<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, and its surroundings. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on February 21, 2023.</p>



<p>"Situated some 50 km south of the North Korean border, the metropolitan area of Seoul appears as the grey area in the center of the image," says ESA.</p>



<p>"The Han River runs through the city, and to the right of the image it can be seen partly covered by ice. It is one of the biggest rivers in the Korean peninsula. It flows westward through Seoul into the Yellow Sea, named so because of the yellowish sand that colours its water."</p>



<p>"Seoul is surrounded by forested mountains, which appear brown in this wintery image. Bukhansan National Park lies just north of the city. The park is like an island, acting as a big green lung for the surrounding urban environment."</p>



<p>The population of Seoul is over 9 million people, and the metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities like Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, is one of the most populous in the world.</p>



<p>Seoul is a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, extensive history, and rapid economic development. The city's skyline is a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, showcasing its rich heritage.</p>



<p>Seoul is a hub for education, with several top-ranked universities and research institutes. The city also thrives in technology and innovation - home to global companies like Samsung and LG. Street markets like Myeongdong and Insadong offer a taste of local life and traditional crafts, while districts like Gangnam are famous for their upscale shopping and entertainment.</p>



<p>Seoul's green spaces, like Namsan Park and the Han River Park, provide a refuge from the urban hustle. The city's blend of history, culture, technology, and nature makes it a unique and dynamic metropolis, attracting millions of visitors each year.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



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



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



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The city of Seoul, South Korea 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 photograph of the city of Bentiu in South Sudan.</p>



<p>"The country has always experienced a degree of seasonal flooding, which normally recedes in the dry season. However, four consecutive years of incessant flooding have submerged villages, farmlands and roads. In 2023, flood waters reached almost 2 meters in some places," said ESA.</p>



<p>"This false-color image, captured in January 2023, clearly shows the extent of the flooded areas around Bentiu. Information from the mission’s near-infrared channel was used to process this image so water bodies appear in dark blue or black. Sediment in the waters is bright blue, while the vibrant shades of red, mainly bordering rivers, denote vegetation."</p>



<p>According to ESA, the yellowish area in the center of the image is the city of Bentiu - standing out like an island surrounded by floods.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"From Bentiu, the Bahr el-Ghazal River meanders through the inundated floodplain in a northeasterly direction. It can be traced in black in the right of the image flowing through Lake No into the White Nile," said ESA.</p>



<p>"Fed by the White Nile, the large, swampy area running from the centre of the image to the bottom right is the Sudd. It is a network of channels, lakes and swamps and one of Africa’s largest floodplains, providing watering and feeding grounds for many endemic mammals and birds, as well as for large populations of migratory species."</p>



<p>Bentiu is known for its significance in the oil industry. It's the capital of Unity State, an area rich in oil fields, making it a crucial economic hub for South Sudan. However, this wealth in natural resources has also made Bentiu a focal point of conflict, particularly during the South Sudanese Civil War.</p>



<p>The city's history has been shaped by its strategic importance in the region. It has seen significant development in the oil sector, but this has been marred by political and ethnic conflicts. These conflicts have often resulted in severe humanitarian crises, affecting the local population with issues like displacement and shortages of basic necessities.</p>



<p>Despite its challenges, Bentiu is a key player in South Sudan's economy and its future development. The city's role in the oil industry cannot be overstated, and efforts are ongoing to stabilize the region and improve living conditions for its residents.</p>



<p>The city's demographics are diverse, reflecting the ethnic variety of South Sudan, but this diversity has also been a source of tension at times. Efforts towards peace and reconciliation in Bentiu and the wider Unity State are crucial for the long-term stability and prosperity of South Sudan.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



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The city of Bentiu in South Sudan

