Waiting is hard. Whether it’s a child eyeing a cookie or a sea creature hovering above a crab, the tug between “now” and “later” shapes daily choices. Across species, holding off for a better payoff often pairs with sharper thinking and long-term success.



Scientists have tracked this link for decades in humans and chimpanzees, yet evidence in animals without fur or feathers has been thin.



A new study puts cuttlefish at center stage with the famous "marshmallow test," and shows that these soft-bodied hunters can summon patience - and brainpower - to rival some of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-chimpanzees-take-risks-like-human-teens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flashiest vertebrates</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patience-marshmallows-and-cuttlefish">Patience, marshmallows, and cuttlefish</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crows-can-recognize-geometric-patterns-in-shapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Self-control</a> is the mental brake that lets an individual pass up an immediate bite for a bigger meal down the road. In people, stronger self-control predicts better grades, steadier income, and healthier habits. 



Among animals, apes, parrots, and crows often wait, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monkeys-with-greater-social-tolerance-have-more-self-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monkeys</a>, rats, and pigeons seldom do. Biologists think the variation reflects how each species makes a living.



Lifespan, growth rate, and food supply all shape patience. Long-lived creatures can afford to wait, and social animals may hold back until a partner arrives. 



Predators stalking elusive prey, from ravens to reef fish, also do well to bide their time. Untangling which factor matters most is tough because many well-studied vertebrates share several of those traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-undersea-cuttlefish-marshmallow-test">Undersea cuttlefish marshmallow test</h2>



The famous marshmallow test gave preschoolers one marshmallow right away or two if they waited 15 minutes. 



To translate that setup underwater, the team offered hungry cuttlefish a piece of ordinary shrimp and, behind a clear barrier, a tastier live grass shrimp. 



Sliding doors let each animal see both treats while controlling when each became reachable.



Some cuttlefish snatched the plain snack at once. Others hovered, watched, and resisted for more than two minutes, choosing the better catch when the moment came. 



Individual wait times ranged from 50 to 130 seconds, figures that match those reported for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-brain-study-will-shed-new-light-on-avian-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parrots and crows</a> despite the cephalopods’ far shorter lifespan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-they-perform">How did they perform?</h2>



The work comes from lead author Alexandra Schnell of the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>, who collaborated with <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> senior scientist Roger Hanlon and colleagues. 



“We used an adapted version of the Stanford marshmallow test, where children were given a choice of taking an immediate reward (1 marshmallow) or waiting to earn a delayed but better reward (2 marshmallows),” Schnell explained.



The cuttlefish that participated in the marshmallow study were able to wait for the better reward, tolerating delays of up to 50–130 seconds. 



This is comparable to what we see in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-intelligence-did-not-evolve-due-to-natural-selection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large-brained vertebrates</a> such as chimpanzees, crows, and parrots.



Patience alone would be interesting, yet the researchers also asked whether it linked to learning ability. They trained each animal to match a colored mark on the tank wall with food, then reversed the rule so the reward switched colors. 



“The cuttlefish that were quickest at learning both of those associations were better at exerting self-control,” Schnell continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patience-pays-off">Patience pays off</h2>



Reversal learning tests <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-songbirds-are-masters-of-memory-and-adaptation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental flexibility</a> because an animal must suppress a habit and update its plan when conditions flip. 



In the study, individual cuttlefish that waited the longest in the marshmallow food test also adapted fastest when the color code changed. 



The pairing hints that the brain circuits holding an impulsive tentacle in check may also help rewrite memories on the fly.



The findings appeared in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, marking the first documented link between delayed gratification and intelligence outside the primate lineage. 



For researchers, that pushes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horses-demonstrate-an-unanticipated-level-of-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex cognition</a> deeper into the tree of life and invites fresh questions about how such abilities evolve among invertebrates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-cuttlefish-wait-on-the-marshmallow">Why cuttlefish wait on the marshmallow</h2>



Cuttlefish spend <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuttlefish-camouflage-is-much-more-complex-and-mind-boggling-than-initially-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most of their time camouflaging</a>, sitting and waiting, punctuated by brief periods of foraging. 



“They break camouflage when they forage, so they are exposed to every predator in the ocean that wants to eat them," Schnell concluded. 



"We speculate that delayed gratification may have evolved as a by-product of this, so the cuttlefish can optimize foraging by waiting to choose better-quality food.”



That scenario fits their daily routine. A cuttlefish <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuttlefish-use-camouflage-to-stalk-unsuspecting-crabs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">can blend its skin</a> with pebbles or coral in less than a second, then freeze for hours. 



Every dash into open water risks a chase from cod, dolphins, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-fishing-helps-scientists-survey-marine-life-in-the-deep-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bigger cephalopods</a>, so selecting the richest prey while exposed could boost energy intake without extra danger.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-intelligence-everywhere-we-look">Finding intelligence everywhere we look</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sex-chromosome-discovered-in-octopuses-is-480-million-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Octopuses</a> and squids already headline stories for maze solving and coconut-shell shelter building, yet cuttlefish now join them as evidence that big brains are not the only route to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuttlefish-form-false-memories-events-similar-human-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sophisticated behavior</a>. 



Similar challenges - avoiding predators while hunting nimble prey - can mold very different nervous systems into comparable solutions through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-deja-vu-the-symbiotic-relationships-of-trees-and-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">convergent evolution</a>.



Self-control underpins planning, cooperation, and perhaps the roots of culture in vertebrates. 



Finding the same thread in a creature that last shared an ancestor with humans more than 500 million years ago suggests that patience is more than a moral virtue; it is a versatile strategy etched deep into the fabric of life.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.3161" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



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Cuttlefish easily passed a test designed for kids, startling scientists with their high intelligence level

Waiting is hard. Whether it’s a child eyeing a cookie or a sea creature hovering above a crab, the tug between “now” and “later” shapes daily choices. Across species, holding off for a better payoff often pairs with sharper thinking and long-term success. Scientists have tracked this link for decades in humans and chimpanzees, yet evidence in animals without fur or feathers has been thin. A new study puts cuttlefish at center stage with the famous "marshmallow test," and shows that these soft-bodied hunters can summon patience...

Age-related hearing loss is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. Researchers from various institutions in Argentina have recently published a study in the open access journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3002257">PLOS Biology</a>, which suggests that common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-are-not-always-safe/">supplements</a> containing phytosterols might help in reducing natural hearing loss associated with aging.&nbsp;



The study was led by María Eugenia Gomez-Casati from the University of Buenos Aires-CONICET, Mauricio Martin from the Institute of Medical Research Mercedes, and Martín Ferreyra from INIMEC-CONICET-UNC, National University of Córdoba.



The results demonstrate the connection between the decrease of cholesterol in the inner ear and sensory dysfunction in mice.



