Fissidens fujiensis

Young,Caucasian,Woman,Eating,Healthy,Vegan,Avocado,Toast,With,Great

<p>Type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting millions worldwide, has been a major health concern for decades. Recent research, however, sheds new light on how this disease can be effectively combatted through dietary choices. </p>



<p>Scientists have found that adopting a healthy lifestyle, particularly focusing on a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a>, can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-diet-in-diabetes-prevention">Role of diet in diabetes prevention</h2>



<p>A cornerstone of this new approach is the emphasis on a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a>. The research underscores that not only is it important to reduce the consumption of animal-based foods, but also to limit industrially processed and highly sugary foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lead to considerable health benefits, including a reduced risk of diabetes.</p>



<p>For the first time, scientists have identified improvements in metabolism and liver and kidney function as key reasons behind the positive effects of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a>. These factors contribute significantly to the lowered likelihood of obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The study's findings mark a significant advancement in understanding diabetes prevention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-the-benefits">Quantifying the benefits</h2>



<p>Through their research, the team managed to quantify the impact of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-plant-based-diets-reduce-the-risk-of-type-2-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy plant-based diet</a>. Their analyses indicate a 24% reduction in diabetes risk, even among individuals with a genetic predisposition or other risk factors like obesity, advanced age, or a lack of physical activity. This is a substantial finding, highlighting the power of diet in managing health risks.</p>



<p>Conversely, the research also points out the risks associated with unhealthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-plant-based-diet-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diets</a>. Diets high in sweets, refined grains, and sugary drinks are linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the importance of not just a plant-based diet, but a healthy one.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-diet-and-diabetes">Studying diet and diabetes</h2>



<p>Professor Tilman Kühn, a leading figure in Public Health Nutrition at <a href="https://www.meduniwien.ac.at/web/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MedUni Vienna</a> and the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>, played a pivotal role in this study. Collaborating with researchers from <a href="https://www.qub.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen's University Belfast</a>, Professor Kühn’s work has been instrumental in identifying biomarkers of central metabolic processes and organ functions as mediators of the health effects of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-healthier-than-animal-products/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a>.</p>



<p>"Our study is the first to identify biomarkers of central metabolic processes and organ functions as mediators of the health effects of a plant-based diet," says Kühn.</p>



<p>Their research involved a comprehensive analysis of 113,097 participants in the <a href="https://www.ukbiobank.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Biobank</a> study over twelve years. This large-scale study has provided invaluable insights into the long-term effects of diet on health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



<p>The findings go beyond the commonly known benefits of reduced body fat percentage and waist circumference. It highlights the importance of considering central metabolic processes and organ functions in understanding the health impacts of diet.</p>



<p>One of the novel findings of this research is the emphasis on the full function of the liver and kidneys in diabetes prevention. These organs are crucial in individuals with diabetes, but the study reveals how a healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-helps-protect-against-chronic-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a> can enhance their function, thereby reducing diabetes risk.</p>



<p>"However, our research has now shown that a healthy plant-based diet can improve liver and kidney function and thus reduce the risk of diabetes," says Kühn.</p>



<p>This research offers a new perspective on diabetes prevention. It underscores the importance of dietary choices, particularly the adoption of a healthy plant-based diet, in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. </p>



<p>As noted by Professor Kühn, this study not only confirms known benefits but also reveals previously underestimated advantages of a plant-based diet, offering hope for millions at risk of this chronic condition.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1262363623000812?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diabetes and Metabolism</a></em>.</p>



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Plant-based diets significantly reduce diabetes risk

Type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting millions worldwide, has been...