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Malaspina Glacier in southeastern Alaska. With a size of approximately 1,680 square miles, Malaspina is the world’s largest piedmont glacier. It covers an area larger than the state of Rhode Island.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"To human eyes, glacial ice typically looks white tinged with blue. But in this false-color satellite image, the rippled ice of Alaska’s Malaspina Glacier appears more fiery than frosty," said NASA.</p>



<p>"In this configuration, watery features are displayed in reds, oranges, and yellows; vegetation appears green; and rock is shown in shades of blue."</p>



<p>A piedmont glacier forms when steep valley glaciers spill into flat plains, where they spread out into bulbous, lobate shapes. Malaspina is fed by the Seward Ice Field and other smaller glaciers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite its size, it's relatively thin for a glacier of its magnitude, averaging only about 600 meters (2,000 feet) in thickness.</p>



<p>The Malaspina Glacier is a classic example of a glacier experiencing significant retreat and thinning due to climate change. This has raised concerns about its long-term stability and the broader implications for sea-level rise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The glacier's meltwater contributes to the Gulf of Alaska, and its changes are closely monitored by scientists.</p>



<p>Most of the Malaspina Glacier is located within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Its visually striking nature, including crevasses and moraines, makes it a subject of interest not only for scientists but also for photographers and nature enthusiasts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The image was captured on October 27, 2023 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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Malaspina Glacier in southeastern Alaska 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/151929/indonesian-fires-return-in-2023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Moon peeking over Earth's horizon. The image was captured as the International Space Station was orbiting over Iraq. </p>



<p>"Taken at an oblique angle from an altitude of 406 kilometers (252 miles), the photo has a perspective that highlights Earth’s atmospheric limb, or the edge of the atmosphere," says NASA.</p>



<p>"The blue-toned haze that fades into the darkness of space is the mesosphere, which reaches an altitude of about 80 kilometers (50 miles). Above the mesosphere is the thermosphere. Although this layer is part of Earth’s atmosphere, it is commonly considered part of outer space."</p>



<p>According to NASA, the Moon is about 405,500 kilometers (251,000 miles) away from Earth at its furthest point, or apogee.</p>



<p>"Below the wispy clouds in the middle of the view is Lake Assad, a Euphrates River reservoir in northern Syria," notes NASA.</p>



<p>"Lake Assad is Syria’s largest lake and a primary source of the region’s drinking and irrigation water. The Tabqa Dam, which created the lake, is the largest hydroelectric dam in the country."</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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The Moon peeks over Earth's horizon

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features a rare view of Elephant Island off the coast of Antarctica. The photo was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission in February 2023.</p>



<p>Elephant Island is an ice-covered, mountainous island in the Southern Ocean. It is located in the outer reaches of the South Shetland Islands.</p>



<p>"The highest peaks are Mount Pendragon, which reaches around 970 meters, visible on the southern end, and, moving northeast, Mount Elder, which reaches around 945 meters," said ESA.</p>



<p>"North of Mount Elder, the wide Endurance Glacier can be seen in the centre of the image. It is the main discharge glacier on the island and drains to the south and into the Weddel Sea. Thin sea ice, visible in light blue in front of the calving front, separates the glacier terminus from the open ocean waters."</p>



<p>Elephant Island holds a special place in polar exploration history because of its role in the Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-1917). After their ship, the Endurance, was trapped and then crushed by ice in the Weddell Sea, Shackleton and his crew sailed lifeboats over treacherous seas to reach Elephant Island. It was an inhospitable place with no sources of food or shelter, but it was land.</p>



<p>Realizing that there was no chance of rescue from Elephant Island, Shackleton and a few crew members set out in a small lifeboat, the James Caird, to sail 800 miles to South Georgia Island where they hoped to find help. This journey is considered one of the greatest boat journeys ever accomplished. They did eventually reach South Georgia, and Shackleton was able to return to Elephant Island and rescue the remaining crew members.</p>



<p>Though it's largely ice-covered, Elephant Island is home to various wildlife, particularly seals, penguins, and seabirds. The island is uninhabited by humans, but it is a popular destination for expedition cruises and is often visited by those interested in polar exploration history.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



