<p>Thermogenesis, the ability of plants to generate their own heat, is a remarkable survival tool that has evolved in certain plant species. </p>



<p>While commonly associated with animals, this process plays a crucial role in helping plants like cycads and select flowering varieties attract pollinators. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-heat-attracts-pollinators">Plant heat attracts pollinators</h2>



<p>By producing heat, these plants can volatilize their fragrances more effectively, dispersing chemical compounds that enhance their chances of attracting a wide variety of pollinators, including beetles, flies, and thrips. </p>



<p>This thermal boost not only makes the plants more appealing to insects but also plays a crucial role in the timing and success of pollination.</p>



<p>Additionally, this internal heat supports the development and growth of reproductive organs, such as flowers and pollen tubes, especially in cooler climates where warmth is scarce, giving thermogenic plants a distinct evolutionary advantage over non-thermogenic species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermogenesis-and-plant-evolution">Thermogenesis and plant evolution</h2>



<p>Tracking heat generation in plants is challenging because thermogenesis cannot be directly preserved in the fossil record. This forces scientists to rely on indirect evidence, such as fossilized anatomical structures that may have supported heat production. </p>



<p>Without physical traces of heat itself, researchers must study plant morphology and compare ancient plants with modern thermogenic species to infer how this process may have operated in the past. </p>



<p>By examining anatomical similarities between ancient and present-day thermogenic plants, scientists can better understand how thermogenesis played a role in plant evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-heat-and-evolutionary-success">Plant heat and evolutionary success</h2>



<p>An intriguing study was recently conducted by a group of researchers at the Botanical Institute of Barcelona (IBB), in a collaborative effort with several esteemed institutions including the <a href="https://www.ucm.es/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Complutense University of Madrid</a>, the Geological and Mining Institute of Spain (IGME–CSIC), the <a href="https://www.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Institution</a>, the <a href="https://web.ub.edu/en/web/ub/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Barcelona</a>, and the Royal Botanic Gardens of Sydney.</p>



<p>The experts diligently examined the characteristics of present-day thermogenic plants and compared them with fossil plant lineages.</p>



<p>The research led to a surprising conclusion. "Our findings suggest that thermogenesis in plants is an older phenomenon than previously thought," said David Peris, a researcher at the IBB.</p>



<p>According to Peris, thermogenesis may have played a pivotal role in the evolutionary success of seed and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a>, as well as their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hornets-are-the-most-important-pollinators-for-some-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, as far back as 200 million years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-evolutionary-edge">An evolutionary edge</h2>



<p>The presence of female structures maturing before male structures in thermogenic plants to prevent self-fertilization is a fascinating trait that is closely associated with early lines of divergence among flowering plants.</p>



<p>In fact, evidence of independent closing of stamens and carpels in floral chambers exists in fossil plants that could have trapped pollinating insects, hinting at their thermogenic past.</p>



<p>The researchers discovered that large reproductive structures, such as perianths or cones, could also indicate thermogenesis, thanks to their heat-retaining abilities.</p>



<p>These structures suggest that thermogenesis could have given certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-survived-the-dinosaur-extinction-by-pulling-nitrogen-from-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic plants</a> a competitive edge over non-thermogenic equivalents more than 200 million years ago. </p>



<p>This heat-generating capacity, coupled with other attractive traits like flower color and fragrance emission, could have been instrumental in their reproductive success.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversification-of-plants-and-pollinators">Diversification of plants and pollinators </h2>



<p>"Thermogenesis in plants is not just a botanical curiosity," said study co-author Iván Pérez-Lorenzo. He noted that this unique ability has strongly influenced the success of two diverse and populated groups: insects and flowering plants.</p>



<p>The findings open up exciting avenues for further inquiry into how such interactions may have influenced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-evolved-in-two-dramatic-bursts-250-million-years-apart/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversification of plants</a> and their pollinators throughout evolutionary history.</p>



<p>There is much more to learn from the world of plants, and this study has provided us with a fascinating glimpse into the world of thermogenesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-in-a-changing-climate">Plants in a changing climate</h2>



<p>The discovery of thermogenesis as a key factor in early plant survival offers exciting insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-evolution-drastically-changed-earths-composition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary journey of plants</a>. </p>



<p>As scientists continue to investigate how heat generation has shaped plant-pollinator relationships over millions of years, new questions arise about its role in future evolutionary pathways. </p>



<p>Could thermogenesis have been a pivotal trait that allowed certain species to outcompete others in harsh environments? </p>



<p>Understanding this process may reveal how plants have adapted and diversified in response to changing climates and ecological pressures throughout history, and how they may continue to evolve in the face of future environmental shifts.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41477-024-01775-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a></em>.</p>



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<p><br></p>

Some plants generate heat to attract pollinators

Thermogenesis, the ability of plants to generate their own heat,...

<p>Starchy foods have played a pivotal role in human evolution, influencing not only our diets but also our genetic makeup. </p>



<p>A recent study has revealed that the rise of agriculture - around 12,000 years ago - and the subsequent increase in starchy staples like wheat and grains, significantly impacted the human genome.</p>



<p>Researchers from the United States, Italy, and the United Kingdom found that our ability to digest carbohydrates has significantly evolved over time. This is closely linked to the rise of agriculture and the increase of starchy foods in our diets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-evolutionary-power-of-starchy-foods">The evolutionary power of starchy foods</h2>



<p>The ability to extract energy from starchy foods has increased remarkably during this period, as shown by an expansion in the number of genes encoding enzymes that break down starch - jumping from an average of eight to over 11.</p>



<p>"The copy number of amylase genes had increased in Europeans since the dawn of agriculture, but we had never been able to sequence this locus fully before. It is extremely repetitive and complex," said Peter Sudmant, assistant professor of integrative biology at the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, and one of the lead authors of the study. </p>



<p>This increase in amylase genes closely matched the rise and spread of agriculture across Europe from the Middle East, aligning with changes in dietary patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-amylase-locus">Decoding the amylase locus</h2>



<p>The researchers meticulously examined the genome's amylase locus, where the salivary amylase gene (AMY1) and two pancreatic amylase genes (AMY2A and AMY2B) reside. </p>



<p>"If you take a piece of dry pasta and put it in your mouth, eventually it'll get a little bit sweet. That's your salivary amylase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/enzyme-produced-during-exercise-protects-against-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enzyme</a> breaking the starches down into sugars," explained Sudmant.</p>



<p>While this happens in all humans and other primates, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/complete-sequencing-of-the-human-genome-reveals-new-findings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human genome</a> contains a significantly higher number of amylase gene copies compared to our primate relatives, such as chimpanzees and Neanderthals, who possess only a single copy of AMY1.</p>



<p>UC Berkeley postdoctoral fellow Runyang Nicolas Lou, one of the study's co-authors, elaborated: "Our study found that each copy of the human genome harbors one to 11 copies of AMY1, zero to three copies of AMY2A, and one to four copies of AMY2B. Copy number is correlated with gene expression and protein level and thus the ability to digest starch."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-advantage-and-global-adaptation">Survival advantage and global adaptation</h2>



<p>The presence of multiple amylase genes provided a survival advantage, with the incidence of chromosomes carrying multiple copies increasing sevenfold over the last 12,000 years. </p>



<p>This evolution was not confined to Europe. The researchers found evidence of similar patterns in other agricultural populations globally, regardless of which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-of-the-future-breadfruit-is-resistant-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starchy plant</a> was domesticated.</p>



<p>Erik Garrison, a co-lead author from the <a href="https://www.uthsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee Health Science Center</a>, highlighted the broader implications of the findings: "One of the exciting things we were able to do here is probe both modern and ancient genomes to dissect the history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-habits-shaped-the-skulls-of-humans-and-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">structural evolution</a> at this locus."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dawn-of-a-new-method">The dawn of a new method</h2>



<p>Another breakthrough in the study was the development of a new method for identifying diseases involving genes with multiple copies, like amylase. </p>



<p>This method also opens doors to exploring rapidly duplicating genes related to the immune system, skin pigmentation, and mucus production. </p>



<p>The research hints at a potential link between higher AMY1 copies and increased tooth decay, though further investigation is needed.</p>



<p>Joana Rocha, a co-author from UC Berkeley, compared the genomic structure of the amylase locus to “sculptures made of different Lego bricks." </p>



<p>Long-read sequencing techniques allowed the team to reconstruct these complex genetic structures with unprecedented accuracy, shedding light on human evolutionary history and its genetic diversity.</p>



<p>This research, funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, is part of an expanding effort to better understand how genetic adaptations have shaped human health and disease through our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bronze-age-teeth-discovery-highlight-the-evolution-of-the-human-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing diets</a> over millennia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-starchy-foods-and-human-health">Starchy foods and human health</h2>



<p>The evolutionary relationship between starchy foods and human genetics continues to shape modern health. </p>



<p>As our ancestors adapted to carbohydrate-rich diets, today's populations still show varying abilities to digest starch, potentially influencing susceptibility to conditions such as obesity and diabetes. </p>



<p>Understanding this genetic adaptation to starchy foods not only offers insights into our past but also provides valuable information for addressing contemporary health challenges linked to diet and metabolism.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07911-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



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How starchy foods shaped human genomes

Starchy foods have played a pivotal role in human evolution,...

<p>Can you imagine thriving in darkness? Humans certainly can't, but some tiny organisms in the Arctic do just that. Organisms like microalgae can exist under the thick ice and snow cover of the icy Arctic Ocean. </p>



<p>These microscopic plant-like organisms defy our understanding of life as they carry out photosynthesis, a light-dependent process, in almost total darkness. It's as fascinating as it sounds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-microalgae-survival">Arctic microalgae survival</h2>



<p>The ability of the pint-sized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-turning-green-thanks-to-climate-change-algae-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> microalgae to carry out photosynthesis under minuscule light conditions has been the focus of a recent international study. </p>



<p>The researchers found that, contrary to prior belief, photosynthesis in oceans can occur under significantly reduced light conditions and at much deeper depths.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magic-of-photosynthesis">Magic of photosynthesis</h2>



<p>Photosynthesis is the process <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-emerged-zygnema-star-algae-conquer-earths-landmass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> use to convert sunlight into a form of energy that sustains life. This vital process is fundamental to all life on earth. </p>



<p>Previous studies suggested that a certain amount of light was required for photosynthesis - significantly more than what is theoretically the bare minimum. Well, it turns out that we may have been selling photosynthesis short.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosaic-expedition-and-arctic-microalgae">MOSAiC expedition and Arctic microalgae</h2>



<p>The data for this study came from the <a href="https://mosaic-expedition.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MOSAiC research project</a>. This is the same project that froze the German research icebreaker Polarstern into the Arctic ice for a year in 2019.</p>



<p>Its aim was to study the Arctic climate and ecosystem through the severities of each season. Working under the leadership of Dr. Clara Hoppe from the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute</a>, a team focused on studying phytoplankton and ice algae, the major contributors to photosynthesis in the central Arctic.</p>



<p>And what they found was quite an eye-opener. A few days after the polar night -- a period when it's pitch black for an entire month -- there was a buildup of plant biomass. Now, that's something that's impossible without photosynthesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-near-impossible-conditions-for-arctic-microalgae">Near-impossible conditions for Arctic microalgae</h2>



<p>Here's the jaw-dropping bit. Photosynthesis was taking place under snow-covered sea ice. This ice cover only allowed a tiny amount of sunlight to reach the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-algae-play-an-unexpected-role-in-cooling-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microalgae</a>, about one hundred-thousandth of what we experience on a sunny day. </p>



<p>"It is very impressive to see how efficiently the algae can utilise such low amounts of light. This shows once again how well organisms are adapted to their environment," says Dr. Clara Hoppe.</p>



<p>The success of this study was also a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. Sea ice researchers Dr. Niels Fuchs and Prof. Dirk Notz from the Institute of Marine Research at the <a href="https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hamburg</a> helped combine the measurements of light with biological data. </p>



<p>This required freezing specially developed instruments into the ice during the polar night.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-climate-change-research">Implications for climate change research</h2>



<p>The findings from the MOSAiC expedition carry significant implications for our understanding of climate change. As Arctic temperatures continue to rise, the ecological balance of this sensitive region is being disrupted. </p>



<p>The ability of Arctic microalgae to photosynthesize under reduced light conditions suggests a resilience that could help maintain primary production even as ice cover fluctuates. </p>



<p>This resilience not only sustains the local food web but also has broader implications for global carbon cycling, as increased algal biomass could affect the ocean's capacity to sequester carbon dioxide, thereby influencing climate dynamics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-microalgae-and-the-future">Arctic microalgae and the future</h2>



<p>Given the exciting revelations about Arctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-algae-genes-chlorophyll-boost-crop-yields-land-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microalgae</a>, future research must continue to investigate the underlying mechanisms that enable these organisms to thrive in such extreme environments. </p>



<p>Further studies could explore the genetic adaptations that allow for efficient photosynthesis under low light or investigate the impact of varying ice conditions on algal productivity. </p>



<p>Understanding these factors will not only enrich our knowledge of Arctic ecosystems but also inform conservation strategies aimed at preserving these vital organisms amid changing climatic conditions. </p>



<p>Engaging with diverse scientific disciplines will be essential in advancing this research and applying the insights gained to broader ecological and environmental challenges.</p>



<p>"Even though our results are specific to the Arctic Ocean, they show what photosynthesis is capable of," explains Dr. Clara Hoppe. </p>



<p>This new understanding of photosynthetic efficiency suggests that similar processes could be happening in the darker parts of oceans worldwide, thus expanding the potential photosynthetic habitat.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51636-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.</em></p>



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Arctic microalgae show photosynthesis is possible in near darkness

Can you imagine thriving in darkness? Humans certainly can't, but...

<p>Tropical forests play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, accounting for over half of the world's terrestrial carbon sink. However, climate change poses a significant threat to the carbon balance within these ecosystems.</p>



<p>A new study has revealed that the warming and drying of tropical forest soils could heighten the vulnerability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil carbon</a>. This is primarily due to the increased degradation of older carbon stores.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research was led by scientists from <a href="https://www.llnl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory</a> (LLNL), in collaboration with researchers from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> and the <a href="https://stri.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-storage-in-tropical-forests-nbsp">Carbon storage in tropical forests&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“These findings imply that both warming and drying, by accelerating the loss of older soil carbon or reducing the incorporation of fresh carbon inputs, will intensify soil carbon losses and negatively impact carbon storage in tropical forests under climate change,” said study lead author Karis McFarlane, a scientist at LLNL.</p>



<p>Tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-destruction-of-tropical-forests-is-much-worse-than-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> exchange more carbon dioxide (CO2) with the atmosphere than any other terrestrial biome, and they hold nearly a third of global soil carbon stocks. These ecosystems are characterized by a short carbon residence time, typically between 6 to 15 years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This short duration means that changes in carbon inputs or outputs, including CO2 emissions from soil, can have significant and relatively rapid effects on the carbon balance of tropical ecosystems, potentially exacerbating carbon-climate feedback loops.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-warming-and-reduced-rainfall-nbsp">Soil warming and reduced rainfall&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Projections for tropical regions suggest a future with warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall, leading to longer and more intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a>, particularly in the Neotropics, which spans from southern Mexico through Central America and into northern South America, including the Amazon rainforest.</p>



<p>The research, which involved climate manipulation experiments in Panama’s tropical forests, demonstrated that both soil warming - by 4°C - and a reduction in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> - by 50% - increased the age of carbon released from the soil by 2 to 3 years, as reflected by higher carbon-14 levels in the emitted CO2.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-effects-of-warming-and-drying">Varying effects of warming and drying</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the processes behind this carbon shift differed between warming and drying. Soil warming sped up the breakdown of older carbon by increasing CO2 emissions, as newer carbon was quickly depleted. </p>



<p>In contrast, drying reduced the decomposition of fresh carbon inputs, leading to a decrease in overall soil CO2 emissions but a higher contribution of older carbon to the CO2 being released.</p>



<p>“Field and laboratory experiments suggest that climate warming will stimulate a net loss of global soil carbon to the atmosphere, but how climate warming and drying will interact to influence carbon balance in forests and other ecosystems is less clear,” explained McFarlane.</p>



<p>Previous studies in tropical forests primarily focused on the total amount of CO2 being released, which is important for understanding the overall carbon balance but falls short of explaining the underlying mechanisms.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-of-carbon-released-by-soil">Age of carbon released by soil</h2>



<p>By analyzing carbon-14 values, this study was able to determine the age of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-pool-of-global-soil-carbon-alters-climate-change-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> being metabolized and emitted as CO2, offering insights into these processes.</p>



<p>In this context, “new” or “young” carbon refers to carbon that has been fixed from the atmosphere in recent years, while “decadal aged” carbon contains higher levels of carbon-14 relative to the current atmosphere. Even older carbon, from centuries to millennia, is depleted in carbon-14.</p>



<p>The team studied the effects of warming and drying on the amount and age of carbon released as soil CO2 in two distinct lowland tropical forest areas in Panama, where experimental soil warming and drying were conducted. They measured the carbon-14 and carbon-13 isotopes of the CO2 emitted from the soil.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-warming-releases-older-carbon-nbsp">Soil warming releases older carbon&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Utilizing the Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry at LLNL, the team found that soil warming increased carbon-14 in CO2 emissions during the wet season, indicating a greater release of older carbon, including “bomb” carbon from nuclear testing in 1963, under both warm and wet conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The warming accelerated the breakdown of older carbon as microbial communities shifted to using older carbon after depleting fresh organic matter.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-drying-limits-access-to-fresh-carbon">Soil drying limits access to fresh carbon </h2>



<p>On the other hand, drying decreased the total release of CO2 from the soil but also increased the carbon-14 in the remaining emissions by limiting the availability of fresh carbon from sources like leaf litter and roots.</p>



<p>“This limitation of microbial access to fresh carbon explains the shift toward increased contributions of older carbon in total soil CO2 emissions with warming and drying,” said McFarlane.</p>



<p>“Our results suggest that climate change will increase the vulnerability of previously stored soil carbon in tropical forests by stimulating the decomposition and loss of old carbon.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51422-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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Warming and drying soils are losing more carbon

Tropical forests play a crucial role in the global carbon...

<p>Green spaces are becoming essential lifelines as global temperatures continue to rise. Increasing levels of heat are turning our cities into insufferable melting pots, where concrete and asphalt amplify the issue.</p>



<p>Rising heat is especially severe across cities of the Global South. Here, a lack of greenery compounded by rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure exacerbates already harsh living conditions.</p>



<p>A recent study has revealed that these cities have only about 70% of their "cooling capacity" compared to cities in the Global North, making them significantly more vulnerable to heat stress.</p>



<p>The rising threat of global warming in urban areas of the South is further intensified by the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where dense construction and limited vegetation cause cities to be significantly warmer than their surrounding rural regions.</p>



<p>This worsens heat-related illnesses, disproportionately affecting low-income communities and creating a dire public health crisis for these vulnerable regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-green-spaces">The power of green spaces</h2>



<p>However, a cure for the relentless heat might not be as far-fetched as it seems. The introduction of urban green spaces is proven to be a highly effective approach to combat scorching temperatures.</p>



<p>The research team - including experts from the universities of Nanjing, Exeter, Aarhus, and North Carolina State - has found that there is “vast potential” to enhance urban cooling in the Global South and reduce inequality.</p>



<p>"Urban greenery is a really effective way of tackling what can be fatal effects of extreme heat and humidity," said Professor Tim Lenton from the Global Systems Institute at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>.</p>



<p>“Currently, the people dying due to climate change are often in the slums of cities in the Global South, such as the hottest parts of India.&nbsp;Our analysis suggests green spaces can cool the surface temperature in the average city by about 3°C during warm seasons - a vital difference during extreme heat.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cooling-effect-of-urban-green-spaces">The cooling effect of urban green spaces</h2>



<p>The cooling effect of green spaces in cities, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forests-benefit-from-diverse-native-tree-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban forests</a>, is attributed to shading and transpirational cooling, which is the evaporation of water.</p>



<p>The study utilized satellite data from the world's 500 largest cities to gauge their cooling capacity - the extent to which urban green spaces could reduce a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-turf-water-cooled-sustainable-solution-hot-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">city's surface temperatures</a>.</p>



<p>The top ten cities with the highest cooling capacity were all located in the United States, with Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina topping the list.</p>



<p>Many US cities benefit from their low population density, despite this causing a side effect of "urban sprawl." Low population density allows for larger green spaces and a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-measures-the-cooling-effect-of-shade-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cooling effect</a>.</p>



<p>On the opposite end of the spectrum, cities like Mogadishu in Somalia, Sana'a in Yemen, and Rosario in Argentina were found to have the lowest cooling capacity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-benefits-in-the-global-south">Cooling benefits in the Global South</h2>



<p>The Global South, which spans Africa, Latin America, and large parts of Asia, is where the risk of exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-attribute-extreme-heat-and-wildfires-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme heat</a> is most severe. </p>



<p>A prior study warns that existing climate policies may leave over a fifth of the world's population exposed to dangerously high temperatures by the year 2100 - with the most vulnerable sections located in India and Nigeria.</p>



<p>"The differences are mostly due to quantity of vegetation, but efficiency of cooling is also better in the Global North - possibly due to management of green spaces and different tree species," said Professor Chi Xu of <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>.</p>



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



<p>Despite the disparities in cooling capacity and benefits, there is still a silver lining. "The good news is that this nature-based solution to cooling can be substantially improved across the Global South, helping to tackle future heat stress for billions of people," said Professor Jens-Christian Svenning.</p>



<p>According to Professor Rob Dunn of NC State, creating a greener urban environment is not an easy task, but it's a critical step toward making cities habitable in the near future.</p>



<p>"It won’t be easy to regreen cities. It can be expensive in the short-term. Yet, it will be key to making cities liveable in the immediate future. Also key will be working to prevent the loss of green space in those cities that have it, or at least that have a little," said Professor Dunn.</p>



<p>“Changes could include ground-level green spaces and vertical and rooftop gardens, or even forests, to help protect city people from extreme heat.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51355-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Urban green spaces are urgently needed across the Global South

Green spaces are becoming essential lifelines as global temperatures continue...

Fungi fusion: Turning food waste into culinary delights

Chef-turned-chemist Vayu Hill-Maini has a unique passion: transforming food waste...

<p>It's no secret that artificial sweeteners have been gradually replacing sugar in our daily diets, becoming increasingly prevalent in a variety of food and beverage products. One of the most commonly used sugar substitutes is Erythritol, which is often used in your morning coffee, protein bars, and a wide range of low-carb dietary products.</p>



<p>This sugar alternative is often hailed as a miracle solution for individuals looking to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. However, what if I told you that this seemingly harmless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweetener-neotame-has-shocking-effects-on-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial sweetener</a> could actually be increasing our risk of heart attack and stroke?</p>



<p>A new study led by Dr. Stanley Hazen, a well-known expert in cardiovascular and metabolic sciences, suggests that this sweetener might not be as harmless as it seems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-artificial-sweeteners">Defining "artificial sweeteners"</h2>



<p>Artificial sweeteners serve as substitutes for sugar in various foods and beverages, providing a sweet taste without the added calories. These substances are often significantly sweeter than sugar, which means that only a small quantity is needed to achieve the desired flavor profile. </p>



<p>Common examples include aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, which have gained popularity in "sugar-free" or "diet" products. This appeal is particularly relevant for individuals aiming to lower their sugar intake for health reasons, such as managing weight or controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes.</p>



<p>The use of artificial sweeteners has ignited debate regarding their safety and potential long-term health effects. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA have classified these sweeteners as safe when consumed within established limits. </p>



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



<p>Erythritol is a popular pick for anyone trying to cut back on sugar. You’ll find it in lots of low-calorie, low-carb, and "keto" products. It’s about 70% as sweet as sugar, but with way fewer calories.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-artificial-sweeteners-safe-the-debate-is-heating-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unlike sugar</a>, erythritol isn’t really processed by the body, so it just passes into the bloodstream and gets flushed out through urine.</p>



<p>On the surface, it seems harmless enough, especially since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA</a>) and the European Food Safety Authority (<a href="https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EFSA</a>) have labeled it as "generally recognized as safe" (<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRAS</a>). This means it can be used in food products without any restrictions.</p>



<p>Here's the catch: while erythritol does naturally occur in fruits and veggies and is produced in small amounts during glucose metabolism, the levels we get from artificial sweeteners are much higher. This difference is what has scientists, like Dr. Hazen, taking a closer look.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-erythritol-and-sugar-substitutes">Risks of erythritol and sugar substitutes</h2>



<p>A recent study by Dr. Hazen’s team at the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a> looked into how erythritol affects blood clot formation, adding to a larger set of questions about the physiological effects of common sugar substitutes.</p>



<p>The results were surprising. Healthy volunteers who consumed erythritol at levels typically found in a "sugarless" soda or muffin experienced a staggering spike in blood erythritol levels to well over 1,000 times the baseline.</p>



<p>More concerning, this consumption was accompanied by a significant increase in blood clot formation.</p>



<p>To put these findings into context, when the same participants consumed glucose, their blood didn't show the same tendency to clot.</p>



<p>This difference is important because it emphasizes that erythritol itself -- not just any artificial or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-sugar-sources-are-key-to-preventing-childhood-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural sweetener</a> -- could be a unique risk factor.</p>



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



<p>These findings have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-linked-to-higher-risk-of-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serious implications</a>, particularly for individuals at high cardiovascular risk -- those with conditions like obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.</p>



<p>"Many professional societies and clinicians routinely recommend that people at high cardiovascular risk consume foods that contain sugar substitutes rather than sugar," says Dr. Hazen. But with evidence mounting against erythritol, it's time to reconsider that advice.</p>



<p>Dr. Hazen’s research isn't the first to cast doubt on the safety of erythritol. A previous study published last year in <em>Nature Medicine</em> revealed that cardiac patients with high erythritol levels were twice as likely to experience a major cardiac event within three years.</p>



<p>Moreover, adding erythritol to blood samples increased clot formation, a finding that was confirmed in pre-clinical studies.</p>



<p>These consistent results suggest that erythritol, even in amounts typically consumed, may not be as safe as once thought.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expert-urge-caution">Expert urge caution</h2>



<p>Given the potential risks, experts are urging caution. "This research raises some concerns that a standard serving of an erythritol-sweetened food or beverage may acutely stimulate a direct clot-forming effect," says Dr. W. H. Wilson Tang, a co-author of the study and research director for <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/heart/depts/heart-failure-transplantation-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation Medicine</a> at Cleveland Clinic.</p>



<p>He emphasizes the importance of more research, especially long-term studies, to really get a handle on the cardiovascular safety of erythritol and other sugar substitutes.</p>



<p>Adding to the worry is that xylitol, another popular artificial sweetener, has shown similar effects in studies.</p>



<p>Just like erythritol, xylitol was linked to higher plasma levels and impacted platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. The similarities between these sweeteners hint that the risks might not be exclusive to erythritol.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erythritol-and-the-future-of-sugar-substitutes">Erythritol and the future of sugar substitutes</h2>



<p>So, where does that leave us? Right now, it's smart to be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/startling-connection-between-soda-and-liver-disease-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cautious about artificial sweeteners</a>, especially for those at high risk for heart disease.</p>



<p>Research by Dr. Hazen and his team is still ongoing. We can expect more findings in the coming years.</p>



<p>As Dr. Hazen concludes, "Cardiovascular disease builds over time, and heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. We need to make sure that the foods we eat aren't secretly contributing to this crisis."</p>



<p>This hints that the food industry and regulators might need to rethink their stance on erythritol and other sugar substitutes.</p>



<p>To sum it all up, while the convenience and low-calorie perks of these sweeteners are definitely appealing, we should think about their potential impact on our long-term health.</p>



<p>The discussion around these products goes beyond personal choices. The use of artificial sweeteners, like erythritol, xylitol, also has broader and concerning implications for public health.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology</a></em>.</p>



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Artificial sweeteners like Erythritol directly linked to blood clots and heart disease

It's no secret that artificial sweeteners have been gradually replacing...

<p>When it comes to survival, plants face a significant challenge compared to many other living organisms: they cannot move to escape predators, pathogens, heat stress, or other unfavorable environmental conditions.</p>



<p>To cope with these threats, plants have evolved various strategies triggered by specific environmental signals. It has long been known that changes in intracellular calcium concentration play a key role in processing these signals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, alongside these calcium changes, shifts in the cell's membrane potential have also been suspected to act as signal transmitters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, researchers from the Departments of Neurophysiology, Pharmaceutical Biology, and Botany at <a href="https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg</a> (JMU) have explored the relationship between calcium and membrane potential in greater depth.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-response-to-stress">Plants' response to stress</h2>



<p>In their study, the research teams worked with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tobacco-and-zinnia-can-thrive-in-polluted-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tobacco</a> plants that were engineered to carry ion channels that could be specifically activated by light.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over 20 years ago, scientists Peter Hegemann, Georg Nagel, and Ernst Bamberg pioneered the field of optogenetics with their discovery and characterization of light-activated ion channels, known as channelrhodopsins.</p>



<p>Using these light-sensitive proteins, which are derived from algae and microorganisms, the JMU researchers were able to experimentally determine whether the influx of calcium ions or the depolarization of the cell membrane, mediated by anion efflux, was crucial for the plant's response to specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> situations. </p>



<p>However, considerable preparatory work was required before they could conduct these experiments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimizing-the-use-of-channelrhodopsins">Optimizing the use of channelrhodopsins</h2>



<p>Channelrhodopsins, ion channels equipped with a rhodopsin-based light switch, revolutionized neuroscience by enabling the light-controlled study of neuronal networks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The application of channelrhodopsins in plant research became feasible only 20 years later, thanks to close collaboration between Georg Nagel's group at the Institute of Physiology at JMU and plant researchers from the Würzburg Chairs of Botany 1, 2, and Pharmaceutical Biology.</p>



<p>In 2021, Nagel's group, along with Dr. Kai Konrad, a group leader at the JMU Chair of Professor Rainer Hedrich Botany 1, published a method to optimize the use of channelrhodopsins in plants by overcoming three major challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-expression-of-channelrhodopsins">Successful expression of channelrhodopsins</h2>



<p>Study co-author Shiqiang Gao, a “rhodopsin engineer” from the Optogenetics lab in the Department of Neurophysiology at JMU, explained the first challenge.</p>



<p>“Like all rhodopsins, including those in our eyes, channelrhodopsins require the small molecule retinal, also known as vitamin A, to absorb light. We humans get retinal mainly from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carotenes-have-a-powerful-positive-effect-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beta-carotene</a>, the provitamin A. However, land plants do not contain retinal, but they do have plenty of beta-carotene,” said Gao.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>In 2021, Gao succeeded in combining the expression of channelrhodopsins with the production of retinal from beta-carotene in plant cells. This breakthrough allowed the development of tobacco plants with a high retinal content and successful expression of channelrhodopsins.</p>



<p>Dr. Markus Krischke from the Metabolomics Core Unit in the Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, headed by Professor Martin Müller at JMU Würzburg, confirmed the high retinal content of various transgenic tobacco plants.</p>



<p>Comparable transgenic tobacco plants were produced for the recently published study by Dr. Meiqi Ding from the Department of Botany 1, under the direction of plant physiologist and plant signal processing expert Dr. Kai Konrad, from Professor Rainer Hedrich's group at Botany 1.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-challenge-of-light-activation">The challenge of light activation</h2>



<p>The second challenge involved light activation. “Most rhodopsins are activated by blue or green light. However, these colors are components of white light,” explained Nagel. </p>



<p>This meant the tobacco plants could not be grown in a greenhouse or under standard artificial white light conditions, as this would inadvertently activate the rhodopsins. </p>



<p>Instead, the plants had to be grown in special growth chambers with red LED light, which is photosynthetically useful and does not trigger rhodopsin activation. </p>



<p>Tests under various growth conditions revealed that tobacco develops healthily and unchanged under red light compared to greenhouse conditions, noted Konrad.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-channelrhodopsins-in-tobacco-cells">Channelrhodopsins in tobacco cells</h2>



<p>The third challenge was the difficulty in expressing channelrhodopsins in tobacco cells. In 2021, the Würzburg research team successfully expressed the light-activated anion channel GtACR1 in tobacco plant cells. </p>



<p>As a result, Nagel's team was able to develop various channelrhodopsins optimized for calcium ion permeability. </p>



<p>Ultimately, Shiqiang Gao and Shang Yang, both members of Nagel's group, succeeded in developing an advanced calcium-conducting channelrhodopsin, named XXM 2.0, specifically for targeted expression in tobacco plants.</p>



<p>This marked a significant breakthrough: “The successful expression of channelrhodopsins with different ion selectivities in plant cells allows us to compare different ion signals alongside the electrical signal, known as depolarization,” Meiqi Ding explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>She used the calcium-conducting channelrhodopsin XXM 2.0 and the light-activated anion channel GtACR1 to investigate the various ion signaling pathways in tobacco.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optogenetic-tobacco-plants-nbsp">Optogenetic tobacco plants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>These newly created “optogenetic” tobacco plants enabled the researchers to answer the question of whether calcium influx or membrane depolarization is more critical for the plant's response to a specific stress situation. “The answer was clear,” said Konrad.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“After activation of the anion channel, the leaves wilted and showed the typical plant response to drought; the plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) was produced, and gene expression was increased to protect against dehydration,” Ding added.</p>



<p>“However, in the plants with the calcium channel, there was no change in ABA levels after optogenetic stimulation.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Instead, the plants produced signal molecules and plant hormones to trigger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-defense-gut-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defense mechanisms</a> against predators, as evidenced by white spots on the leaves,” Konrad said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-in-plant-research-nbsp">A new era in plant research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Sönke Scherzer from Professor Hedrich's chair demonstrated through direct measurements that reactive oxygen species (ROS) were released during this process.</p>



<p>Dirk Becker and Rainer Hedrich at Botany 1 designed an experimental approach using transcriptomic and bioinformatic analysis to support the working hypothesis.</p>



<p>The researchers are convinced that this study marks the beginning of a new era in plant research. They believe that with the help of various rhodopsins, plant signaling pathways can now be more thoroughly “illuminated.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07884-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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How do plants respond to specific stress situations?

When it comes to survival, plants face a significant challenge...

<p>Let's talk about cacti, the prickly plants we adore as quaint household adornments or gigantic landscape wonders. From the towering saguaro reaching heights of up to 18 meters to the petite button cactus barely peaking the soil's surface, the cactus family boasts an impressive range. But what's the secret behind cacti's evolution and stunning diversity?</p>



<p>Researchers from the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University of Bath set out to decode this mystery, and their discoveries have turned our existing beliefs on their head.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unearthing-the-climate-misconception">Unearthing the (climate) misconception</h2>



<p>Contrary to the long-held belief that arid climates are the cradle of cactus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-evolution-drastically-changed-earths-composition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a>, these scientists have discovered otherwise. </p>



<p>Intriguing findings from the study suggest that it's not merely the dryness of climate, but factors like the daily temperature swing, the grainy texture of the soil, and the turn of seasons, that play the pivotal roles in cactus evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vast-diversity-of-cacti">Vast diversity of cacti</h2>



<p>Fascinatingly, even though cacti have become a worldwide favorite as interior decorations, they are originally from the New World, native to North, Central, and South America alone. Mexico seems to be the hotspot of cactus diversity, boasting the highest species richness.</p>



<p>The Bath researchers embarked on a quest to piece together all known published data on cacti, aiming to dig deeper into the roots of their vast diversity. The team has constructed the largest ever evolution tree of cacti using copious DNA sequences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamics-of-cactus-evolution">Dynamics of cactus evolution </h2>



<p>To understand the interplay of various biological factors contributing to cactus diversity, the team used machine learning methods.</p>



<p>Analyzing variables like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-shaped-plant-biodiversity-for-thousands-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> size, geographical range, soil sand content, aridity, and diurnal temperature range, the researchers painted a clearer picture of cactus evolution dynamics - a triumph of data and technology.</p>



<p>In a surprising twist, the team discovered that while Mexico flaunts the highest number of cactus species, it simultaneously exhibits the slowest evolutionary rate, debunking the idea that the arid Mexican climate primarily ejects the new cactus species into existence.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cacti-climate-sensitivity">Cacti climate sensitivity </h2>



<p>After conducting the research at the Milner Centre for Evolution, <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bath</a>, study lead author Dr. Jamie Thompson provides some much-needed perspective. He notes that despite their tough exterior, cacti are actually more prone to extinction than other plants.</p>



<p>"Because there is the highest biodiversity in Mexico, it was assumed this was because the conditions there were best for evolution of species," said Dr. Thompson.</p>



<p>"However, our study shows this isn’t the case – instead Mexico has the slowest rate of speciation but has lots of biodiversity because the extinction rates are slower. In other words, the Mexican climate is not necessarily better at producing new species but good at preserving existing ones."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-climate-in-cacti-survival">Role of climate in cacti survival</h2>



<p>Climatic conditions extend beyond simple aridity; they shape the very survival strategies of cacti. Their adaptations, such as water retention mechanisms and the unique structure of their spines, serve not only as protection from herbivores but also aid in minimizing water loss. </p>



<p>In their quest for survival, cacti have evolved to thrive in environments that oscillate between extremes, showcasing their remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/these-plants-have-maintained-genetic-stability-for-350-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a>. </p>



<p>Understanding how these plants respond to fluctuating climatic variables enhances our comprehension of their ecological roles and resilience in the face of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts">Conservation efforts </h2>



<p>As the evolution research highlights the vulnerabilities of cacti, conservation efforts become increasingly important.</p>



<p>Acknowledging the pressing threats of habitat loss, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-triggers-epic-plant-migration-in-brazils-cerrado/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and illegal trade, environmentalists are advocating for protective measures that embrace the delicate balance of ecosystems where cacti flourish.</p>



<p>Future research must focus on developing robust conservation strategies and restoring habitats to ensure the protection of these unique plants. </p>



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



<p>Study co-author Dr. Nick Priest, also from the <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk/research-centres/milner-centre-for-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milner Centre for Evolution</a>, expressed concern over the future of cacti.</p>



<p>"Our work shows that cacti are not as successful as we thought, and are more vulnerable to climate change. This is concerning – if cacti can’t thrive in our changing climate, what chance do other plants have?" </p>



<p>Funded by a scholarship from Roger and Sue Whorrod, and the University of Bath, this enlightening study has reshaped our understanding of cacti evolution and diversity. </p>



<p>The research sheds light on the intricacies of nature's mechanisms - an invitation for us to adapt our actions in harmony with our environment. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51666-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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What's the secret behind the stunning diversity of cacti?

Let's talk about cacti, the prickly plants we adore as...

<p>Europe's fascinating history is no stranger to tales of exotic indulgences, and the latest findings add an unexpected layer to this narrative - cocaine use that dates back as far as the 17th century.</p>



<p>This revelation is not just a footnote in history but provides significant insights into the lifestyles and cultures of ancient Europe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fully-immersive-exploration">A fully immersive exploration </h2>



<p>In the heart of Italy, researchers at the <a href="https://www.unimi.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Milan</a> are expanding our understanding of Europe's past substance use.</p>



<p>Together with colleagues from Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, the research team embarked on a journey to uncover the hidden stories of those who walked the streets of Europe centuries ago.</p>



<p>The study was not merely an attempt at investigating history, but a fully immersive exploration of preserved brains found in a crypt in Milan.</p>



<p>This crypt, lying in the shadows of the historical Ospedale Maggiore, served as the final resting place of many who took their last breath in the famed hospital.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-origins-of-cocaine">Tracing the origins of cocaine</h2>



<p>Before we dig in further into the findings, it's important to understand the history of cocaine use itself.</p>



<p>For thousands of years, inhabitants of South America's western regions relied on the coca plant for its stimulating effects. </p>



<p>Fast forward to the 19th century, scientists discovered that processing the leaves produced cocaine hydrochloride salts, thus making the euphoric and mind-altering impacts more potent. </p>



<p>This led to the drug's rise in popularity throughout Europe as a recreational substance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-cocaine-use">Early cocaine use</h2>



<p>The Milan team discovered that Europe's rendezvous with the coca plant started much earlier than previously assumed.</p>



<p>Buried beneath the grounds of the Ca’ Granda crypt, a revelation awaited the research team: Europeans were using this drug to experience its mind-altering effects almost 200 years prior to the 19th-century boom.</p>



<p>During their excavation, the researchers came across the remains of two individuals whose bodies had undergone natural mummification. This presented the team with an unprecedented chance to probe deeper into Europe's past.</p>



<p>Remarkably, active components of the coca plant were found in the preserved brains of both mummies - a clear indication that these individuals were partaking in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rosemary-compound-offers-hope-in-combating-cocaine-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habit</a> of chewing coca leaves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pharmacological-past">The pharmacological past</h2>



<p>Exploring the historical medical records of Ospedale Maggiore, the researchers found no evidence of medical use of cocaine or the coca plant, dismissing the possibility that the two individuals were using these leaves for medicinal purposes. </p>



<p>Instead, it suggests that the reason behind their consumption was purely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recreational</a>. Evidence also suggested that these two individuals were of modest means, as their burial site and method indicated poverty.</p>



<p>This leads us to imagine a time when coca leaves were not only cheap and abundant, but also served as a readily available recreational outlet for the less fortunate.</p>



<p>The study not only uncovers an intriguing aspect of Europe's past but also poses fascinating questions about the socio-cultural nuances of the time.</p>



<p>It’s an eye-opening reminder that the roots of today's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use</a> issues trace back much further than we might imagine.</p>



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



<p>The discovery of early cocaine use in Europe invites us to reconsider the cultural exchanges between continents during the 17th century. </p>



<p>It highlights the profound impact of trade routes that were not just conduits for goods but also for ideas, customs, and substances that shaped societies. </p>



<p>The research prompts a re-evaluation of the socio-cultural dynamics of the time, revealing how global interactions influenced personal habits and leisure activities across different classes.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study raises questions about the perception and regulation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychoactive-drug-relieves-symptoms-of-traumatic-brain-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychoactive</a> substances throughout history. It challenges the notion that modern society's struggles with drug use are solely a contemporary issue, instead suggesting a longstanding human curiosity and relationship with mind-altering substances.</p>



<p>As researchers continue to unearth the layers of Europe’s past, this fascinating glimpse into early cocaine use serves as a witness to the complexity and interconnectedness of human history. The findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary research in unveiling hidden chapters that challenge our understanding of historical narratives.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0305440324001080" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Archaeological Science</a></em>.</p>



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<p></p>

Cocaine use detected in the brains of 17th century mummies

Europe's fascinating history is no stranger to tales of exotic...

<p>Here on Earth, tomatoes grow best in fertile soil that is rich in nutrients like potassium and phosphorus. But can we grow tomatoes in the weightless environment of space? </p>



<p>Thanks to a dedicated team of scientists, space-grown tomatoes will soon become a reality.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tomato-plants-are-ready-for-launch">Tomato plants are ready for launch</h2>



<p>Imagine biting into a fresh, juicy tomato cultivated on an extraterrestrial station orbiting 260 miles above our planet. </p>



<p>This isn’t a distant futuristic vision but an emerging reality, with specially engineered tomato plants set to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS).</p>



<p>These are no ordinary tomatoes. Compact, engineered to thrive in minimal space, and painstakingly developed for astronomic growth, these plants are setting a course for the International Space Station (ISS). </p>



<p>The tomatoes are currently under observation at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a payload flight scheduled within the next year or so.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-tomatoes-in-space">Growing tomatoes in space</h2>



<p>The journey will initiate an unprecedented event – these tomato seeds will germinate and bear fruit on the ISS, within its Advanced Plant Habitat laboratory.</p>



<p>The seeds from this first-generation space fruit will then plant the roots for a second generation of tomatoes in the stars.</p>



<p>"So, it’s going to be a seed-to-a-seed-to-a-seed, which has never been done before in space," noted Robert Jinkerson, a professor in the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering at <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a>.</p>



<p>But why tomatoes, you ask? Designed to bear fruit in compact spaces, these plants are potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watermeal-may-become-an-essential-food-for-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food sources for astronauts</a> – a development years in the making.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-technology">SPACE technology</h2>



<p>The remarkable research was led by Martha Orozco-Cárdenas of UCR's Plant Transformation Research Center. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology, Orozco-Cárdenas downsized ordinary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-talk-to-one-another-to-signal-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomato plants</a>, reducing the leaf to fruit ratio.</p>



<p>Backed by an $800,000 grant from the NASA-funded Translational Research Institute for Space Health, further engineering led to the creation of the space-ready tomatoes.</p>



<p>Known as Small Plants for Space Expeditions (SPACE), this technology could extend to other crops on the ISS and future space colonies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-space-grown-foods">Exploring space-grown foods</h2>



<p>Tomatoes may have company soon. The UCR team is exploring options to grow edible yeast, green algae, and mushrooms in space. Their efforts were recognized when they won $250,000 in NASA’s Deep Space Food Challenge.</p>



<p>The unprecedented research relies on innovative techniques. Eschewing sunlight, a key element for most agricultural cultivation, the team grows mushrooms using acetate, a carbon-based compound. The result - an estimated production of about 4,000 calories per day, surpassing the productivity of biological photosynthesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environment-adaptive-agriculture">Environment-adaptive agriculture</h2>



<p>The research bears significant implications for earthly agriculture too. Compact, indoor-growing crops could be the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-crops-have-higher-yields-in-an-urban-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban agriculture</a>. Vertical farming, with multilayered hydroponically-fed crops, may also play a role in the forthcoming agricultural revolution.</p>



<p>The SPACE tomato, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-genes-that-help-fruit-adapt-to-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapted</a> to thrive in confined spaces, could soon become available for urban farming. This innovation becomes crucial in regions experiencing climate changes that make outdoor cultivation untenable.</p>



<p>The research team is working towards cultivating food-producing organisms in the dark using acetate as their sole source of carbon and energy, sidestepping the need for photosynthesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gearing-up-for-the-green-revolution">Gearing up for the green revolution </h2>



<p>Despite being able to grow yeast, mushrooms, and green algae in the dark feeding on acetate, growing tomatoes and other crops under these conditions remains a hurdle due to the toxicity of acetate to adult plants.</p>



<p>The researchers are exploring solutions, aiming to engineer metabolic processes found in germinating seeds that can utilize acetate. Such dark cultivation could revolutionize agriculture by enabling more widespread indoor cultivation wherever electricity is available.</p>



<p>This would increase the efficiency of food production, reduce agricultural land use, and mitigate its environmental impact. For space agriculture, this increased energy efficiency could help feed more crew members with fewer resources.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the next technological breakthrough in agriculture might well come from a humble tomato plant, grown in the controlled environment of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-space-radiation-affect-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space station</a>.</p>



<p>As we grapple with the challenges of climate change and a rapidly expanding global population, the cosmic tomato could be a critical ingredient in the recipe for a sustainable future.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Space tomatoes are ready for an unprecedented mission

Here on Earth, tomatoes grow best in fertile soil that...

<p>By analyzing crop yields of over 1,500 fields on six continents, a team of scientists led by Rutgers University-New Brunswick has recently found that global production of important, nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes is limited by a significant lack of pollinators.</p>



<p>The experts discovered that across various crops and locations, one-third to two-thirds of farms have fields which are not producing at the levels they should be due to a lack of pollinators, a phenomenon known as “pollinator limitation.” These findings are particularly timely considering recent concerns about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global declines</a> in insect abundance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concern-and-optimism">Concern and optimism</h2>



<p>“Our findings are a cause for concern and optimism,” said Katie Turo, a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources in the <a href="https://sebs.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences</a>. </p>



<p>“We did detect widespread yield deficits. However, we also estimate that, through continued investment in pollinator management and research, it is likely that we can improve the efficiency of our existing crop fields to meet the nutritional needs of our global population.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-database-of-crop-pollination">Comprehensive database of crop pollination</h2>



<p>The researchers conducted a statistical analysis of over 200,000 bee visitations to crop flowers, by using one of the world’s most comprehensive databases on pollinated crops. </p>



<p>Senior author Rachael Winfree, a professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources, collaborated with various colleagues from South America and Europe to compile the most comprehensive database of crop pollination studies on the globe. This open-source database includes three decades of field observations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-face-a-multitude-of-complex-stressors-in-the-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> and other pollinators.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crops-pollinated-by-insects">Crops pollinated by insects</h2>



<p>The findings do not apply to major food crops like rice and wheat, which do not require pollinators for reproduction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nevertheless, pollination by bees and other animals is critical to the proliferation of “nutrient-dense and interesting foods that we like and are culturally relevant,” such as fruits, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-learned-why-so-many-kids-dislike-vegetables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetables</a>, nuts, and legumes, as Turo noted.</p>



<p>“If you look through a list of crops and think about which fruits and vegetables you’re most excited to eat - like summer berries or apples and pumpkins in the fall - those are the crops that typically need to be pollinated by insects,” she said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinators-and-flowering-plants">Pollinators and flowering plants</h2>



<p>Pollination refers to the process of transferring pollen from the male to the female part of a flower, allowing plants to be fertilized and reproduced. Pollen can be moved around by wind, water or, most frequently, pollinators like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-are-very-loyal-to-their-flower-patches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a> and other other animals, including bats.</p>



<p>According to previous studies, pollinators contribute to the reproduction of nearly 88 percent of the flowering plants and 76 percent of the main global food crops, and bees appear to be the most effective pollinators because they visit more flowers and carry more pollen than other insects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The analysis revealed that blueberry, coffee and apple crops were most frequently impacted by pollinator limitation, while yield deficits were found for 25 crops in 85 percent of the countries evaluated.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paying-more-attention-to-pollinators-nbsp">Paying more attention to pollinators<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The researchers remain optimistic that current yield deficits could be remediated with increases in pollinator visitation across individual crop fields. Fortunately, in some cases a sufficient number of bees were already visiting some fields.</p>



<p>“Our findings show variations in sensitivity to pollinator limitation across diverse crop systems and indicate that realistic increases in pollinator visitation could mitigate crop yield shortfalls attributable to pollinator limitation,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Turo, if field managers manage to improve consistency across both high- and low-yield fields, much of the identified yield problems could be fixed.</p>



<p>Winfree said the findings are significant because <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/floral-interventions-on-farms-boost-pollinators-and-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop yields</a>, which measure the amount of crops grown per unit area of land, are relevant to assessing the adequacy of the world’s food supply relative to its population. </p>



<p>“Our findings show that by paying more attention to pollinators, growers could make agricultural fields more productive,” Winfree concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02460-2"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Crops worldwide are insufficiently pollinated

By analyzing crop yields of over 1,500 fields on six...

<p>When you stroll through a northern forest, you might not realize that you're meandering through a precious carbon vault. Its soils lock away carbon dioxide that trees absorb and use for photosynthesis, helping our planet breath a little easier. But what happens when the climate becomes too hot to handle?</p>



<p>This was the focus of an intriguing study led by Peter Reich from the University of Michigan. With decades of dedication to understanding our natural world, Reich is the director of the Institute for Global Change Biology at U-M.</p>



<p>The results of the study may change what we know about global warming and the role of our faithful forests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-so-cool-side-of-global-warming">Not-so-cool side of global warming</h2>



<p>Global warming is known to turn up the heat on our planet, but it may be turning up the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pressure on our soils too</a>. </p>



<p>Reich's team discovered that as temperatures rise, soils lose more carbon than plants can replace. The carbon escapes back into the atmosphere, contributing to an ominous cycle of increasing temperatures and mounting carbon emissions.</p>



<p>"This is not good news because it suggests that, as the world warms, soils are going to give back some of their carbon to the atmosphere," said Reich.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study lead author Dr. Guopeng Liang was a postdoc researcher at the University of Minnesota during the study. He is currently a postdoc researcher at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a> and an exchange fellow at the Institute for Global Change Biology.</p>



<p>"The big picture story is that losing more carbon is always going to be a bad thing for climate," said Dr. Liang.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-carbon-cycle-in-soils">Varying carbon cycle in soils</h2>



<p>Understanding how temperature fluctuations affect the carbon cycle within soils is crucial for forecasting future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-pool-of-global-soil-carbon-alters-climate-change-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a>. Our forests are not just picturesque havens for wildlife; they hold approximately 40% of the Earth's soil carbon.</p>



<p>Several studies have been conducted to ascertain how climate change may alter the carbon flux from forest soils. However, most of these studies are relatively short, lasting no more than three years, and they tend to examine warming in the soil or the air above it, but not both.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-experiments">Unique experiments</h2>



<p>Reich and his team broke away from the traditional methodologies, conducting what is believed to be the first experiment of its kind. </p>



<p>The experts meticulously controlled not just the soil temperatures, but also the above-ground temperatures in open air- all without the use of any enclosures and, they kept this study running for over a dozen years.</p>



<p>"Our experiment is unique. It's far and away the most realistic experiment like this in the world," Reich asserts.</p>



<p>The project received financial support from the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the <a href="https://twin-cities.umn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Minnesota</a>. </p>



<p>Collaborators from these institutions, along with the <a href="https://illinois.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, joined forces with Reich and Liang for this study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-respiration-and-carbon-cycle">Soil respiration and carbon cycle</h2>



<p>The team explored two warming scenarios at two sites in northern Minnesota, each consisting of 36 plots. They found that soil respiration - the process that releases carbon dioxide - increased by 7% under a modest warming scenario and by a whopping 17% under the more extreme case.</p>



<p>Interestingly, they also found that soil moisture, which decreases at warmer temperatures due to faster water loss from plants and soils, can restrict this carbon release. Microbes, essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-rooted-crops-can-significantly-improve-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil respiration</a>, prefer wetter soils, thus the drier soils limit their activity.</p>



<p>"The take-home message here is that forests are going to lose more carbon than we would like. But maybe not as much as they would if this drying wasn’t happening," said Reich.</p>



<p>So, next time you walk through a northern forest, take a moment to appreciate the complex and vital role it plays in our planet's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon cycle</a>. Like an unsung hero, the soil beneath our feet strives to trap carbon, despite the escalating global temperatures.</p>



<p>As we continue to unravel the secrets of our natural world, remember to do your part in preserving it. After all, our future depends on the choices we make today.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01512-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.</p>



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Warming soils release more carbon than plants can replace

When you stroll through a northern forest, you might not...

<p>When we think of forests, several incredible benefits may spring to mind. Forests offset greenhouse gas emissions through their natural carbon storage capacity. They provide habitats for wildlife, increase biodiversity, and offer unparalleled recreational opportunities. </p>



<p>In Michigan, forests serve as a vital economic engine that contributed over $26 billion to the state's economy in 2022. </p>



<p>And now, researchers at Michigan State University are highlighting an invisible standout benefit: these woodlands play an instrumental role in supplying and sanitizing our drinking water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unearthing-the-forest-water-nexus">Unearthing the forest-water nexus</h2>



<p>The study was led by Emily Huff, an associate professor in the <a href="https://seas.umich.edu/academics/courses/forest-ecology-and-management" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U-M Department of Forestry</a>, and colleagues Asia Dowtin, Emily Huizenga, and Jo Latimore.</p>



<p>"Billions of people around the world rely on forests to filter and provide clean drinking water," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>"The immense value of drinking water can be a strong rationale for conserving and sustainably managing forests, however, people are often unaware of this forest ecosystem service of providing clean drinking water which can lead to the service’s degradation."</p>



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



<p>The team set out to investigate how stakeholders perceive woodlands' ability to provide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-4-4-billion-people-lack-access-to-safe-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean drinking water</a>.</p>



<p>Stakeholders in this study were categorized into seven groups: water consumers, water utility providers, forest landowners, industry partners, policymakers, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. </p>



<p>“Generally speaking, most people understood that where there are forests, there’s cleaner and more abundant water. However, they didn’t make the functional link that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-day-of-forests-2024-new-solutions-for-a-better-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conserving forests</a> results in cleaner drinking water," explained Huff.</p>



<p>This oversight arises due to a lack of awareness about the origin of household drinking water and the significant contribution of woodlands to its cleanliness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-link-between-forests-and-clean-water">Ecological link between forests and clean water</h2>



<p>“The conclusion we came to for why this is, is partly because Michigan is varied when it relates to where water comes from and flows to throughout different watersheds. There’s a huge focus on overall Great Lakes water quality, but maybe less so specifically on drinking water,” said Huff.</p>



<p>Despite the fact that over 150 million people in the U.S. depend on woodlands to filter their drinking water, many remain oblivious to this ecological connection.</p>



<p>In Michigan specifically, 56% of residents rely on surface water for drinking, while the remaining 44% use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-has-a-vital-role-in-ecosystem-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater</a>, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.</p>



<p>The state's vast woodland coverage, therefore, plays an integral role in ensuring the availability and purity of its water supply.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-nature-s-water-filtration-system">Forests: Nature’s water filtration system</h2>



<p>Forests act as a natural filtration system, safeguarding our water in several ways. Their leafy canopies buffer the impact of heavy rain on the forest floor, reducing erosion and thereby limiting the pollution of nearby bodies of water.</p>



<p>As rainwater permeates the soil and becomes groundwater, the forest roots absorb nutrients and filter it further.</p>



<p>“In 2016, we were only a couple years removed from the beginning of the Flint <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-worlds-climate-driven-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water crisis</a> when drinking water was a crisis in Michigan and something we needed to pay more attention to," said Mike Smalligan, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) forest stewardship coordinator.</p>



<p>Smalligan said he wanted forests and the Michigan DNR to be more relevant to a conversation about drinking water. An initiative called “Forest to Mi Faucet” was created to explain how forests in Michigan protect drinking water.</p>



<p>Forest to Mi Faucet also helps find ways to lower water treatment costs for communities through forest filtration, teaches landowners how to responsibly manage woodlands, and promotes strategic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-too-many-trees-could-spoil-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree planting</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-awareness-action-and-conservation">Awareness, action, and conservation</h2>



<p>"Healthy forests protect clean drinking water, and healthy forests are sometimes actively managed for forest products," said Huff. </p>



<p>"There are ways to log forests that are sensitive to water quality and quantity, and at the end of the day, having forests where they are far surpasses any other land use when it comes to water quality and quantity.”</p>



<p>Looking forward, Huff and her team see an opportunity to create a market compensating landowners and forest managers for the water-based ecosystem services their woodlands provide. </p>



<p>“That would essentially mean that money moves from the consumer or utility provider upstream to the forest landowner or manager so that forests are protected via a system where the beneficiaries - the consumers of water - pay forest landowners or managers to keep their lands as forests,” Huff explained.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1752-1688.13002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of American Water Resources Association</a></em>.</p>



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<p></p>

Forests play a crucial role in clean drinking water

When we think of forests, several incredible benefits may spring...

<p>As the world of today puts on its thinking cap, a new appreciation for unconventional methods is on the rise. A peculiar one among these is the use of psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, in treating depressive symptoms.</p>



<p>Psilocybin is popularly known as the active ingredient in magic mushrooms. An intriguing study recently published in <em>The BMJ</em> tells us that high dose psilocybin could be as effective as popular SSRI drug escitalopram in managing depressive symptoms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-and-depression-trials">Psilocybin and depression trials</h2>



<p>The study authors report that patient responses were better in high dose psilocybin treatments than those on placebo in antidepressant trials. But, what's the catch? The extent of the effect was not massive, but the potential is there.</p>



<p>The diligent researchers behind the review and meta-analysis are affiliated with the BMJ Group, a globally respected player in the medical research landscape. Through their careful evaluation of numerous trials, these scientists have shed new light on psilocybin’s potential role.</p>



<p>To get a clearer picture, the researchers painstakingly searched scientific databases, identifying randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of psychedelics or escitalopram on adults with acute depressive symptoms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-and-psychedelic-perspective">Psilocybin and psychedelic perspective</h2>



<p>Psychedelics have been gaining attention in the realm of psychiatric treatment. Some might even call it a paradigm shift. </p>



<p>However, it's important to note that there are significant challenges. The subjective nature of psychedelic experiences can distort results, and the psychological support that usually accompanies psychedelic treatment can make it hard to isolate the effects of the drugs themselves.</p>



<p>That being said, the researchers found a glimmer of hope. The research included 811 people participating in 15 psychedelic trials and 1,968 people participating in five escitalopram trials.</p>



<p>The participants' average age was 42 and 39 respectively, with women making up more than half of both groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-in-the-psychedelic-sky">Star in the psychedelic sky</h2>



<p>The study's most exciting find? High dose psilocybin was the only psychedelic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/measuring-psilocybin-mushroom-potency-just-got-easier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a> that performed better than a placebo in escitalopram trials. Its effect size was small, but comparable to that of current antidepressant drugs.</p>



<p>If you have concerns about the safety of using psychedelics like psilocybin, a recent study offers some reassuring insights. The research focused on the effects of psilocybin and other similar interventions, assessing their safety profile in comparison to a placebo. </p>



<p>Importantly, the findings revealed that none of the interventions were linked to a higher rate of severe adverse events. This includes serious issues such as death, hospitalization, or suicide attempts, as well as the rate of discontinuation of treatment. </p>



<p>This suggests that, when used responsibly and under appropriate conditions, psychedelics may not pose the heightened risks some fear, providing a promising avenue for exploration in mental health treatment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-and-depression-treatment">Psilocybin and depression treatment </h2>



<p>The exploration of psilocybin as a potential treatment for depression is just getting started. As researchers delve into how psychedelics <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-before-psilocybin-mushrooms-brain-on-psilocybin-mushrooms-any-questions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interact with our brains</a>, it's important to balance excitement with caution. </p>



<p>The early results are encouraging, but they raise many questions about how psilocybin actually works. Psychopharmacology plays a crucial role in uncovering these mysteries, helping us understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these substances</a> affect our neurotransmitters and thinking. </p>



<p>By encouraging open conversations between doctors, researchers, and those who have experienced these therapies, we can learn to integrate psychedelics into future treatment approaches in a responsible way.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fine-print">The fine print</h2>



<p>But, like any study, it's critical to acknowledge its limitations. The researchers admitted the sample size was small, and they only assessed the acute effects of interventions. Long term effects of psychedelics and escitalopram remain uncertain.</p>



<p>“Serotonergic psychedelics, especially high dose psilocybin, appeared to have the potential to treat depressive symptoms. Our analysis suggested that the standardised mean difference of high dose psilocybin was similar to that of current antidepressant drugs, showing a small effect size,” the researchers conclude.</p>



<p>“Improved blinding methods and standardised psychotherapies can help researchers to better estimate the efficacy of psychedelics for depressive symptoms and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mushroom-magic-new-species-discovered-in-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychiatric conditions</a>.”</p>



<p>They suggest improved blinding methods and standardized psychotherapies can help provide a better estimate of psychedelics' efficacy for depressive symptoms and other psychiatric conditions.</p>



<p>As the scientific community strives to explore further, this study sparks a thought-provoking conversation, doesn't it? Dare we open the door to psychedelics as a potential tool to combat depression? It's a question worth asking.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/386/bmj-2023-078607" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The BMJ</a>.</em></p>



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<p>-----</p>

Confirmed: Magic mushrooms can effectively treat depression

As the world of today puts on its thinking cap,...

<p>A remarkable study reveals a promising new avenue for combating cocaine addiction. The research points towards a compound present in the rosemary plant as a potential therapy for addiction - but not in the way you might expect.</p>



<p>The scientists focused their attention on a part of the brain known as the globus pallidus externus (GPe), a sort of gatekeeper that affects individual reactions to cocaine. </p>



<p>The research revealed that specific neurons within the GPe, known as parvalbumin-positive neurons, play an essential role in regulating our responses to cocaine by altering dopamine, the brain's pleasure molecule.</p>



<p>Study co-author Kevin Beier is an associate professor of physiology and biophysics at <a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Irvine</a>. </p>



<p>"Our study deepens our understanding of the basic brain mechanisms that increase vulnerability to substance use disorder-related outcomes and provides a foundation for the development of new interventions," said Beier.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moderating-the-brain-s-cocaine-reward-response">Moderating the brain's cocaine reward response</h2>



<p>Beier noted that there are currently no effective therapeutics for dependence on psychostimulants such as cocaine, which, along with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioids</a>, represent a substantial health burden.</p>



<p>The research has far-reaching implications not just for cocaine addiction, but for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use</a> disorders in general, and it could become a vital tool for developing more effective interventions across a broad spectrum of addictive behaviors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rosemary-to-the-rescue">Rosemary to the rescue</h2>



<p>The most striking revelation came as the team observed the behavior and neural responses of mice who were repeatedly exposed to cocaine.</p>



<p>This chronic cocaine exposure significantly heightened the excitability of the GPe parvalbumin-positive cells, which in turn caused a substantial reduction in the expression of specific proteins that are crucial for maintaining the normal activity of these GPe cells.</p>



<p>The experts discovered that carnosic acid, a potent antioxidant isolate from rosemary extract, selectively binds to the affected ion channels within these neurons.</p>



<p>This binding provides a targeted and precise mechanism to dampen the heightened response to cocaine, offering a promising avenue for reducing the drug’s impact in a relatively specific and controlled fashion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substance-use-disorder-vulnerability">Substance use disorder vulnerability</h2>



<p>"Only a subset of individuals are vulnerable to developing a substance use disorder, but we cannot yet identify who they are. If GPe cell activity can effectively predict response to cocaine, it could be used to measure likely responses and thus serve as a biomarker for the most vulnerable," said Beier. </p>



<p>"Furthermore, it's possible that carnosic acid could be given to those at high risk to reduce the response to cocaine."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safely-battling-cocaine-addiction">Safely battling cocaine addiction </h2>



<p>As hopeful as these findings are, further research is required to thoroughly assess any potential side effects of carnosic acid, ensuring its safety and efficacy for long-term use. </p>



<p>Additionally, scientists need to determine the optimal dosage and timing to maximize its therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks. </p>



<p>Beyond just cocaine, the research team is also eager to explore carnosic acid's potential in reducing the craving and dependency associated with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-is-up-by-20-percent-in-states-where-its-legal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">addictive substances</a>.</p>



<p>The team is particularly keen on developing more potent and focused variants of the compound, aiming to enhance its specificity and effectiveness in targeting the neural pathways involved in addiction. </p>



<p>These advanced versions of carnosic acid could pave the way for a new class of treatments, offering hope for those struggling with various forms of substance use disorders.</p>



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



<p>While the current study highlights the significant potential of rosemary's carnosic acid in addressing cocaine dependence, the broader implications of the research could extend far beyond just one substance.</p>



<p>The mechanisms uncovered by the researchers, particularly the critical role of the GPe and parvalbumin-positive neurons in moderating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-helps-us-understand-ourselves-and-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dopamine</a> responses, may be highly relevant to a wide array of substance use disorders.</p>



<p>By strategically targeting these specific neural pathways, researchers believe that new, more effective therapeutic approaches could be developed. The ultimate goal is to treat addiction to a range of drugs, including opioids, methamphetamines, and other psychostimulants.</p>



<p>The research paves the way for innovative treatments that could revolutionize the way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-addiction-may-qualify-as-substance-use-disorder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use disorders</a> are managed, offering hope to millions struggling with addiction.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(24)00540-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuron</a></em>.</p>



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Rosemary compound offers hope in combating cocaine addiction

A remarkable study reveals a promising new avenue for combating...

<p>Organic farming and flower strips are extremely beneficial for honey bee health, helping colonies that live in their vicinity grow stronger and more resilient. This happens most likely because the honey bees have a continuous and diverse food supply there, while being less exposed to pesticides.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farming-styles-impact-honey-bee-health">Farming styles impact honey bee health</h2>



<p>To reach this conclusion, a team of scientists from <a href="https://www.uni-halle.de/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg</a> (MLU) and the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a> analyzed data from 32 bee colonies at 16 locations in Germany with various proportions of organic fields, flower strips and semi-natural habitats.</p>



<p>About half of Germany’s land is used for agriculture, according to the <a href="https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Environment Agency</a> (UBA). “The way that farmers cultivate their land has a major impact on nature. Intensively farmed fields, pesticides and monocultures pose a threat to many animal and plant species. This is particularly true for pollinators, which include honey bees,” said Robert Paxton, a bee researcher at MLU. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-effects-of-intensive-farming-nbsp">Mitigating the effects of intensive farming<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Some important measures counteracting this trend include increasing the proportion of organic farming, planting more flower strips, and devising perennial semi-natural areas near crop fields.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In theory, these measures all make sense. However, we know little about how each of these affect insects, especially honey bees,” Paxton said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-farming-and-honey-bee-health">Organic farming and honey bee health</h2>



<p>To clarify these issues, the scientists carried out research at 16 locations in Lower Saxony, Germany. Each of these locations were different in the proportion of organic fields, flower strips and perennial semi-natural habitats surrounding them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts placed honey bee colonies at each of these sites and observed them for a year. They took into consideration colony growth and parasite infestation, paying special attention to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/varroa-mites-honey-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">varroa mite</a>, an extremely dangerous pest of honey bees that can transmit lethal viruses. </p>



<p>Then, they compared data regarding the colonies. “Organic farming had the greatest impact - the larger the proportion of these areas, the lower the parasite infestation of a colony. This improved colony growth,” explained lead author Patrycja Pluta from MLU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Most likely, this occurred since organic farming uses fewer pesticides, employing alternative plant protection measures.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flower-strips-and-honey-bee-health">Flower strips and honey bee health</h2>



<p>Flower strips appeared particularly advantageous to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-protecting-our-vital-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a>. For instance, the number of Varroa mites was found to be lower in areas with many flower strips. “This could be due to the fact that a diverse and rich food supply strengthens the honey bees’ immune system,” Pluta said. </p>



<p>However, perennial semi-natural habitats turned out to be disadvantageous for honey bees, since  larger areas usually meant a greater infestation of varroa mites. In addition, unlike flower strips, such areas are not designed to offer abundant supplies of food for honey bees and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>. </p>



<p>“Perennial semi-natural landscapes are an important tool for promoting biodiversity and they serve as a habitat for many animals. Honey bees, that are managed by humans, are the exception,” Paxton said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This study, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14723" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Applied Ecology</em></a>, is an important step forward in improving agricultural landscape management for bees and other pollinators.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-the-survival-of-honey-bees">Threats to the survival of honey bees</h2>



<p>The research is particularly important, as honey bees face a combination of threats that create a challenging environment which makes it difficult for them to thrive and sustain the essential pollination services they provide to agriculture and natural ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of the most well-known threats is the widespread use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, which can impair bees' ability to navigate, forage, and reproduce. Exposure to these chemicals can weaken bees and make them more susceptible to diseases and parasites.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Speaking of parasites, the Varroa destructor mite is another significant threat to honeybees. This tiny parasite feeds on the blood of bees and can transmit deadly viruses, weakening the colony over time.</p>



<p>In addition to these direct threats, honeybees are also affected by habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and climate change. The loss of wildflowers and other foraging resources reduces the availability of nectar and pollen, which bees need to survive.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Climate change further exacerbates these issues by altering flowering times and creating mismatches between when bees are active and when flowers are available. This can lead to poor nutrition for bees, which makes them less resilient to other stresses.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Organic farming and flower strips improve honey bee health

Organic farming and flower strips are extremely beneficial for honey...

<p>Who doesn't love a good fruit smoothie? It's a delightful way to pack in your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. But could the banana-blueberry smoothie you're sipping on be robbing you of some vital nutrients?</p>



<p>This is what a new study from the University of California, Davis, seems to point at. The research explores how blending certain fruits together can affect your body’s nutritional intake.</p>



<p>The key figure guiding this fascinating exploration is Javier Ottaviani, who holds the dual position of director of the Core Laboratory of Mars Edge (part of the confectionery powerhouse, Mars, Inc.) and being an adjunct researcher with the <a href="https://nutrition.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis Department of Nutrition</a>.</p>



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



<p>The research, featured in the Royal Society of Chemistry's journal <em><a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2023/fo/d3fo01599h" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food &amp; Function</a></em>, sets its sight on how the enzyme found in many fruits and vegetables - polyphenol oxidase (PPO) - influences the quantity of flavanols our bodies can squish out from food.</p>



<p>Flavanols are bioactive compounds that do wonders for your heart health and cognition, and are naturally present in fruits like apples, pears, blueberries, blackberries, and even cocoa - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-science-behind-a-smoothie-the-fruit-you-choose-makes-a-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usual suspects</a> in your smoothie mix.</p>



<p>"Through the study, we were interested in understanding how the seemingly benign process of making a banana-based smoothie could impact flavanol absorption," said Ottaviani.</p>



<p>Remember how apples or bananas tend to brown when you slice them or even peel them? That's our enzyme, PPO, kicking into action. The team sought out to investigate whether drinking smoothies made from fruits with varying degrees of PPO content would affect flavanol intake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bananas-vs-berries-smoothie-showdown">Bananas vs. berries: Smoothie showdown</h2>



<p>For the study, participants were asked to drink a banana smoothie (a fruit with high PPO activity) and a mixed berries smoothie (with low PPO activity). The team then examined blood and urine samples to see how much flavanols were absorbed after each smoothie.</p>



<p>The findings? The banana smoothie drinkers had an 84% lower flavanol level in their bodies compared to the control group. </p>



<p>"It was surprising to see how adding just one banana could dramatically decrease the flavanol level in the smoothie and, in turn, the flavanol absorbed by the body," said Ottaviani.</p>



<p>The finding is a potent reminder of how food combinations and preparation methods can impact the absorption of dietary compounds from our food.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smoothie-hacks-for-optimal-health">Smoothie hacks for optimal health</h2>



<p>Now before you start eyeing bananas with suspicion, let's make a couple of things clear. Bananas are still fantastic for you. In fact, last year, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics advised people to consume 400 to 600 milligrams of flavanols daily for cardiometabolic health.</p>



<p>What the study suggests is, if you're keen on getting those flavanols, consider making smoothies with fruits rich in flavanols like berries, and blend them with other low PPO ingredients like pineapple, oranges, mango, or even yogurt.</p>



<p>If you love adding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/banana-apocalypse-can-science-save-our-favorite-fruit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bananas</a> to your smoothies or enjoy other high PPO fruits and vegetables like beet greens, it's best to avoid mixing them with flavanol-rich options such as berries, grapes, and cocoa. </p>



<p>This combination can affect the health benefits you’re aiming for, so consider keeping them separate for optimal results in your nutrition.</p>



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



<p>"The study gives us a roadmap for future research into how we prepare other foods and how it affects flavanol absorption," noted Ottaviani. For instance, tea is a significant source of flavanols, and how it's prepared could alter the availability of flavanols for absorption.</p>



<p>So the next time you reach for that blender, remember, it's not just about what goes into your smoothie - it's also about how those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients</a> interact with each other.</p>



<p>"As the interest in the health benefits of dietary flavan-3-ols and polyphenols grows, this study highlights that consideration needs to be given not only to the types of fruits and vegetables and plant-based products to recommend to increase intake, but also how they are prepared, stored, and consumed as part of a regular meal in order to maximize their potential to support health," concluded the study authors. </p>



<p>The research involved contributors from the UC Davis Department of Nutrition, the UC Davis Department of Internal Medicine, University of Reading, King Saud University, and Mars, Inc. </p>



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Bananas are not the best choice for a healthy smoothie

Who doesn't love a good fruit smoothie? It's a delightful...

<p>What once stood as a shield against the harsh impacts of climate change, Africa's montane forests, are under threat. The latest danger to these forests involves a largely unknown consequence of deforestation: cloud level rise.</p>



<p>Known for their spectacular biodiversity and water-trapping properties, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loss-of-mountain-forests-accelerating-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">montane forests</a> are lifelines for millions of people in Africa.</p>



<p>In an era where climate change is a reality, these forests are sadly diminishing at an alarming rate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearing-forests-and-cloud-level-rise">Disappearing forests and cloud level rise</h2>



<p>In the span of just two decades, a staggering 18% of these "water towers" have disappeared due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>.</p>



<p>The impact? A two-fold increase in warming and cloud-level rise compared to that caused by climate change.</p>



<p>The air temperature has spiked by 1.4 centigrade, and the cloud level has ascended by a startling 230 meters in the past 20 years.</p>



<p>Professor Dirk Zeuss of the <a href="https://www.uni-marburg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Marburg</a> noted that these changes have strong consequences for water resources and biodiversity. But what exactly does this mean?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-cloud-level-rise">Consequences of cloud level rise</h2>



<p>As the cloud level ascends, water harvesting takes a significant hit. Clouds, when they touch the forest canopy, deposit fog (water) onto the plant and land surfaces. This natural phenomenon, however, becomes obsolete if the cloud base is higher than the forest canopy.</p>



<p>It is crucial for mountaintops to have ample forest cover - not only to augment the surface area of the land cover - but also to increase water storage in trees and soil.</p>



<p>The study sites were located in the highlands of Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Africa, including the Taita Hills of Kenya. </p>



<p>According to Professor Petri Pellikka, director of Taita Research Station, the team found that 20% more water was landing on the ground in forested mountain tops compared to open areas. </p>



<p>"This is due to fog deposited on the trees, which drips on the ground as droplets. This is additional to the rainfall. If the clouds remain higher and do not touch the forests, this phenomenon does not take place anymore," said Pellikka.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-the-forests-fade-so-does-life">When the forests fade, so does life</h2>



<p>It’s not just the Taita Hills where deforestation has wreaked havoc. Kenya's most critical water towers - Mt. Kenya, the Mau Forest, the Aberdare Mountains, Mt. Elgon, the Cherangani Hills, and even Mt. Kilimanjaro - are all bearing the brunt of deforestation.</p>



<p>Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain located in Tanzania, is a prime example. This mountain has seen a striking loss of 50% of its forest since 1880, according to Dr. Andreas Hemp from the University of Bayreuth, who has spent three decades researching in Kilimanjaro.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-and-elevation">Temperature and elevation</h2>



<p>Deforestation has far-reaching impacts. As the study reveals, the negative relationship between temperature and elevation means the impacts of warming due to deforestation can decrease with increasing elevation.</p>



<p>However, mass deforestation can counteract this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-measures-the-cooling-effect-of-shade-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cooling effect</a>, causing comparable warming at higher elevations in African montane forests. This adds another layer of complexity to the crisis.</p>



<p>Temesgen Abera is a visiting scholar from the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> and a postdoctoral researcher at Philipps University of Marburg, </p>



<p>"In Africa, montane deforestation induced by cropland expansion and logging poses serious threats to biodiversity and ecosystem services, such as water supply," said Abera.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-our-life-supporting-forests">Preserving our life-supporting forests</h2>



<p>These findings highlight the urgent need for preserving the forests that play such a pivotal role in maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global biodiversity</a> and the climate.</p>



<p>The research offers critical lessons for all regions globally facing similar challenges. It's time to take action against deforestation, for our own survival and that of our planet.</p>



<p>The study represents a significant step towards understanding the environmental risks of deforestation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-socio-economic-impact-of-montane-forest-loss">The socio-economic impact of montane forest loss</h2>



<p>The disappearance of montane forests doesn't only affect the environment but also has significant socio-economic repercussions for the communities that depend on them. </p>



<p>Many Indigenous and rural populations rely on these forests for their livelihoods, deriving resources such as fuelwood, medicinal plants, and food. As a result of deforestation, these resources become scarce, pushing communities towards poverty and forcing them to seek unsustainable alternatives.</p>



<p>Moreover, these forests play a crucial role in supporting local agriculture. They regulate microclimates and provide essential ecosystem services like pollination and pest control. As forests dwindle, agricultural productivity can suffer, threatening food security in already vulnerable regions.</p>



<p>Community-based forest management has emerged as a potential solution, empowering local populations to take part in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>. </p>



<p>By involving community members in sustainable forest practices, these initiatives not only help preserve forests but also ensure economic benefits are returned to the local people. This approach shows a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to more sustainable use and protection of forest resources.</p>



<p>As we strive to safeguard Africa's montane forests, integrating socio-economic considerations into conservation strategies is essential. Ensuring that local communities benefit from forest preservation is key to creating lasting solutions that protect these vital ecosystems while supporting human well-being.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51324-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Cloud level rise: The hidden threat of deforestation

What once stood as a shield against the harsh impacts...

Beautiful,Blue,Sky,Close-up,Of,Several,Sunflowers

<p>Unless you're a plant whisperer, you probably think of plants as quite docile, silently swaying to the rhythm of the wind and the light. They seem to exist in a tranquil state, absorbing sunlight and transforming carbon dioxide into oxygen without a care in the world.</p>



<p>However, science sometimes serves a reality check that sparks our curiosity and reveals the hidden complexities of plant life.</p>



<p>For instance, did you know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants can communicate with each other</a> through intricate root networks or even release chemicals to warn nearby plants of potential threats? These fascinating behaviors remind us that there’s much more to plants than meets the eye.</p>



<p>A recent study spearheaded by Prof. Yasmine Meroz from Tel Aviv University's <a href="https://en-lifesci.tau.ac.il/plants_food" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Plant Sciences and Food Security</a>, in partnership with Prof. Orit Peleg from the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado, Boulder</a>, does just that.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-seek-the-light">Plants seek the light</h2>



<p>This fascinating research unfolds the hidden dance of sunflowers, revealing the intricate behaviors that occur when they grow in close proximity.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflower-family-tree-explains-evolution-of-flower-symmetry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sunflowers</a> and other plants, when densely packed in a field, engage in a synchronized ballet that optimizes their growth and maximizes their exposure to sunlight.</p>



<p>But how do they achieve this remarkable coordination, you ask? It’s all about thriving amidst the competition for resources, not merely surviving.</p>



<p>By adjusting their angles and orientations in response to the light and each other, sunflowers ensure that they all receive an adequate share of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflower-extracts-shield-blueberries-from-fruit-rot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunlight, nutrients, and water</a>.</p>



<p>This fascinating interplay allows them to flourish together rather than compete harshly against one another.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspired-by-charles-darwin">Inspired by Charles Darwin</h2>



<p>Sunflowers, in their quest for sunlight, display a behavior called "circumnutation". This fancy word essentially describes the cyclical movement of sunflowers, a clever tactic to avoid casting shadows on their comrades.</p>



<p>The result? A coordinated dance ensuring every sunflower enjoys its fair share of sunlight, even in a densely populated field.</p>



<p>Interestingly, this intriguing phenomenon isn't a new discovery. The scientific maestro, Charles Darwin, had observed this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orchid-parents-nurture-seedlings-through-fungal-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior in plants</a>. But what he couldn't figure out was the functional role of these movements.</p>



<p>Our research team, including Dr. Chantal Nguyen from Boulder and Roni Kempinski and Imri Dromi from Tel Aviv University, took on this mystery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-plants-move-it-s-not-random">When plants move, it's not random</h2>



<p>"Why would a plant expend energy to move in seemingly random directions?" This thought-provoking question sparked Prof. Meroz's team to undertake a rigorous physical analysis of sunflower growth.</p>



<p>To explore this phenomenon in depth, they utilized time-lapse photography in a meticulously controlled, high-density environment, allowing them to closely observe the sunflowers' performance over time.</p>



<p>Their detailed observations revealed that the sunflowers' movements are not random at all; rather, they are a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-talk-to-one-another-to-signal-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital growth strategy</a>.</p>



<p>By adjusting their positions, the plants minimize mutual shading, ensuring that each sunflower receives optimal sunlight for photosynthesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-the-light">Searching for the light</h2>



<p>All plants are known to grow towards light sources, a phenomenon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-know-where-to-find-the-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">known as phototropism</a>. That's nothing new. However, this research offered a twist to this tale.</p>



<p>They found that sunflowers engage in random movements, not triggered by external stimuli like light. Surprisingly, these random steps varied significantly in size and frequency but played a vital role in optimizing sunflower growth.</p>



<p>"The sunflower plant takes advantage of the fact that it can use both small and slow steps as well as large and fast ones to find the optimum arrangement for the collective," Professor Moroz explained.</p>



<p>"If the range of steps was smaller or larger, the arrangement would result in more mutual shading and less photosynthesis."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-light-and-purposeful-movement">Plants, light, and purposeful movement</h2>



<p>The team's discovery showcases the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-complex-biochemical-communication-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced adaptive strategies</a> that plants employ, using both random and responsive movements to ensure survival.</p>



<p>It also opens up new possibilities to explore this behavior in other plants and understand the importance of collective dynamics in nature. As animals do, plants too can significantly benefit from group strategies.</p>



<p>As we widen our exploration into the secret lives of plants, we are amazed by the intricate ways nature operates.</p>



<p>This research could lead to new planting techniques, potentially enhancing crop yields while reducing usage of resources like water and fertilizers.</p>



<p>So next time you cross a field of sunflowers, remember, they aren't just standing there; they are performing a riveting ballet in the play of light and shadow.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.14.031027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review X</a></em>.</p>



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Plants purposefully move and alter growth direction to help their neighbors

Unless you're a plant whisperer, you probably think of plants...

<p>The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to an astonishing array of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Many of these species are restricted to specific regions, but the reasons behind this have long puzzled scientists. </p>



<p>Now, a new international study, led by the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Center for Ecology &amp; Hydrology</a> (UKCEH), offers fresh insights into the Amazon's evolution during the last Ice Age, between 2.6 million and 11,700 years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragile-ecosystems-of-the-amazon">Fragile ecosystems of the Amazon</h2>



<p>The research challenges long-standing beliefs about how the Amazon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-and-the-looming-threat-of-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> responded to climatic changes during the Ice Age. </p>



<p>The findings suggest that the Amazon is far more sensitive to environmental fluctuations than previously thought, providing yet another reminder of the dangers posed by rapid, human-induced climate change and large-scale land use shifts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-refuge-for-specialized-species">Interconnected refuge for specialized species</h2>



<p>For years, scientists have debated whether, during the Ice Age, the Amazon was divided into isolated “forest islands” known as refugia, or whether the forest remained continuous, similar to its current expanse.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The UKCEH-led study, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44185-024-00056-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>npj Biodiversity</em></a>, offers a new perspective: while forest islands existed, they were connected by woodlands and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazons-rainforests-are-at-risk-of-transforming-into-dry-grassy-savannas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">savannas</a>. This allowed certain adaptable animals to move between different habitats, while acting as a barrier for more specialized species that rely on specific ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-of-the-amazon">Biodiversity of the Amazon</h2>



<p>The vegetation and climate of a region play a key role in natural evolution. As environmental conditions changed, animals across the Amazon adapted, leading to the emergence of new species in different areas. This process explains why the Amazon hosts such a diverse range of life today.</p>



<p>“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate changes</a> in the past played a huge role in shaping how the Amazon forest looked and where it grew. Similar changes are coming very soon and much faster,” said lead author Douglas Kelley, a land surface modeler at UKCEH. </p>



<p>“Previously, fluctuations in climate took thousands of years to happen, enabling plants and animals to adapt, but now significant global warming is happening within decades due to increasing human-driven greenhouse gas emissions.”</p>



<p>The research team included scientists from institutions such as the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ontario Forest Research Institute</a>, Kiel University in Germany, the UK’s Met Office, and the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-biodiversity-of-the-ice-age-nbsp">Amazon biodiversity of the Ice Age&nbsp;</h2>



<p>By combining advanced climate and vegetation modeling with fossilized pollen records from sediment, the experts were able to create detailed predictions of the types of plants that thrived in the Amazon during the Ice Age. Previous research had largely relied on single techniques, but this study incorporated a broader range of data and methods.</p>



<p>Crucially, the researchers considered the gaps between areas where fossilized pollen has been found and analyzed whether animals could have moved between these habitats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Computer and statistical models predicted what types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-vegetation-database-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> likely existed in these in-between areas, verifying the team's predictions with the plant types recorded in adjacent regions.</p>



<p>During the Ice Age, the Amazon’s forest cover was dramatically reduced due to the colder, drier climate. Lower levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, along with dry conditions, limited tree growth and led to more frequent wildfires, which destroyed large portions of the forest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-nature-of-the-research-nbsp">Innovative nature of the research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study co-author Dr. Hiromitsu Sato of the Ontario Forest Research Institute highlighted the innovative nature of the team's approach.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We believe our study, involving integrated modeling methods, provides the best evidence to date on the origins of the rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-impact-of-fire-on-amazon-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> in the Amazon,” said Dr. Sato.</p>



<p>“Using land surface modeling to provide crucial information on biodiversity is a new and very exciting innovation that could be used in future to investigate the history of species where there is a shortage of data.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-amazon-diversity-of-the-past">Understanding Amazon diversity of the past</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, the researchers plan to explore how various groups of Amazonian species - such as monkeys, frogs, antbirds, butterflies, and lianas - diverged over thousands of years in response to changing environments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By continuing to investigate the intricate relationship between climate, vegetation, and species evolution, the team hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s past - and how this knowledge can inform efforts to protect its future in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.</p>



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How the Amazon became a biodiversity hotspot

The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to...

<p>Our relationship with dogs is far from being just about master and pet. We are linked on a deep, neuronal level, where the hum of our minds becomes synchronized. This was confirmed in a recent study that opens a new chapter in our understanding of human-dog interactions and pain symptoms.</p>



<p>The research shows that during joyful moments of mutual gaze and petting, our brainwaves synchronize with those of our canine companions. What is especially intriguing is the occurrence of this synchronization in the brain's frontal and parietal regions, closely linked with attention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-dog-interactions-and-synchronization">Human-dog interactions and synchronization </h2>



<p>The synchronization is not quick. It takes a five-day period to increase its intensity, suggesting that growing familiarity strengthens this bond. But the leadership in this intricate process doesn't fall into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paws of our furry friends</a>. Tests indicate that it's us humans who lead, with dogs graciously following our steps.</p>



<p>Scientists have also found something unexpected - dogs with genetic mutations causing social impairment symptoms, similar to autism spectrum disorder characteristics, show a marked loss of synchronization. Yet, a single treatment with LSD can reverse these anomalies.</p>



<p>“There are two implications of the present study: one is that the disrupted inter-brain synchronization might be used as a biomarker for autism, and the other is LSD or its derivatives might ameliorate the social symptoms of autism,” said corresponding author Yong Q. Zhang, PhD, of the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>, in Beijing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-comfort-in-times-of-pain">Dog comfort in times of pain</h2>



<p>Life is full of ups and downs, and naturally, we seek the comfort of loved ones in hard times. But did you know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/family-dogs-boost-physical-activity-levels-among-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine</a> companions might be a better option for recovery than our human counterparts?</p>



<p>A study led by Dr. Heidi Mauersberger from Humboldt University's Department of Psychology presents the soothing power of dogs in a new light.</p>



<p>The compelling findings suggest that the mere presence of a dog, or even a comforting cuddle, can reduce feelings of pain post-recovery more effectively than a human's presence.</p>



<p>Dr. Mauersberger and her team conducted two separate experiments, focusing solely on physical pain. Interestingly, the experiments revealed that participants reported less pain and showed less pain behavior, like grimacing or complaining, in the presence of a dog compared to when a fellow human was around.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-quality-of-pain-patients">Life quality of pain patients</h2>



<p>So, why are dogs potentially better at comforting us in times of pain? Dogs provide unconditional, non-evaluative support, unlike humans, who may unintentionally judge or demand socially. </p>



<p>The presence of a dog could just be the soothing balm one needs, minus the pressure of living up to any social expectations.</p>



<p>Despite the study being focused on the perception of pain, the findings indicate that dogs could play a vital role in improving the quality of life for pain patients by reducing pain-related disability and depressiveness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bonding-between-dogs-and-humans">Bonding between dogs and humans</h2>



<p>Dogs possess a unique ability to tap into the neurochemical orchestra that governs our emotions and bonding behaviors. </p>



<p>Scientific investigations have unveiled the role of oxytocin, often dubbed the "love hormone," in fortifying human-dog relationships. When humans and dogs interact through gazing or physical affection, there is a reciprocal increase in oxytocin levels, promoting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-understand-that-some-words-refer-to-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tighter bond</a>. </p>



<p>This hormonal response not only deepens our attachment but may also contribute to reduced stress levels and enhanced emotional well-being. </p>



<p>Such findings highlight the complexity of interspecies interaction, suggesting that dogs can be instrumental in augmenting human quality of life through both psychological and physiological avenues.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-future-directions">Implications and future directions</h2>



<p>Given the burgeoning evidence of the benefits associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interactions-with-dogs-relieve-stress-and-heighten-concentration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-dog interactions</a>, particularly in therapeutic contexts, there is a need to explore innovative applications. </p>



<p>Therapy dogs are already making their mark in various healthcare settings - offering companionship to the elderly, aiding in emotional recovery for trauma survivors, and supporting individuals with mental health conditions.</p>



<p>Future research directions could focus on quantifying these benefits across different demographics and ailments, potentially leading to the development of new treatments that leverage the strength of the human-canine bond.</p>



<p>Ultimately, acknowledging and harnessing this profound connection could pave the way for transformative advances in both individual and communal health paradigms.</p>



<p>Our relationship with dogs runs deep, beyond simple companionship. From synchronized brainwave patterns to the comforting presence in times of pain, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medium-sized-dogs-have-a-greater-risk-of-developing-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> have shown their profound influence on our neurological and psychological states.</p>



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



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Interacting with dogs can ease physical pain

Our relationship with dogs is far from being just about...

<p>The first genetic evidence of feline coronavirus (FCoV) transmission between a captive wild and a domestic cat has been uncovered by researchers at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.</p>



<p>This breakthrough, made possible by an innovative hybridization-capture next-generation sequencing technique, could have significant implications for addressing feline coronavirus and other diseases.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transmission-pathways-of-feline-coronavirus">Transmission pathways of feline coronavirus</h2>



<p>Gary Whittaker is the James Law Professor of Virology at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> and corresponding author of the study. “We don't fully know what FCoV is capable of and how it transmits,” noted Professor Whittaker.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This new research sheds light on the transmission pathways of feline coronavirus and its potential consequences for both domestic and wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-can-learn-the-names-of-their-companions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>.</p>



<p>Study first author Ximena Olarte Castillo is a postdoctoral associate in the lab of co-author Laura Goodman, assistant professor in the Department of Public and Ecosystem Health and the Baker Institute for Animal Health.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-distinct-types-of-feline-coronavirus-nbsp">Two distinct types of feline coronavirus&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Together, the experts investigated the transmission dynamics of feline coronavirus, focusing on two distinct genotypes of the virus, types 1 and 2. These genotypes are distinguished by their spike (S) protein, which influences the kinds of cells the virus can infect.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Specific mutations in either version of feline coronavirus can cause the virus to transition from a low pathogenic form to a highly pathogenic one.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feline-infectious-peritonitis">Feline infectious peritonitis</h2>



<p>While feline coronavirus generally causes mild symptoms in most domestic cats and can persist for years without major problems, some strains mutate and lead to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).&nbsp;</p>



<p>First described in 1963 by Jean Holzworth, feline infectious peritonitis is a severe disease that often results in systemic and neurological issues.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Until the recent development of antiviral treatments, including the compound GS-441524, feline infectious peritonitis was almost always fatal. Currently, there is no effective vaccine to prevent FIP in cats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transmission-risks-for-wild-cats">Transmission risks for wild cats</h2>



<p>Due to their genetic proximity to domestic cats, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/european-wildcats-avoided-breeding-with-domestic-cats-for-2000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild felids</a> may also be vulnerable to feline coronavirus infections and feline infectious peritonitis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Wild cats are at risk of contracting diseases like feline coronavirus when they come into contact with food meant for stray domestic cats, increasing the likelihood of transmission.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recently, Professor Whittaker and other researchers have been investigating a new outbreak of FCoV-2 among feral, stray, and free-roaming cats in Cyprus, where there has been a sharp rise in virus-related deaths.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-feline-coronavirus-spreads">How feline coronavirus spreads</h2>



<p>The study also revisits a 2008 case of FCoV-1 transmission between a domestic cat and a young Pallas’ cat at a U.S. zoo. Both animals shared a room and died from feline infectious peritonitis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Using frozen tissue samples from both cats, the researchers sought to uncover more about how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-have-eyes-and-ears-on-their-hosts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> spreads between species.</p>



<p>“By using a semi-targeted approach - known as hybridization capture - together with next-generation sequencing, we were able to detect and sequence the whole genome of FCoV-1 in both the domestic cat and the Pallas' cat tissues,” said Olarte Castillo.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This advanced technique allowed the researchers to overcome the challenges of sequencing the highly variable S gene, which had previously hindered efforts to understand feline coronavirus in wild felids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-future-outbreaks-nbsp">Preparing for future outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This retrospective study demonstrated the power of hybridization-capture sequencing as a tool for outbreak response.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now that the technology has proven effective, Professor Whittaker and his team are better prepared for future outbreaks. The <a href="https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell Feline Health Center</a> (FHC) recently funded the acquisition of a NextSeq 1000 sequencer, which is housed in the <a href="https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/baker-institute" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Institute</a>’s labs, enabling rapid responses to emerging viral strains.</p>



<p>“The FHC made a big investment so that - in the case of a future outbreak - we can be ready and very quick to determine what strain we're dealing with,” said Goodman. This rapid response capability will allow clinicians to swiftly respond to new threats and contain outbreaks more effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-feline-coronavirus-surveillance">Improving feline coronavirus surveillance  </h2>



<p>“This study is highly impactful in that it not only provides the first evidence of transmission of FCoV-1 between a domestic cat and a wild felid, but also because it does so utilizing cutting-edge technology that can be applied to improve surveillance efforts for FCoV and other pathogens in both domestic and wild feline species worldwide,” said Bruce Kornreich, director of the FHC.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, the researchers aim to use sequencing to better understand the potential of feline coronavirus for drug resistance, particularly as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/willow-bark-may-contain-life-saving-antiviral-medications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antiviral treatments</a> for FIP become more common.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, the findings will contribute to future conservation and management strategies to protect both domestic and wild cat populations.</p>



<p>“We need to get baseline knowledge to figure out what kind of stewardship is needed looking into the future,” Whittaker concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1128/spectrum.00061-24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Microbiology Spectrum</em></a>.</p>



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Feline coronavirus is passed between domestic and wild cats

The first genetic evidence of feline coronavirus (FCoV) transmission between...

<p>Viruses are expert parasites, having evolved to infect a variety of host species. Some viruses, known as arboviruses, use insects to spread their infections to other hosts, such as humans and animals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding how these viruses move through insect hosts could provide key insights for blocking their transmission.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-movement-within-insects">Virus movement within insects</h2>



<p>A recent study published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1128/jvi.00540-24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Virology</em></a> sheds light on how viruses strategically move within their insect hosts, and how this movement aids in the spread of infection to other animals. </p>



<p>This knowledge is especially important for addressing viruses like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-zika-transmit-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zika</a>, dengue, and West Nile virus, which are transmitted from insects to humans and livestock.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-specific-routes">Navigating specific routes</h2>



<p>“Viruses that use insects as hosts must navigate specific routes through different insect tissues to complete their life cycles. The routes may differ substantially depending on the life cycle of the virus,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Both insect pathogenic viruses and insect-vectored viruses must navigate through the polarized cells of the midgut epithelium to establish a systemic infection. In addition, insect-vectored viruses must also navigate through the polarized salivary gland epithelium for transmission.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-paths-of-proteins-nbsp">Tracing the paths of proteins&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To investigate viral movement, the researchers used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fruit-flies-can-travel-six-million-times-their-body-length/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fruit flies</a> as a model to trace the paths of proteins from two different viruses. One virus was insect-specific, while the other could infect both insects and animals, including humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By studying these viral proteins, the team gained a better understanding of how they navigate through insect hosts to facilitate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-loss-could-promote-the-spread-of-viruses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission</a>.</p>



<p>“Using Drosophila as a model to examine tissue-specific polarized trafficking of these viral envelope proteins, we identified one of the virus-encoded signals and several host proteins associated with regulating the polarized trafficking in the midgut epithelium,” explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-movement-of-viruses-nbsp">Precise movement of viruses&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Gary Blissard is a professor at the <a href="https://btiscience.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boyce Thompson Institute</a> and co-lead author of the study.</p>



<p>“Even when expressed on their own, without the rest of the virus, these proteins moved to precisely the correct locations in the insect cells,” said Professor Blissard.</p>



<p>In the insect’s gut, the viral proteins migrated to the bottom of the cells, positioning themselves to move into the insect’s body cavity. This movement set the stage for the viruses to spread further.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-behavior-of-the-viral-proteins-nbsp">Varying behavior of the viral proteins&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In the salivary glands, however, the two viral proteins behaved differently. While the protein from the insect-only virus still moved to the cell's bottom, the protein from the virus capable of infecting animals often shifted to the top of the cells. </p>



<p>This is an ideal location for assembling new virus particles and releasing them into the saliva, ready to infect another animal host.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guided-by-gps-signals-nbsp">Guided by “GPS” signals&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This precise positioning is critical to the viruses’ life cycles and ability to spread. It’s almost as if the viral proteins have an internal “GPS” guiding them to the right locations within the insect host.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study revealed that this “GPS” is made up of amino acid sequence signals encoded in the viral proteins themselves.</p>



<p>These signals are recognized by the host insect’s own protein transport systems, which help direct the viral proteins to their target destinations. The researchers also identified parts of the insect's cellular machinery that the viral proteins hijack to reach their final locations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-the-movement-of-viruses">Disrupting the movement of viruses</h2>



<p>This discovery opens the door to potential new strategies for combating virus transmission. </p>



<p>If scientists can find a way to disrupt the viral proteins' GPS or the cellular machinery they rely on, it may be possible to prevent the viruses from reaching or leaving the salivary glands of the insect. </p>



<p>This could effectively block the virus from using the insect as a vector, halting its spread to new hosts.</p>



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



<p>“Our research highlights the incredible adaptations viruses have evolved to navigate through complex biological systems such as insects,” said Nicolas Buchon, an associate professor at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>’s Department of Entomology and co-lead author of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It's a reminder of the continuous evolutionary arms race between viruses and their hosts and the importance of basic research in understanding these intricate biological processes.”</p>



<p>By uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind viral movement within insects, this research paves the way for new approaches to controlling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-borne-diseases-are-a-growing-threat-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect-borne diseases</a>. </p>



<p>This knowledge could also have applications in managing agricultural pests, ultimately leading to better public health measures and improved crop protection in the future.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Viruses use ‘GPS’ to move precisely within insects 

Viruses are expert parasites, having evolved to infect a variety...

<p>Islands, with their limited resources yet reduced competition, create a milieu of unique survival challenges. Isolated from their mainland brethren, island-dwelling animals adapt in fascinating ways to squeeze out a living.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These evolutionary adaptations can range from changes in physical size, termed as island dwarfism or gigantism, to alterations in behaviors and metabolic rates. </p>



<p>But what happens when these slow-paced island inhabitants encounter rapid, human-induced changes?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-island-vs-mainland-animals">Island vs mainland animals</h2>



<p>The scientific community, till now, didn't have much clarity about how the metabolic rates of island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/island-bird-communities-are-changing-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> differ from those on the mainland.</p>



<p>Dr. Roberto Rozzi of <a href="https://www.uni-halle.de/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg</a>, along with his team of researchers from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> and the <a href="https://ic.sicau.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sichuan Agricultural University</a>, aimed to fill this knowledge gap. </p>



<p>Through a comprehensive analysis of data from 2,813 vertebrate species, encompassing both warm-blooded creatures like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> and mammals and cold-blooded ones such as reptiles and amphibians, they made some intriguing observations.</p>



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



<p>After sifting through the data, it appeared that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-life-on-islands-loses-diversity-when-humans-arrive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> and mammals living on islands tend to have slower metabolism than their counterparts on the mainland.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This slow pace extends to their reproductive cycles too, with these animals producing offspring at a later stage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Rozzi, these adaptations are all about maximizing chances of survival and reproduction in island environments, where resources can be limited.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achilles-heel-of-island-animals">Achilles heel of island animals</h2>



<p>This slow pace of life, while beneficial in untouched island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>, becomes a vulnerability when faced with rapid changes -- mainly those induced by human activities. </p>



<p>Island dwellers already stand out due to their unique sizes, but their slow metabolism and delayed reproduction make them particularly susceptible to external threats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They become easy targets for non-native predators, including humans, and struggle to recover swiftly from environmental disturbances such as invasive species introduction or habitat loss.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-island-species">Saving island species</h2>



<p>The findings from this study are crucial in identifying and protecting vulnerable island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-birds-use-sophisticated-thermoregulation-strategies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Taking cue from Rozzi's conclusion, conservation efforts should consider the unique physiological differences between these animals and their mainland counterparts, and not just their peculiar sizes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The secret to their survival lies in understanding their slower pace of life and factoring that into their protection measures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-climate-change">Role of climate change</h2>



<p>Climate change poses an additional layer of threat to island ecosystems, exacerbating the challenges faced by their inhabitants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Rising sea levels, shifting weather patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can drastically alter the delicate balance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-100-bird-species-have-been-lost-for-over-a-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">isolated environments</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, saltwater intrusion into freshwater habitats can lead to profound ecological shifts, while changes in temperature may disrupt breeding and feeding patterns of native species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The interplay between these climate-driven changes and the unique adaptations of island fauna must be closely examined to better forecast potential impacts and devise effective conservation strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-research-on-island-animal-conservation">Bridging research on island animal conservation</h2>



<p>Turning scientific discoveries into effective conservation strategies is all about teamwork. It takes researchers, policymakers, and local communities working hand in hand. </p>



<p>When we engage island communities in these efforts, we not only create a sense of ownership but also weave in their traditional ecological knowledge with modern practices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-insights">Funding insights</h2>



<p>By bringing together experts from various fields like ecology, climate science, and social science, we can tackle the tough challenges that island ecosystems face. </p>



<p>Bridging the gap between research and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> allows us to develop thoughtful, culturally sensitive ways to protect these unique wildlife populations and their habitats for future generations. Let's work together to make a difference.</p>



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



<p>"In order to better protect the remaining island species, conservation efforts would benefit from taking into account the unique morphological and physiological differences between these animals and their mainland counterparts," concludes Rozzi.</p>



<p>In a nutshell, the slow pace of island life, once an evolutionary advantage, is now a vulnerability in the face of rapid, human-induced changes.</p>



<p>-----</p>



<p>This important research was facilitated by funds from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation), the Scientific Research Foundation, and National Natural Science Foundation in China.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adm8240" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Advances</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Slower pace of 'island life' is as true for animals as it is for humans

Islands, with their limited resources yet reduced competition, create a...

<p>A recent discovery of dinosaur tracks along Australia’s southern coast, dating back to the Early Cretaceous when the continent was still connected to Antarctica, suggests that large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flesh-eating-theropods-were-extremely-fast/">theropod</a> dinosaurs thrived in this polar environment. </p>



<p>These carnivorous dinosaurs roamed the river floodplains during the summers when the ice thawed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-theropods-thriving-in-polar-regions">Evidence of theropods thriving in polar regions</h2>



<p>The experts recently published an analysis of the dinosaur tracks, found in the Wonthaggi Formation, located south of Melbourne. </p>



<p>The tracks, made between 120 and 128 million years ago, include 18 belonging to theropods, alongside four from ornithopods, small herbivorous dinosaurs that may have been prey for the theropods.</p>



<p>“These numerous tracks are the best evidence yet that these former polar environments supported large carnivores,” said Anthony Martin, lead author of the study and a professor at <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html">Emory University</a>’s Department of Environmental Sciences. </p>



<p>“The large theropods would likely have fed on prey such as smaller dinosaurs, fish, and turtles.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traces-of-ancient-life">Traces of ancient life</h2>



<p>Theropods, meaning “wild beast foot” in Greek, are a clade of bipedal dinosaurs with three clawed toes. They belong to the same evolutionary group as famous species like Allosaurus, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/were-there-three-distinct-species-of-tyrannosaurus-rex/">Tyrannosaurus rex</a>, and Velociraptor.</p>



<p>The largest theropod track in this discovery measures 18.5 inches in length. “The hip height of that theropod would have been about the same as the full height of a tall, modern-day human - or a bit more than six feet tall,” Martin said.</p>



<p>Martin is a geologist and paleontologist with a particular focus on ichnology - the study of traces left behind by ancient life, such as tracks, burrows, nests, and tooth marks.</p>



<p>The research team also included Patricia Vickers-Rich, a paleontology professor at <a href="https://www.monash.edu/">Monash University</a>, and Thomas Rich, a vertebrate paleontology curator at <a href="https://museumsvictoria.com.au/research-institute/">Museums Victoria Research Institute</a>. Since the 1970s, the couple has spearheaded efforts to uncover fossils in Victoria, Australia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-polar-winters">Extreme polar winters</h2>



<p>Victoria’s coastal rock layers mark where Gondwana, the ancient supercontinent, began to break apart roughly 100 million years ago, separating Australia from Antarctica. At that time, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/">polar environment</a> was a rift valley crisscrossed by braided rivers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although the average air temperature was warmer during the Cretaceous, the polar winters experienced freezing temperatures and months of darkness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-dinosaur-fossils-nbsp">Polar dinosaur fossils&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Wonthaggi Formation is one of the richest sources of polar dinosaur fossils in the Southern Hemisphere, though most finds have been small fragments of bones and teeth, likely transported by spring floods before burial.</p>



<p>“Our find of so many theropod tracks, however, confirms that a variety of dinosaurs actually lived and walked on the ground where their bones were found,” Martin noted. “Dinosaur tracks are actually much more common at the site than we previously realized.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-the-theropod-tracks">Discovery of the theropod tracks</h2>



<p>In 2007, Martin and his colleagues announced the discovery of three theropod tracks in the Wonthaggi Formation. However, it wasn’t until the social disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that more tracks were uncovered, thanks to the dedication of co-author Melissa Lowery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A volunteer fossil hunter for Monash University, Lowery, often referred to as “the doyenne of dinosaur discovery,” has made hundreds of finds over the years.</p>



<p>“Melissa had a lot more time to go prospecting during the height of the pandemic,” Martin said. </p>



<p>“While many of us were home watching reruns of Jurassic Park, she was out finding dinosaur tracks. She has this incredible eye that allows her to pick out distinctive patterns from surrounding materials. I call it ‘ichno-vision.’ It’s her superpower.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-identifying-the-tracks">Challenges in identifying the tracks</h2>



<p>The newly discovered tracks likely formed when the dinosaurs walked on wet sand or mud in the floodplain. </p>



<p>Mud, being soft and malleable, can collapse into fresh footprints, often creating messy fossil tracks that might be missing a toe or other identifiable features, making them harder to spot.</p>



<p>“Another problem with identifying these tracks is that many of them are underwater twice in a 24-hour period when the tide comes in,” Martin said. “All sorts of modern marine life, including algae, tube worms, barnacles, and clams, have encrusted on, and partially eroded, some of the tracks.”</p>



<p>Of the 24 tracks detailed in the paper, 18 belong to theropods, ranging in size from seven to 18.5 inches. These tracks are recognized by their relatively thin toes ending in sharp claws.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-ornithopod-tracks">Discovery of ornithopod tracks</h2>



<p>Four tracks, ranging in size from four to seven inches, were made by ornithopods - the first such tracks found in the Wonthaggi Formation.</p>



<p>Ornithopods, whose name comes from the Greek for “bird feet,” were small herbivorous dinosaurs with thicker toes capped by blunt claws. These bipedal creatures grew to about three feet in length.</p>



<p>To preserve the newly discovered track specimens, Peter Swinkels, a taxidermist at Museums Victoria Research Institute, made field moldings and casts. Martin conducted further analysis at the site in May 2022 after pandemic travel restrictions were lifted.</p>



<p>Helping with data collection and mapping of the tracks was Doris Seegets-Villiers, a paleontologist from <a href="https://www.swinburne.edu.au/">Swinburne University of Technology</a> in Victoria. Additionally, John Broomfield, media production manager at Museums Victoria, created 3D digital images of the tracks for further analysis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-movement-during-the-polar-summer-nbsp">Dinosaur movement during the polar summer&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The tracks were preserved in floodplain deposits near channel sandstones, suggesting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-ancestors-coexisted-with-dinosaurs-yes-according-to-shocking-new-research/">dinosaurs</a> traveled through the area after spring-thaw flooding during the polar summer.</p>



<p>“Were the dinosaurs living in this environment during the winter? We don’t know,” Martin said. “It would have been frozen over and dinosaurs walking on ice don’t leave tracks.”</p>



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



<p>The variation in track sizes hints at a mix of juvenile and adult theropods and ornithopods, leading Martin to believe that some dinosaurs may have nested and raised their young in these polar environments.</p>



<p>This paper follows a 2023 report by the same authors documenting bird tracks from the Early Cretaceous at the same site, which represents the oldest-known evidence of birds so far south.</p>



<p>“We’re continuing to discover more tracks in the area. The more we find, the clearer picture we hope to get of these ancient polar ecosystems,” Martin concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03115518.2024.2392498"><em>Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Paleontology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Large theropod dinosaurs thrived in polar environments

A recent discovery of dinosaur tracks along Australia’s southern coast,...

<p>Environmental scientists have stumbled upon a concerning pattern. They have observed that grey reef sharks, typically the loyal residents of coral reefs, are skipping town more frequently and for longer periods. The culprit? Our steadily warming oceans.</p>



<p>The study starts with the ingenious pairing of acoustic receivers on the seabed and satellite remote sensing. </p>



<p>This dynamic duo has opened up new vistas to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-diversity-hits-66-million-year-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understand shark behavior</a>, particularly during times of high environmental stress. And the sharks are giving us a run for our money as they move from their warm reef habitats to cooler, deeper waters.</p>



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



<p>The shockwaves of El Niño 2015-2016 are still reverberating, with our grey reef sharks showing behavioral shifts, including lower residency on the reefs up to 16 months after periods of extreme warming.</p>



<p>With forecast models predicting annual bleaching events by 2043, the sharks' decision to seek a retreat spells trouble.</p>



<p>The international team of scientists from <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancaster University</a> and ZSL monitored shark movements in the Indian Ocean from 2013 to 2020.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-of-reef-sharks-in-a-warming-world">Movement of reef sharks in a warming world</h2>



<p>Dr. David Jacoby, the principal investigator on the project, elaborated on the findings and their implications for the reef <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sharks-survived-a-drastic-spike-in-global-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>.</p>



<p>“These results provide some of the first evidence of how reefs change in response to environmental stress, something that is becoming both more extreme and more frequent, is affecting the movement of sharks,” said Dr. Jacoby. </p>



<p>“Grey reef sharks are a common, resident predator to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, venturing away from the reef to feed, but many are having to decide whether to escape the stressed reefs.</p>



<p>Faced with a trade-off, sharks must decide whether to leave the relative safety of the reef and expend greater energy to remain cool or stay on a reef in suboptimal conditions but conserve energy, noted Dr. Jacoby.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-grey-reef-sharks">Ecological role of grey reef sharks</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Michael Williamson from ZSL's Institute of Zoology, grey reef sharks are not just inhabitants but vital cogs in the reef ecosystems.</p>



<p>Their movements encode a complex dance between food, safety, and environmental conditions. Absent their nutrient influx from deeper waters, the reef's resilience to environmental stress may be at stake.</p>



<p>But it’s not all doom and gloom. Interestingly, not all the monitored locations saw a decline in habitat use. In fact, certain reefs showed increased shark residency, suggesting that some reefs are more resilient to stress. </p>



<p>This raises intriguing questions about the factors influencing shark movement decisions, and the specific characteristics of resilient reefs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domino-effect-of-climate-change">Domino effect of climate change </h2>



<p>The conclusion? As climate change flings us into an era of increasing uncertainty and extreme stress events, the ecological role of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepwater-desperation-the-race-to-save-sharks-and-rays/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> on coral reefs is likely to change. </p>



<p>The ripple effects of their absence will extend further than we can predict, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of species and trophic interactions that occur on coral reefs.</p>



<p>Climate change is a Pandora’s box, and we’ve only just lifted the lid. As we brace for an unpredictable future, characterized by more frequent and extreme stress events, research like this becomes paramount. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-grey-reef-sharks">Conservation of grey reef sharks</h2>



<p>Conserving grey reef sharks and their habitats requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses science, policy, and community engagement. </p>



<p>Marine protected areas (MPAs) represent one of the most effective strategies to safeguard these critical habitats, allowing shark populations to thrive amidst the pressures of climate change. </p>



<p>Collaborative efforts among governments, local communities, and NGOs can foster sustainable fishing practices that minimize bycatch and enhance reef health. </p>



<p>Furthermore, public awareness campaigns are essential in educating communities about the ecological significance of sharks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-a-connected-web-of-life">Protecting a connected web of life</h2>



<p>“Recent research in the Chagos Archipelago, where we conducted our study, has shown that those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> that have greater nutrient flows from seabirds have significantly enhanced fish biomass and therefore a higher likelihood to be resilient to multiple stressors,” said Dr Wiliamson. </p>



<p>“Some of our receivers that were seeing a greater number of sharks residing were also near islands with seabird populations.”<br><br>As the environmental stress equation becomes increasingly complex, so does our understanding and approach to protecting the invisibly connected web of life below the ocean surface. Grey reef sharks are changing their rhythm, and offering us a chance to change ours.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06707-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.</em></p>



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Reef sharks are abandoning their homes due to ocean warming

Environmental scientists have stumbled upon a concerning pattern. They have...

<p>Records show that koalas, one of Australia's most iconic creatures, are facing a dire situation due to habitat loss. </p>



<p>The most common destination for these cuddly natives? Not the safe and lush eucalyptus canopies but sadly, veterinary hospitals.</p>



<p>And even worse, most of them are euthanized. This is a bitter reality revealed by a recent study from the University of Queensland (UQ).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-opening-research">Eye-opening research</h2>



<p>PhD candidate Renae Charalambous and her team at UQ’s Faculty of Science have opened our eyes to this grim reality.</p>



<p>The researchers meticulously analyzed over 50,000 records of koala sightings and hospital admissions from 1997 to 2019. The findings are startling, to say the least.</p>



<p>"Diseases like chlamydia make up almost 30 percent of vet hospital admissions," noted Charalambous, painting a picture far from ideal.</p>



<p>As if diseases aren't bad enough, koalas also face numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/culling-is-not-effective-in-preventing-crocodile-attacks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threats</a> due to habitat loss, including canine attacks and motor vehicle strikes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-koalas-diseases-and-habitat-loss">Koalas, diseases, and habitat loss</h2>



<p>The numbers speak volumes. Only a quarter of the koalas admitted to hospitals find their way back to a suitable habitat. Many die before even getting a chance at treatment, and those who make it are often euthanized.</p>



<p>Road accidents contribute to nearly 20 percent of overall admissions. However, koalas struck by vehicles were four times more likely to be found dead than treated by a vet and released, according to the researchers.</p>



<p>"Those that made it to an animal hospital after car strike were almost three times more likely to be euthanized than released,” said Charalambous.</p>



<p>“Seven percent of the koalas admitted to hospital had been attacked by dogs but were twice as likely to be found dead, and if they were taken into care alive, they were twice as likely to be euthanized than released. These are pretty grim statistics so the future for koalas looks bleak.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-risk-population">High-risk population</h2>



<p>The study also sheds light on the more vulnerable subset of the koala population - adults, females, and those infected with chlamydia - who are at a higher risk of being euthanized.</p>



<p>Time seems to be running out for these lovable creatures. The conservation status of koalas was recently updated to "endangered" in Queensland, after estimates showed that their numbers had dwindled by 50% in the last decade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silver-lining-saving-koalas-and-their-habitats">Silver lining: Saving koalas and their habitats</h2>



<p>Despite the grave situation, Charalambous believes it's not too late. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these distinctive challenges to formulate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protecting-just-0-7-of-land-can-save-many-unique-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effective conservation plans</a> for the east coast koalas.</p>



<p>“This is a great opportunity to holistically address and minimize the threats they face,” said Charalambous. She hopes her research will help decision makers identify intervention strategies to save the remaining koala population.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-role-in-koala-habitat-preservation">Community role in koala habitat preservation</h2>



<p>Community engagement plays a vital role in the conservation of koalas. Local residents and volunteers can contribute significantly by participating in awareness campaigns, habitat restoration projects, and reporting koala sightings. </p>



<p>Collaborative efforts between citizens and conservation organizations not only foster a sense of shared responsibility but also create a comprehensive approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safeguarding wildlife</a>.</p>



<p>By educating the public on the environmental needs of koalas, especially regarding habitat preservation, communities can work together to mitigate some of the threats faced by these marsupials. </p>



<p>Initiatives like Koala Spotting Days can encourage citizen science, making people active participants in conservation efforts.</p>



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



<p>Future research is essential to develop more effective strategies for koala <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemists-could-be-key-to-prevent-animal-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a>. According to Charalambous, a multifaceted approach is needed to address the various threats koalas encounter.</p>



<p>This could involve studying the long-term impacts of habitat changes on koalas health, the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs, and the genetic diversity within remaining populations. </p>



<p>Additionally, interdisciplinary research incorporating veterinary science, ecology, and environmental policy will be crucial in crafting adaptive management plans. </p>



<p>By promoting collaborations across disciplines, scientists can better understand the complexities of koala survival in a rapidly changing environment and work towards sustainable solutions to ensure their future.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://brill.com/view/journals/soan/aop/article-10.1163-15685306-bja10220/article-10.1163-15685306-bja10220.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society and Animals</a>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Koalas face critical threats from disease and habitat loss

Records show that koalas, one of Australia's most iconic creatures,...

<p>Research into one of the most persistent coral predators on the Great Barrier Reef has unveiled a concerning paradox: crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) seem to flourish in the degraded coral reef conditions they help create. </p>



<p>This new insight into reef ecosystems comes from the work of Professor Maria Byrne from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> and marine science researcher Dr. Kennedy Wolfe. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilient-species-have-the-upper-hand">Resilient species have the upper hand</h2>



<p>The study highlights the complex relationship between coral health and the population dynamics of COTS, offering vital information for conservation efforts.</p>



<p>“This research reinforces our understanding that resilient species have the upper hand when adjusting to altered habitats,” Byrne said. “Unfortunately, in the case of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a>, one of these resilient species - the crown-of-thorns starfish - is one of its most persistent coral predators.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-coral-reefs">Threats to coral reefs</h2>



<p>Coral reefs, often dubbed the “rainforests of the sea,” are essential ecosystems that sustain a wide variety of marine life. However, they are under serious threat from a range of stressors, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of the greatest challenges to coral reefs is outbreaks of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crown-of-thorns-starfish-are-natures-ultimate-coral-predators-and-they-are-winning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crown-of-thorns starfish</a>, which can devastate coral populations and accelerate reef degradation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-degraded-reef-hypothesis-nbsp">Degraded reef hypothesis&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106740" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Marine Environmental Research</em></a><em>,</em> the study proposes a “degraded reef hypothesis” to better explain how COTS populations persist despite substantial efforts to control them. </p>



<p>This hypothesis suggests that the very degradation of coral reefs, largely caused by factors like heatwaves and pollution, creates conditions that benefit the juvenile stages of COTS.</p>



<p>As live coral becomes degraded, the rubble habitats that emerge provide a nursery for juvenile crown-of-thorns starfish. This allows them to accumulate and remain hidden, waiting for the coral to begin recovering before emerging as coral-eating adults. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-vicious-cycle-of-reef-degradation">A vicious cycle of reef degradation </h2>



<p>The delayed surges in COTS populations exacerbate coral loss and create a vicious cycle of reef degradation.</p>



<p>“Our previous research has shown that juvenile COTS can wait for just the right moment to emerge in large numbers; sometimes up to six years,” Byrne explained. This ability to bide their time adds to the challenge of managing COTS outbreaks effectively.</p>



<p>The study emphasizes that the same conditions contributing to coral degradation, such as cyclones, heatwaves, and pollution, are favorable for crown-of-thorns starfish.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-degraded-coral-and-starfish-outbreaks">Degraded coral and starfish outbreaks</h2>



<p>The resilience of COTS presents a significant challenge for conservation efforts aimed at restoring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/measure-coral-reef-health-water-samples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral health</a>, as any recovery in coral populations could also fuel new COTS outbreaks.</p>



<p>“Our findings reveal a critical feedback loop in reef ecosystems,” said Wolfe, who began his research career as a PhD student at the University of Sydney. “COTS populations may thrive as coral reefs degrade, leading to further coral loss. This cycle not only threatens corals but also the range of species that depend on healthy reefs for survival.”</p>



<p>According to Byrne, this feedback loop explains repeated outbreaks on the Great Barrier Reef, despite exhaustive management through manual culling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-management-strategies-are-needed">Effective management strategies are needed</h2>



<p>The study underlines the importance of a multifaceted approach to coral reef conservation that not only targets the root causes of degradation but also considers broader ecological interactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Effective management strategies must address the resilience of COTS and their ability to exploit weakened coral environments. “These coral predators are a symptom of ongoing environmental impact,” Byrne said.</p>



<p>By gaining a deeper understanding of how coral health and COTS populations interact, conservationists can devise more effective strategies to mitigate the starfish’s impact.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This could involve focusing on habitat restoration projects aimed at strengthening coral resilience, as well as measures to control nutrient runoff and reduce sedimentation that can contribute to reef decline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-degradation-and-cots-outbreaks-nbsp">Coral degradation and COTS outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study adds to the extensive research conducted by Byrne and her team, which has greatly improved the understanding of how COTS continue to thrive as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-pest-species-alter-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pest species</a> on the Great Barrier Reef. </p>



<p>Through continued research and targeted intervention, there is hope that the cycle of coral degradation and COTS outbreaks can be broken, offering a brighter future for the world’s coral reefs.</p>



<p>“In a changing climate, COTS population resilience responds well to, and likely even benefits from, degrading reef condition and environmental stochasticity. From issues stemming from water quality, altered food webs, and reef degradation, the response of COTS is rapid and adaptive,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Management aiming to conserve coral reefs must consider COTS not as a single issue, but as a symptom of ongoing environmental impacts that requires a broad response with knock-on benefits to reef ecosystems and their inhabitants.”</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Crown-of-thorns starfish thrive in degraded coral reefs

Research into one of the most persistent coral predators on...

<p>If you’ve ever watched a dolphin swimming, you might have wondered why they move their bodies up and down, unlike fish, which swim by moving side to side.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even though dolphins have a fishlike appearance, they belong to a group of mammals known as cetaceans (which includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises). These animals are descendants of land-dwelling ancestors, much like cats, dogs, elephants, and humans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-from-land-to-water">Transition from land to water</h2>



<p>Over time, cetaceans evolved and made profound changes to their bodies and skeletons to adapt to life in the water. Their hindlimbs reduced, they developed flippers and tail flukes, and their bodies <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/silky-shark-shatters-records-by-swimming-over-17000-miles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">streamlined</a> for efficient swimming. </p>



<p>Despite these significant changes, cetaceans still retain certain characteristics from their land-dwelling days, such as having lungs and nursing their young with milk.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The up-and-down motion of their swimming also reflects the vertical movements that allow land mammals to run fast. But how their backbone adapted during the transition from land to water, about 53 million years ago, remained a mystery - until now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphins-developed-new-backbones">Dolphins developed new backbones</h2>



<p>A recent study sheds new light on how cetaceans’ backbones were reorganized as their ancestors adapted to aquatic life. This research, conducted by an international team of scientists, challenges previous beliefs about the structure of these marine mammals' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-mammals-adaptable-backbones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">backbones</a>.</p>



<p>The study found that, contrary to earlier assumptions, the backbone of cetaceans is highly regionalized, even though its shape is more uniform along its length compared to land mammals. However, the way this regionalization happens is drastically different from how it occurs in terrestrial mammals.</p>



<p>“When their ancestor went back into the water, whales and dolphins lost their hind legs and developed a fish-like body,” said lead author Amandine Gillet, a Marie Curie Fellow at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>’s Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a>’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.</p>



<p>“But that morphological change also means the vertebral column is now the main part of the skeleton driving locomotion in an aquatic environment.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-streamlined-movement-for-swimming">Streamlined movement for swimming</h2>



<p>In <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/behavior-of-land-mammals-changed-dramatically-during-covid-19-lockdowns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land mammals</a>, the vertebral column helps support the body, with the legs bearing the body’s weight. But when cetaceans transitioned to water, the forces acting on their bodies changed - gravity shifted to buoyancy, meaning their bodies no longer had to support their own weight on land.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This new environment required the backbones of dolphins and whales to adapt to allow for more fluid, streamlined movement in water. Previous studies focused on the shape of the vertebrae, looking for changes in their structure. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-history-of-backbones">Evolutionary history of backbones</h2>



<p>In 2018, co-authors Stephanie Pierce and Katrina Jones used a statistical method to study the backbone’s evolutionary history in terrestrial mammals. They demonstrated that, compared to amphibians and reptiles, land mammals have a much more regionally diverse vertebral column.</p>



<p>“It’s a challenge to understand how the regions of a terrestrial mammal can be found in whales and dolphins, and one reason is because their backbone looks very different in terms of morphology, even though they evolved from them,” said Pierce, senior author of the study and a professor of organismic and evolutionary biology at Harvard.</p>



<p>“They lost the sacrum, a fused string of vertebrae bracing the hind legs and a critical landmark needed to distinguish the tail from the rest of the body.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphin-and-porpoise-backbones">Dolphin and porpoise backbones </h2>



<p>Complicating matters, cetaceans' vertebrae became more homogeneous in appearance, making it harder to distinguish transitions between regions compared to land mammals, which have more distinct vertebrae changes.</p>



<p>“Not only do they have very similar vertebrae, but certain species, in particular porpoises and dolphins, have many more vertebrae than terrestrial mammals, with some species having close to 100 vertebrae,” said Jones, a presidential fellow in earth and environmental sciences at the University of Manchester.</p>



<p>“This makes it really challenging to translate regions found in terrestrial mammals to the backbones in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-like-societies-cetaceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> and dolphins.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-patterns-in-the-backbone-nbsp">Identifying patterns in the backbone&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To overcome this, the team used a statistical method called Regions, which can identify patterns in the backbone despite the varying number of vertebrae in each species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While this worked well for land mammals, cetaceans’ complex vertebrae counts presented computational challenges. Gillet, working with the Data Science Services team at Harvard, re-coded the program to handle the high vertebrae counts of cetaceans, resulting in the new software, MorphoRegions, which is now available for other researchers to use.</p>



<p>“This is definitely one of the biggest advances of our study,” said Pierce. “Amandine spent months refining the program so that it could analyze a system of high repeating units without crashing the computer.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-an-extensive-dataset">Analyzing an extensive dataset</h2>



<p>Using the MorphoRegions method, Gillet analyzed data she collected during her PhD, examining 7,500 vertebrae from 139 specimens representing 62 cetacean species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This extensive dataset allowed the team to see that the organization of the cetacean backbone differs from that of terrestrial mammals. Moreover, they found variations within cetaceans, identifying between six and nine regions depending on the species.</p>



<p>“We then worked from there to find commonalities across regions and identified a pattern common to all cetaceans, which is summarized by our Nested Regions Hypothesis,” said Gillet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-in-specific-tail-regions">Movement in specific tail regions</h2>



<p>This hypothesis suggests a hierarchical organization of the backbone, where the precaudal and caudal segments are divided into several modules, such as cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and fluke. Depending on the species, each module is further subdivided into regions, with some species having as many as nine post-cervical regions.</p>



<p>“Surprisingly, this showed us that, compared to terrestrial mammals, the precaudal segment has fewer regions, whereas the caudal area has more,” Pierce said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Terrestrial mammals use their tails for various functions, but not usually for generating propulsive forces, like cetaceans do. Having more regions in the tail may allow for movement in very specific regions of the tail.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-backbones-habitats-and-swimming-speed-nbsp">Backbones, habitats, and swimming speed&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The team also explored how these backbone regions correlate with habitat and swimming speed. Species that live offshore, further from the coast, tend to have more vertebrae and regions, which likely helps them swim faster.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Meanwhile, species living closer to shore, such as in rivers and bays, tend to have fewer vertebrae and regions, allowing for more maneuverability.</p>



<p>“It’s a beautiful study,” Pierce said. “You go from dusty skeletons in a museum to showing how the backbone of one of the most charismatic groups of mammals was repatterned due to their aquatic environment.”</p>



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



<p>Next, the researchers plan to study how these regions relate to function, using data on vertebral flexibility to understand how the backbone evolved from supporting land movement to driving swimming.</p>



<p>These findings could even help scientists infer the swimming abilities of ancient whales, shedding light on how their backbones evolved from supporting land animals to propelling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infectious-disease-in-marine-mammals-is-driven-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine mammals</a> through water.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51963-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Dolphins and whales got new backbones for life in the water

If you’ve ever watched a dolphin swimming, you might have...

<p>With carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere rising sharply over recent decades, scientists and policymakers alike are becoming increasingly concerned about the long-term impact on global climate patterns. </p>



<p>As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, there is a growing urgency to develop effective strategies for capturing and holding carbon. </p>



<p>One promising approach focuses on the role of soil in carbon sequestration, where innovative farming practices can help reduce atmospheric CO2 by trapping it within the earth’s natural processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farming-practices-and-soil-carbon-storage">Farming practices and soil carbon storage</h2>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas State University</a> (K-State) are investigating how various farming practices can influence the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon stored in soil</a>, a crucial factor in mitigating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. </p>



<p>The study seeks to uncover how long-term agricultural techniques, particularly in no-till farming systems, impact the soil's ability to capture and retain carbon over time.</p>



<p>To gain deeper insights, the team utilized advanced imaging technologies at two of the world’s most cutting-edge research facilities: the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the Advanced Light Source in Berkeley, California. </p>



<p>By analyzing soil from a Kansas cornfield that has been farmed using no-till methods for 22 years, they aimed to determine how different nitrogen management strategies influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-air-pollution-could-greatly-boost-carbon-sequestration-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sequestration</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fertilizers-and-long-term-study-results">Fertilizers and long-term study results</h2>



<p>During the 22-year period, the farm employed a range of soil nitrogen management practices, each with distinct impacts on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil health</a> and carbon storage. </p>



<p>These practices included the use of no fertilizer, chemical fertilizers, and organic options like manure or compost fertilizers. </p>



<p>By comparing these different methods, the researchers aimed to identify which practices are most effective in enhancing soil quality and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability in agricultural systems</a>.</p>



<p>The findings, published in the <em>Soil Science Society of America Journal</em>, offer valuable insights into the mechanisms of soil enrichment, providing a clearer picture of how specific farming practices can enhance the soil's ability to act as a carbon sink.</p>



<p>“We were trying to understand what the mechanisms are behind increasing soil carbon storage using certain management practices,” said Dr. Ganga Hettiarachchi, professor of soil and environmental chemistry. “We were looking at not just soil carbon, but other soil minerals that are going to help store carbon.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-sequestration-and-imaging-insights">Carbon sequestration and imaging insights</h2>



<p>Consistent with findings from previous research, the K-State team discovered that soil treated with organic matter, such as manure or compost fertilizer, demonstrated significantly higher carbon storage than soil treated with either chemical fertilizers or none at all. </p>



<p>This highlights the potential of organic fertilizers not only to improve soil health but also to play a critical role in capturing and storing atmospheric carbon.</p>



<p>What sets this study apart is the use of ultrabright synchrotron light, a powerful tool that enabled the researchers to examine the soil structure at a microscopic level. </p>



<p>This advanced technology allowed the team to visualize precisely how carbon molecules interact with the soil, revealing that much of the carbon was preserved in small pores and had bonded with minerals - an important factor in long-term carbon sequestration.</p>



<p>“It was preserved in pores, and some carbon had attached itself to minerals in the soil," noted Dr. Hettiarachchi.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-diversity-and-carbon-storage">Microbial diversity and carbon storage</h2>



<p>The experts also uncovered another important benefit of using manure or compost as a soil treatment: it led to higher levels of microbial carbon compared to soil treated with chemical fertilizers or left untreated.</p>



<p>This increase in microbial carbon is a clear indicator of greater microbial diversity and activity within the soil. </p>



<p>A thriving microbial community is essential for soil health, as these microorganisms play a critical role in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and overall soil structure, all of which contribute to enhanced carbon storage and long-term soil fertility.</p>



<p>“To my knowledge, this is the first direct evidence of mechanisms through which organic enhancements improve soil health, microbial diversity, and carbon sequestration,” said Dr. Hettiarachchi.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-sustainable-agriculture">Implications for sustainable agriculture</h2>



<p>Because synchrotron imaging is non-destructive, the team could observe soil aggregate (clumps) in its natural state, without needing to disrupt the soil structure. This allowed them to look at the carbon chemistry in situ.</p>



<p>“Collectively, studies like this are going to help us move forward to more sustainable, regenerative agriculture practices that will protect our soils and environment while helping to feed growing populations,” concluded Dr. Hettiarachchi. </p>



<p>“Understanding the role of different minerals, chemicals, and microbes will also help improve models for predicting how various farming practices affect soil carbon storage.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/saj2.20701" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Soil Science Society of America Journal</a></em>.</p>



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Organic farming practices boost soil carbon storage

With carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere rising sharply over...

<p>We've all had that refreshing gulp of beer on a warm summer night or after a long, tiring day at work, but seldom do we associate beer with gut health. </p>



<p>After all, it's usually the star of social gatherings, not dietary plans. But raise your glasses high and toast to this new and thought-provoking research from Dalian Medical University that reveals beer as not just a social lubricant, but potentially a gut-health enhancer.</p>



<p>The research's beacon, Dr. Jianxin Li, presents beer as more than just a frothy indulgence. He suggests that this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/no-evidence-that-beer-goggles-are-real-but-liquid-courage-is-definitely-a-thing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age-old beverage</a>, often referred to as 'liquid bread', could be providing more than just a welcome chill on a balmy evening.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beer-as-a-historical-delight">Beer as a historical delight</h2>



<p>It's pretty hard to imagine a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brewing-beer-in-space-the-future-of-fermentation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world without beer</a>, and history confirms its long-standing relationship with humanity. Traces of beer consumption date back to around 9,000 years ago in China. </p>



<p>From ancient Babylonian feasts to present-day festivities, beer's cultural significance is underscores its pivotal role in human civilization. </p>



<p>It holds an unshakable position as the most consumed alcoholic beverage globally -- only water and tea surpass it.</p>



<p>Interestingly, beer wasn't solely a source of joy as early as the third millennium BC; Babylonians were recording beer recipes on clay tablets. </p>



<p>The narrative that beer functioned as 'liquid bread' might have more depth than previously thought, with recent research suggesting health benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-beer-the-key-gut-healthy-ingredients">Making beer: The key gut-healthy ingredients</h2>



<p>Making beer starts with four main ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. First, you soak malted barley in hot water to get those sugars out, which is called mashing. </p>



<p>Then, you boil the sugary liquid -- known as wort -- and toss in some hops to give the beer its unique flavor and aroma. </p>



<p>After boiling, cool down the wort and move it to a fermenter, where you'll add the yeast. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/old-trick-turns-plant-based-cheese-into-something-that-actually-tastes-good/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The yeast will munch on the sugars</a>, turning them into alcohol and carbon dioxide, which creates those nice bubbles in the beer.</p>



<p>Once fermentation wraps up, let the beer settle and mature so the flavors can develop and any unwanted bits can drop out.</p>



<p>Finally, you bottle or keg the beer, adding a little extra sugar for natural carbonation, or you can use CO2 for a quicker method. </p>



<p>The whole journey from grain to glass can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the beer style and the brewer's vibe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-gut-health-connects-to-beer">How gut health connects to beer</h2>



<p>The question on everyone's lips: What makes beer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-influence-our-social-behavior-and-sense-of-fairness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a potential ally</a> for gut health? </p>



<p>Dr. Li's research reveals that beer, rich in vital amino acids, vitamins, trace elements, and bioactive substances, can benefit our gut when consumed in moderation. </p>



<p>These nutrients, broken down and fermented by our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tool-detects-changes-in-gut-health-to-help-prevent-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut's microbial community</a>, can regulate immunity and overall gut health.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, the study suggests that beer's bacteria can enhance arterial function and immune response, especially in healthy, non-smoking adults. </p>



<p>So, while you're relishing that cold pint, you might be boosting your body's defenses. Cheers to that!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microecological-magic-of-beer">Microecological magic of beer</h2>



<p>The blessings of beer aren't limited to boosting the health of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-have-very-clever-ways-of-supporting-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">your gut bacteria</a>. The research advances the concept of beer as a 'microecological modulator.' </p>



<p>This refers to its capacity to minimize cancer risk, ease <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular issues</a>, and manage metabolic syndrome. </p>



<p>Several studies confirm these claims, showing that moderate beer consumption can lower heart disease risk, improve circulation, and even help fend off upper respiratory infections.</p>



<p>From heart health to bone health, beer seems to be a gift that keeps on giving. Beer is rich in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-cholesterol-may-increase-the-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the 'good' cholesterol</a>, and polyphenols, which protect the heart. </p>



<p>It also contains dietary silicon, supporting bone growth and strength. Some studies even suggest that moderate beer consumption can enhance bone density in older women and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beer-and-your-microbiome">Beer and your microbiome</h2>



<p>Beer does wonders for your gut's microbiome. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trouble-brewing-for-beer-decline-in-hop-production-causes-beer-shortages-and-bad-taste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Loaded with dietary fiber</a> and some probiotics, it helps maintain your gut's healthy microbial balance. By promoting beneficial bacteria's growth, beer might support overall gut health.</p>



<p>Beyond gut health, beer potentially offers several unexpected health benefits. Compounds in beer, like xanthohumol, have neuroprotective properties that might help preserve cognitive function and lower the risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beer-could-help-protect-against-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia and Alzheimer’s disease</a>. </p>



<p>Beer's high water content makes it a diuretic, helping in kidney function and reducing kidney stones risk. </p>



<p>In addition, beer contains several B vitamins, including B2, B3, B5, B6, and folate. These are essential for cellular function and energy metabolism, adding another layer to beer’s potential health benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-beer-and-gut-health">Future of beer and gut health</h2>



<p>In sum, the study from <a href="https://english.dmu.edu.cn/Admissions1/International_Student.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dalian Medical University</a> opens up an intriguing dialogue about beer's role in our diets. Could beer become a regular player in discussions on gut health and immune function? </p>



<p>Dr. Li and his team believe it's a possibility worth exploring. </p>



<p>Needless to say, moderation is key. While beer offers several health benefits, over-consumption can have negative impact on health.</p>



<p>Always remember, not all beers are created equal. Low or non-alcoholic beers fortified with bioactive substances, like fiber or antioxidants, might provide the most significant health benefits.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1186927/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a></em>.</p>



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Beer vs. probiotics: How drinking a pint is great for gut health

We've all had that refreshing gulp of beer on a...

<p>It seems that the realm of dreams is not an exclusive human privilege. Incredible as it may sound, a certain kind of mushrooms -- the king oyster mushrooms or <em>Pleurotus eryngii</em> -- might be indulging in their own version of REM sleep, more like a dreaming robot.</p>



<p>When their sprawling mycelial networks flicker and pulse, their electrochemical responses mimic the activity of our brain cells. But what happens when we let these impulses run free for a while?</p>



<p>Here's where an inspiring collaboration between researchers from <a href="https://www.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a> and the <a href="https://www.unifi.it/it" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florence</a> kicks in. </p>



<p>The experts set a culture of king oyster mushrooms in control of a pair of tiny vehicles. What followed was almost surreal - these vehicles began to twitch and move across a flat surface!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungal-roadways">Fungal roadways</h2>



<p>A series of meticulously planned experiments shed light on the surprising fact that we could use the mushroom's electrophysiological activity to transform environmental cues into instructions. These instructions, in turn, could command <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dancing-robots-the-future-of-human-robot-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mechanical devices to move</a>.</p>



<p>"As we grew the mycelium into the electronics of a robot, the biohybrid machine began to sense and respond to the environment," explained Rob Shepherd, a materials scientist at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell</a> and the chief researcher for this project.</p>



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="9IjHNznxhv-3836479-12187" type="single"]</div>



<p>Is this the first time we've toyed with machines using organic matter? Certainly not. Evolution has had a head start of hundreds of millions of years to perfect organic machines that can sense, think, and move as we desire.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But the intriguing part is that the fungi kingdom remains an untapped treasure trove for cybernetic technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mushroom-with-a-robot-body">Mushroom with a robot body</h2>



<p>Fungi are remarkably resilient; they can be easily cultured, have simple requirements, and can survive in environments that many other organisms can't. These traits make molds and mushrooms incredibly enticing to engineers searching for robust living components for a wide range of needs, from sensory to computational.</p>



<p>Fungal threads, normally hidden from view, respond to changes in their surroundings as they navigate through soil in search of resources. Some species exhibit transmembrane activity that resembles our neural responses, providing researchers a possible way to tap into their enigmatic exchanges.</p>



<p>To harness this potential, the researchers fed algorithms based on the extracellular electrophysiology of P. eryngii mycelia into a microcontroller unit. They used spikes of activity triggered by a stimulus (UV light, in this case) to prompt mechanical responses in two types of mobile device.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-wheeling-dealing-mushroom">A wheeling, dealing mushroom?</h2>



<p>In controlled experiments, the team relied on signals from a fungal culture to direct the movements of a five-limbed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-soft-robot-crawls-moves-like-origami-folds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soft robot</a> and a four-wheeled untethered vehicle.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Remarkably, they were not only able to influence but also override the natural impulses produced by the fungi. The researchers had an impressive ability to harness the system's sensory abilities to reach a particular goal.</p>



<p>"It is also about creating a true connection with the living system. Because once you hear the signal, you also understand what's going on. Maybe that signal is coming from some kind of stresses. So you're seeing the physical response, because those signals we can't visualize, but the robot is making a visualization," explained study lead author Anand Mishra.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-biology-and-technology">Bridging biology and technology</h2>



<p>The melding of natural organisms with technology poses fascinating questions about the future of robotics and bioengineering. </p>



<p>As we consider the potential applications of fungal-based systems, it becomes clear that such innovations could transcend conventional robot design, leading to creations that are not merely machines but rather living entities. </p>



<p>These biohybrids could exhibit adaptive behaviors, respond to environmental stimuli, and operate more efficiently in unpredictable conditions.</p>



<p>The fusion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-robots-now-with-added-common-sense-and-ability-to-self-correct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biology and technology</a> could revolutionize fields such as environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and even search-and-rescue operations, allowing us to employ living organisms in ways that enhance their inherent capabilities and versatility.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-considerations-in-biohybrid-research">Ethical considerations in biohybrid research</h2>



<p>As we venture deeper into this exciting intersection of fungi and robotics, it is crucial to engage in thoughtful discourse regarding the ethical implications of biohybrid technology. </p>



<p>With the power to create living machines that can perceive and interact with their surroundings, we must consider the responsibilities associated with such innovations. What rights, if any, should these biohybrids possess? </p>



<p>How do we regulate the use of organic materials in our pursuit of technological advancement? Moreover, fostering public understanding and ensuring transparent communication about the potential risks and benefits will be pivotal in gaining societal support. </p>



<p>Addressing these questions from the outset will help establish a framework that guides our exploration of this burgeoning field in a manner that respects both scientific progress and ethical integrity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mushrooms-moving-robot-wheels">Mushrooms moving robot wheels</h2>



<p>While a mushroom-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origami-inspired-robots-mimic-the-behavior-of-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot</a> might appear far-fetched, the true value of the system could be more mundane yet especially crucial.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Imagine simpler mechanical setups interpreting complex changes in environmental cues to release precise amounts of nutrient or pesticide in soil, or responding to rising levels of pollutants and even reacting to changes in our own bodies.</p>



<p>There's a profound wisdom hidden in the whispers of mushrooms that we're yet to fully grasp. Given an opportunity, they might even break their silence and tell us what they're dreaming about. After all, if mushrooms can move wheels, there's not much they can't do.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adk8019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Robotics</em></a>.</p>



<p>Video/Image Credit: Robert Sheperd</p>



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Mushroom is given a robot body and runs wild in fascinating video

It seems that the realm of dreams is not an...

<p>Aspergillus fumigatus is a not-so-friendly mold that has secured a spot in every nook and corner of our world. While it may be just another mold species to some, it holds a rather notorious distinction for us humans - Aspergillus fumigatus is capable of causing grave and often fatal infections.</p>



<p>The culprit behind the lethal prowess of this particular mold? A unique enzyme on the surface of its spores known as glycosylasparaginase.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-the-aspergillus-fumigatus-mold">Dangers of the Aspergillus fumigatus mold</h2>



<p>The risky business of dealing with A. fumigatus is part of daily life for an international research team headed by Gustavo Goldman from the University of São Paulo in Brazil. </p>



<p>Their mission? Uncovering the secrets that make this mold <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mold-burgers-fungi-aims-to-become-the-smart-food-of-the-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> deadly. Goldman's research primarily revolves around the surface proteins of these spores - the defense front that first encounters our immune system, usually through inhalation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spore-secrets-of-the-deadly-mold">Spore secrets of the deadly mold</h2>



<p>What do these surface proteins reveal? Olaf Kniemeyer, a proteomics expert from the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute (<a href="https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leibniz-HKI</a>), shed some light on this question.</p>



<p>Kniemeyer's proficiency in mapping and assigning functions to all proteins in a cell have led to the identification of potential targets for new therapeutic substances.</p>



<p>With Kniemeyer and his team's expertise in phagocytosis - the process by which our immune cells engulf foreign invaders - the research team was able to closely observe the mold.</p>



<p>"Gustavo Goldman's group was particularly interested in the surface proteins on the spores, as these are the first to come into contact with the immune system - usually through inhalation," noted Kniemeyer.</p>



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



<p>To crack open the spore mysteries, the team employed a rather innovative approach known as trypsin shaving. </p>



<p>This involved using trypsin, a protein-cleaving enzyme, to purge all proteins from the spore surface - think of it as exfoliating the surface of the spores. After this rigorous "cleanup," the team analyzed the protein fragments left behind using a mass spectrometer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mold-and-the-immune-system">Mold and the immune system</h2>



<p>Upon comparing their findings to existing databases, the researchers discovered 62 proteins that were exclusively present on A. fumigatus spores and absent in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closely related species</a>. This hinted at some of these proteins' potential involvement in the infection process. </p>



<p>The experts then created a library of 42 fungus mutants, with each mutant lacking a gene responsible for one of these proteins.</p>



<p>It was found that the mutant lacking glycosylasparaginase triggered an increased release of interleukin-1β - an ultra-potent protein that incites fever, inflammation, and an assortment of other immune responses - in immune cells.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taming-the-body-s-immune-response">Taming the body's immune response</h2>



<p>The absence of glycosylasparaginase on the fungal spores allows the immune system to release more of this pro-inflammatory substance, thereby ramping up the body's defense against the pathogen. </p>



<p>This suggests that the fungus normally produces glycosylasparaginase to tame the immune response, enabling it to infiltrate the body nearly unchecked. </p>



<p>A study in mice supports this theory, showing that mice with an intact immune system launched a more vigorous attack against the fungus when the gene for glycosylasparaginase was switched off.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-future-research">Implications for future research</h2>



<p>The insights gained from the study of glycosylasparaginase and its role in mediating immune responses opens a plethora of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-fusion-turning-food-waste-into-culinary-delights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avenues for future exploration</a>. </p>



<p>Understanding how A. fumigatus manipulates host defenses equips researchers with the foundational knowledge needed to design effective therapeutic interventions. </p>



<p>By identifying the specific interactions between this mold and the immune system, scientists can develop targeted drugs or vaccines that enhance immune recognition and response, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating or preventing infections caused by this mold.</p>



<p>Indeed, the elusive glycosylasparaginase on A. fumigatus spores seems to play a key part in the fungus's standoff with our immune system. </p>



<p>However, the exact workings of this mechanism remain wrapped in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mycocrete-new-material-made-of-fungi-hopes-to-replace-concrete-in-construction-projects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mystery</a>. Still, these findings open up avenues for developing new treatments for infections caused by A. fumigatus - an urgent need given the limited number of effective drugs currently available and the steadily spreading resistance to them.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-024-01782-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Microbiology</a></em>.&nbsp;</p>



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How do deadly molds attack the immune system of humans?

Aspergillus fumigatus is a not-so-friendly mold that has secured a...

species in Wardiaceae