<p>A recent scientific investigation has unveiled a potential link between flaxseed, the human gut microbiome, and breast health, emphasizing the impact of dietary and lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing. </p>



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



<p>The study, focusing on the influence of flaxseed components known as lignans on gut microorganisms, revealed their significant role in modulating the expression of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-epigenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microRNAs</a> (miRNAs) in the mammary gland. </p>



<p>These miRNAs are crucial in regulating genes associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breast-cancer-incidence-linked-to-high-particulate-air-pollution/">breast cancer</a>, particularly those governing cell growth and movement. This research has been published in the journal <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/spectrum.02290-23" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Microbiology Spectrum</em></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gastrointestinal-microbiota">Gastrointestinal microbiota</h2>



<p>Jennifer Auchtung, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in the Food Science and Technology Department at the <a href="https://www.unl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska - Lincoln</a> and the editor overseeing the paper’s review, highlighted the crucial role of gastrointestinal microbiota.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The gastrointestinal microbiota plays an important role in modifying many components of our diet to impact human health,” she explained. </p>



<p>"In this study, we found correlations between diets enriched in flaxseed, cecal microbiota composition and miRNA profiles in the mammary gland that regulate many pathways, including those involved in cancer development."</p>



<p>"This preliminary study supports further research into the role that the microbiota plays in dietary approaches to reduce risk factors associated with disease.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flaxseed-lignans">Flaxseed lignans</h2>



<p>The research team delved into how flaxseed lignans, found abundantly in flaxseed and associated with lower breast cancer mortality among postmenopausal women, affect the gut microbiota in young female mice.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts discovered that these lignan components induce specific miRNA responses in the mammary gland, with miRNAs being short, noncoding RNAs that control gene expression by targeting specific mRNA regions.</p>



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



<p>The study aimed to explore whether manipulating the interaction between microbiota and mammary gland miRNAs could diminish breast cancer risks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For this, female mice were fed flaxseed lignan components to examine the connection between gut cecal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-microbes-may-be-key-in-promoting-healthy-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiota</a> profiles and miRNA expression in the mammary gland. The cecum, a crucial part of the digestive system, is thought to be involved in short-chain fatty acid production and may act as a hub for anaerobic bacteria.</p>



<p>The experiments revealed that a particular flaxseed oil lignan, upon microbial processing, releases bioactive metabolites with potential antitumor effects. </p>



<p>This finding indicates a relationship between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fermented-foods-combat-depression-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiota</a> and mammary gland miRNA, with flaxseed lignans altering this interaction to reduce cancer risk.</p>



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



<p>Elena M. Comelli, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> and the paper’s senior author, reflected on the implications of these findings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“If these findings are confirmed, the microbiota becomes a new target to prevent breast cancer through dietary intervention.” Thus, this study paves the way for further exploration into how dietary modifications can potentially serve as preventive measures against breast cancer.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, flaxseed, a remarkable superfood, has been gaining popularity due to its extensive health benefits and versatility in culinary applications. </p>



<p>Originating from the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), this tiny seed boasts a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where it was highly valued for both its nutritional and medicinal properties.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-profile">Nutritional profile</h3>



<p>Flaxseed is a nutritional powerhouse, densely packed with a variety of essential nutrients. It is exceptionally high in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, flaxseed is a rich source of lignans, a type of phytoestrogen that may have anti-cancer properties. This seed is also loaded with dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flaxseed-health-benefits">Flaxseed health benefits</h3>



<ol start="1">
<li>Cardiovascular Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed contribute significantly to heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and decreasing the risk of heart diseases.<br></li>



<li>Cancer Prevention: Studies suggest that the lignans in flaxseed may help in reducing the risk of certain cancers, particularly breast and prostate cancer.<br></li>



<li>Digestive Health: The high fiber content in flaxseed aids in regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and promoting a healthy digestive system.<br></li>



<li>Blood Sugar Control: Flaxseed can help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes.<br></li>



<li>Weight Management: The fiber in flaxseed increases the feeling of fullness, which can help in controlling appetite and aiding in weight loss.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culinary-uses-of-flaxseed">Culinary uses of flaxseed</h3>