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Elephant Island off the coast of Antarctica

Vegan,Lentil,Burgers,With,Kale,And,Tomato,Sauce,On,A

<p>A recent analysis from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pcrm.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine</a> highlights the benefits of replacing animal products with plant-based foods.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This analysis, which expands on a previous study by the same committee, emphasizes the significant impact of plant-based diets on weight loss, cholesterol, fat intake, and fiber intake in overweight adults.</p>



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



<p>The most significant finding is that both healthy and unhealthy plant-based foods contribute to weight loss when they replace animal products in the diet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This conclusion is significant because it underscores the potential 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</a> diet, regardless of the specific type of plant-based foods consumed, in managing weight and improving overall health.</p>



<p>“While a low-fat vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans is the gold standard for weight loss and improved health, the good news is that a plant-based diet that eliminates <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-meat-diets-have-four-times-the-environmental-impacts-of-vegan-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal products</a> and minimizes the consumption of oil can help with weight loss in people who are overweight,” said study co-author Dr. Hana Kahleova, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



<p>This analysis is a secondary examination of a prior study that involved 244 overweight adults. The participants were divided into two groups. One group followed a low-fat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-diet-reduces-arthritis-pain-and-inflammation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diet</a>, and the other made no changes to their diet. Notably, the study imposed no restrictions on calorie intake, and the researchers did not give participants specific instructions on diet quality.</p>



<p>The study authors used three different indexes to assess plant-based diet adherence: the plant-based diet index (PDI), the healthful plant-based diet index (hPDI), and the unhealthful plant-based diet index (uPDI).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The PDI measures general adherence to a plant-based diet, the hPDI emphasizes fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans, while the uPDI includes more refined grains and fruit juices. Higher scores on these indexes correlate with greater consumption of plant-based foods and reduced consumption of animal products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-based-foods-show-promising-results">Plant-based foods show promising results</h2>



<p>The results revealed that after 16 weeks, participants on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-environmental-impacts-of-various-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diet</a> showed increased scores in all three indexes. This increase significantly correlated with participants losing an average of about 13 pounds, mainly from reduced fat mass and visceral fat.</p>



<p>Factors contributing to this weight loss included increased consumption of whole grains and legumes, and reduced consumption of meat, vegetable oil, and sweets. The control group showed no change in their index scores.</p>



<p>Overall, the analysis provides strong evidence that eating plant-based foods is effective for weight management and health improvement, regardless of the specific type of plant-based foods consumed. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-plant-based-foods-for-weight-loss">Best plant-based foods for weight loss</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-plant-based-diet-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant-based</a> foods are excellent for weight loss as they're typically lower in calories and higher in fiber and nutrients. Here's a description of some effective plant-based foods for weight loss:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legumes">Legumes</h3>



<p>Beans, lentils, and peas are great sources of protein and fiber, which can keep you feeling full and satisfied. They're also low in fat and calories.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whole-grains">Whole grains</h3>



<p>Foods like quinoa, brown rice, barley, and whole wheat are rich in fiber. They take longer to digest, which helps in maintaining steady blood sugar levels and keeping you full longer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leafy-greens">Leafy greens</h3>



<p>Spinach, kale, collards, and other greens are incredibly low in calories but high in fiber and essential nutrients. They add bulk to meals without adding many calories.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuts-and-seeds">Nuts and seeds</h3>



<p>While higher in calories, nuts and seeds like almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They should be eaten in moderation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruits">Fruits</h3>



<p>Berries, apples, pears, and other fruits are high in fiber and natural sugars, satisfying sweet cravings in a healthier way. They're also full of vitamins and antioxidants.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vegetables">Vegetables</h3>



<p>Non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers are low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients, making them perfect for weight loss diets.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tofu-and-yempeh">Tofu and yempeh</h3>



