger,On,A,White,Background,3d,Rendering

Engineers at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> are exploring the potential benefits and challenges of 3D food printing. This emerging technology, involving cooking devices such as 3D printers, lasers, and software-driven processes, could soon revolutionize our kitchens, potentially replacing conventional appliances like ovens and microwaves.



Jonathan Blutinger, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia's Creative Machines Lab, along with Professor Hod Lipson and Professor Christen Cooper from Pace University Nutrition and Dietetics, have examined the complexities of this technology in a recent article published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41538-023-00182-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Science of Food</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-achievement">Significant achievement</h2>



The researchers investigated the potential of 3D-printed food to enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/proper-nutrition-in-the-first-1000-days-of-life-is-crucial/">nutrition</a>, improve food safety, and offer customizable meal options.



A significant achievement of Blutinger’s team was their development of a 3D-printing system capable of creating multi-layered food items, such as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Food-printing-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex cheesecake</a> composed of seven different ingredients, including peanut butter, Nutella, and strawberry jam. 



This breakthrough challenges the previous limitations of 3D food printing, which was restricted to uncooked ingredients and often resulted in unappealing dishes.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="eIQAfhHgQg-3187253-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-customizing-nutrition-nbsp">Customizing nutrition&nbsp;</h2>



One of the most striking aspects of this technology is its potential to customize nutrition. As Professor Cooper noted, while 3D-printed food is still processed, it offers an opportunity for more precise nutrient control, which can be especially beneficial for individuals with specific dietary needs.&nbsp;



This aspect of personalization is particularly relevant in the context of plant-based meat alternatives, where texture and flavor are critical.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-nbsp">Health implications&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers also emphasized the health implications of 3D food printing. “We have an enormous problem with the low-nutrient value of processed foods,” said Cooper.&nbsp;



“3D food printing will still turn out processed foods, but perhaps the silver lining will be, for some people, better control and tailoring of nutrition--personalized nutrition. It may also be useful in making food more appealing to those with swallowing disorders by mimicking the shapes of real foods with the pureed texture foods that these patients--millions in the U.S. alone--require.”



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



Another promising avenue is the use of laser cooking with 3D food printing, allowing for precise flavors and textures.&nbsp;



This can create unique food experiences and cater to specific dietary restrictions, making meal planning more convenient for various groups, including athletes and individuals in nursing homes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-remain-nbsp">Challenges remain&nbsp;</h2>



However, challenges remain in commercializing 3D food printing. “Because 3D food printing is still a nascent technology, it needs an ecosystem of supporting industries such as food cartridge manufacturers, downloadable recipe files, and an environment in which to create and share these recipes," said Blutinger.



Furthermore, the experts noted that printed food will likely require novel ingredient compositions due to the unique assembly process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-safety">Food safety</h2>



The technology could also improve food safety, which is especially relevant in the post-COVID-19 era. "With more emphasis on food safety following the COVID-19 pandemic, food prepared with less human handling could lower the risk of foodborne illness and disease transmission. This seems like a win-win concept for all of us," said Blutinger.



While 3D-printed food technology holds immense promise for transforming how we cook and consume food, it also presents a range of challenges that need to be addressed. The Columbia team is paving the way for further research and development in this exciting field.



Image Credit: Jonathan Blutinger/Columbia Engineering



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Sci-fi comes to life: 3D food printing could revolutionize our kitchens

Engineers at Columbia University are exploring the potential benefits and...

A study conducted by <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> psychologists has provided significant insights into how emotions, especially those elicited by music, play a crucial role in forming memories. 



The study reveals that emotional responses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/">music</a> can transform neutral experiences into memorable events, offering potential therapeutic applications for individuals with PTSD and depression.



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



For the investigation, the experts manipulated the emotions of volunteers through music while they performed simple tasks on a computer. This manipulation led to the creation of distinct, durable memories.&nbsp;



The research team, including lead author Mason McClay and corresponding author David Clewett, found that emotional changes induced by music created clear boundaries between different experiences, enhancing memory recall.



“Changes in emotion evoked by music created boundaries between episodes that made it easier for people to remember what they had seen and when they had seen it,” said McClay. “We think this finding has great therapeutic promise for helping people with PTSD and depression.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-memory-formation-nbsp">Memory formation&nbsp;</h2>



The process of memory formation is complex, involving both the integration of memories into individualized episodes and their subsequent expansion and separation. This balance is critical for understanding and finding meaning in experiences and retaining information.&nbsp;



“It’s like putting items into boxes for long-term storage,” said Clewett. “When we need to retrieve a piece of information, we open the box that holds it. What this research shows is that emotions seem to be an effective box for doing this sort of organization and for making memories more accessible.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-responses-nbsp">Emotional responses&nbsp;</h2>



An interesting aspect of the study is the use of custom-composed music to evoke specific emotions like joy, anxiety, sadness, or calmness.&nbsp;



Participants were tasked with creating narratives for neutral images while tracking their emotional responses. The study revealed that emotional changes, whether of high, low, or medium intensity, impacted how participants remembered the timing and order of these images.