<p>Flaxseed's versatility in the kitchen is remarkable. It can be consumed in various forms - whole, ground, or as flaxseed oil. Ground flaxseed is more easily digested, allowing the body to access its nutrients more efficiently. It can be added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or used as a baking ingredient. Flaxseed oil is another way to incorporate this nutrient-rich seed into your diet, perfect for salad dressings or drizzling over cooked dishes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-side-effects-and-considerations">Side effects and considerations</h3>



<p>While flaxseed is generally safe for most people, it is essential to consume it in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal issues like bloating and gas. It's also important to drink plenty of water when increasing fiber intake. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before adding flaxseed to their diet due to its phytoestrogen content.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-sustainability-aspects">Environmental and sustainability aspects</h3>



<p>Flaxseed is not only beneficial for health but also for the environment. Flax plants require less water and fewer pesticides compared to many other crops, making them a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.</p>



<p>In summary, incorporating flaxseed into your diet can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall health. Its rich nutritional profile, health benefits, and culinary versatility make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. As always, moderation is key, and it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.</p>



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Eating flaxseed can help prevent breast cancer

A recent scientific investigation has unveiled a potential link between...

<p>In a study led by the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a>, researchers have unveiled striking dynamics in plant-pollinator networks, particularly highlighting the amplifying effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-expansion-linked-to-global-decline-of-wild-pollinators/">urbanization</a> on seasonal variations. </p>



<p>This research, critical in the era of rapid urbanization, offers novel insights into biodiversity within tropical megacities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-biodiversity">Urbanization and biodiversity</h2>



<p>The global trend towards urbanization is often viewed as a threat to biodiversity. However, the researchers pointed out that flowering plants are often more diverse in cities than in the countryside.</p>



<p>This phenomenon is attributed to the proliferation of flowering plants and agricultural crops in urban areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-pollinator-interactions-nbsp">Plant-pollinator interactions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"All species engage in interactions, and the complex ecological networks resulting from these interactions - such as those between plants and their pollinators - are key components of ecosystems," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"While our knowledge on the structure of interaction networks has improved considerably in recent decades, we still know little about how dynamic these interactions are across environmental, spatial and temporal gradients."</p>



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



<p>The research team, led by Dr. Gabriel Marcacci, now a postdoc at the Swiss Ornithological Institute and the University of Neuchâtel, embarked on an extensive year-long study in Bengaluru, India.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This bustling metropolis, emblematic of rapid urban growth in the tropics, provided a fertile ground for examining the interactions between plants and their pollinators.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h2>



<p>The study encompassed all local seasons: the mild-dry winter, the hot-dry summer, and the rainy monsoon. By analyzing bee species, the plants they visited, and the frequency of these interactions, the team constructed detailed plant-pollinator networks for each location and season.</p>



<p>The researchers found that the interactions between plants and pollinators, which are important for agricultural production, are surprisingly dynamic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>There was a significant variation in the plant and bee species involved in pollination across different seasons.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To identify the factors contributing to the variations in plant-pollinator interactions, the team considered multiple elements: the time of year, proximity to the city center, and the degree of urbanization, indicated by the presence of "sealed surfaces" like roads and buildings.</p>



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



<p>Dr. Marcacci emphasized the significance of this research for understanding tropical urban ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our study provides new insights into the role of urbanization in the dynamics of networks involving plants and pollinators in the tropics, which have been little studied. This is particularly important as current and future urban expansions are largely occurring in tropical regions, where they are subject to different ecological, climate and social factors than in temperate zones," said Dr. Marcacci.</p>



<p>"Our results point to major changes in plant-pollinator networks over the course of the year and to the little-recognized importance of seasonality for the interactions between plants and their pollinators, especially in rapidly growing tropical megacities," wrote the study authors.</p>



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



<p>This study not only contributes to our understanding of urban ecology but also calls for thoughtful urban planning and biodiversity conservation, particularly in tropical megacities facing rapid growth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The unique dynamics of plant-pollinator networks in these settings are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring sustainable agricultural production - an aspect that city planners and environmentalists must consider in the face of escalating urban expansion.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ele.14324" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Ecology Letters</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Urbanization alters the dynamics of plant-pollinator networks

In a study led by the University of Göttingen, researchers...