<p>These soy-based products are high in protein and fiber, yet low in calories. They can be great meat substitutes in various dishes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avocado">Avocado</h3>



<p>Rich in healthy fats and fiber, avocados can help you feel full and satisfied. However, they are calorie-dense, so portion control is key.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mushrooms">Mushrooms</h3>



<p>Low in calories and high in flavor, mushrooms can be a satisfying substitute for meat in many dishes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbs-and-spices">Herbs and spices</h3>



<p>Using herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic can add flavor without calories, helping to make plant-based meals more satisfying and enjoyable.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41430-023-01371-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>European Journal of Clinical Nutrition</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Plant-based foods are great for weight loss, regardless of the type

A recent analysis from the&nbsp;Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine highlights...

The,Concept,Of,The,Human,Brain.,The,Right,Creative,Hemisphere

<p>A recent study led by Dr. Tomás Ryan from <a href="https://www.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity College Dublin</a> and his team of neuroscientists has uncovered new insights into the brain’s learning mechanisms. The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.10.074" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Current Biology</em></a>, reveals that learning involves the formation of new connectivity patterns between specific engram cells in various brain regions.</p>



<p>Our brains are constantly adapting and changing, incorporating new information from our daily experiences. This continuous process of learning and memory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-has-an-alert-system-to-shut-down-unwanted-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formation</a> has long intrigued scientists.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Dr. Ryan’s research focuses on understanding how these experiences modify our neurons, allowing us to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rewriting-negative-memories-by-activating-positive-ones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">create new</a> memories. The key to this process lies in identifying the ‘engram,’ which is the change in the brain that stores a memory.</p>



<p>“Memory engram cells are groups of brain cells that, activated by specific experiences, change themselves to incorporate and thereby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-has-an-alert-system-to-shut-down-unwanted-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hold information</a> in our brain,” explained lead author Clara Ortega-de San Luis, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Ryan Lab.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Reactivation of these ‘building blocks’ of memories triggers the recall of the specific experiences associated with them. The question is, how do engrams store meaningful information about the world?”</p>



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



<p>To explore this question, the researchers employed a learning paradigm in which animals learned to identify and associate different contexts that are similar to each other.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts utilized genetic techniques to label two distinct populations of engram cells in the brain for two discrete memories. They then monitored the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgetting-may-actually-be-a-form-of-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formation of new connections</a> between these engram cells as learning occurred.</p>



<p>Optogenetics, a technique that controls brain cell activity with light, was used to demonstrate the necessity of these newly formed connections for learning.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-learning">New insights into learning</h2>



<p>The study identified a molecular mechanism involving a specific protein in the synapse that regulates the connectivity between engram cells.</p>



<p>This research provides direct evidence that changes in synaptic wiring connectivity between engram cells are a likely mechanism for memory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-identifies-the-brain-cells-that-form-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storage in the brain</a>.</p>



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



<p>Commenting on the significance of these findings, Dr. Ryan said: “Understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-helps-the-brain-consolidate-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cellular mechanisms</a> that allow learning to occur helps us to comprehend not only how we form new memories or modify those pre-existent ones but also advance our knowledge towards disentangling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-advanced-brain-mapping-yet-reveals-how-we-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how the brain works</a> and the mechanisms needed for it to process thoughts and information."</p>



<p>“In 21st-century neuroscience, many of us like to think memories are being stored in engram cells, or their sub-components. This study argues that rather than looking for information within or at cells, we should search for information between cells, and that learning may work by altering the wiring diagram of the brain – less like a computer and more like a developing sculpture. In other words, the engram is not in the cell; the cell is in the engram,” he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-memory-and-engram-cells">Learning, memory and engram cells</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgetting-may-actually-be-a-form-of-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Engram cells</a>, as discussed previously, are often referred to as memory traces. They are a fundamental concept in understanding how the brain encodes, stores, and retrieves memories. </p>