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The inner ear consists of sensory cells called outer hair cells (OHCs) that play a crucial role in amplifying sounds by changing their length.&nbsp;



As individuals age, these cells lose their ability to stretch in response to sound, thereby preventing sound amplification and ultimately leading to age-related hearing loss.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-brain-cholesterol">Brain cholesterol&nbsp;</h2>



Cholesterol is a key component in the stretch response of OHCs. Recent studies have shown a decrease in brain cholesterol with age, leading the researchers to theorize that hearing loss might be related to the loss of cholesterol in OHCs.&nbsp;



To test this hypothesis, experiments were conducted on mice. The team of researchers began by measuring the levels of CYP46A1, an enzyme involved in breaking down and recycling cholesterol, in the inner ear OHCs of mice.&nbsp;



As anticipated, the experts found higher levels of CYP46A1 in the inner ears of older mice compared to younger ones, resulting in less cholesterol.&nbsp;



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



To establish a cause-and-effect relationship, the researchers induced hearing loss in young mice by over-activating CYP46A1 with a drug, which led to abnormal inner ear-cell output.&nbsp;



Following this, they tested whether increasing cholesterol in the brain could counter the effects of the drug.&nbsp;



Since cholesterol cannot directly enter the brain from the blood, the researchers used plant-based cholesterol-like compounds called phytosterols, which can cross the blood-brain barrier.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-what-the-study-revealed">What the study revealed</h2>



Young mice treated with both the CYP46A1-activating drug and a three-week regimen of dietary phytosterols displayed improved OHC function.



This discovery is particularly promising as phytosterols are present in many over-the-counter supplements, making them a convenient option to combat age-related hearing loss.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



However, the researchers caution that further testing on older mouse models and humans is necessary before more definitive conclusions can be drawn.&nbsp;



Nonetheless, this study represents a significant step forward in understanding the relationship between cholesterol levels in the inner ear and age-related hearing loss, and opens up new avenues for potential treatments.



The study authors noted: “In the present work we show that: 1) aging triggers cholesterol loss from sensory cells of the inner ear, 2) a retroviral treatment widely employed for HIV/AIDS patients reproduces the cholesterol loss observed in aged individuals and leads to impaired outer hair cells’ function and 3) we found that these defects can be partly reversed by phytosterols supplementation."



"Our findings are very promising because they provide the first proof-of-principle supporting phytosterols supplementation as a possible approach for prevention or treatment of hearing loss



<h2 id="h-more-about-age-related-hearing-loss">More about age-related hearing loss&nbsp;</h2>



Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a common condition that affects many people as they get older. It usually occurs gradually over time and can affect one or both ears.&nbsp;



This type of hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process and is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults.



<h3 id="h-causes">Causes</h3>



The exact cause of age-related hearing loss is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be a combination of several factors:



<h3 id="h-wear-and-tear">Wear and tear</h3>



Years of exposure to loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for transmitting sound to the brain. These hair cells do not regenerate, so their loss is permanent.



<h3 id="h-changes-in-blood-flow">Changes in blood flow</h3>



As people age, there can be changes in blood flow to the ear, which may affect hearing.



<h3 id="h-changes-in-the-structure-of-the-ear">Changes in the structure of the ear</h3>



The structure of the ear changes with age, which can also contribute to hearing loss. For example, the eardrum may become less flexible, making it harder for sounds to pass through.



<h3 id="h-genetic-factors">Genetic factors</h3>



Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing hearing loss as they age.



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.”

Common supplements can combat age-related hearing loss

Age-related hearing loss is a common ailment that affects millions...

A recent study from <a href="https://duke.edu/">Duke University</a> has revealed the remarkable physics behind the ability of witch hazel plants to launch seeds with incredible velocity.



The team discovered that members of the witch hazel family can propel heavier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundbreaking-technology-uncovers-the-mysteries-of-alfalfa-seeds/">seeds</a> just as swiftly as lighter ones, thanks to the spring-loaded mechanism of their fruits.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The study, led by graduate student Justin Jorge and senior author Sheila Patek, explored the world of plant biomechanics through high-speed video camera recordings and meticulous measurements.



The witch hazel, commonly found in forests, is often admired for its sweet-smelling shrub with crinkly ribbon-like petals.&nbsp;



However, according to Jorge, it is more akin to a howitzer due to the impressive firepower of its fruits.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-rapid-seed-dispersion">Rapid seed dispersion&nbsp;</h2>



When witch hazels are ready to disperse their seeds, their woody seed capsules split open. Pressure builds up, and eventually the seeds shoot out like bullets fired from a rifle, hitting 30 feet per second in about half a millisecond.



This rapid seed dispersion happens so swiftly that it is almost impossible to capture with a regular camera. "If you blink you'll miss it," said Jorge. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="mfCzjlSZy8-2963542-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



The research team utilized a high-speed video camera capable of recording at 100,000 frames per second to document the phenomenon.



The team collected fruits from three different witch hazel species found in Duke Gardens or Duke Forest.&nbsp;



The collected seeds varied in weight, with the lightest ones weighing only 15 milligrams - lighter than a grain of rice, while others were ten times more massive.&nbsp;



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



Surprisingly, the witch hazels were able to fling the heavier seeds just as fast as the lighter ones.&nbsp;



“We found that the launch speeds were all roughly the same,” said Jorge. “Given the order of magnitude difference in seed masses, I was not expecting that at all.”



Their findings, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2023.0234">Journal of the Royal Society Interface</a>, delved into the mechanics of how the plants achieve this feat.&nbsp;



The researchers discovered that the secret to the seed's velocity lies in the spring-loaded launch of the fruit capsule.



<h2 id="h-seed-propulsion">Seed propulsion&nbsp;</h2>



The three species investigated in the study employed the same mechanism for seed propulsion.&nbsp;



Before the seeds are ejected, the fruit capsule dries out and deforms, akin to a piece of wood warping. The compression of the woody fruit capsule's walls is what eventually sends the seed flying.



“It’s similar to how you can shoot out a watermelon seed by squeezing it between your fingers,” explained Jorge.



<h2 id="h-spring-like-seed-capsule">Spring-like seed capsule&nbsp;</h2>



Typically, to propel a heavier object at the same speed as a lighter one, more force is required. The witch hazel achieves this by using springs.&nbsp;



The researchers estimated the elastic potential energy stored in the spring-like seed capsule by measuring the force needed to wedge the seed back into place.&nbsp;



They found that witch hazel species with heavier seeds have larger capsules that can store more elastic energy.



Jorge plans to investigate further by examining the forces acting on witch hazel seeds as they fly through the air and assessing how far they can travel.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



This study not only sheds light on the remarkable adaptations of the witch hazel, but also contributes to the broader understanding of seed dispersion mechanisms in the plant kingdom.



The researchers say that some of the lessons learned from nature could lead to better designs for robots.&nbsp;



“People ask me all the time, ‘why are you looking at seed-shooting plants?’” Jorge said. “It’s the weirdness of their springs."