Urban,Landscape,And,Trees

<p>Urban areas are increasingly recognizing the importance of trees in mitigating the effects of climate change and enhancing the quality of life for city dwellers. Recent research from the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a> has provided valuable insights into how urban trees contribute to cooler air temperatures and the conditions they need to thrive.</p>



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



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/us-cities-are-about-to-get-a-lot-greener-with-1-billion-for-tree-planting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trees</a> have a well-established role in urban environments, particularly in the context of climate change. As global temperatures rise, urban trees offer much-needed shade and contribute to lowering air temperatures. </p>



<p>However, the research team, led by Janina Konarska, emphasizes that the benefits of trees are maximized when they are given suitable conditions to grow. A crucial factor in the efficacy of urban trees is the extent of paved surfaces surrounding them. </p>



<p>The study highlights that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-york-city-greenery-absorbs-vast-amounts-of-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> need adequate space, free from asphalt, to maximize their growth and cooling effects. “Our research shows that an important factor is how much of the area around the tree is paved,” says Konarska.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-trees-with-less-asphalt">Urban trees with less asphalt</h2>



<p>The study found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forests-benefit-from-diverse-native-tree-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> with additional grassy areas around their trunks, especially those aged 20–30 years, showed significantly better growth and cooling effects. </p>



<p>“We found in our study that 20–30-year-old trees surrounded by grass were on average 2.6 meters taller and the crown was 1.3 meters wider than nearby trees growing with paving close to the trunk. The trees also had a crown that was 61 percent denser and provided twice as much cooling,” says Janina Konarska.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surface-cover-and-tree-health">Surface cover and tree health</h2>



<p>The research assessed the impact of surface cover around tree trunks on species like pin oak, horse chestnut, and common lime. It considered various factors such as crown density, tree growth, and transpiration rates. </p>



<p>The findings indicate that the type of surface cover significantly influences these parameters and, consequently, the tree's ability to impact the microclimate through shading and cooling.</p>



<p>Asphalt surfaces near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-majority-of-urban-trees-are-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> lead to several challenges. "The air above an asphalt surface will be warmer than the air above grass or soil. A hardened surface also prevents rainwater from reaching the roots, impacting the growth of the tree," Konarska adds. This effect varies across tree species, with some like the horse chestnut being less affected by hardened surfaces.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-tree-planting-best-practices">Urban tree planting best practices</h2>



<p>Given the expenses involved in planting and nurturing trees in urban areas, it's crucial to optimize their growth environment. The study underscores the importance of not only the choice of tree species but also the management of the area surrounding the tree trunk.</p>



<p>“You have to do the best you can when planting trees in urban areas. If it is difficult to create open spaces around the trees, it is a good idea to invest in better soil and preferably to water the tree,” says Lasse Tarvainen, an environmental scientist at the University of Gothenburg.</p>



<p>In summary, the research from the University of Gothenburg serves as a call to action for city planners, environmentalists, and the public. It highlights the need for thoughtful planting and maintenance of urban trees to harness their full potential in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arbor-day-a-celebration-of-trees-and-their-unrivaled-importance-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cooling and beautifying our cities</a>. </p>



<p>As Tarvainen notes, "It is important that we take care of the trees, they are valuable in many ways." This study lays the groundwork for more sustainable urban planning, where trees play a central role in creating healthier, more livable urban spaces.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169204623001913?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landscape and Urban Planning</a></em>.</p>



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Urban trees surrounded by less asphalt grow taller and stronger

Urban areas are increasingly recognizing the importance of trees in...