<p>Scientists identify these cells as the physical embodiment of memories within the brain's neural network. When we learn something new, specific patterns of brain activity occur, leading to changes in certain neurons, which become engram cells.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-engram-cells">Formation of engram cells</h3>



<p>The formation of engram cells begins with learning or experiencing something new. This process, known as encoding, involves various brain regions, particularly the hippocampus for declarative memories and the amygdala for emotional memories. </p>



<p>During encoding, synaptic connections between neurons strengthen, making these neurons more likely to fire together in the future. This phenomenon, based on the principle "neurons that fire together, wire together," underlies the formation of engram cells.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engram-cells-and-memory-storage">Engram cells and memory storage</h3>



<p>Once formed, engram cells play a crucial role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-formation-recall-different/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory storage and recall</a>. They represent the physical and chemical changes in the brain that correspond to a specific memory. When we try to recall a memory, the brain reactivates the same pattern of neural activity that was present during the encoding of the memory, effectively 'lighting up' the engram cells associated with that memory.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engram-cells-and-learning">Engram cells and learning</h3>



<p>Learning involves the continuous formation and reformation of engram cells. Each new piece of information or skill we acquire results in the creation of new engram cells or the modification of existing ones. This dynamic nature of engram cells is key to their role in learning. They are not static but rather adapt and change as we continue to learn and as our memories evolve over time.</p>



<p>In summary, engram cells are at the heart of the learning process and memory formation. They represent the brain's remarkable ability to encode, store, and recall vast amounts of information. Understanding how engram cells work not only unravels the mysteries of memory but also opens up potential avenues for treating memory-related disorders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-memory-and-sleep">Learning, memory and sleep</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-we-sleep-study-reveals-new-clues-behind-this-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep</a> is another crucial component in both learning and memory. This relationship that has been extensively researched and documented in various scientific studies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-role-of-sleep-in-learning">Active role of sleep in learning</h3>



<p>Enhancing Cognitive Abilities: Sleep actively improves cognitive abilities essential for learning. It boosts attention and focus, enabling more efficient processing and absorption of new information. By refreshing the mind, sleep prepares individuals for new learning experiences.</p>



<p>Facilitating Memory Consolidation: One of the most crucial functions of sleep in learning is memory consolidation. During sleep, the brain actively transfers new information from short-term to long-term memory, a process essential for learning retention.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-different-sleep-stages-aid-memory">How different sleep stages aid memory</h3>



<p>REM Sleep: This stage is pivotal for consolidating declarative memories, like facts and figures. Here, the brain actively integrates new information with existing knowledge, enhancing understanding and recall.</p>



<p>Non-REM Sleep: The deeper stages of non-REM sleep are vital for procedural memory, involving skills and tasks. This stage strengthens neural connections, solidifying new skills learned during the day.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-s-role-in-synaptic-plasticity">Sleep's role in synaptic plasticity</h3>



<p>Synaptic plasticity, the brain's ability to strengthen or weaken synaptic connections, is vital for learning and memory. Sleep actively fosters this plasticity, allowing the brain to reorganize and optimize neural pathways based on new experiences and learnings.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-sleep-deprivation">Impact of sleep deprivation</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-damages-dna-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep deprivation</a> actively hampers learning and memory. It impairs the brain's ability to focus, process information, and engage in the critical process of memory consolidation. Chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-impairs-the-brain-potentially-causing-neurological-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lack of sleep</a> can lead to long-term deficits in learning and memory retention.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-sleep-to-enhance-learning-and-memory">Using sleep to enhance learning and memory</h3>



<p>Maintain Regular Sleep Patterns: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consistent-sleep-slows-down-aging-at-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Consistent sleep</a> schedules support the brain's natural rhythms, enhancing learning and memory processes.</p>



<p>Create a Conducive Sleep Environment: A comfortable, distraction-free sleep environment actively promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.</p>