“When we think of springy things, we typically think of rubber bands, coils, or archery bows,” Jorge said. “But in biology, we have all these weird, complex shapes."



"Perhaps there are some benefits to these shapes that can be used to improve the design of synthetic springs, such as those used in small jumping robots, but first we need to understand how these biological springs work.”



Video Credit: Patek lab, Duke University



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Witch hazel plants propel seeds at bullet speeds

A recent study from Duke University has revealed the remarkable...

National Dog Day is celebrated on August 26th every year in the United States. It is a day to celebrate all breeds of dogs and to recognize the irreplaceable roles they play in our lives.&nbsp;



It is a <a href="https://www.nationaldogday.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">day to show appreciation</a> for working dogs that protect us and provide invaluable services, such as guide dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and police dogs.



It's also a day to raise awareness about the number of dogs that need to be rescued and adopted. Many people celebrate by spending extra time with their dogs, posting pictures on social media, or even adopting a new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-owners-are-happier-than-people-who-dont-have-pets/">pet</a>.



<h2 id="h-history">History&nbsp;</h2>



National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert, Colleen Paige.&nbsp;



The date of August 26th was chosen because it's the date that Paige's family adopted her first dog "Sheltie" from the local animal shelter when she was 10 years old.



<h2 id="h-how-dogs-help-humans">How dogs help humans</h2>



Dogs are known for their loyalty and faithfulness and have been companions to humans for centuries. They play many roles in our society as helpers, protectors, and companions.



Dogs offer unconditional love and can improve mental well-being. Additionally, they encourage physical activity through walks and play. Some breeds assist in tasks like hunting, herding, or policing, while service dogs can help individuals with disabilities.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-companionship">Companionship</h3>



Dogs are loyal and loving companions, providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness.



<h3 id="h-physical-activity">Physical activity</h3>



Taking care of a dog involves regular walks and playtime, which helps in keeping the owners physically active.



<h3 id="h-mental-health">Mental health</h3>



Spending time with dogs has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.



<h3 id="h-security">Security</h3>



Dogs are often protective of their owners and can provide a sense of security.



<h3 id="h-assistance">Assistance</h3>



Some dogs are trained to assist people with disabilities, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired or service dogs for people with other physical or mental challenges.



<h3 id="h-work">Work</h3>



Dogs are used in various professional capacities, such as search and rescue, police work, and herding animals.



<h2 id="h-bond-between-humans-and-dogs">Bond between humans and dogs</h2>



The bond between humans and dogs is one of the most mutually beneficial relationships in the animal kingdom. It is thought to have existed for thousands of years, dating back to when humans first domesticated wolves. Over time, this relationship has evolved and strengthened, leading to the domestic dog species we know today.



<h3>Emotional Bond</h3>



Dogs are known for their loyalty and affection. They often form strong emotional bonds with their human owners, providing companionship and reducing feelings of loneliness. Humans often view dogs as members of their family.&nbsp;



<h3>Communication</h3>



Both humans and dogs have developed ways to communicate with each other, both verbally and non-verbally. Dogs have learned to understand human gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice, while humans have learned to interpret a dog's barks, growls, and body language.



<h3>Mutual benefits</h3>



The relationship between humans and dogs is mutually beneficial. Dogs provide companionship, emotional support, and security, while humans provide food, shelter, and care.&nbsp;



<h3>Trust and dependence</h3>



Over time, a sense of trust and dependence develops between a dog and its owner. Dogs often look to their owners for guidance and support, while owners often rely on their dogs for companionship and protection.



<h2 id="h-ways-to-celebrate">Ways to celebrate:</h2>



<ul>
<li>Adopt a dog: Many people choose this day to adopt a new furry friend from a shelter.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Volunteer: Some people spend their day volunteering at a local animal shelter.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Pamper your dog: Many dog owners pamper their pets with special treats, new toys, or a long walk in the park.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Social media: Share photos and stories of your dog on social media using the hashtag #NationalDogDay.</li>
</ul>



National Dog Day is not only a day to celebrate and appreciate the love and joy that dogs bring into our lives, but also a day to raise awareness about the thousands of dogs that are in shelters waiting for a loving home.



It is a time to celebrate and honor the various ways dogs make our lives better, and to encourage responsible dog ownership and care.



—-



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National Dog Day: Celebrating all the ways that dogs make life better

National Dog Day is celebrated on August 26th every year...

Coronavirus,Covid-19,Illness,New,Strains:,Delta,Variant,,Delta,Plus,Mutation,

In the early days of the COVID-19 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-had-unexpected-impacts-on-wildlife-behavior/">pandemic</a>, the true reach of the virus remained obscured as countless Americans who were exposed to SARS-CoV-2 went undiagnosed due to the shortage of testing infrastructure.&nbsp;



A considerable number of these individuals subsequently developed a post-viral syndrome exhibiting symptoms closely mirroring those of long COVID.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-a-widespread-issue">A widespread issue</h2>



A new study from the <a href="https://breakthroughsforphysicians.nm.org/northwestern-medicine-introduces-comprehensive-covid-19-center-to-treat-chronic-covid-disease.html">Northwestern Medicine Comprehensive COVID-19 Center in Chicago</a> has now shed light on the magnitude of this issue, suggesting that the prevalence of long COVID might be significantly more widespread than previously believed.



Long COVID, as defined by health experts, comprises symptoms that linger for more than six weeks after the onset of the virus.&nbsp;



While our understanding of this condition is still evolving, it is increasingly being acknowledged as a post-infection syndrome with substantial health repercussions.



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



In this recent investigation led by Dr. Igor J. Koralnik, a research fellow with the <a href="https://www.aan.com/">American Academy of Neurology</a>, a group of 29 individuals displaying post-viral symptoms were examined.



These individuals were experiencing neurological manifestations such as memory lapses, cognitive impairments, fatigue, and headaches, but had never formally tested positive for COVID-19.



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



The subjects were compared to a cohort of 32 individuals of comparable age brackets who had confirmed cases of long COVID. An additional comparison was drawn with 18 individuals without any trace of these symptoms or any known exposure.



The pivotal aspect of the research involved testing participants for antibodies against two protein markers - the nucleocapsid protein and the spike protein. These markers are pivotal indicators of an immune response triggered by a previous COVID infection.&nbsp;



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



The results were eye-opening: 41 percent (12 out of the 29 people with post-viral syndrome) demonstrated immune responses aligned with a prior COVID brush, mirroring the immune profile of the long COVID group.&nbsp;



Furthermore, three-quarters exhibited responses against the nucleocapsid protein, while half reacted to the spike protein.



“Since most long COVID clinics are only accepting patients with a positive test result, these people experiencing identical symptoms are left without specialized care and excluded from research studies on long COVID,” said Dr. Koralnik.



“Our data suggest that millions of Americans with post-viral syndrome&nbsp; may have been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 at the beginning of the pandemic, and they deserve the same access to care and inclusion in research studies as people with a confirmed COVID diagnosis.”



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



Dr. Koralnik pointed out a troubling trend: “Unlike our clinic, about 70% of post-COVID clinics in the U.S. do not accept people with long COVID symptoms who do not have a positive test result for COVID,” said Dr. Koralnik.&nbsp;



“Our data suggest that at least four million people with post-viral syndrome similar to long COVID may indeed have detectable immune responses to support a COVID diagnosis. More research is needed to confirm our findings.”



<h2 id="h-study-limitations">Study limitations&nbsp;</h2>



The study had some limitations, primarily due to the small size of the post-viral syndrome group. Also, some participants could have shown positive immune responses if their blood samples were obtained sooner after the onset of symptoms.



As the science continues to advance, it's pivotal for the medical community and policymakers to recognize potential long COVID patients which are often overlooked.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nn.neurology.org/">Neuroimmunology &amp; Neuroinflammation</a>.



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Many long COVID sufferers never even tested positive for the virus

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the true...

In the wake of the worldwide lockdowns initiated in 2020 due to the rapid spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-faces-another-massive-covid-19-wave/">COVID-19</a>, an unforeseen consequence emerged – a major shift in the behavior of wild animals globally.



The phenomenon was recorded through GPS trackers on 43 distinct species, spread across the world during lockdowns. This venture was the result of collaborative international research led by <a href="https://international.au.dk/">Aarhus University</a>.



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



With the world at a standstill and streets abandoned, animals gained more freedom to roam. The extent of lockdowns varied from country to country.



Places like China witnessed an almost total confinement of their civilian population, whereas Spain introduced weeks-long curfews, only allowing residents to venture out for essential tasks like grocery shopping.&nbsp;



This resulted in a stark decrease in traffic and human presence in typically frequented areas like forests and parks.



<h2 id="h-animal-movement-during-lockdowns">Animal movement during lockdowns</h2>



Now, with access to a year's worth of GPS data from various terrestrial mammals, scientists have been able to contrast animal behavior during this unique window with their typical patterns.&nbsp;



For instance, Denmark's contribution to this global project focused on data from four stags from Oustrup Hede, situated just north of Herning.&nbsp;



According to Professor Peter Sunde of the Aarhus Department of Ecoscience, this tracking made it feasible to discern differences in the stags' behavior before and after the lockdowns.



<h2 id="h-an-unparalleled-experiment-during-lockdowns">An unparalleled experiment&nbsp;during lockdowns</h2>



Professor Sunde described this unanticipated period as an unparalleled experiment, shedding light on how human activity influences wildlife behavior.&nbsp;



While it is no secret that most mammals live in close proximity to human settlements and are impacted by our daily activities, the newfound data underscores the extent of this impact.



Sunde said: "The results reveal that our presence hinders animals' ability to move around. All mammals need to find resources to sustain themselves every day, but the data shows that the presence of cars and humans stresses the animals and limits their movements to small empty areas."



"However, during the lockdowns, we saw that the animals roamed closer to roads and cities. This gave them a bigger area to move around in. However, this only applied to areas that were already heavily impacted by humans." 



"The lockdowns had the opposite effect on areas with low human activity. Probably because natural areas were visited by more people than usual."



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



Although the primary trend seemed to be that animals ventured out more, they also displayed contradictory patterns of movement in some places.&nbsp;



"The figures show that animals generally reacted differently during different types of lockdown. Probably because the disturbance factor decreased in areas with hard lockdowns, while people in countries with soft lockdowns, such as Denmark, spent more time outdoors than before the lockdown," explained Sunde.



When analyzing animal movement, the research team relied on a parameter known as the 95th percentile, which represents the five percent longest journeys based on GPS positions.&nbsp;



The general movement was found to be 12% lower in spring 2020 compared to the previous year, suggesting animals took fewer or shorter "long journeys." However, when observed over a ten-day span, animals in hard lockdown zones traveled greater distances.



<h2 id="h-strategic-choices">Strategic choices&nbsp;</h2>



"Whereas the hour-to-hour movements of the animals are tactical responses to what’s happening in their immediate vicinity, their patterns of movement over a ten-day period reflect more strategic choices. The animals go where they assess there’s more food and less danger,” said Sunde.



“The study clearly shows that, on a ten-day basis, the animals travelled longer distances in areas where human activity had decreased. The absence of humans gave them a larger area to roam and better opportunities to optimize their own situation - and they took advantage of this. Conversely, their roaming area decreased in areas with soft lockdowns because humans flocked into natural areas.”



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



Now, as human activity surges, the implications of these findings become ever more significant. Sunde advocates for a more informed approach towards planning human activities in nature.



"We can use this new knowledge to become better at planning our activities in nature. We now know that our mere presence dampens the activity of many species. This can ultimately have an impact on where different mammal species can live and in what numbers," said Sunde.



"We should bear this in mind when planning new constructions, roads or even small forest paths. Human activity puts a strain on many animals."



"But that doesn't mean we shouldn’t spend time in forests. However, the people who organize public access to nature need to know that this has consequences for wild animals. For many years, Danish policy has centred on getting people to use nature as much as possible."



Around Denmark, many new shelters and mountain-bike tracks have been constructed in recent years, which places a greater strain on wild animals.



“We still know very little about how increased human activity in nature, such as overnight stays and cycling, impacts the prevalence and population of animals. But I can well imagine that increased recreational use of nature might lower the population densities of disturbance-sensitive species such as deer," said Sunde.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.abo6499">Science</a>.



—--



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Covid lockdowns had unexpected impacts on wildlife behavior

In the wake of the worldwide lockdowns initiated in 2020...

As the world experiences increasingly frequent and deadly heatwaves, researchers are shedding light on the alarming reality of this pressing issue. The 2003 European heatwave, which led to an unprecedented 45,000 to 70,000 fatalities, may be a foreshadowing of the new normal for the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dangerous-climate-feedback-loops-have-been-underestimated/">climate</a>.&nbsp;



A team from the Institute for Environmental Decisions at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html">ETH Zurich</a>, partnering with international epidemiologists, has collected heat-related mortality data from 748 cities (spanning 47 countries, from Europe to Southeast Asia) since 2013.



<h2 id="h-ideal-temperatures">Ideal temperatures</h2>



Samuel Lüthi, the study's lead author, elaborated on the team's innovative approach. The researchers combined daily temperature data with mortality rates to identify each location's "ideal temperature" - a point at which excess mortality is minimized.&nbsp;



For example, while Bangkok's ideal temperature stands at 30 degrees Celsius, Paris is most comfortable at 21 degrees. Every tenth of a degree above this ideal value increases excess mortality.&nbsp;



“Not all heat is the same,” said Lüthi. “The same temperature has a completely different impact on heat-​related excess mortality in the populations of Athens and Zurich.”



Factors such as acclimatization, urban planning, population demographics, and local healthcare play pivotal roles in ideal temperature and heat-related mortality.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-how-the-team-studied-heatwaves">How the team studied heatwaves</h2>



To analyze future heatwave scenarios, the researchers turned to five powerful climate models known as SMILEs.&nbsp;



“We ran the same model up to 84 times, with slightly different weather conditions each round. That gave us a multitude of possible weather systems that are likely to occur if there is a certain amount of CO2 in the atmosphere,” explained Lüthi.&nbsp;



The researchers combined this data with an epidemiological model to calculate the corresponding heat mortality.&nbsp;



By comparison, previous projections of heat-​related mortality were typically based on calculations that used one climate model over a specific period of time.&nbsp;



“Our method allows us to quantify extremes in the climate system much more effectively and reduce uncertainties that arise from the idiosyncrasies of certain models," said Lüthi.



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



The results were startling. The researchers found that the once-in-a-century excess mortality rate from the hot summer of 2003 is now anticipated to recur every 10 to 20 years.&nbsp;



Should global temperatures rise by 2 degrees, such deadly heatwaves could occur every other year or even more frequently.&nbsp;



Worst-case scenarios suggest that regions like the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of the U.S., Southeast Asia, and southern Europe might see up to 10% of their deaths linked to heat.&nbsp;



“The excess mortality of a hot summer like 2003 used to be considered an extreme, once-​in-a-century event. We now expect it to occur once every 10 to 20 years, or, in a world that is 2 degrees warmer, every two to five years in many places," said Lüthi.



Europe, particularly its southern belt, is doubly vulnerable. Not only are temperatures here ascending at double the global rate, but an aging population compounds the risk.



<h2 id="h-frightening-results">Frightening results</h2>



“The results frightened me,” said Lüthi. “While I was working on the study, I always tried to look behind the figures and see the real lives of people who are affected by the changes. It’s worrying.”&nbsp;



Particularly, as he points out, because the assumptions underlying the modeling are actually on the conservative side.&nbsp;



The results are based on the assumption that the global average temperature is on track to increase by a maximum of 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius. However, with greenhouse gas emissions at their current levels, the more likely figure is 2.6 degrees.



<h2 id="h-urgent-need-for-action">Urgent need for action</h2>



According to the researchers, the results highlight the urgent need for action. In order to at least curb increasing heat waves, the most important step is to phase out fossil fuels as quickly as possible, said Lüthi.&nbsp;



The experts say that society can partly adapt to higher temperatures to reduce the impact of future heat waves. “We should now prepare and manage the unavoidable, while avoiding the unmanageable at all costs," said Lüthi.



—--



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Once-​in-a-century heatwave may soon happen every other year

As the world experiences increasingly frequent and deadly heatwaves, researchers...

In the rainforests of Costa Rica, a unique habitat forms high up in the trees. These "canopy soils" are an often overlooked aspect of forest ecology.&nbsp;



A new study from <a href="https://www.usu.edu/">Utah State University</a> and <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/">Imperial College London</a> not only exposes the wealth of biodiversity contained in canopy soils but also emphasizes their vulnerability in the face of climate change and deforestation.



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



Canopy soils are essentially pockets of soil that accumulate along tree branches, creating a thriving ecosystem for various plant and animal species. But understanding how these soils form and the kind of biodiversity they nurture has been a challenge for ecologists.



"We found canopy soils most often form in cool, foggy areas in these tropical forests where there are large, old trees," said study first author Jessica Murray. "Unfortunately, this describes some of the most at-risk forest types, which are threatened by changing climate and deforestation.”



The significance of these findings is further emphasized by Dr. Bonnie Waring, Murray's PhD supervisor at Imperial.



“Canopy soils in tropical cloud forests are rich in life and nutrients and could be large carbon stores. The fact it’s taken until now to even start to recognise their importance is amazing – not least because we may be destroying them faster than we can study them," said Dr. Waring.



<h2 id="h-a-world-above-our-heads">A world above our heads</h2>



Murray climbed trees across six primary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/">rainforest</a> sites in Costa Rica, including some of the last continuous swaths of primary rainforest in South America.&nbsp;



These varied landscapes, with altitudes spanning from 67 to 2,700 meters above sea level and temperatures ranging between 10-24 ◦C, offered diverse conditions ranging from varying rainfall patterns to dense fog.



Scaling trees as tall as 30 meters, Murray discovered that each soil mat - a combination of soil, moss, and plants - was a distinct microhabitat, akin to “its own little forest."



Within these mats, a thriving community of plants and animals existed. Birds fed on abundant invertebrates. Epiphytes, which are plants that grow on other plants, flourished due to the nitrogen-rich environment created by mosses.&nbsp;



Interestingly, trees themselves appeared to be aware of this nutrient abundance, as evidenced by roots growing into the canopy soils to extract their share of nourishment.



<h2 id="h-a-fragile-balance">A fragile balance</h2>



The research indicates that the most abundant canopy soils are found in higher, cooler zones with a consistent fog presence and elder trees. The longevity of these soils remains uncertain, but estimates suggest that some might take over a century to fully mature, making their potential loss even more devastating.



With rising global temperatures, these cloud forests are experiencing shifting fog levels, potentially leading to the demise of many canopy soils. The towering trees that currently support them might soon be inadequate.&nbsp;



Adding to the issue, significant portions of these forests face the impacts of deforestation. And in areas where recovery efforts are underway, the time might still be insufficient for the full restoration of these mature canopy soils.



“Determining the contribution of canopy soils to forest carbon budgets is important for assessing their role in mitigating climate change," said Murray.&nbsp;



"It could also be an important marker for recovery: if these soils are crucial for the forest to be an optimum carbon sink, then their formation should be a final marker of a truly recovered forest.”



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



Dr. Waring noted that the research demonstrates the value of intact forest ecosystems: restoration of logged forests is important, but some features can’t be put back. "We need some policies that focus on preserving landscapes that are ecologically diverse and carbon-rich.”



In an era where forest conservation is increasingly urgent, these findings shed light on an overlooked aspect of forest ecology and underscore the fragile nature of the relationships within these habitats.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.geoderma.2023.116609">Geoderma</a>.



—--



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High in the treetops, canopy soils protect the forest below

In the rainforests of Costa Rica, a unique habitat forms...

Deep in Ecuador's Mache-Chindul Ecological Reserve, researchers used an extendable pole equipped with a tiny camera to explore the world of cavity-nesting birds. This is a world threatened by rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-far-reaching-climate-impacts-of-deforestation/">deforestation</a> and agricultural expansion.



Dr. Alison Ke, a <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/">UC Davis</a> graduate, led an investigation into the impacts of rainforest-to-farmland conversion on birds that depend on tree holes for nesting.&nbsp;



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



Working with local scientists, community members, and the Ecuadorian NGO, Fundación para la Conservación de los Andes Tropicales, Dr. Ke's team conducted bird surveys, studying natural tree cavities present in both forest and agricultural landscapes.



Over nearly three years, from September 2019 to June 2022, the team erected 100 nest boxes, splitting them evenly between forested and pasture areas. These boxes received nearly 11,000 visits.&nbsp;



"We’d stick the camera in, and we’d never know what to expect," said Dr. Ke. "Every time it was something new; it was very exciting. And when eggs appeared but we didn’t know what species it was, it was like a mystery we got to solve.”



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



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/btp.13252">Biotropica</a>, their findings were both enlightening and alarming. Deforestation wasn't just depriving birds of their homes - it was impacting their reproductive capacity.&nbsp;



“When humans cut down forests for farming, it destroys their nesting habitat,” explained Dr. Ke. "There are some species that might just disappear if we cut down the forest. It's extremely important to study the effects of agriculture on wildlife.”



While these birds frequented tropical pastures, they often struggled to find adequate nesting resources, which ultimately hindered their reproduction.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that eight species of cavity-nesting birds, including the house wren, dusky-capped flycatcher, and the Pacific parrotlet, were more abundant in agricultural settings. By contrast, the collared aracari, a toucan variant, was predominantly found in forests, likely drawn by specific food sources.



Daniel Karp, associate professor at UC Davis and the senior author of the study, emphasized the potential of leaving sporadic trees and integrating nest boxes into tropical agricultural terrains. Such interventions could be dual-purposed, benefiting both avian life and the farming community.&nbsp;



“Our work shows that pastures often eliminate critical nesting habitat for tropical birds. However, by retaining trees in pastures and installing nest boxes, ranchers can provide crucial nesting sites for cavity-nesting birds, many of which might even benefit the farmers themselves by eating pest insects," said Professor Karp.



<h2 id="h-more-about-cavity-nesting-birds">More about cavity-nesting birds</h2>



Cavity-nesting birds are a diverse group of avian species that have evolved to nest within natural or excavated hollows, primarily in trees but also in other structures such as cliffs, ground burrows, or man-made structures. These unique nesting preferences provide these birds with protection from predators and environmental factors.



<h3 id="h-characteristics-and-types">Characteristics and types</h3>



<h4 id="h-natural-cavities">Natural cavities</h4>



Many birds use natural cavities, like those created by decay or broken branches in trees.



<h4 id="h-excavators">Excavators</h4>



Some birds, like woodpeckers, have the ability to chisel out their own nesting chambers in the soft or rotting wood of trees. Once they're done using them, other birds might occupy these abandoned holes.



<h4 id="h-secondary-nesters">Secondary nesters</h4>



These birds utilize cavities that are naturally present or those abandoned by excavators. Examples include bluebirds, some owls, and chickadees.



<h3 id="h-notable-cavity-nesters">Notable cavity-nesters</h3>



<h4 id="h-woodpeckers">Woodpeckers</h4>



Known for their strong bills and unique drumming, they excavate cavities in trees to lay their eggs.



<h4 id="h-owls">Owls</h4>



Species like the Eastern Screech Owl or the Western Screech Owl often nest in tree cavities.



<h4 id="h-parrots">Parrots</h4>



Many parrot species, including the Pacific parrotlet mentioned earlier, use tree cavities for nesting.



<h4 id="h-bluebirds">Bluebirds</h4>



They're secondary nesters and often occupy old woodpecker holes or natural cavities.



<h4 id="h-swallows">Swallows</h4>



Some species, such as the Bank Swallow, dig burrows in sandy banks or cliffs.



<h3 id="h-benefits-of-cavity-nesting">Benefits of cavity-nesting</h3>



<h4 id="h-protection">Protection</h4>



Cavities provide protection from many predators, as the confined space makes it challenging for larger animals to access.



<h4 id="h-weather-shelter">Weather shelter</h4>



Tree cavities can offer protection from adverse weather conditions, maintaining a relatively stable internal environment.



<h4 id="h-camouflage">Camouflage</h4>



The recessed nature of cavities can make nests harder to spot, especially from aerial predators.



—--



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Rainforest transformation impacts reproduction among cavity-nesting birds

Deep in Ecuador's Mache-Chindul Ecological Reserve, researchers used an extendable...

A recent study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/aceb79">Environmental Research Letters</a> has found that over one billion cows around the globe will experience heat stress by the end of this century if greenhouse gas emissions remain high and environmental protection low.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-lethal-heat-stress">Lethal heat stress&nbsp;</h2>



The findings suggest that cattle farming would face potentially lethal heat stress in a variety of regions, including Central America, tropical South America, Equatorial Africa, and South and Southeast Asia.&nbsp;



However, the analysis also revealed that rapidly reducing emissions - while keeping cattle production close to current levels - could reduce these impacts by at least 50 percent in Asia, 63 percent in South America, and 84 percent in Africa.



<h2 id="h-heat-impacts">Heat impacts</h2>



Extreme heat is damaging to cattle in a variety of ways, especially when combined with high humidity.&nbsp;



For instance, it reduces fertility, impairs the development of calves, reduces milk production in dairy cows, and can result in an increased number of deaths, thus significantly impacting the viability of livestock farming, while reducing animal welfare and farm income.



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



To examine current and future impacts of heat stress on cattle, the scientists analyzed today’s heat and humidity conditions around the world.&nbsp;



Next, they estimated how these heat conditions will impact cattle in future decades by taking into account different levels of emissions and forms of land use.



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



The investigations revealed that, if future emissions are very high, nine out of ten cows around the globe will experience 30 or more days of heat stress per year, and more than three in ten will experience it throughout the whole year by the end of the century.&nbsp;



Although the most affected countries will be in tropical regions, many other parts of the world – including regions in Europe and North America - will face multiple months of heat stress each year. Some areas in Japan, Australia, and Mexico will likely experience over 180 heat stress days per year.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



Increasing temperatures and humidity will force farmers to adapt to these new conditions by providing ventilation or even air conditioning for the cattle or switching to heat-adapted cattle breeds.&nbsp;



However, such measures will become increasingly expensive with future warming and will not be possible in all regions, meaning that cattle farming may no longer be viable in places where it is currently a major occupation, such as Brazil, India, Paraguay, Uruguay, north-eastern Argentina, and across East African and Sahelian countries.



“Our study clearly shows that cattle are increasingly exposed to temperatures that impact their welfare, reducing growth and production and potentially leading to increasing deaths, in many parts of the world that are currently seen as prime cattle-farming territory,” said lead author Michelle Worth, a veterinarian and researcher at the <a href="https://ukzn.ac.za/">University of KwaZulu-Natal</a>.



“It is also important to remember that we are only looking at heat stress here, and do not consider changes to water availability. What this means, is that cattle farming will become less and less viable in many parts of the world.”



<h2 id="h-reducing-emissions">Reducing emissions</h2>



Rapidly cutting greenhouse emissions and maintaining livestock production within current levels could significantly reduce the number of cattle exposed to heat stress, particularly in some of the most affected areas, such as Asia, South America, and Africa.&nbsp;



Curbing emissions will also protect cattle in temperate regions from experiencing heat stress for over half a year.



<h2 id="h-reducing-meat-consumption">Reducing meat consumption&nbsp;</h2>



“At the same time, farmers and governments need to carefully consider whether it makes sense to expand cattle production in regions that are projected to become too hot for cattle," said North.&nbsp;



"Consumers can help by choosing not to support increasing investment in cattle farming, through their purchasing decisions (for example through choosing sustainable diets, reducing meat consumption and supporting local producers), and through their voting decisions."



“We’ve seen the deadly impacts for humans of climate change intensifying heatwaves, but the animals that feed us are also at severe risk from heat. We need to act now to limit the risk," said study senior author Christopher Trisos, an ecologist and climate change expert at the <a href="https://uct.ac.za/">University of Cape Town</a>.



"Expanding cattle production by cutting down or burning tropical forests is unsustainable, it worsens climate change and will undermine the welfare of hundreds of millions more cattle that will be exposed to severe, year-round heat stress."



—



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



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Cattle farming expansion could expose more than a billion cows to heat stress

A recent study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters...

A team of scientists led by the <a href="https://gaiac-eco.de/?lang=en">Research Institute for Ecosystem Analysis and Assessment</a> in Germany has identified significant declines in insect populations across Europe, most of them linked to human activities that affect insect habitats.&nbsp;



The research was focused on a comprehensive review of 82 previously unpublished studies of two major groups of insects.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-complex-trends">Complex trends</h2>



In recent years, concerns about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/">declining insect</a> abundance and diversity have increased in many regions in Europe and North America. However, the trends scientists observed are highly complex.&nbsp;



For instance, after a species decreases, others often increase due to reduced competition. Moreover, the causes of the declines are multifaceted, are often elusive, and vary between regions, leading to significant challenges in addressing them.



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



To clarify these issues, the experts conducted a review of 82 existing studies which focused on the drivers of changes in various Central and Western European populations of two major insect groups, Carabidae (ground beetles) and Lepidoptera (including butterflies and moths).&nbsp;



Although some of these studies focused on one or the other group and some on both, all of them included population monitoring data spanning the last six years and focused on agricultural landscapes located mostly in the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands.&nbsp;



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



Although the analysis revealed both increases and decreases in diversity and abundance in both insect groups, declines were found to be more frequent, highlighting an overall declining trend for Central and Western Europe.&nbsp;



Moreover, the researchers found that human activities were the main drivers of observed changes in insect populations (both increases and decreases). Such activities include agricultural practices, urbanization, climate change, and nature conservation. While most of these activities do not affect insects directly, they nevertheless significantly impact their habitats.



<h2 id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



These findings could help inform efforts to structure human activities in ways that reduce disruption to natural ecosystems while still meeting human needs. However, further research is needed to expand the monitoring of potential drivers of insect population changes while monitoring population trends themselves.



“Research into the root causes of insect decline is challenging, as it requires the understanding of processes that have been taking place years or even decades ago. In our study, we leveraged the wealth of published long-term data to gain insights into factors associated with the decline of insects in Europe,” the authors concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0289565">PLoS ONE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-more-about-insect-declines">More about insect declines&nbsp;</h2>



The decline of insects is a multifaceted issue that requires a combination of local, regional, and global efforts to address. Awareness and action are crucial to reverse this trend and maintain the ecological balance essential for life on Earth.



In recent years, many studies have confirmed significant declines in insect populations worldwide. These declines are concerning for several reasons:



<h3 id="h-ecological-impact">Ecological impact</h3>



Insects play crucial roles in ecosystems. They are pollinators, decomposers, and a vital food source for many animals, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians.



<h3 id="h-economic-impact">Economic impact</h3>



Many crops rely on insects, especially bees, for pollination. Without them, there would be significant implications for global food production and food security.



<h3 id="h-loss-of-biodiversity">Loss of biodiversity</h3>



The decline of any species can lead to reduced biodiversity, which can make ecosystems less resilient to changes and stressors.



<h3 id="h-causes-of-insect-decline">Causes of insect decline</h3>



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



Urbanization, agriculture, and other human activities are leading to loss and fragmentation of habitats essential for insect survival.



<h4 id="h-pesticides">Pesticides</h4>



Chemicals used in farming can be toxic to insects. Neonicotinoid pesticides, in particular, have been linked to declines in bee populations.



<h4 id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h4>



Altered weather patterns and increased temperatures can affect insect habitats, life cycles, and food availability.



<h4 id="h-pollution">Pollution</h4>



Water, soil, and air pollution can all negatively impact insect populations.



<h4 id="h-invasive-species">Invasive species</h4>



Non-native species can outcompete or introduce diseases to native insect populations.



Consequences of insect declines



<h4 id="h-loss-of-pollinators">Loss of pollinators</h4>



Many crops rely on insects for pollination. A decline in insect pollinators can affect food security.



<h4 id="h-food-chain-disruption">Food chain disruption</h4>



Insects are a primary food source for many animals. Their decline can lead to declines in predator populations and overall ecosystem imbalance.



<h4 id="h-reduced-decomposition">Reduced decomposition</h4>



Insects play a key role in breaking down organic matter. Their decline can slow decomposition rates, affecting soil health and nutrient cycling.



<h3 id="h-potential-solutions">Potential solutions</h3>



<h4 id="h-reduce-pesticide-use">Reduce pesticide use</h4>



Adopting integrated pest management, organic farming, or other sustainable agricultural practices can help.



<h4 id="h-restore-habitats">Restore habitats</h4>



Creating and maintaining green spaces, wildflower strips, and hedgerows can provide habitats and corridors for insects.



<h4 id="h-research-and-monitoring">Research and monitoring</h4>



More research and consistent monitoring are needed to understand the extent of the declines and how best to address them.



<h4 id="h-raise-awareness">Raise awareness</h4>



Educating the public and policymakers about the importance of insects can lead to better decision-making and increased support for conservation efforts.



—



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



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Insect declines directly linked to human activities 

A team of scientists led by the Research Institute for...

Blueberry,Smoothie,With,Mint,In,Mason,Jar,Mug,With,Straw.

In a world increasingly alarmed by the environmental implications of single-use plastic products, many have turned to "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-develop-an-eco-friendly-material-to-purify-water/">eco-friendly</a>" alternatives like paper drinking straws. But a recent study from Belgium warns that these seemingly sustainable alternatives may not be as benign as we think.&nbsp;



The researchers caution users about the hidden contaminants in these seemingly green products. The experts report that "eco-friendly” paper drinking straws, celebrated for their biodegradability, may contain long-lasting and potentially toxic chemicals.



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



Led by Dr. Thimo Groffen, an environmental scientist at the <a href="https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/">University of Antwerp</a>, this research is the first of its kind in Europe and only the second globally. The team conducted a comprehensive analysis of 39 brands of straws, focusing on the detection of synthetic chemicals known as poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).



PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are renowned for their resistance properties. They are commonly found in products ranging from outdoor apparel to non-stick cookware.&nbsp;



These forever chemicals resist water, heat, and stains. But this resilience comes with an environmental and health toll. They degrade slowly, persisting in the environment for millennia.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-not-necessarily-eco-friendly">Not necessarily eco-friendly&nbsp;</h2>



Not only are PFAS detrimental to our planet, but they have also been linked to numerous health complications - ranging from lowered responses to vaccines and thyroid diseases to heightened cholesterol levels and various cancers.



According to Dr. Groffen, "Straws made from plant-based materials, such as paper and bamboo, are often advertised as being more sustainable and eco-friendly than those made from plastic. However, the presence of PFAS in these straws means that’s not necessarily true.”



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



So how did these straws fare in the study? Out of the 39 brands, an alarming 69% (27 brands) were found to contain PFAS.&nbsp;



The majority, 90%, were paper straws. Bamboo straws weren’t far behind, with 80% of brands testing positive for PFAS.



These numbers are significant, especially when considering the global clampdown on single-use plastics. Countries like the UK and Belgium have banned such products, thrusting plant-based straws to the forefront.



<h2 id="h-cocktail-of-chemicals">Cocktail of chemicals&nbsp;</h2>



Furthermore, it's concerning that the most commonly detected PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been globally banned since 2020.&nbsp;



Adding to the cocktail of chemicals were "ultra-short chain" PFAS such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS). These are particularly troubling as they have high water solubility, raising concerns about leaching into beverages.



<h2 id="h-relatively-low-concentrations">Relatively low concentrations</h2>



However, it’s worth noting that the PFAS concentrations in these straws were relatively low. Given the sporadic use of straws by the average person, the immediate health risks might be limited.&nbsp;



Still yet, as Dr. Groffen points out, “Small amounts of PFAS, while not harmful in themselves, can add to the chemical load already present in the body.”



<h2 id="h-origin-remains-a-mystery">Origin remains a mystery&nbsp;</h2>



As for the origin of PFAS in these straws, it remains a mystery. Were they intentionally added by manufacturers for water resistance, or did they emerge from environmental contamination?&nbsp;



The team speculates that in some cases, the chemicals might be applied as water-repellent coatings, given their near-ubiquity in paper straw brands.



<h2 id="h-study-limitations">Study limitations&nbsp;</h2>



The study did have its limitations. For instance, the experts did not explore whether the PFAS would actually migrate from the straws to the drinks.&nbsp;



Nevertheless, Dr. Groffen's concluding advice was clear-cut: “The presence of PFAS in paper and bamboo straws shows they are not necessarily biodegradable. We did not detect any PFAS in stainless steel straws, so I would advise consumers to use this type of straw – or just avoid using straws at all.”



In the quest for sustainable alternatives, it's crucial to ensure that replacements do not inadvertently introduce new problems. The findings from this study serve as a reminder that even green solutions need rigorous evaluation.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/19440049.2023.2240908">Food Additives &amp; Contaminants</a>.&nbsp;



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Not so green: Hidden "forever chemicals" found in paper drinking straws 

In a world increasingly alarmed by the environmental implications of...

A new study from the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a> (NTNU) suggests that even though kids are spending a lot of time on social media, and cases of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/depression-increases-the-risk-of-stroke/">depression</a> among youth are on the rise, there is no clear evidence of a connection between the two.&nbsp;



“The prevalence of anxiety and depression has increased. As has the use of social media. Many people therefore believe that there has to be a correlation,” said NTNU Professor Silje Steinsbekk.



<h2 id="h-trondheim-early-secure-study">Trondheim Early Secure Study</h2>



In the Trondheim Early Secure Study research project, experts followed 800 children over a six-year period to look for correlations between the use of social media and the development of mental illness symptoms.



“We have collected data every other year, from the year in which the children were ten years old until they turned 16 years of age," said Steinsbekk.



"This enabled us to follow the children during the transition from childhood to adolescence. Symptoms of anxiety and depression have been identified through diagnostic interviews with both the children and their parents."



<h2 id="h-no-correlation-found">No correlation found&nbsp;</h2>



The experts determined that ncreased use of social media did not lead to more symptoms of anxiety and depression. On the flip side, those who developed more symptoms of anxiety and depression had not changed their social media habits over time.



The results of the study were the same regardless of gender, and also regardless of whether the children published their own social media pages or simply liked and commented on other people’s posts.



<h2 id="h-weak-correlations">Weak correlations</h2>



In recent years, many studies have examined the potential connection between children's mental health and their use of social media. The results are mixed.&nbsp;



While some experts found that the use of social media promotes mental health, others found evidence that it has a negative impact. However, the majority of these correlations are weak, said Steinsbekk.



“Mental health is often broadly defined in the studies and covers everything from self-esteem to depression. Data is often collected using questionnaires. It is unclear what has actually been measured and the focus has often been on frequency, i.e. how much time young people have spent on social media," explained Steinsbekk.



“By following the same subjects over a number of years, recording symptoms of mental illness through in-depth interviews and examining various types of social media use, our study has enabled us to take a more detailed look and provide a more nuanced picture of the correlations."



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



In previous work, the same research group determined that around five percent of young people in Norway experience depression, and the prevalence is lower in children.



According to the researchers, one in ten children meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder at least once during the period between the ages of four and 14 years.



“Young people’s use of social media is a topic that often creates strong emotions, and there is a lot of concern among both parents and professionals," said Steinsbekk.



“We are hoping to contribute more knowledge about how social media affects young people's development and ability to function in society. Who is particularly vulnerable? Who benefits from social media? Does the way in which social media is used matter?"



<h2 id="h-social-support">Social support&nbsp;</h2>



Steinsbekk and her colleagues previously found that girls who like and comment on other people’s posts develop a poorer body image over time, but this was not the case for boys. Posting to their own social media accounts had no impact on self-esteem, for boys or girls.



“Our study finds that if Kari or Knut increasingly like and post on Instagram or Snapchat, they are no more likely to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression," said Steinsbekk.



"But that does not mean that they are not having negative experiences on social media, or feeling addicted or excluded. Some may be particularly vulnerable and those are the ones we need to identify."



<h2 id="h-positive-aspects-of-social-media">Positive aspects of social media</h2>



“Social media provides a venue for community and belonging, making it easy to stay in touch with friends and family. Social media can be a platform for social support and help protect against loneliness for young people with few friends," said Steinsbekk.



The Trondheim Early Secure Study has collected data from thousands of children and their parents every year since the subjects were four years of age. The subjects are now 20 years old and the ninth data collection round will take place this fall.



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Does social media cause depression in children? A new study says no

A new study from the Norwegian University of Science and...

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

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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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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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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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

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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

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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