<p>Research from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> has revealed a startling link between plant nurseries and the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-many-invasive-plant-species-are-in-the-world/">invasive species</a>, particularly in a warming climate.</p>



<p>The research, which consists of two papers, offers the most comprehensive mapping to date of how 144 common invasive plant species are expected to respond to climate change in the eastern United States.</p>



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



<p>Led by Bethany Bradley, a professor of Environmental Conservation, the UMass Amherst team meticulously analyzed data from 14 invasive species databases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Bradley noted that managers have very few resources to control invasions, so there isn't time to waste focusing on species unlikely to become invasive in a given area. "But the question of what will become invasive and where has been surprisingly tricky to answer.”</p>



<p>“If we can proactively identify these species and the regions they are most likely to become abundant in as the climate warms, then we can head-off a major ecological threat before it’s too late,” said study co-author Annette Evans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hotspots-of-invasive-species-nbsp">Hotspots of invasive species&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Concentrating on the eastern United States, the team identified current "hotspots" of invasive species abundance. These hotspots, notably around the Great Lakes, mid-Atlantic, and the northeastern coasts of Florida and Georgia, are fertile grounds for over 30 different invasive plants.</p>



<p>Using advanced modeling, the researchers projected the future spread of these species with 2°C of warming.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h2>



<p>The team discovered that most species would likely shift their ranges northeastward by an average of 213 kilometers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In some areas, this shift could lead to the proliferation of up to 21 new plant species, exacerbating the effects of 40 currently abundant invasives. However, 62% of these species might see a decrease in suitable habitats in the eastern United States.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primary-pathway-nbsp">Primary pathway&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The second part of the study, led by Evelyn M. Beaury, a postdoctoral researcher at Princeton, highlights the significant role of commercial nurseries in the spread of invasive species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study found that nurseries are the primary pathway for introducing invasive plants, with over 80% of the species studied being sold in nurseries.</p>



<p>“When people think of how invasive plant species spread, they might assume species are moving because of birds or the wind dispersing seeds,” said Beaury. “But commercial nurseries that sell hundreds of different invasives are actually the primary pathway of invasive plant introduction.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-data">Valuable data</h2>



<p>The research also revealed a concerning proximity of nursery sales to invasion sites. Approximately 55% of invasive species were sold within 21 kilometers of an observed invasion, implying that local gardening practices might inadvertently contribute to the spread of these species.</p>



<p>“But there’s good news here,” said Beaury. “This is the first time that we have real numbers to show the connection between plant nursery sales and the spread of invasive species - including invasions that occur down the street from nurseries, as well as across state borders."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Now that we have the data, we have an incredible opportunity to be proactive, to work with the industry, consumers and plant managers to think more critically about how our gardens impact U.S. ecosystems.”</p>



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



<p>The study provides a list of 24 commonly sold invasive plants that are likely to become more problematic with climate change in the northeast, suggesting native alternatives to these species.</p>



<p>“These two papers together make it pretty clear that not only are we facilitating current invasions through the ornamental plant trade, but we are also facilitating future climate-driven invasion,” said Bradley, “But with these papers, maps and watchlists, we can pinpoint which species are most worrisome where, both now and in the coming decades. These are important new tools in invasive plant managers’ toolboxes.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ddi.13787" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Diversity and Distributions</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Plant nurseries are the primary pathway for introducing invasive species

Research from the University of Massachusetts Amherst has revealed a...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/root-bacteria-protects-plants/">Bacteria</a> that benefit plants are thought to be a critical contributor to crops and ecosystems, but climate change may reduce their numbers, according to a new study by an international team of researchers published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-023-00869-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Food</em></a>.</p>



<p>The collaboration, including Francisco Dini-Andreote, professor of plant science at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, characterized the abundances and distributions of plant beneficial bacteria (PBB) from soils collected across the globe. The researchers then modeled how these microbial communities may be impacted by fossil-fuel dependent climate change in the next century.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-second-genome">The second genome</h2>



<p>Leveraging existing data from the <a href="https://earthmicrobiome.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth Microbiome Project</a>, the researchers identified microbes that may provide services to plants such as biocontrol or limiting impacts of pathogens, plant growth promotion, and stress resistance. Such services implicate these bacteria as key components of productive agroecosystems, which primarily yield food.</p>