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



The research also highlights the significance of the direction of emotional change. Positive shifts in emotion were found to enhance memory integration, while negative shifts tended to separate and expand memories.&nbsp;



Moreover, the researchers noted that participants had better long-term memory for moments when their emotions changed, particularly during intense positive experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-based-therapy">Music-based therapy</h2>



Matthew Sachs from Columbia University emphasized the potential of music as an intervention technique.&nbsp;



"Most music-based therapies for disorders rely on the fact that listening to music&nbsp; can help patients relax or feel enjoyment, which reduces negative emotional symptoms," said Sachs.



"The benefits of music-listening in these cases are therefore secondary and indirect. Here, we are suggesting a possible mechanism by which emotionally dynamic music might be able to directly treat the memory issues that characterize such disorders.”



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



Clewett said these findings could help people reintegrate the memories that have caused post-traumatic stress disorder.



“If traumatic memories are not stored away properly, their contents will come spilling out when the closet door opens, often without warning. This is why ordinary events, such as fireworks, can trigger flashbacks of traumatic experiences, such as surviving a bombing or gunfire,” said Clewett.



“We think we can deploy positive emotions, possibly using music, to help people with PTSD put that original memory in a box and reintegrate it, so that negative emotions don’t spill over into everyday life.”



The research was supported by the National Science Foundation, UCLA and Columbia University.



The findings are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-42241-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Emotions inspired by music shape our most enduring memories

A study conducted by UCLA psychologists has provided significant insights...

Cyclone,Idai,Heading,Towards,Mozambique,And,Zimbabwe,In,2019,-

In May 2019, Cyclone Idai, one of nature's most formidable forces, unleashed its fury on Mozambique's <a href="https://gorongosa.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gorongosa National Park</a>. This event set the stage for a fascinating study, merging the unstoppable force of natural disasters with cutting-edge wildlife research technology. 



An international team of researchers, spearheaded by <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a>, documented the cyclone's impact in unprecedented detail, providing new insights into how large-mammal communities respond to natural disasters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmatched-technological-arena">Unmatched technological arena</h2>



Gorongosa National Park, renowned for its technological sophistication, was equipped with an extensive network of trail cameras, GPS collars, and other instruments. 



This setup, as Hallie Brown, a postdoctoral research associate at Princeton’s Department of Ecology and Environmental Biology, noted, offered an "unprecedented opportunity" to observe the cyclone's effects in real-time. 



The resulting study was authored by Brown and her colleagues, including <a href="https://environmenthalfcentury.princeton.edu/experts/robert-pringle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Pringle</a>, an EEB professor, and Ryan Long, an associate professor of wildlife sciences at the <a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Idaho</a>.



“This is the first study that has ever been able to track the real-time responses of a large-mammal community to a natural disaster,” said Pringle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-in-the-midst-of-a-natural-disaster">Wildlife in the midst of a natural disaster</h2>



The researchers meticulously observed the animal behavior before, during, and after Cyclone Idai. Brown recollects the harrowing experience. 



“We watched the waters rise,” Brown recalled. “We watched the animals’ reactions in the hours, days, weeks after the cyclone: how some of them escaped the floodwaters, and some of them didn’t. Our team used the data we had from before, during and after the storm to create, not just a description of this one event, but a broader set of expectations, so managers can better anticipate the effects of increasingly severe weather events.” 



Their observations revealed that animal size was a critical survival factor. Smaller species like oribi and reedbuck suffered significant losses, while larger herbivores like nyala, kudu, sable, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-elephant-day-understanding-celebrating-and-protecting-earths-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> recorded no fatalities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-cyclones-and-wildlife-collide">When cyclones and wildlife collide</h2>



The survival strategies of these animals were diverse. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carnivores-healthy-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bushbucks</a>, for example, sought refuge on termite mounds, using these natural hillocks as islands amid the flood. GPS data showed their desperate attempts to find higher ground, emphasizing the importance of topography in such natural disasters. 



In contrast, smaller animals not only struggled to escape the rising waters but also faced post-storm nutritional challenges, as the flood destroyed much of the low-lying vegetation they depended on.



Interestingly, this study mirrors findings from previous hurricane impact research on island populations, like lizards and spiders in the Bahamas, highlighting consistent survival patterns across different species and ecosystems. 



The research team advises wildlife managers to prioritize the evacuation of smaller and ecologically vulnerable species before storms and provide supplemental feeding post-disaster to mitigate the effects of lost vegetation.



Carnivores in Gorongosa, such as wild dogs, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-leopards-have-surprisingly-high-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leopards</a>, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-lion-day-celebrating-the-king-of-the-jungle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lions</a>, fared well during the cyclone. Their prey were concentrated in upland areas, simplifying hunting. Remarkably, lions’ primary prey, warthogs, remained largely unaffected, staying in uplands for several months post-cyclone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-collaboration">Power of collaboration</h2>



Hallie Brown lauds the collaborative nature of this study, which brought together experts from various fields like hydrology and large animal ecology. This multidisciplinary approach was key to understanding the complex interactions between the cyclone's impact and the park's wildlife.



In summary, Cyclone Idai's sweep through Gorongosa National Park offered a rare glimpse into how wildlife responds to natural disasters. 



This study not only underscores the resilience of nature but also the importance of technological advancements and collaborative research in understanding and mitigating the effects of such catastrophic events. 



The insights gained are invaluable for wildlife management and conservation strategies in the face of increasingly severe weather patterns.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06722-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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How wildlife survives hurricanes and other natural disasters

In May 2019, Cyclone Idai, one of nature's most formidable...