<p>Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Practices like limiting caffeine and screen time before bed can significantly improve sleep quality, directly benefiting learning and memory.</p>



<p>In summary, the active involvement of sleep in learning and memory is undeniable. By facilitating memory consolidation, enhancing cognitive functions, and supporting synaptic plasticity, sleep proves to be a cornerstone of effective learning and robust memory. Recognizing and prioritizing sleep is, therefore, essential for anyone looking to maximize their learning potential and cognitive health.</p>



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Secrets of learning revealed: How our brains make and retrieve memories

A recent study led by Dr. Tomás Ryan from Trinity...

Wolverine,(gulo,Gulo),Portrait.,Wolverine,Face,Closeup.

<p>In a landmark decision, the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a> has announced the protection of the wolverine population in the lower 48 states under the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations/summary-endangered-species-act" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Endangered Species Act</a> (ESA). This move is a significant victory for conservationists who have campaigned for decades to secure legal protections for this rare wilderness species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-fought-conservation-battle">Long-fought conservation battle</h2>



<p>The decision to list the wolverine as threatened under the ESA is the culmination of a prolonged campaign by conservationists, involving six rounds of successful litigation. Timothy Preso, an <a href="https://www.earthjustice.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthjustice</a> attorney, expressed his satisfaction with the decision. He said, “This long-awaited decision gives the wolverine a fighting chance at survival.”</p>



<p>The journey began in 1994 when conservation organizations first filed petitions, filing again in 2000, urging for the classification of the wolverine as a threatened under the Endangered Species Act. However, over the years, the service consistently postponed and hindered the listing process for the wolverine, compelling those advocating for the species to seek legal action to enforce the act. </p>



<p>Earthjustice, along with its allied groups, achieved success in every lawsuit they pursued for the wolverine's protection. They consistently secured victories either via court decisions in their favor or through advantageous settlement deals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolverines-are-endangered">Why wolverines are endangered</h2>



<p>Dave Werntz from <a href="https://conservationnw.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Northwest</a> and Michael Saul from <a href="https://defenders.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Defenders of Wildlife</a> emphasized the importance of this decision in light of the challenges posed by climate change. Wolverines, dependent on snowpack for their survival, are facing an uncertain future due to global warming.</p>



<p>“The decision today gives a boost to struggling wolverines across the west,” said<strong> </strong>Werntz. “The future for wolverines in the North Cascades and elsewhere is now much brighter.”</p>



<p>With no more than 300 individuals remaining in the lower 48 states, the wolverine, the largest terrestrial member of the weasel family, is endangered by habitat loss due to climate change. Pregnant females rely on deep snow for birthing and raising their young.</p>



<p>“The science is clear: snowpack-dependent species like the wolverine are facing an increasingly uncertain future under a warming climate,” Michael Saul explained. “The protections that come with Endangered Species Act listing increase the chance that our children will continue to share the mountains with these elusive and fascinating carnivores. Now it’s time to support the species’ future by bringing them back to the mountains of Colorado as well.”</p>



<p>Andrea Zaccardi from the <a href="https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Biological Diversity</a> expressed joy over the decision, noting the overdue nature of these protections. Megan Mueller from <a href="https://rockymountainwild.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rocky Mountain Wild</a> highlighted the importance of reintroducing wolverines to Colorado as a refuge from climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-context-and-current-challenges">Historical context and current challenges</h2>



<p>Historically, wolverines roamed across the northern United States, reaching as far south as New Mexico and Southern California. Today, traps, human disturbance, and low genetic diversity pose risks to their limited and fragmented populations.</p>



<p>George Sexton from the <a href="https://www.kswild.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center</a> and Jeff Abrams from the <a href="https://www.idahoconservation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Idaho Conservation League</a> emphasized the significance of the decision for regional recovery efforts. </p>



<p>“Wolverines have been completely driven out of the Klamath Mountains where they once roamed, this is an important step to ensure that they are not driven off the planet,” said Sexton.</p>



<p>“Biologists estimate a loss of more than 40% of suitable wolverine habitat in Idaho by 2060 if we fail to act," Abrams added. “This decision allows us to move forward on recovery actions to prevent such extensive loss of wolverine habitat and recover wolverine populations.”</p>



<p>Bonnie Rice from <a href="https://www.sierraclub.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sierra Club</a> called the decision a lifeline for the snow-dependent species, saying, “Today’s decision gives this amazing, snow-dependent species a long-overdue lifeline in the face of massive habitat loss due to climate change.”</p>



<p>In summary, the long-overdue move by the USFWS marks a pivotal moment in the conservation of endangered wolverines in the United States. It not only offers legal protection, but also sets the stage for recovery programs and initiatives. Earthjustice and their allies earned a hard-fount victory and a beacon of hope for this iconic wilderness species.</p>



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



<p>Wolverines, known for their formidable strength and resilience, thrive in some of the most inhospitable climates on Earth. These solitary mammals, often misunderstood, play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Wolverines, the largest members of the Mustelidae or weasel family, display a bear-like appearance. They have a stocky build, broad heads, and short, rounded ears. </p>



<p>Their thick, dark brown fur, often with light facial markings and a pale stripe running from each shoulder to the base of their tail, provides insulation against extreme cold. Wolverines also have large, five-toed paws with sharp claws, making them excellent climbers and diggers.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wolverine-habitat-and-distribution">Wolverine habitat and distribution</h3>



<p>Wolverines are adapted to cold, boreal forests, tundra, and alpine environments. They predominantly inhabit the Northern Hemisphere, especially in Canada, Alaska, northern Europe, and Russia. </p>



<p>Their home ranges are vast, spanning hundreds of square miles. Being solitary animals, they require large territories for hunting and scavenging.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-hunting-behavior">Diet and hunting behavior</h3>



<p>Carnivorous in nature, wolverines feed on a variety of foods. Their diet primarily consists of carrion, small mammals, birds, and occasionally fruits and berries. </p>



<p>Wolverines are opportunistic feeders and have been known to take down prey much larger than themselves, such as deer, using their powerful jaws and sharp teeth.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproductive-behavior">Reproductive behavior</h3>



<p>Wolverines mate in the summer, but the implantation of the embryo is delayed until winter. Births occur in the early spring. </p>



<p>Females give birth to two to three kits in dens insulated with snow, which provide protection and warmth. The young wolverines are weaned after a few months but often stay with their mother until the next breeding season.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptations-for-survival">Adaptations for survival</h3>



<p>Wolverines have several adaptations that aid their survival in harsh climates. Their fur is frost-resistant, and their wide paws act like natural snowshoes, supporting them in deep snow. Wolverines also have a keen sense of smell, allowing them to locate food buried deep beneath the snow.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-and-conservation">Threats and conservation</h3>



<p>As discussed above, wolverines face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and human activities such as trapping and hunting. Their dependency on snow-covered terrain makes them particularly vulnerable to global warming. Conservation efforts, including legal protections and habitat conservation, are crucial for their survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-wolverines-in-ecosystems">Role of wolverines in ecosystems</h3>



<p>As apex scavengers, wolverines play a vital role in their ecosystems by helping to keep them clean and free of carrion. They also impact the populations of smaller predators and prey, maintaining a balance in their habitats.</p>



<p>Wolverines, with their fierce reputation and remarkable adaptability, are fascinating creatures deserving of admiration and protection. Understanding and conserving these resilient animals is essential for maintaining the health and balance of the ecosystems they inhabit.</p>



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Wolverines receive much-needed protection from the Endangered Species Act

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service...


<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592db8823b94c704af350f4c/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>An estimated two million people die each year due to human-caused pollution.</p>


Pollution Kills Two Million People Every Year