<p>“Plants are colonized by a diverse set of microbes on and in their roots, leaves and stems,” Dini-Andreote said. “These plant-associated microbiomes represent an extension of the plant metabolic capacity - often termed ‘the second genome of plants.’”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-community-patterns">Microbial community patterns</h2>



<p>This notion echoes the hologenome concept, which considers the total set of genes contained by an organism and its associated microbiome to make inferences about organismal health and evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the researchers, characterizing the biogeography of PBB sets the stage for understanding the variables that govern global microbial community patterns and predicting their future in a rapidly shifting world.</p>



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



<p>The analysis revealed several trends in PBB diversity, including higher levels of diversity and richness in lower latitudes, with the highest concentration in North America and Africa. A total of 396 genera, the taxonomic rank above species level, were identified.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that local environmental variables - climate, in particular - were strong predictors of PBB community composition, likely exerting strong influences on PBB distribution. This suggests that climate influences what bacteria are found where and in what proportion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-scenarios-nbsp">Future scenarios&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To investigate how PBB abundances and distributions may change over the next century, the researchers modeled several climate scenarios based on projections from the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a>. </p>



<p>Under the fossil-fueled development scenario, which assumes tripled greenhouse gas emissions by 2075, the model predicted that PBB associated with biocontrol and stress resistance would decline by 0.60 percent in 80 percent of global regions, as opposed to 0.07 percent under a Sustainability scenario.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Under all scenarios, middle-latitude regions are projected to experience steady declines, whereas increases in PBB are anticipated in polar and equatorial regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-validation-is-needed">Further validation is needed</h2>



<p>Dini-Andreote noted that predictive studies such as this are broadly impactful but cautioned that models are limited and must be experimentally validated. For instance, in controlled settings, plant-soil systems can be exposed to warming or drought conditions, after which researchers can evaluate shifts based on the impact and adaptation of PBB communities relative to controls.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In other words, experimentation is required to know how PBB will be affected under climate-related stress, and what levels of PBB decline will have a critical impact on plant health.</p>



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



<p>In addition to informing community ecology research, the researchers said they hope to spark agricultural innovation and applications for increased food security. But those innovations are unlikely to include soil probiotics to restore diminished PBB.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dini-Andreote said that such bioinoculants can often have several shortcomings such as requiring continual application. Additionally, only a small fraction, about 5 to 10 percent, of soil microbes can be cultured, which limits the development of full-spectrum probiotics.</p>



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



<p>However, Dini-Andreote offered an alternative. “By advancing our understanding of how these distinct PBB survive in association with plants, for instance in the plant rhizosphere, we can develop strategies to engineer crops to produce compounds that feed these beneficial microbes.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through this approach, the researchers suggested, plants could recruit beneficial bacteria with no need for the external input of probiotics. The potential impacts of applications like this are untold, Dini-Andreote said, but underscore the importance of exploring the rapidly advancing frontier of microbiomes.</p>



<p>“This high-profile research is a testament to Dr. Dini-Andreote’s impactful and original research on plant-microbe interactions in a One Health context, spanning soil, plant and human health," Seth Bordenstein, director of the <a href="https://www.huck.psu.edu/institutes-and-centers/microbiome-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Health Microbiome Center</a> at Penn State. “His vision for plant hologenome studies and integration with global environmental and geographic data is not only driving textbook-level knowledge, but it also raises the alarm on evidence-backed sustainability challenges,” he concluded.</p>



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Beneficial plant bacteria likely to decline due to climate change

Bacteria that benefit plants are thought to be a critical...