The Canadian wildfires of 2023 have set a new record for the largest area burned in the country's history. These fires not only devastated vast regions within Canada but also significantly impacted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-air-quality-linked-to-cognitive-problems-in-infants/">air quality</a> across the Northern Hemisphere, extending as far as Europe and China.&nbsp;



A recent study led by Zhe Wang from the <a href="https://www.dlr.de/pa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Atmospheric Physics</a> (IAP) provides a detailed analysis of this global environmental crisis.



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



“There were photographs from New York City in July in news outlets around the world that showed the city trapped in an almost unbreathable orange haze like something out of a dystopian movie,” said Wang.&nbsp;



“But what we know about long-range transport of particulate matter means that the fires likely impacted Europe and Asia as well. We just didn't know to what extent.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deterioration-of-air-quality">Deterioration of air quality</h2>



The researchers used the Aerosol and Atmospheric Chemistry Model (IAP-AACM), a module of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Earth System Model (CAS-ESM), to simulate the dispersal of pollutants.&nbsp;



The findings revealed a marked deterioration of air quality across almost the entire Northern Hemisphere due to the Canadian wildfires.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-air-pollution">Widespread air pollution</h2>



Six major episodes of widespread air pollution were identified during Canada's wildfire season, severely affecting air quality in both Canada and the United States, and even reaching Europe and Asia.



These episodes resulted in unprecedented levels of PM2.5, fine particulate matter with diameters of 2.5 microns or less, known to be particularly harmful to health.&nbsp;



For example, on June 7, New York City experienced the worst air quality in over 50 years, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding the World Health Organization's air-quality guidelines.&nbsp;



The study also revealed significant increases in PM2.5 levels in Europe, western, central, and east Asia, and even the Arctic region, due to the northward movement of the fires.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions-nbsp">Greenhouse gas emissions&nbsp;</h2>



Beyond the immediate impact on air quality, the wildfires also had a profound effect on greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers found that the CO2 levels due to the wildfires were substantially high, not only over North America but also over Europe and northwestern Asia.&nbsp;



This surge in greenhouse gases is particularly alarming as it effectively nullifies Canada's plan for reducing human-caused greenhouse gases.



“Canada's 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan has been wiped out by a single year of wildfires,” said study co-author Zifa Wang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-destruction">Forest destruction</h2>



The Canadian wildfires wreaked havoc on forest ecosystems. The uncontrolled flames rapidly consumed vegetation, destroying habitats, and depleting food sources for wildlife.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the aftermath of wildfires often exposes the soil surface, triggering secondary disasters like soil erosion, sediment runoff, and landslides.



These occurrences highlight how wildfires are no longer merely a traditional ecological disturbance but have morphed into an environmental catastrophe.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-reserves-nbsp">Carbon reserves&nbsp;</h2>



Severe forest fires deplete carbon reserves in the vegetation and soil and disrupt the natural succession of forests. The result is a shift from forests to shrubland or grassland, with a consequent reduction in the carbon sequestration capacity of the ecosystem.



The worsening wildfire situation is not exclusive to Canada. Recent years have seen the Amazon Rainforest burning over 90,000 square kilometers in just 10 months in 2019, and the Australian bushfires devouring more than 243,000 square kilometers in 2019-2020.



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



Ultimately, the 2023 Canadian wildfires highlight the interconnectedness of environmental issues. The far-reaching impact on air quality and greenhouse gas emissions underscores the need for global awareness and action in addressing climate change.



"Aside from the direct emissions from forest fires, the peat fires beneath the surface might smolder for several months or even longer and release substantial amounts of CO2. The substantial amounts of greenhouse gases from forest and peat fires might contribute to the positive feedback to the climate, potentially accelerating global warming," wrote the researchers.



"To better understand the comprehensive environmental effects of wildfires and their interactions with the climate system, more detailed research based on advanced observations and Earth System Models is essential."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00376-023-3241-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advances in Atmospheric Sciences</a>.



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Canadian wildfires of 2023 were a global environmental setback

The Canadian wildfires of 2023 have set a new record...

In a critical stage of the global plastics treaty negotiations, known as <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INC-3</a>, a significant setback occurred due to the actions of a small group of primarily oil and plastic-producing countries.&nbsp;



These countries employed stalling tactics to disrupt the progress towards creating an internationally binding legal agreement aimed at tackling the growing crisis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprecedented-increase-in-global-ocean-plastic-pollution-since-2005/">plastic pollution</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zero-draft">Zero Draft</h2>



The meeting took place at the <a href="https://www.unep.org/node" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN Environment Programme</a> (UNEP) Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. As the negotiations neared their conclusion, instead of finalizing a mandate to draft the plastics treaty, the Member States decided to revise the Zero Draft text.&nbsp;



This text, which was initially intended as a foundation for discussions, became overly lengthy and complicated during the negotiations, making further progress even more challenging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-everything-to-lose">Everything to lose</h2>



Ana Rocha, the Global Plastics Policy Director of the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), expressed disappointment in the negotiations.&nbsp;



“These negotiations have so far failed to deliver on their promise laid out in the agreed upon mandate to advance a strong, binding plastics treaty that the world desperately needs," said Rocha.



"The bullies of the negotiations pushed their way through, despite the majority countries, with leadership from the African Bloc and other nations in the Global South, in support of an ambitious treaty."



“We have only one year and two negotiating meetings left to hammer out this treaty, and we can’t afford to indulge the interests of a select few. They have nothing to lose, and we have everything to lose. Plastic is burning our planet, destroying communities, and poisoning our bodies. This treaty can’t wait.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-structure-nbsp">Lack of structure&nbsp;</h2>



The negotiations also faced criticism for lacking discipline and allowing a minority to dominate the process.&nbsp;



The lack of structure resulted in failure to agree on intersessional work, which is crucial for discussing key aspects of the treaty, such as phasing out harmful chemicals and promoting reuse. This stalemate threatens to impede further progress in the next round of negotiations.



Dr. Shahriar Hossain, senior technical adviser at the Environment and Social Development Organization, called for the inclusion of civil society, academia, and scientists in dedicated working groups to ensure a more inclusive process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-downplaying-the-issue">Downplaying the issue</h2>



The Zero Draft, initially a balanced document, ballooned in size by the end of INC-3. Countries like Iran, the Russian Federation, and Saudi Arabia created an informal "group of like-minded countries." This group pushed for low-ambition language and voluntary measures, diverging from the high-ambition mandate for the treaty.&nbsp;



The interventions sought to shift the focus solely to waste management, downplaying the broader impacts of plastic production and disposal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unequal-representation-nbsp">Unequal representation&nbsp;</h2>



Civil society also criticized the influence of the fossil fuel and chemical industries in the negotiations. A report from the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) highlighted the significant presence of industry lobbyists, overshadowing national delegations and civil society groups.&nbsp;



By contrast, frontline communities, environmental justice groups, and indigenous representatives had limited opportunities to contribute, despite their firsthand experience with the impacts of plastic pollution.



Additionally, certain Member States resisted addressing issues like plastic waste trade and market schemes, citing WTO rules and the Basel Convention, thus avoiding responsibility for the harmful effects of waste colonialism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-just-transition-nbsp">Just Transition&nbsp;</h2>



Despite these challenges, countries like Angola, Fiji, Kenya, and others from the Africa region and the Pacific Island Developing States (PSIDS) demonstrated strong commitment towards a plastics treaty that prioritizes human rights and environmental justice.&nbsp;



The International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP) also played a prominent role, highlighting the importance of a <a href="https://climatejusticealliance.org/just-transition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Just Transition</a> in the treaty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holding-the-planet-hostage">Holding the planet hostage</h2>



“Member States in the room have the moral obligation to prioritize planetary boundaries, human rights and just transition for fenceline communities and waste pickers,” said Merrisa Naidoo, Plastics Campaigner at GAIA Africa.&nbsp;



“A handful of countries must not hold the planet hostage and prevent an ambitious treaty addressing the full life cycle of plastics, which starts at raw material extraction.”



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Global plastics treaty: Countries with 'nothing to lose' delayed progress

In a critical stage of the global plastics treaty negotiations,...

In a new study from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a>, researchers have uncovered the pervasive and inequitable impact of urban noise pollution, revealing a disturbing link to historical practices of racial discrimination.&nbsp;



The study represents a significant advancement in our understanding of how systemic injustices, particularly redlining, continue to shape our urban ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-racial-discrimination">Racial discrimination</h2>



Redlining, a discriminatory practice initiated in 1933 by the Home Owners' Loan Corporation, involved grading neighborhoods based on race and wealth.&nbsp;



Wealthier and predominantly white neighborhoods received favorable grades, while diverse, lower-income communities were encircled in red, marking them as undesirable for investment. Though outlawed in 1968, the repercussions of this practice are still evident today, particularly in the distribution and intensity of urban noise pollution.



Sara Bombaci is an assistant professor at CSU's Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology and the lead author of the study. She emphasized the importance of considering these systemic injustices when examining ecological and evolutionary impacts. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heightened-noise-levels">Heightened noise levels</h2>



The study revealed that neighborhoods which were historically redlined experience significantly higher levels of noise pollution today. Specifically, grade D neighborhoods endure maximum noise levels 17% higher than their grade A counterparts. 



For humans, prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can lead to a range of health issues. These include hearing impairment, stress-related illnesses, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular problems, and a diminished quality of life. Children, older adults, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to these effects.



Noise pollution also disturbs wildlife, affecting communication, reproduction, and survival strategies. For instance, birds may alter their song frequencies to compete with urban noise, which can impact mating calls and territory defense. Other animals might avoid noisy areas altogether, leading to habitat fragmentation and reduced biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-noise-distribution">Urban noise distribution</h2>



The research team analyzed urban noise distribution across historical racial divisions in 83 U.S. cities, alongside a comprehensive review of hundreds of studies on the impacts of noise on wildlife.&nbsp;



The study is the first of its kind to explicitly link noise pollution with redlining, offering a clear example of how environmental issues intersect with social injustices.&nbsp;



The findings are alarming: Not only are communities in redlined areas suffering from higher levels of noise, but this noise is also above the levels known to cause significant health issues.



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



Addressing this injustice is not simply a matter of reducing noise levels. Bombaci argues for a holistic approach to urban planning that integrates noise mitigation into the development of green spaces and parks.



Cities like Denver are working toward equitable planning to improve access to parks and green space in underserved communities. Bombaci said noise should be considered in those plans.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"If we're adding green space without mitigating impacts of noise, we might not be fully recognizing the benefits of these green spaces,” she said.&nbsp;



According to Bombaci, wildlife might not bounce back in urban green space if noise pollution remains a problem, but noise mitigation can help. Conservation funding and urban planning can benefit both people and wildlife.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-noise-pollution">Urban noise pollution</h2>



Urban noise pollution is an increasingly recognized environmental concern, characterized by unwanted or harmful outdoor sound created by human activities, including traffic, construction, industrial, and recreational noises.&nbsp;



This type of pollution is prevalent in urban environments, where the density of population and development leads to a greater concentration of noise sources.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources">Sources</h3>



The sources of urban noise are varied. Traffic noise is a significant contributor, especially near roads and highways. Industrial activities, such as manufacturing and construction, also play a role, often contributing not just to the volume of noise but also to its persistent nature.&nbsp;



Recreational noise from public events, music venues, and nightlife can further exacerbate the situation, particularly in densely populated urban centers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-strategies-nbsp">Mitigation strategies&nbsp;</h3>



Addressing urban noise pollution requires a multifaceted approach. Urban planning and design play crucial roles, including the creation of noise barriers, strategic placement of green spaces, and zoning regulations that separate residential areas from major noise sources.&nbsp;



The adoption of quieter technologies in transportation and industry, along with enforcing strict noise control regulations, is essential. Public awareness and education about the impacts of noise pollution may also help to mitigate this issue.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02257-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Inequitable impacts of urban noise pollution harm people and wildlife

In a new study from Colorado State University, researchers have...

Drinking,Wine,Alone.,Sad,Mature,Woman,Being,Alone,At,Home

Red wine, a popular choice for festive occasions like Thanksgiving, is known for its rich flavor and potential health benefits. However, it also brings an unpleasant experience for some – the dreaded "red wine headache." 



A recent study by scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, particularly in individuals who do not experience headaches from other alcoholic drinks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quercetin-and-red-wine-headaches">Quercetin and red wine headaches</h2>



The research focuses on a specific flavanol found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscadine-wine-improves-elasticity-in-aging-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> -- quercetin. Commonly present in various fruits and vegetables, quercetin is a celebrated antioxidant, even available as a dietary supplement. 



However, its interaction with alcohol in the bloodstream can cause issues. Wine chemist Andrew Waterhouse is a professor emeritus at UC Davis’s Department of Viticulture and Enology. He explains, “When it gets in your bloodstream, your body converts it to a different form called quercetin glucuronide. In that form, it blocks the metabolism of alcohol.”



The study's lead author is Apramita Devi, a postdoctoral researcher at UC Davis. Devi points out that this interference leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a well-known toxin. 



“Acetaldehyde is a well-known toxin, irritant and inflammatory substance,” said Devi. “Researchers know that high levels of acetaldehyde can cause facial flushing, headache and nausea.”



These symptoms are similar to the effects experienced by individuals taking disulfiram, a medication prescribed to deter alcohol consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-and-red-wine-headaches">Genetics and red wine headaches</h2>



Co-author Morris Levin, a neurology professor and director of the <a href="https://www.ucsfhealth.org/clinics/headache-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Headache Center</a> at the University of California, San Francisco, suggests a link between these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-wine-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> headaches and genetic factors. Approximately 40% of the East Asian population possesses an enzyme less effective at breaking down acetaldehyde, increasing their vulnerability to these symptoms.



“We postulate that when susceptible people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-drinking-in-the-americas-traced-back-to-the-15th-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consume wine</a> with even modest amounts of quercetin, they develop headaches, particularly if they have a preexisting migraine or another primary headache condition,” said Levin. “We think we are finally on the right track toward explaining this millennia-old mystery.&nbsp; The next step is to test it scientifically on people who develop these headaches, so stay tuned.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wine-production-and-grape-cultivation">Wine production and grape cultivation</h2>



Waterhouse notes that quercetin levels in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/foods-rich-in-flavanols-can-help-burn-excess-fat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> can vary significantly, influenced by factors like grape exposure to sunlight and wine production methods. For example, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-wine-grapes-have-unexpected-gut-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grapes</a> grown with exposed clusters, as in Napa Valley cabernets, tend to have higher quercetin levels.



“Quercetin is produced by the grapes in response to sunlight,” Waterhouse said. “If you grow grapes with the clusters exposed, such as they do in the Napa Valley for their cabernets, you get much higher levels of quercetin. In some cases, it can be four to five times higher.”



A small human clinical trial, funded by the <a href="https://www.winespectator.com/tags/wine-spectator-scholarship-foundation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation</a> and led by UCSF, is in the pipeline. This trial aims to test the red wine headache theory on people, comparing wines with high and low quercetin levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unanswered-questions">Unanswered questions</h2>



Despite these findings, several questions remain. The exact reason why some individuals are more prone to red wine headaches than others is still unclear. Researchers are uncertain whether it's the individual's enzymes being more susceptible to quercetin's effects or a higher sensitivity to acetaldehyde buildup.



In summary, this study marks a significant step in unraveling the mystery behind red wine headaches. As Waterhouse concludes, “If our hypothesis pans out, then we will have the tools to start addressing these important questions.” 



The research not only sheds light on a long-standing enigma but also paves the way for more personalized approaches to enjoying red wine without the fear of headaches.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-46203-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Why red wine gives some people a headache

Red wine, a popular choice for festive occasions like Thanksgiving,...

Scientists have discovered a unique mating behavior in serotine bats (Eptesicus serotinus). Unlike typical mammalian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/">mating</a> practices that involve penetration, serotine bats engage in a rare form of non-penetrative sex. This study marks the first instance where such behavior has been documented in mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-anatomy-nbsp">Strange anatomy&nbsp;</h2>



The peculiar anatomy of serotine bats plays a crucial role in their mating process. The researchers observed that the bats' penises are about seven times longer than the females' vaginas and possess a "heart-shaped" head that is seven times wider than the vaginal opening.&nbsp;



Such dimensions make penetration post-erection unfeasible. Instead, the bats utilize their oversized penises, not for penetration but as an extra limb to maneuver the female's tail sheath, facilitating contact mating. This behavior closely resembles "cloacal kissing" seen in birds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oversized-penises-nbsp">Oversized penises&nbsp;</h2>



Nicolas Fasel, the first author of the study from the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>, shared their initial curiosity about the bats' disproportionately long penises. “By chance, we had observed that these bats have disproportionately long penises, and we were always wondering ‘how does that work?’"



"We thought maybe it's like in the dog where the penis engorges after penetration so that they are locked together, or alternatively maybe they just couldn't put it inside, but that type of copulation hasn’t been reported in mammals until now.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-evidence">Clear evidence</h2>



The researchers collaborated with a Ukrainian bat rehabilitation center and Dutch citizen scientist Jan Jeucken. The team analyzed 97 mating events captured through video recordings.&nbsp;



The recordings provided clear evidence of the non-penetrative nature of the bats' mating, with no penetration observed during any of the mating events.



Remarkably, the male bats were seen grasping their partners by the nape and positioning their pelvises and fully erect penises in a probing manner until contact was made with the female's vulva.&nbsp;



These interactions, sometimes lasting up to 12.7 hours, ended with the female bats' abdomens appearing wet. This hints at the possibility of semen transfer, but further research is needed for confirmation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genital-morphology-nbsp">Genital morphology&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, the researchers conducted detailed studies of the bats' genital morphology. They measured the erect penises of live serotine bats and performed necropsies on deceased bats, confirming the significant size disparity between the male and female genitalia.&nbsp;



The experts also noted the unusual length of the female bats' cervixes, which could play a role in sperm selection and storage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-strategies-nbsp">Mating strategies&nbsp;</h2>



The study suggests that the evolution of the serotine bats' oversized penises might be a mechanism to bypass the females' tail membranes, which are typically used for protection against males. This finding sheds light on the complex and diverse mating strategies in the animal kingdom



“Bats use their tail membranes for flying and to capture the insects, and female bats also use them to cover their lower parts and protect themselves from males, but the males can then use these big penises to overcome the tail membrane and reach the vulva," explained Fasel.



Looking ahead, the researchers aim to explore bat mating behaviors in more natural settings and examine penis morphology and mating habits in other bat species. “We are trying to develop a bat porn box, which will be like an aquarium with cameras everywhere,” said Fasel.



Image Credit: Alona Shulenko



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.054">Current Biology</a>.



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Peculiar anatomy: Serotine bats have oversized penises that are not used for penetration 

Scientists have discovered a unique mating behavior in serotine bats...

A new study suggests that an increase in visceral abdominal fat in middle age could be linked to the onset of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-link-between-sex-hormones-and-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer’s disease</a>. This fat, which surrounds internal organs in the belly, has been associated with brain changes that occur up to 15 years before Alzheimer’s disease’s earliest memory loss symptoms.



According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050. The disease disproportionately affects women, with one in five women and one in ten men likely to develop it in their lifetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-alzheimer-s-risks-nbsp">Early Alzheimer’s risks&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers aimed to identify early Alzheimer’s risks by assessing the association between brain MRI volumes, amyloid and tau uptake on positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and factors like body mass index (BMI), obesity, insulin resistance, and abdominal fat in a cognitively normal midlife population. Amyloid and tau are proteins believed to disrupt communication between brain cells.



“No prior study has linked a specific type of fat to the actual Alzheimer’s disease protein in cognitively normal people,” said study author Mahsa Dolatshahi, M.D., M.P.H., a post-doctoral research fellow at the <a href="https://www.mir.wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology</a> (MIR) at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. 



“Similar studies have not investigated the differential role of visceral and subcutaneous fat, especially in terms of Alzheimer’s amyloid pathology, as early as midlife.”



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



For the cross-sectional study, researchers analyzed data from 54 cognitively healthy participants, aged 40 to 60 years, with an average BMI of 32. They underwent various tests, including glucose and insulin measurements, glucose tolerance tests, and abdominal MRI to measure the volume of subcutaneous and visceral fat.&nbsp;



Brain MRI measured cortical thickness in regions affected by Alzheimer’s, and PET scans examined disease pathology in 32 participants.



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



The study found that a higher visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio was associated with increased amyloid PET tracer uptake in the precuneus cortex, a region affected early by Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;



This relationship was more pronounced in men than in women. Researchers also found that higher visceral fat measurements relate to an increased burden of inflammation in the brain.



“Inflammatory secretions of visceral fat - as opposed to potentially protective effects of subcutaneous fat - may lead to inflammation in the brain, one of the main mechanisms contributing to Alzheimer’s disease,” explained Dr. Dolatshahi.



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



Senior author Dr. Cyrus A. Raji is an associate professor of Radiology and Neurology, and director of neuromagnetic resonance imaging at the Mallinckrodt Institute. Dr. Raji noted the implications of these findings for early diagnosis and intervention.



“This study highlights a key mechanism by which hidden fat can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease,” he said. “It shows that such brain changes occur as early as age 50, on average - up to 15 years before the earliest memory loss symptoms of Alzheimer’s occur.”



Dr. Raji suggested that targeting visceral abdominal fat could be a potential method to modify the risk of future brain inflammation and dementia.



“By moving beyond body mass index in better characterizing the anatomical distribution of body fat on MRI, we now have a uniquely better understanding of why this factor may increase risk for Alzheimer’s disease,” he concluded.



The study will be presented next week at the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/annual-meeting">annual meeting</a> of the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/">Radiological Society of North America</a> (RSNA).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visceral-abdominal-fat-nbsp">Visceral abdominal fat&nbsp;</h2>



Visceral abdominal fat, often referred to as visceral fat, is a type of body fat that's stored within the abdominal cavity. It's located near several vital organs, including the liver, stomach, and intestines, which makes its presence more concerning than subcutaneous fat, the fat that's found under the skin.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primary-concerns">Primary concerns</h3>



One of the primary reasons visceral fat is a health concern is due to its active nature. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat functions almost like an organ itself, releasing hormones and substances that can affect your body negatively. These secretions can lead to inflammation and can negatively impact insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.



Moreover, high levels of abdominal fat are associated with a greater risk of serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. It's also linked to a higher risk of metabolic disorders and conditions like sleep apnea.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-exercise-nbsp">Diet and exercise&nbsp;</h3>



Interestingly, visceral fat is also more responsive to diet and exercise than subcutaneous fat. This means that lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and a healthier diet, can be quite effective in reducing visceral fat levels.&nbsp;



People often see improvements in their visceral fat levels and related health risks with weight loss, particularly when it's achieved through a combination of diet and exercise.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-visceral-fat-nbsp">Controlling visceral fat&nbsp;</h3>



It's important to note that while body mass index (BMI) is a common measure of body fat, it doesn't differentiate between types of fat. Therefore, someone with a normal BMI could still have a high level of abdominal fat, making it important to focus on overall health and lifestyle rather than just weight or BMI numbers.&nbsp;



Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management are key factors in controlling visceral fat levels.



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Hidden abdominal fat linked to Alzheimer’s disease

A new study suggests that an increase in visceral abdominal...

Using a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique, researchers are on the brink of a breakthrough in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-is-not-a-single-condition-but-a-spectrum-of-evolving-symptoms/">long COVID</a> patients who have lost their sense of smell. This promising development will be presented at the upcoming annual meeting of the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Radiological Society of North America</a> (RSNA).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-covid-parosmia">Post-COVID parosmia</h2>



Parosmia, a condition that disrupts the normal functioning of smell, has emerged as a prevalent symptom among COVID-19 sufferers. Recent studies reveal that up to 60 percent of COVID-19 patients experience this condition.&nbsp;



While many recover their olfactory senses over time, a subset of long COVID patients continues to struggle with these symptoms for an extended period, impacting their appetite and overall quality of life.



“Post-COVID parosmia is common and increasingly recognized,” said lead author Adam C. Zoga, M.D., M.B.A., a professor of Musculoskeletal Radiology at <a href="https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jefferson Health</a> in Philadelphia. “Patients can develop a distaste for foods and drinks they used to enjoy.”



In addition to a distorted sense of smell, some affected individuals may experience phantosmia, where they perceive smells that are not present in their environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellate-ganglion-block-nbsp">Stellate ganglion block&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers focused on the effectiveness of CT-guided stellate ganglion block as a potential remedy for persistent post-COVID parosmia. The stellate ganglia, part of the autonomic nervous system, are nerve clusters located on each side of the neck, playing a role in sending signals to various parts of the upper body.



In their approach, the team employed a stellate ganglion block, a procedure involving the injection of anesthetic directly into the ganglion to activate the regional autonomic nervous system. This quick, minimally invasive technique requires no sedation or pain relief.&nbsp;



Previously, stellate ganglion block has been applied in treating diverse conditions like cluster headaches, phantom limb pain, Raynaud’s and Meniere’s syndromes, angina, and cardiac arrhythmia.



“Parosmia has previously been reported as a rare disorder occurring after brain trauma, brain surgery, stroke, viral syndromes, and with some head and neck tumors,” Zoga explained. The team was initially uncertain about the procedure’s efficacy for parosmia.



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



In the study, 54 patients with at least six months of persistent post-COVID parosmia, unresponsive to conventional treatments, were referred for the procedure. Using CT guidance, the researchers accurately positioned a spinal needle at the neck base for the injection. They included a corticosteroid dose with the anesthetic, hypothesizing that COVID-19 might trigger nerve inflammation.



“The initial patient had a tremendously positive outcome, almost immediately, with continued improvement to the point of symptom resolution at four weeks,” Zoga said. The trial witnessed significant outcomes, including near-total resolution of phantosmia in some patients.



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



Among the 37 patients (65 percent) followed up, 22 (59 percent) reported symptom improvement within a week post-injection. Of these, 18 (82 percent) experienced substantial ongoing improvement a month after the procedure. At three months, these 22 patients noted an average 49 percent symptom improvement.



A second injection was administered to 26 patients on the opposite neck side after a six-week gap. While ineffective for those unresponsive to the first injection, 86 percent of those who had initial improvement reported further progress post-second injection. No complications or adverse events were reported.



“Other treatments have failed to date. This injection is working,” Zoga concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-long-covid">More about long COVID</h2>



Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to a range of symptoms that continue for weeks or even months after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection has resolved.



This phenomenon has been observed in a subset of individuals who have contracted the COVID-19 virus, caused by SARS-CoV-2.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms">Symptoms</h3>



Long COVID can affect nearly any organ system. Symptoms include fatigue, brain fog or cognitive impairment, shortness of breath, chest pain, joint or muscle pain, depression or anxiety, fever, loss of taste or smell, and more. These symptoms may fluctuate or relapse over time.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unknown-cause">Unknown cause</h3>



While the exact cause of long COVID was not yet known, it’s thought to be a combination of factors. These include direct damage caused by the virus, a prolonged inflammatory response, an autoimmune response, or persistent presence of low-level virus.



The probability of developing long COVID does not necessarily correlate with the severity of the initial infection. Even individuals with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 can experience these prolonged symptoms.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-concern">Public health concern</h3>



Long COVID has been increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. For some individuals, this condition can significantly impact the quality of life and ability to perform daily activities or work.



There is ongoing research into long COVID, including its causes, risk factors, and potential treatments. Care for patients involves managing symptoms and supportive treatments.



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Simple treatment restores sense of smell in long COVID patients

Using a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique, researchers are on the...

Researchers at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a> have analyzed ice cores from Nevado Huascarán, the world's highest tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=mountain&amp;start=0">mountain</a>, located in the central Peruvian Andes. 



This research, which is the first of its kind to examine ice cores from the summit of this mountain, provides unprecedented insights into the climate history of the Amazon Basin over the past six decades.



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



The study was focused on the analysis of four ice core samples. Two of these were from the mountain col, the lowest point between two ridges, and two were from the summit itself - nearly 7,000 meters above sea level.&nbsp;



The team compared the oxygen-stable isotope records found in glacial ice at different elevations on the mountain.&nbsp;



Oxygen-stable isotopes are used by scientists as proxies to deduce temperature changes over time. However, interpreting these records in tropical regions can be particularly challenging due to the complexity of the area's climate.



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



The findings revealed that the isotope records have a statistically significant relationship with sea surface temperatures in the Pacific and rainfall over tropical South America.&nbsp;



Notably, the isotopes from the summit showed a heightened sensitivity to large-scale changes in tropical Pacific sea surface temperature, compared to those at lower elevations. This difference is crucial as it indicates that isotope records at varying elevations might depict different aspects or mechanisms of the region's climate history.&nbsp;



The research suggests an increasing influence of tropical Pacific climate on the summit isotope records, likely due to the rapid climate changes in recent times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-el-nino-years">El Niño years</h2>



“From a paleo-climate perspective, the data tells us that these cores may be useful for looking at the history of El Niño in the tropics,” said Austin Weber, lead author of the study and a PhD student at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center. “And we don’t really have very good histories of that because there are not many observational data sets or historical records for the tropics.”



El Niño years, characterized by anomalously warm sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, impact the Amazon Basin by weakening trade winds and reducing rainfall. These climatic changes in turn affect the way isotopes fractionate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impacts">Climate change impacts</h2>



The study also highlights the impact of climate change on the region. Over the last 60 years, rising temperatures have significantly contributed to the accelerated retreat of ice on Nevado Huascarán.&nbsp;



This ice retreat is concerning, as Lonnie Thompson, co-author of the study and a senior research scientist at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, pointed out.&nbsp;



He said that tropical ice core samples can act as important proxies for understanding Earth’s intricate ocean-atmosphere system.



“The beauty of these ice cores is that they give you a perspective into what the natural variability was before humans started altering the climate system,” said Thompson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historic-achievement">Historic achievement</h2>



The retrieval of these ice cores in July 2019 marked a historic achievement, overcoming decades of challenges posed by avalanches and hidden snow-lined crevasses.&nbsp;



The team successfully reached the summit of the mountain’s South Peak and recovered a total of 471 meters of glacial ice cores, both from the col drill site (6,050 meters above sea level) and the summit (6,768 meters above sea level).&nbsp;



“It’s a very difficult and dangerous place to recover ice cores and that expedition probably won’t be repeated,” said Thompson. “This paper is the first research to be published of what I believe will be a whole series of papers on what are probably the most unique collection of ice cores collected in my entire career.”



This work was supported by the National Science Foundation. The findings are published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JD039006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research</a>.



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Ice cores from highest tropical peak reveal new climate clues

Researchers at The Ohio State University have analyzed ice cores...

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.



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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...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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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



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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

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features 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

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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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.

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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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

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&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.

How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

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