<p>A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing dimension to sushi beyond its well-known combination of fish and seaweed. Researchers from <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tohoku University</a> have discovered that wasabi, that zesty green condiment traditionally paired with sushi, can significantly enhance both short-term and long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/">memory</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-change">Dramatic change</h2>



<p>According to Rui Nouchi, the study’s lead researcher and an associate professor at the university’s Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, the outcomes, though derived from a relatively small sample of subjects devoid of preexisting health issues, exceeded their initial expectations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We knew from earlier animal studies that wasabi conferred health benefits,” Nouchi said during an interview conducted in northeastern Japan. “But what really surprised us was the dramatic change. The improvement was really substantial.”</p>



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



<p>The principal active constituent within Japanese wasabi is a biochemical compound named 6-MSITC, recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, a rarity in the plant kingdom, as noted by Nouchi.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, executed as a double-blind, randomized study, featured 72 healthy participants aged between 60 and 80. Half of the participants were administered 100 milligrams of wasabi extract at bedtime, while the remaining half received a placebo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-wasabi">Key findings about wasabi</h2>



<p>After three months, the group treated with wasabi extract demonstrated significant enhancements in two aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>: working (short-term) memory and the more enduring episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>. These improvements were gauged through standardized assessments of language skills, concentration, and the ability to perform simple tasks. </p>



<p>However, there was no observable improvement in other cognitive domains, including inhibitory control (the capacity to maintain focus), executive function, or processing speed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-plasticity-nbsp">Neural plasticity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The subjects who received the wasabi treatment exhibited an average 18 percent surge in their episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-improves-memory-formation-and-recall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> scores, with an overall average score 14 percent higher than the placebo group.</p>



<p>The researchers postulated that 6-MSITC may contribute to a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress levels within the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-connection-between-scent-and-memory-may-help-combat-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory functions</a>, thereby promoting neural plasticity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-verbal-episodic-memory">Verbal episodic memory</h2>



<p>In comparison to the control group, the study reported that individuals who were administered wasabi “showed improved verbal episodic memory performance as well as better performance in associating faces and names, which is often the major memory-related problem in older adults.”</p>



<p>Wasabi belongs to the mustard family of plants, and the piquant paste derived from it garnered esteem in Japan centuries ago due to its antimicrobial properties, making it effective in combating foodborne pathogens such as E-coli and staphylococcus. Furthermore, its distinctive flavor and aroma make it an ideal complement to seafood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasabi-as-a-daily-supplement">Wasabi as a daily supplement </h2>



<p>Rui Nouchi, a specialist in dementia prevention, turned to wasabi as a treatment option after experiencing high dropout rates with conventional methods for preserving cognitive health, such as the Mediterranean diet, exercise regimens, and music therapy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nouchi reasoned that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taking-a-daily-multivitamin-improves-memory-and-slows-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily supplement</a> would be more sustainable, particularly for older adults, while delivering greater benefits than other anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spices like ginger and turmeric.</p>



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



<p>The Tohoku University research team now has plans to extend their investigations to include individuals from various age groups and explore whether wasabi could potentially slow down cognitive decline in dementia patients.</p>



<p>However, there is a significant caveat to these findings: the piquant paste served at nearly all sushi establishments, even in Japan, is almost certainly an imposter. What is far more prevalent is a convincing imitation, typically composed of ordinary white horseradish dyed green.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-authentic-wasabi-nbsp">Authentic wasabi&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Authentic wasabi, indigenous to Japan, is notoriously challenging to cultivate. The plant necessitates nearly two years to mature and demands precise conditions involving temperature, shade, gravel composition, and water quality. Astonishingly, its production cost per pound can even surpass that of the finest-grade tuna it often accompanies.</p>



<p>Genuine wasabi must be consumed fresh, with the rough rhizome or stem of the plant grated tableside just before consumption. On a positive note, even a small serving of genuine wasabi offers equivalent benefits to the capsule supplements employed in the Tohoku study, delivering 0.8 milligrams of 6-MSITC.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/21/4608" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nutrients</em></a>. </p>



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Wasabi significantly enhances both short-term and long-term memory

A recent study conducted in Japan has unveiled an intriguing...

Fissidens fujiensis

Taxonomic tree: