<p>Bufo superciliaris NatureServe Explorer Species Reports &#8212; NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.</p>
<p>ITIS Reports &#8212; Bufo superciliaris ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=ea95add9042842ff81e58101c387ff83&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.460j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.The Cameroon Toad<strong> (Bufo superciliaris)</strong> is a species of concern belonging in the species group &#8220;amphibians&#8221; and found in the following area(s): Equatorial Africa.</p>
<p>FWS Digital Media Library &#8212; The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service&#8217;s National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. The African giant toad, Congo toad, or Cameroon toad is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae. It is found in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, possibly Liberia, and possibly Sierra Leone. The toad&#8217;s natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, plantations, and heavily degraded former forest. While it is a &#8220;least concern&#8221; species, it is threatened by habitat loss.</p>


Bufo superciliaris

<p>Celebrated each year on November 19th, World Anteater Day aims to raise awareness about the unique lives of anteaters and the conservation challenges they face.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This day highlights the importance of protecting anteaters and their habitats, particularly as their survival is threatened by habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and road collisions.</p>



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



<p>When it comes to the health and balance of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhow-can-earths-ecosystems-adapt-to-climate-change%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> they inhabit, anteaters play a crucial role through their specialized diet and behavior.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By consuming large quantities of ants and termites, they regulate the populations of these insects, preventing them from becoming overly abundant and causing ecological imbalances.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This natural pest control helps protect vegetation and soil from the damage that excessive insect activity can cause, such as defoliation and soil degradation.</p>



<p>In their search for food, anteaters often disturb the ground, aerating the soil and promoting nutrient cycling. This activity creates microhabitats that benefit other organisms, including plants and smaller animals, by improving soil quality and fostering biodiversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Anteaters also serve as prey for larger predators, making them an integral part of the food web. Their presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, highlighting their importance in conserving <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fanimal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> and maintaining environmental stability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-anteaters">Fascinating facts about anteaters</h2>



<p>Anteaters are fascinating creatures with a variety of traits that make them stand out as unique members of the animal kingdom.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-anatomy">Distinct anatomy</h3>



<p>Their long, tubular snouts house tongues that can extend up to two feet, allowing them to probe deep into ant and termite mounds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These tongues are covered in sticky saliva and can flick up to 150 times per minute, enabling anteaters to consume thousands of insects daily.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Interestingly, anteaters lack teeth and rely on the muscular walls of their stomachs to grind food, which is aided by the sand and dirt they ingest.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-foraging-style">Foraging style</h3>



<p>Anteaters are highly specialized for their diet, with powerful claws to break open hard termite mounds and thick fur to protect them from insect bites.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These animals have poor vision but excellent senses of smell and hearing, which help them navigate and locate prey.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle">Lifestyle</h3>



<p>Despite their solitary nature, they communicate through huffs, snorts, and body language.</p>



<p>Anteaters are also known for their peculiar gait, as they walk on their knuckles to protect their claws.</p>



<p>The giant anteater, the largest species, can grow up to seven feet long, including its bushy tail. The silky anteater, which is the smallest species, is about the size of a squirrel.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anteaters-face-a-range-of-threats">Anteaters face a range of threats</h2>



<p>Many anteater species are threatened by habitat loss and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-has-a-strong-effect-on-wildlife-in-remote-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human activities</a>, making their conservation a global priority.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-loss">Habitat loss</h3>



<p>Habitat loss is one of the most critical challenges, as deforestation and agricultural expansion reduce the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fsingle-degree-temperature-warming-boreal-forests-wreak-havoc%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, savannas, and grasslands they depend on.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Urban development fragments their habitats, isolating populations and limiting access to food and mating opportunities.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-nbsp">Human activities&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Road collisions are another major threat, especially for giant anteaters, which often wander across highways in search of food or territory.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The expansion of road networks in their native ranges increases the risk of these deadly encounters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, anteaters are occasionally targeted by hunters for their meat or as trophies - despite their low economic value.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



<p>Wildfires are particularly devastating for anteaters, destroying their habitats and leaving them vulnerable to starvation or predation.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fanimal-extinction-risk-is-heavily-influenced-by-climate-change%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> exacerbates these issues by altering their ecosystems, making it harder for them to find sufficient food and shelter.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illegal-wildlife-trade-nbsp">Illegal wildlife trade&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Illegal wildlife trade also poses a threat, as some species are captured and sold as exotic pets. Due to their specific care requirements, anteaters should not be kept as pets. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-anteater-day">World Anteater Day</h2>



<p>World Anteater Day emphasizes education about the ecological value of these creatures, inspiring conservation efforts worldwide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Activities on World Anteater Day often include educational campaigns, fundraising events, and efforts to support <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect.worldwildlife.org%2Fpage%2F53256%2Fdonate%2F1%3Fen_og_source%3DSearchAd_Donation%26ea.tracking.id%3DPaidAd_Google_Membership%26supporter.appealCode%3DAWE2305OQ18492A06630RX%26utm_source%3Dgooglepaid%26utm_medium%3Dcpc%26utm_campaign%3Dwildlife-charities%26gad_source%3D1%26gclid%3DCj0KCQiAi_G5BhDXARIsAN5SX7oTjn7ZmwbhTgSG1LPcKDfdfjLFPsXaiUhN_2QrutNr4Fw35XZUoQYaAk2iEALw_wcB&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife organizations</a> dedicated to the preservation of anteaters and their natural environments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By educating the public and supporting conservation initiatives, World Anteater Day aims to promote appreciation for these unique animals and encourage collective responsibility for safeguarding their future.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Today is a reminder that every species, no matter how unusual, plays a vital role in the delicate balance of nature.</p>



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<p></p>

World Anteater Day: A tribute to nature's unique foragers

Celebrated each year on November 19th, World Anteater Day aims...

<p>A long-standing enigma surrounding the Crab Pulsar, a neutron star at the center of the Crab Nebula, may have been unraveled by a theoretical astrophysicist from the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study, led by Professor Mikhail Medvedev and recently published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.133.205201" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Physical Review Letters</em></a>, explains the origins of the pulsar’s unique “zebra” pattern, a peculiar banding in high-frequency radio waves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-emission-from-the-crab-nebula">Powerful emission from the Crab Nebula</h2>



<p>At the heart of the Crab Nebula, 6,000 light years from Earth, lies the Crab Pulsar, a 12-mile-wide neutron star emitting powerful electromagnetic radiation.</p>



<p>“The emission, which resembles a lighthouse beam, repeatedly sweeps past Earth as the star rotates,” said Medvedev, professor of physics and astronomy at the <a href="https://www.ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We observe this as a pulsed emission, usually with one or two pulses per rotation. The specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pulsars-are-helping-astronomers-pinpoint-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pulsar</a> I'm discussing is known as the Crab Pulsar.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zebra-pattern-in-the-crab-nebula">Zebra pattern in the Crab Nebula</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-crab-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> itself is the remnant of a supernova documented in 1054, with historical records from China describing an unusually bright star in the sky.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, unlike other pulsars, the Crab Pulsar exhibits a zebra pattern in its high-frequency emissions, making it a singular case in the study of neutron stars.</p>



<p>“This is the only object we know of that produces the zebra pattern, and it only appears in a single emission component from the Crab Pulsar,” Medvedev noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-puzzle-decades-in-the-making">A puzzle decades in the making</h2>



<p>Since its discovery in 2007, the zebra pattern has stymied researchers. The band spacing in its electromagnetic spectrum, along with its high polarization and stability, defied explanation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Researchers proposed various emission mechanisms, but none have convincingly explained the observed patterns,” said Medvedev.</p>



<p>The zebra pattern occurs within the pulsar’s high-frequency interpulse, a range between 5 and 30 gigahertz - frequencies akin to those of a microwave oven. Using innovative techniques, Medvedev’s research links the phenomenon to the plasma surrounding the pulsar.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-crab-nebula-s-zebra-pattern">Decoding the Crab Nebula's zebra pattern </h2>



<p>Medvedev’s breakthrough came from studying the Crab Pulsar’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetosphere</a>, a region filled with plasma composed of charged particles like electrons and positrons.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By applying wave optics, Medvedev connected the zebra pattern in the Crab Nebula to diffraction effects caused by the pulsar’s plasma.</p>



<p>“If you have a screen and an electromagnetic wave passes by, the wave doesn’t propagate straight through,” Medvedev explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Wave optics introduces a different behavior - waves bend around obstacles and interfere with each other, creating a sequence of bright and dim fringes due to constructive and destructive interference.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plasma-diffraction-patterns-in-the-crab-pulsar">Plasma diffraction patterns in the Crab Pulsar </h2>



<p>In the Crab Pulsar, these diffraction patterns vary based on the plasma’s density and the radio wave’s frequency.</p>



<p>“A typical diffraction pattern would produce evenly spaced fringes if we just had a neutron star as a shield,” Medvedev said. “But here, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-stars-may-hold-the-key-to-understanding-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a>’s magnetic field generates charged particles constituting a dense plasma, which varies with distance from the star.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Low frequencies reflect at large radii, casting a bigger shadow, while high frequencies create smaller shadows, resulting in different fringe spacing.”</p>



<p>This plasma diffraction creates the zebra pattern, with the fringe spacing reflecting variations in the density of the plasma.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-pulsar-s-magnetosphere">Mapping the pulsar’s magnetosphere</h2>



<p>“This model is the first one capable of measuring those parameters,” Medvedev said. “By analyzing the fringes, we can deduce the density and distribution of plasma in the magnetosphere.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It’s incredible because these observations allow us to convert fringe measurements into a density distribution of the plasma, essentially creating an image or performing tomography of the neutron star’s magnetosphere.”</p>



<p>Medvedev’s findings not only clarify the zebra pattern but also open the door to understanding the intricate structure of the Crab Pulsar’s plasma environment.</p>



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



<p>The study provides a framework for further investigation of the Crab Pulsar and other neutron stars. With additional data collection and refinements to account for gravitational and polarization effects, the method could yield insights into other young and energetic pulsars.</p>



<p>“The Crab Pulsar is somewhat unique - it’s relatively young by astronomical standards, only about a thousand years old, and highly energetic,” Medvedev said. “But it’s not alone; we know of hundreds of pulsars, with over a dozen that are also young.”</p>



<p>The method may even be applied to binary pulsars, which were instrumental in confirming Einstein’s theory of general relativity. “Known binary pulsars can also be explored with the proposed method,” Medvedev added.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This research can indeed broaden our understanding and observation techniques for pulsars, particularly young, energetic ones.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leap-forward-in-astrophysics">A leap forward in astrophysics</h2>



<p>By identifying the role of plasma diffraction in the Crab Pulsar’s zebra pattern, Medvedev’s work bridges a critical gap in astrophysics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study not only explains a unique phenomenon but also establishes a technique for probing the magnetospheres of pulsars, advancing our understanding of these extraordinary objects.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, J. Hester and A. Loll (Arizona State University)</p>



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Mysterious signals from Crab Nebula form a zebra pattern

A long-standing enigma surrounding the Crab Pulsar, a neutron star...

<p>In the United States and worldwide, alcohol consumption remains a leading cause of preventable death and disability, contributing to liver disease, mental health disorders, and accidents.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.fau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> (FAU)’s Schmidt College of Medicine have delved into U.S. trends in alcohol-related deaths from 1999 to 2020. </p>



<p>Utilizing data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER), they uncovered alarming statistics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-surge-in-alcohol-related-deaths-nbsp">Dramatic surge in alcohol-related deaths&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spike-in-alcohol-use-during-the-pandemic-continues-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a>-related deaths in the U.S. have surged dramatically in the last two decades. The mortality rate nearly doubled from 10.7 per 100,000 in 1999 to 21.6 per 100,000 in 2020. </p>



<p>The total number of alcohol-related deaths soared from 19,356 to 48,870, marking a dramatic twofold increase. Every age group experienced increases, with the most alarming spike - nearly fourfold - in those aged 25 to 34.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-and-age-disparities">Gender and age disparities</h2>



<p>The 85 and older age group saw a possible but nonsignificant increase. Individuals aged 55-64 had both the steepest rise in mortality and the highest absolute rates in both 1999 and 2020.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Both men and women experienced significant increases in alcohol-related deaths, but men had the highest rates in both years and saw the steepest increase overall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Women, however, saw the largest proportional rise, with deaths increasing from 4.8 per 100,000 in 1999 to 12 in 2020.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-consumption-among-women-nbsp">Alcohol consumption among women&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study senior author Dr. Panagiota “Yiota” Kitsantas is a professor and chair of the Department of Population Health and Social Medicine at FAU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our study found significant gender differences in alcohol-related mortality. While men had higher overall death rates, women experienced a larger relative increase, which may reflect changing social norms and the alcohol industry’s increased targeting of women through marketing campaigns,” said Dr. Kitsantas.</p>



<p>“As alcohol consumption among women has grown, so have the associated risks. Women appear to be more vulnerable to alcohol’s harmful effects due, possibly, to differences in body composition and metabolism, leading to higher blood alcohol concentrations.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, mental health issues like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> and anxiety, already more common in women, can be worsened by alcohol use, noted Dr. Kitsantas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regional-variations-in-alcohol-related-deaths-nbsp">Regional variations in alcohol-related deaths&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Deaths in women increased two-and-a-half times, while Asian and Pacific Islander communities experienced the steepest rise of 2.4 times.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Regionally, the Midwest experienced the greatest jump, with an increase of 2.5 times in alcohol-related mortality, followed by the Northeast, West, and South.</p>



<p>“Addressing these factors through tailored interventions could help combat the growing U.S. alcohol mortality epidemic,” said Dr. Kitsantas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complications-of-associated-risk-factors">Complications of associated risk factors</h2>



<p>Findings from the study highlight significant clinical and public health challenges that may benefit from targeted interventions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Risk factors such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-are-surging-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>, diabetes, and liver damage complicate these challenges, accelerating alcohol-related mortality. Gender, demographic, and regional differences should guide healthcare strategies.</p>



<p>“Health care providers should recognize that heavy alcohol use is a leading risk factor for total mortality and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, especially heart attacks and stroke,” said co-author Charles H. Hennekens, a professor of medicine at FAU. </p>



<p>“To mitigate these risks, screening for alcohol use in primary care settings is essential. Coexisting conditions like overweight and obesity can accelerate liver damage, which may in turn lead to earlier onset of cirrhosis and liver cancer.”</p>



<p>“The U.S. has the highest rates of overweight and obesity in the world and low levels of daily physical activity. The deleterious interaction of these factors may contribute to the observed trends in alcohol-related mortality, particularly in younger adults.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-context-and-future-directions">Global context and future directions</h2>



<p>Alcohol consumption varies significantly by region worldwide and in the U.S. According to 2019 data, Latvia had the highest annual per capita consumption at 13.2 liters, followed by France at 12.2 and the U.S. at 10.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Descriptive data on mortality reveal complex links between alcohol use and premature deaths. Latvia, for example, leads in alcohol consumption and ranks third in total deaths, while France, despite high alcohol consumption, has low cardiovascular mortality but high rates of cirrhosis and liver cancer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, Russian men have high alcohol consumption and an elevated rate of cardiovascular mortality. These patterns illustrate the complex interrelationships of alcohol consumption, premature death, and disease, regardless of the beverage type.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-consumption-and-premature-death">Alcohol consumption and premature death</h2>



<p>“Both globally and in the U.S., high levels of alcohol consumption are closely linked to premature deaths and disability,” said Hennekens.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The difference between consuming small amounts of alcohol daily and larger amounts could be the difference between preventing and causing premature death. One immediate effect of alcohol is liver damage, and in the U.S., the rising rates of obesity and diabetes also contribute to early liver damage.”</p>



<p>In conclusion, the authors emphasize that healthcare providers should be aware that in the U.S. as well as most populations worldwide, individuals who consume large amounts of alcohol tend to have the highest risks of mortality as well as deaths from cardiovascular disease, predominantly due to heart attacks and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dramatic-temperature-changes-linked-to-half-a-million-stroke-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stroke</a>.</p>



<p>The research is published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.10.024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The American Journal of Medicine</em></a>.</p>



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Alcohol-related deaths have doubled over the past two decades

In the United States and worldwide, alcohol consumption remains a...

<p>Ticks might be small, but their impact on public health is undeniably significant. Known for carrying disease pathogens that they pick up from various hosts, ticks journey does not stop at the grassfield's corner. </p>



<p>Instead, these tiny creatures hitch rides on migrating birds, taking them thousands of miles away from their regular geographic range. </p>



<p>Historically, ticks were deterred by the inhospitable climate conditions in distant lands. But the climate crisis, the elephant in our global living room, is rewriting this narrative. </p>



<p>Now, it's becoming easier for ticks to survive and spread - possibly bringing along new tick-borne diseases.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-fuels-tick-borne-diseases">Climate change fuels tick-borne diseases</h2>



<p>“If conditions become more hospitable for tropical tick <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-legged-ticks-are-naturally-repelled-by-ant-pheromones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> to establish themselves in areas where they would previously have been unsuccessful, then there is a chance they could bring new diseases with them,” said study lead author Dr. Shahid Karim of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usm.edu%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Mississippi</a>.</p>



<p>With conditions becoming more favorable for these unwelcome guests, there's a good chance they could introduce new diseases to these areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hitchhikers-of-the-animal-kingdom">Hitchhikers of the animal kingdom</h2>



<p>Ticks have proven their efficiency as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-infectious-disease-landscape-is-changing-and-we-must-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disease vectors</a> time and again. They act as connecting bridges, enabling diseases from wild reservoirs like Lyme disease to reach humans and domestic animals. </p>



<p>Bird parasitism, particularly of migratory birds, enables ticks to travel enormous distances. The climate crisis, altering global temperatures, is laying the foundation for ticks to play the role of invasive species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-and-unsettling-shift">Rapid and unsettling shift</h2>



<p>The geographic distribution of tick species is changing at a staggering speed, noted Dr. Lorenza Beati from <a href="https://www.georgiasouthern.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Southern University</a>.</p>



<p>To ticks, the climate at their northern destination may soon look more like their home turf. Ticks could likely establish themselves if warmer conditions are coupled with the presence of suitable vertebrate hosts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-tick-dispersal">Mystery of tick dispersal</h2>



<p>The core study involved meticulous fieldwork, DNA analysis, bird categorization, and mapping to understand tick dispersal's true picture through migrating birds. </p>



<p>Intriguingly, ticks traveled impressive distances, with some hitting the 5000km mark. Nevertheless, parasitism was unexpectedly low, and most birds carried fewer ticks than anticipated.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tick-bacteria-relationship">Tick-bacteria relationship</h2>



<p>Science often uncovers unexpected alliances in nature. In this case, scientists found that Francisella bacteria, the most common type found in ticks, help ticks function and spread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-transmit-more-viruses-to-animals-than-we-catch-from-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a> effectively. </p>



<p>Interestingly, the second most abundant bacteria were Rickettsia species. These bacteria might have an unknown symbiotic relationship with ticks.</p>



<p>The researchers emphasize the need for continued research in understanding the full impact of bird-assisted tick dispersal.</p>



<p>In particular, they point out the pressing need to unravel whether birds carry tick-borne diseases even when they aren’t hosting ticks. </p>



<p>If these foreign ticks establish themselves in new regions, they might open doors for existing pathogens to spread or maintain new pathogens in wildlife reservoirs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-range-of-ticks">Expanding range of ticks</h2>



<p>“Not only could these ticks bring new pathogens, but if they manage to establish themselves in the US, they could become additional vectors of pathogens already present in this country or maintain pathogens in wildlife reservoirs which can then become sources of infection,” said Dr. Karim. </p>



<p>He advises people to protect themselves with insect repellent and carefully check for ticks after walking in tick-infested areas.</p>



<p>Awareness and precaution on ticks and their disease transmission are our most effective tools against these creatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-climate-models">The role of climate models</h2>



<p>The integration of climate models into tick research has become increasingly critical as scientists strive to predict future tick distributions and their invasion success. </p>



<p>These models consider variables such as temperature, humidity, and vegetation - which significantly influence tick survivability and habitat suitability. </p>



<p>By projecting potential changes in climate and environmental conditions, scientists can assess areas at risk of new tick infestations.</p>



<p>According to Dr. Lorenza Beati, this predictive approach enables proactive measures to mitigate risks related to tick-borne diseases, thereby prioritizing regions for surveillance and intervention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-threat-of-tick-borne-diseases">Addressing the threat of tick-borne diseases </h2>



<p>Addressing the expanding range of ticks and the increasing threat of tick-borne diseases requires a collaborative global response.</p>



<p>Researchers, public health officials, and policymakers must work together to develop strategies that curb tick proliferation and manage diseases effectively. </p>



<p>International partnerships can facilitate the sharing of data, resources, and expertise essential for understanding tick dynamics on a global scale.</p>



<p>Moreover, public awareness campaigns and community engagement play a vital role in educating populations on preventive measures, such as the importance of maintaining tick-safe environments and the early detection of symptoms related to tick-borne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a>. </p>



<p>The tiny bodies of ticks churn large ripples in the world of disease transmission. As climate change inadvertently clears paths for their wide-scale dispersal, our interconnected world is suddenly appearing smaller and more vulnerable.</p>



<p>Through collective efforts, a comprehensive and adaptable approach can be forged to confront the challenges presented by these formidable arachnids.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-and-infection-microbiology/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2024.1472598/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology</a>.</em></p>



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Ticks are hitchhiking on birds to spread diseases worldwide

Ticks might be small, but their impact on public health...

<p>When we think of Salmonella, we often picture a sneaky bacterium adept at wielding foodborne mayhem. After all, these microscopic invaders are notorious for causing food poisoning. </p>



<p>But have you ever wondered how they manage to dodge our body's natural defenses and wreak havoc within our gut? </p>



<p>Researchers at UC Davis Health set out to investigate, and their findings are quite intriguing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-the-enemy-within">Salmonella: The enemy within</h2>



<p>In the bustling ecosystem of our gut, trillions of bacteria are busy producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that serve as our first line of defense against unwanted intruders like Salmonella.</p>



<p>Despite this, Salmonella survives, multiplies, and navigates itself around these protective compounds. So, what's its secret?</p>



<p>Professor Andreas Bäumler is the vice chair of research in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis</a>.</p>



<p>“We knew that Salmonella invades the small intestine, although it is not its primary site of replication. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/western-diet-identified-as-major-cause-of-colon-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colon</a> is,” said Professor Bäumler.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-s-survival-strategy">Salmonella's survival strategy</h2>



<p>The team discovered that 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</a>, when infiltrated by Salmonella, undergoes an unexpected transformation. </p>



<p>As this cunning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-pathogen-is-resistant-to-hospital-disinfectant-cleaners/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogen</a> enters the small intestine, it ignites inflammation, interfering with the absorption of amino acids from our diet and triggering a shift in the gut's nutrient balance.</p>



<p>This disruption gives Salmonella the necessary resources to flourish and expand within the large intestine, which is usually well-defended by beneficial bacteria. </p>



<p>Interestingly, the team found that Salmonella stirs inflammation in the small intestine to gain nutrients that propel its replication in the colon.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-clever-chemical-coup">A clever chemical coup</h2>



<p>The researchers used a mouse model to investigate deeper into Salmonella's chemical heist within the gut. They found that upon the infection, the absorption of amino acids into the blood lessens significantly. </p>



<p>Consequently, two amino acids, lysine and ornithine, spike in the gut. These available resources help Salmonella survive by defusing the growth-halting influence of SCFAs. </p>



<p>They accomplish this by restoring Salmonella’s acidity (pH) balance, thereby circumventing the microbiota’s defenses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-thriving-in-the-gut">Salmonella thriving in the gut</h2>



<p>“Our findings show that Salmonella has a clever way of changing the gut’s nutrient environment to its advantage," said Professor Bäumler. </p>



<p>"By making it harder for the body to absorb amino acids in the ileum, Salmonella creates a more favorable environment for itself in the large intestine.”</p>



<p>The team presented evidence that Salmonella employs its virulence factors - molecules instigating disease -. to trigger enzymes that break down key amino acids.</p>



<p>This strategic move helps the bacterium sidestep the protective effects of SCFAs and thrive in the gut with ease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-better-understanding-of-salmonella">A better understanding of Salmonella </h2>



<p>This research unravels new insights into the alterations in the gut environment during inflammatory bowel disorders, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-pet-dogs-have-a-lower-risk-of-crohns-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crohn's disease</a> and ulcerative colitis.</p>



<p>The findings could pave the way for better treatments for gut infections and new therapeutic strategies to fortify the gut microbiota and ward off these infections.</p>



<p>Lauren Radlinski, the study’s first author and postdoctoral fellow in the Bäumler Lab, shared an optimistic viewpoint.</p>



<p>“This research uses a more holistic approach to studying gut health. It not only gives us a better understanding of how Salmonella works, but also highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiota," said Radlinski. </p>



<p>"Our findings could lead to new treatments that help support the microbiota during infection. By learning how a pathogen manipulates the host’s system, we can uncover ways to boost the host’s natural defenses."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-for-public-health">Broader implications for public health</h2>



<p>The insights gained from this research extend beyond gut infections and point toward a broader understanding of how the gut microbiome interacts with pathogens. </p>



<p>By shedding light on the intricate interplay between diet, inflammation, and bacterial behavior, this study highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced diet that supports beneficial gut bacteria. </p>



<p>Public health initiatives could leverage these findings to promote dietary guidelines that enhance gut resilience, reducing the risk of infection and supporting overall health. </p>



<p>Furthermore, these insights could inform educational programs aimed at increasing awareness of how daily food choices impact the gut's defense mechanisms and overall wellness.</p>



<p>So, while we hope you never meet Salmonella, perhaps the next time you think of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-bacterium-discovered-in-the-caribbean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacterium</a>, you won't just picture a foodborne villain, but a crafty adversary whose secrets are starting to unravel - thanks to the relentless efforts of researchers at UC Davis Health.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2417232121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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<p></p>

How Salmonella outsmarts our gut defenses

When we think of Salmonella, we often picture a sneaky...

<p>Climate change has emerged as a formidable challenge to plant life on Earth. Changes in the environment, which plants are unaccustomed to, disrupt their growth, posing grave risks. </p>



<p>Increasingly, plant scientists strive to comprehend how these environmental changes will impact plant life and whether plants can acclimate to a new status quo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptations-of-paper-birch-trees">Adaptations of paper birch trees</h2>



<p>A team of researchers from the Walker lab at the <a href="https://msu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a>-U.S. Department of Energy Plant Research Laboratory, or PRL, has set their sights on how paper birch trees adapt to changing environments. They are keen on understanding the management of an important plant process known as photorespiration.</p>



<p>"If plant metabolism was a freeway system, photorespiration would be the second-highest trafficked road,” noted Berkley Walker, an associate professor in the Department of Plant Biology in the PRL.</p>



<p>The question is whether the roads of this crucial pathway can handle all this traffic under present and predicted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate conditions</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acclimation-in-humans-and-plants">Acclimation in humans and plants </h2>



<p>Acclimation refers to the adjustment of living organisms to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-are-largely-unprepared-for-the-effects-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">altered conditions</a>. In humans, we acclimate when we adapt to the cold weather of winter or while getting accustomed to a new job.</p>



<p>However, plants must acclimate too, which is made complex by the fact that the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and global warming have contrasting effects on photosynthesis and photorespiration.</p>



<p>As the temperature rises, so does photorespiration, but when CO2 levels rise, photorespiration decreases. This interplay may modify the efficiency of photorespiration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paper-birch-response-to-climate">Paper birch response to climate</h2>



<p>In a study published in the journal <em>Scientific Reports</em>, the research team examined whether paper birch trees adjusted the activity of photorespiratory enzymes under varying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-days-getting-longer-rotation-slows-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental conditions</a>.</p>



<p>Paper birch trees were selected because they inhabit boreal forest biomes located in the northernmost parts of the planet, which are expected to be among the ecosystems hit hardest by climate change.</p>



<p>The experimental growth conditions mirrored current, moderate, and extreme climate change scenarios for these boreal forest regions, as outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. </p>



<p>In each scenario, researchers modified the CO2 concentration and increased air temperatures in various combinations.</p>



<p>“This study explored whether plants fine-tuned their enzyme capacity based on demand or whether they keep a buffer, so they have extra capacity in reserve to handle unpredictable changes,” said Luke Gregory, former graduate student in the Walker lab and first author on the study.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-growth-in-a-changing-climate">Plant growth in a changing climate </h2>



<p>Trees for the study were grown from seeds at the <a href="https://www.uwo.ca/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Western Ontario</a> by researchers in Professor Danielle Way’s lab. They used the university’s Biotron, a research facility capable of simulating almost any climate on Earth.</p>



<p>Surprisingly, the experts found that the trees did not increase their enzyme capacity depending on the climate they were grown in. Instead, they maintained similar capacities across all six future climate scenarios.</p>



<p>Remarkably, the measured enzyme capacities were more than adequate for the photorespiratory pathway, implying that the trees were poised to grow even under changing conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-resilience-in-changing-climates">Plant resilience in changing climates</h2>



<p>Gregory highlighted an intriguing find: the plants have a “safety factor” or buffer capacity that enables them to cope with different changes, whether under current, moderate, or extreme conditions.</p>



<p>This discovery offers a glimmer of hope that plants have a built-in mechanism which might help them survive the adverse effects of climate change, at least in terms of photorespiration.</p>



<p>That being said, this research is just one piece of the larger puzzle in comprehending how photorespiration is and will continue to be impacted by human-induced climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-resilience-in-the-face-of-climate-change">Plant resilience in the face of climate change </h2>



<p>“It’s important that we understand how plants are responding to current conditions and future conditions because we need them in our lives,” said Gregory. </p>



<p>The question of whether plants can acclimate or adapt over generations to these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-of-2023-weakened-earths-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">altered environments</a> is pertinent as they provide us with oxygen, food, and energy.</p>



<p>This study opens a new window to appreciate and understand plant resilience in the face of the relentless challenges posed by climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-77049-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.</em></p>



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Plants defy climate change through acclimation

Climate change has emerged as a formidable challenge to plant...

<p>Every day, deep within the lush landscapes of Brazil's Serra da Capivara National Park, a fascinating spectacle unfolds. Here, wild bearded capuchin monkeys learn to solve problems and access food by keenly observing other successful members of their social group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-s-smart-enough-to-take-the-banana">Who's smart enough to take the banana?</h2>



<p>A research team from Durham University's Department of Anthropology set up a large box containing food in the park. The box could be accessed by lifting a door or pulling a knob. </p>



<p>As scientists observed from their treetop offices, they were keen to discover which monkeys would figure out how to access the meal inside the box. And more importantly, they were interested in how this knowledge would <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/immigrant-birds-learn-useful-behaviors-from-their-neighbors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ripple across the group</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-tolerance-and-learning">Social tolerance and learning</h2>



<p>The focus of this study was not the intelligence of the monkeys but the role of social tolerance in the learning process. </p>



<p>Social tolerance, in this context, refers to who can hang out with whom and who gets access to what goodies, such as food or information. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkey-see-monkey-learn">Monkey see, monkey learn</h2>



<p>The findings of the study highlighted that the monkeys primarily learned through direct observation.</p>



<p>The researchers found that social tolerance among the monkeys, particularly among those who groomed each other, served as a good indicator of who would <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-availability-influences-social-learning-among-orangutans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learn</a> from who. So, the friendlier the monkey, the better the learner.</p>



<p>Beyond the influence of social tolerance, monkeys who had yet to learn the trick of the box were more likely to observe and potentially learn from successful males in the group. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-learning-in-monkeys">Social learning in monkeys</h2>



<p>This intriguing study was co-supervised by Professor Rachel Kendal of Durham University's Department of Anthropology. </p>



<p>"Bearded capuchins possess the largest ‘toolkit’ among monkeys, and this is likely due to social learning, enabling skills to be passed down the generations," Kendal notes.</p>



<p>The research team wanted to investigate what influenced who was <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-learning-speed-keeping-pace-with-a-changing-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> from whom once they had established that social learning was taking place. </p>



<p>They discovered that socially tolerant individuals, who often groomed or ate together, were more likely to observe each other when interacting with the "puzzle box." This tolerance also affected how information about solving the box problem spread among the group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-ahead-in-the-monkey-world">Getting ahead in the monkey world</h2>



<p>Of course, status matters, even in the monkey world. For instance, even if a monkey has a skill, others may not learn it if the skillful one doesn’t have sufficient status to be observed. </p>



<p>The flip side holds true as well - if a monkey is intolerant and doesn't allow others to watch him, others won't learn. So, the ability to learn from success is biased towards socially tolerant individuals. </p>



<p>This is not so different from humans, is it?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-human-societies">Implications for human societies</h2>



<p>The parallels between the social dynamics of capuchin monkeys and human societies are captivating. </p>



<p>The study's revelations about social tolerance and observational learning can shed light on how cultural and knowledge transmission occurs in humans. Like our primate cousins, humans rely on social networks to pass down technology, skills, and traditions - helping to maintain societal cohesion.</p>



<p>This research can thus provide valuable insights into the evolution of our cooperative behaviors and the foundational role of social tolerance in cultural development.</p>



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



<p>Building on these findings, future research could explore the extent to which these learning dynamics apply to other primate species and even other animal groups. </p>



<p>Comparative studies could help unravel the complexities of social learning environments and further dissect the influence of hierarchy and social bonds. Moreover, integrating this understanding with cognitive neuroscience could illuminate the underlying neurological processes driving social learning. </p>



<p>This multifaceted approach may ultimately enrich our comprehension of both primate societies and the evolutionary pathways that have shaped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-behaviors-are-shaped-by-experience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social intelligence</a>.</p>



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



<p>These fascinating findings from <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University</a> might shed light on the evolutionary forces involved in primate, including human, cultural abilities. </p>



<p>Research partners in this project also included Eduardo B. Ottoni of the Institute of Psychology at the <a href="https://www5.usp.br/english/institutional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo</a> and lead authors Camila Galheigo Coelho and Ivan Garcia-Nisa, both former PhD researchers in the Anthropology Department at Durham University.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2322888121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.</em></p>



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Social bonds drive learning in monkeys and humans alike

Every day, deep within the lush landscapes of Brazil's Serra...

<p>Right on the picturesque banks of the Rhine River lies the Ice Age camp site of Gönnersdorf. Recently, this site played host to a significant discovery that reveals some early fishing practices in vivid detail.</p>



<p>Thanks to modern imaging techniques, researchers can now observe engravings of fish on ancient schist plaquettes. Along with the fish, there are curious grid-like patterns, thought to depict fishing nets or traps.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-age-diets-and-fishing">Ice Age diets and fishing</h2>



<p>Led by a team of experts from Leibniz-Zentrum für Archäologie and <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University</a>, this study offers more than just a glimpse into ancient dietary customs.</p>



<p>The research also opens offers a fresh perspective on their symbolic significance within the Late Upper Paleolithic period, roughly 20,000–14,500 years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treasures-beneath-the-ice">Treasures beneath the ice</h2>



<p>The Gönnersdorf site, apart from its natural beauty, houses some of Europe’s richest ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-the-ice-age-can-tell-us-about-future-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artistic treasures</a>. </p>



<p>The site is home to hundreds of engraved plaquettes, which are small, flat schist stones that capture images of a plethora of prey animals. </p>



<p>These include wild horses, woolly rhinos, reindeer, and mammoths -- all of which were crucial to the survival of the Late Upper Paleolithic group residing in the camp approximately 15,800 years ago.</p>



<p>There are also plaquettes showing highly stylized images of human females. But the real revelation is in the intricate depictions of our ancestors' fishing methods, including the earliest recorded evidence of fishing nets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interdisciplinary-collaboration">Interdisciplinary collaboration</h2>



<p>For this study, researchers from Durham University's Departments of Archaeology and Psychology collaborated with experts at the <a href="https://monrepos.leiza.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monrepos</a> Archaeological Research Center and Museum for Human Behavioral Evolution.</p>



<p>This interdisciplinary team gained new insights into the use and function of the art on Gönnersdorf plaquettes. Their findings highlight the role of these artefacts in the daily lives of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Age</a> hunter-gatherers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-imaging-techniques">Advanced imaging techniques </h2>



<p>The researchers relied on advanced imaging techniques, particularly Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI), to explore the often-overlooked influence of human visual abilities on the nature and use of art in ancient household environments.</p>



<p>Analysis of the cut-marks that form the engravings has enabled researchers to identify individual artists, their unique "styles," and the way they perceived and depicted the world around them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-age-fishing-techniques-uncovered">Ice Age fishing techniques uncovered </h2>



<p>The engravings on some plaquettes show clear grid lines layered over fish. This suggests the use of nets and indicates that the artists were illustrating the process of fishing. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ice-age-campsite_pictogram_fishing-nets_credit-Robitaille_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ice-age-campsite_pictogram_fishing-nets_credit-Robitaille_1s.webp" alt="An ancient schist plaquettes from the ice-age camp site of Gönnersdorf depicts a fish trap. The fish was first engraved and then overlaid with a net of lines. Credit: Robitaille et al., 2024, PLOS ONE, CC-BY 4.0" class="wp-image-1950790"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>An ancient schist plaquettes from the ice-age camp site of Gönnersdorf depicts a fish trap. The fish was first engraved and then overlaid with a net of lines. Credit: Robitaille et al., 2024, PLOS ONE, CC-BY 4.0</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"The central location of the fish, within grid lines which clearly overlay them and exceed them in size, strongly suggests that the grids represent a form of container -- a net or trap -- into which the fish have become enmeshed," said Dr. Monica Spicker, lead author of the study.</p>



<p>The Gönnersdorf images are now considered to be the earliest known depictions of net or trap fishing in European prehistory, and remind us that technologies that only rarely survive in the archaeological record may have much older roots than commonly assumed.</p>



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



<p>The discovery of fishing-related imagery at Gönnersdorf highlights not only the survival value of these practices, but also their cultural and symbolic significance.</p>



<p>Within the Paleolithic context, such depictions may have served as a form of communication or storytelling, conveying knowledge and reinforcing shared cultural values among the community. </p>



<p>These engravings could represent more than skill; they suggest a revered activity steeped in tradition.</p>



<p>The meticulous execution of these artworks suggests the esteemed status of fishing within the social fabric, where success in such endeavors could influence prestige and social standing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-cognitive-evolution">Human cognitive evolution</h2>



<p>The detailed study of the Gönnersdorf engravings not only deepens our understanding of Paleolithic diet and economy but also offers intriguing insights into the cognitive evolution of early humans. </p>



<p>The complexity and foresight required to design and use fishing nets or traps denote advanced problem-solving skills and conceptual thinking. </p>



<p>By examining these artworks, researchers gain a better understanding of the mental capabilities of our ancestors, including their visual-spatial intelligence and ability to transmit complex ideas through symbolic representations. </p>



<p>This knowledge enriches our grasp of human evolution, marking a significant milestone in tracing the origins of technological and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-had-massive-rapid-melting-period-that-left-the-surface-slushy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artistic advancements</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fishing-engravings-from-the-ice-age">Fishing engravings from the Ice Age</h2>



<p>More than just shedding light on ancient fishing methods, the engravings also reveal that fishing was integrated into symbolic and social practices. They expand the known repertoire of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-viruses-hold-clues-to-earth-past-future-climate-and-microbial-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Age</a> art, revealing that practices, as well as animals, were artistic themes.</p>



<p>This remarkable discovery doesn't just propel our understanding of early civilizations forward. It’s a poignant reminder of how much more there is to discover and learn about our past.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0311302" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Robitaille et al., 2024, PLOS ONE</p>



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Ice Age art discovery reveals 15,800-year-old fishing secrets

Right on the picturesque banks of the Rhine River lies...

<p>You've undoubtedly noticed that the Moon has two distinct sides, right? The near side that we see from Earth and the far side that remains a mystery because it is never turned towards us.</p>



<p>This unusual lunar characteristic -- a global dichotomy -- is what a team of scientists led by Professor XU Yigang from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry (<a href="http://english.gig.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GIGCAS</a>) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been investigating.</p>



<p>They have been studying lunar soil samples collected from the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin on the far side of the Moon, and returned to Earth by China's <a href="https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=CHANG-E-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chang’e-6 mission</a>.</p>



<p>These invaluable samples have allowed them to investigate the Moon's peculiar dichotomy and the results have shed light on some of its secrets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-chang-e-6">What is Chang’e-6?</h2>



<p>The Chinese space program launched Chang'e 6, their latest Moon mission, on May 3, 2024. The spacecraft blasted off from Wenchang Satellite Launch Center on a Long March 5 rocket at 9:27 UT (that's 5:27 PM Beijing time). </p>



<p>Their goal? To grab about four pounds (2 kg) of Moon rocks from the far side - something no one had done before.</p>



<p>The lander touched down in a huge crater called the South Pole Aitken Basin. The team used both a scoop and a drill to dig up surface samples and even went 2 meters deep into the lunar soil. </p>



<p>They also sent out a small rover that cruised around taking snapshots of the lander doing its work.</p>



<p>Once they collected the samples, the crew packed them into an ascent vehicle sitting on top of the lander. </p>



<p>On June 3 at 11:38 PM UT (7:38 AM Beijing time the next day), this vehicle shot up from the Moon's surface and met up with the orbiter waiting above. They made the handoff on June 6, 2024.</p>



<p>After ditching the ascent vehicle (which crashed back into the Moon), the return vehicle hung around in orbit for a couple weeks before heading home. </p>



<p>It pulled off a tricky skip-entry through Earth's atmosphere and landed in Inner Mongolia's Siziwang Banner region on June 25 at 6:07 UT (2:07 PM Beijing time). </p>



<p>The final haul? Roughly 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg) of Moon rocks and soil from the far side -- marking another big win for China's space program.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-far-side-vs-visible-side-of-the-moon">Far side vs. visible side of the Moon</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon's</a> dichotomy is visible in its topography, chemical composition, crustal thickness, evidence of volcanism and, most noticeably, in the difference in geomorphology between its near and far sides.</p>



<p>The near side of the Moon is home to the familiar "man in the moon" maria - the dark "seas" that are the result of ancient volcanic activity. </p>



<p>These areas were flooded with molten lava that created rocks known as mare basalts.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_diagram_credit-YANG-Muhan_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_diagram_credit-YANG-Muhan_1s.webp" alt="Distribution of distinct volcanic episodes on the Moon’s farside. The remote sensing image highlights the Chang’e-6 landing site along with nearby mare and cryptomare basaltic units. Credit: Image by YANG Muhan" class="wp-image-1950782"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Distribution of distinct volcanic episodes on the Moon’s farside. The remote sensing image highlights the Chang’e-6 landing site along with nearby mare and cryptomare basaltic units. Credit: Image by YANG Muhan</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>How about the far side? Well, here's where it gets intriguing. Only about 2% of this hidden part of the Moon is covered in the basalts, compared to around 30% on the near side.</p>



<p>This inexplicable difference is a vital part of the lunar global dichotomy that the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program aims to unravel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-the-moon-s-far-side">Secrets of the Moon's far side</h2>



<p>Thanks to the Chang’e-6 lunar soil samples, Professor XU's team discovered the existence of two different types of mare basalts, low-Ti, and very low-Ti (VLT). </p>



<p>“The samples returned by Chang’e-6 provide a best opportunity to investigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> global dichotomy,” said Professor XU.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-eruptions_basalt-types_credit-GIGCAS_1s.webp" alt="The two types of basalts in Chang’e-6 soils and isochrons of the Chang’e-6 low-Ti basalt. Credit: GIGCAS" class="wp-image-1950784"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The two types of basalts in Chang’e-6 soils and isochrons of the Chang’e-6 low-Ti basalt. Credit: GIGCAS</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Let's not dismiss the aspect of dating these samples either. With high-precision Pb-Pb dating techniques, the team determined that the low-Ti basalt dates back to around 2.83 billion years ago.</p>



<p>This attests to the presence of "young" magmatism or volcanic activities on the far side of the Moon. But of course, young is a relative term when we talk about 2.83 billion years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-history-of-volcanoes">Mapping the history of volcanoes</h2>



<p>With such valuable information now in our hands, we can clearly chart the volcanic timeline on the far side of the Moon. </p>



<p>Led by Professor LI Qiuli, the team conducted radioisotope dating on 108 basalt fragments, with 107 of them revealing a consistent formation age of 2807 million years ago.</p>



<p>But there's more. One fragment, a high-aluminum basalt, was dated to a monumental 4203 million years ago, making it the oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvest-moon-2024-will-feature-a-partial-lunar-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> basalt for which age has been precisely determined.</p>



<p>This implies elevated levels of volcanic activity on the far side of the Moon for at least 1.4 billion years - between 4.2 billion and 2.8 billion years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



<p>These findings, available for everyone to dissect, can help recalibrate the existing lunar crater chronology models. </p>



<p>Christopher Hamilton, an independent planetary volcano expert, emphasized the importance of obtaining samples from this previously unchartered lunar territory.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_Change-6-mission_landing_credit-CLEP_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_Change-6-mission_landing_credit-CLEP_1s.webp" alt="China's Chang’e-6 mission spacecraft landed on the far side of the Moon. Credit: CLAP" class="wp-image-1950787"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>China's Chang’e-6 mission spacecraft landed on the far side of the Moon. Credit: CLAP </em></figcaption></figure>



<p>More than just understanding the Moon, these lunar soil samples also have implications for some broad astronomical theories.</p>



<p>The new data indicates a constant impact flux after 2.83 billion years, which can offer new insights into planet migration in the early Solar System. </p>



<p>So, by looking at the Moon, we are indirectly learning about our own cosmic neighborhood as well!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



<p>With more missions like the Chang'e-6, the future will undoubtedly bring many enlightening discoveries about our constant celestial companion.</p>



<p>In the end, we see that the Moon, despite its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-may-have-captured-the-moon-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">familiar appearance</a>, still hides untold secrets waiting to be discovered. </p>



<p>These lunar missions represent a new age of lunar and planetary exploration that pushes the boundaries of our understanding.</p>



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



<p>The researchers from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> express their gratitude for the support received from various institutes such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. These institutions' enduring support enables such important lunar explorations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journals <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08382-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em> and <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adt1093" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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



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

Far side of the Moon had volcanic eruptions for over one billion years

You've undoubtedly noticed that the Moon has two distinct sides,...

<p>Uranus has long captivated scientists with its mysteries, particularly those that remain hidden within our solar system. </p>



<p>Decades-old data from Voyager 2, a NASA spacecraft, has now breathed new life into our understanding of this distant, enigmatic planet, settling age-old questions that have puzzled researchers for years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-2-journey-to-uranus">Voyager 2: Journey to Uranus</h2>



<p>In 1986, Voyager 2 embarked on a momentous journey that brought it into close proximity with Uranus, providing the first - and so far, only - detailed examination of this unique, sideways-rotating planet.</p>



<p>This flyby not only unveiled new moons and rings but also introduced perplexing enigmas that challenged the scientific community. </p>



<p>Solving these mysteries and understanding their broader implications is akin to piecing together a cosmic puzzle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-unexplained-oddities-of-uranus">The unexplained oddities of Uranus</h2>



<p>The presence of energized particles around Uranus was a conundrum. Here was a planet, rotating on its side and challenging the established understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic fields</a> trap particle radiation. </p>



<p>Uranus, known for its unusual properties, was once again surprising the experts.</p>



<p>Scientists re-analyzed data from the notable flyby a few decades ago and, in an exciting twist, identified that an unexpected, cosmic occurrence had thrown this distant planet a curveball.</p>



<p>The experts discovered that, just before the spacecraft’s flyby, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> had peculiarly squashed the planet’s magnetic field, leading to a dramatic compression of Uranus' magnetosphere.</p>



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



<p>“The spacecraft saw Uranus in conditions that only occur about 4% of the time,” stated Jamie Jasinski, a scientist based at <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California and the lead author of a new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02389-3"><em>Nature Astronomy</em></a>.</p>



<p>Imagine the odds. Had Voyager 2 arrived just a few days earlier, it would have recorded a completely different magnetosphere around Uranus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysteries-of-the-magnetosphere">Mysteries of the magnetosphere</h2>



<p>Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-solar-shockwave-has-cracked-earths-magnetosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetosphere</a> plays a crucial role in maintaining life on our planet by protecting us from the ionized gas jets that the Sun releases.</p>



<p>Comprehending how magnetospheres operate carries immense significance not just for us, but for understanding the distant, less-explored planets in our solar system.</p>



<p>In their quest to understand Uranus' magnetosphere, scientists were confused by what they witnessed in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-lost-contact-with-voyager-2-spacecraft-12-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voyager 2</a> data. </p>



<p>Despite a marked absence of plasma, the planet's magnetosphere boasted electron radiation belts with an intensity second only to the notorious radiation belts of Jupiter. </p>



<p>This posed an enigma, as the Uranian moons, which should have been a significant source of water ions, were believed to be inactive.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-solar-wind-event">Unexpected solar wind event</h2>



<p>The latest data analysis suggests that the solar wind, a flow of charged particles released from the Sun's upper atmosphere, could be the key to solving this puzzle.</p>



<p>It is possible that, as the solar wind compressed the planet's magnetosphere, it also drove the plasma out of the system.</p>



<p>The intensity of the solar wind event could have increased the magnetosphere's dynamics, thereby providing a source for the radiation belts.</p>



<p>This discovery has led researchers to speculate that the five major moons of Uranus might be geologically active, contradicting previous beliefs. </p>



<p>They suggest that these moons could have been continually spewing ions into the surrounding magnetosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-renewed-focus-on-uranus-and-future-exploration">Renewed focus on Uranus and future exploration</h2>



<p>The National Academies’ 2023 Planetary Science and Astrobiology Decadal Survey has highlighted the study of Uranus as a key objective for future NASA missions.</p>



<p>Linda Spilker from the JPL, who was involved in the Voyager 2 mission, elaborated on the findings.</p>



<p>“The flyby was packed with surprises, and we were searching for an explanation of its unusual behavior. The magnetosphere Voyager 2 measured was only a snapshot in time," said Spilker.</p>



<p>"This new work explains some of the apparent contradictions and will once again change our view of Uranus." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-voyager-2">The legacy of Voyager 2</h2>



<p>Despite being billions of miles away, Voyager 2 continues to communicate with Earth using NASA's Deep Space Network, specifically via the antenna in Canberra, Australia. </p>



<p>It is still operational, collecting data on the interstellar medium and is expected to continue transmitting data until at least 2025​​​​​​.</p>



<p>Decades after it was launched, Voyager 2 continues to serve as a cornerstone for scientific discovery, offering invaluable insights into the mysteries of our solar system.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02389-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a></em>.</p>



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



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<p></p>

Decades after Voyager 2 flew by Uranus, we finally know what it saw

Uranus has long captivated scientists with its mysteries, particularly those...

<p>For those of us who are not scientists, the world of industrial gas separation may seem remote or irrelevant, but it's a vital field with potential impacts on environmental protection and clean energy production. </p>



<p>The ability to separate gases efficiently can play a critical role in reducing industrial emissions, supporting regulatory compliance, and facilitating the production of cleaner fuels that contribute to a healthier planet.</p>



<p>Currently, efficient and adaptable materials for this process are hard to come by, limiting advancements in technology and sustainability. </p>



<p>However, with recent breakthroughs, this might be about to change, opening up new possibilities for industries seeking sustainable and cost-effective solutions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-membrane-technology-for-gas-separation">Membrane technology for gas separation</h2>



<p>In the labs of two esteemed institutions, a pioneering piece of technology has emerged: a phase-transformable membrane that promises to revamp gas separation. </p>



<p>This membrane, something akin to a superhero in the world of science, has the unique ability to shift between liquid, glass, and crystalline states – a characteristic that could significantly enhance the efficiency of separating gases.</p>



<p>This is no small accomplishment. <a href="https://www.icems.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyoto University’s Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences</a> (WPI-iCeMS) and <a href="https://che.ntu.edu.tw/che/Default.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Taiwan University’s Department of Chemical Engineering</a> have worked together to develop this exciting technology. </p>



<p>Their creation, which incorporates metal-organic polyhedra (MOP) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains, could possibly change the game in advanced gas extraction processes.</p>



<p>Professor Shuhei Furukawa of Kyoto University explained: <em>“</em>Traditional solid membranes are effective but limited in flexibility, which hinders their efficiency in industrial settings.”</p>



<p>The new membrane overcomes these limitations with its unique phase-transforming capability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-co2-capture-and-hydrogen-purification">CO2 capture and hydrogen purification</h2>



<p>The newfound membrane shows particular promise in the efficient extraction of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-carbon-dioxide-travels-in-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> (CO2).</p>



<p><em>“</em>The membrane's liquid phase can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wonder-material-can-extract-value-from-captured-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capture CO2</a> efficiently from a hydrogen mixture<em>,”</em> said Furukawa, highlighting its potential.</p>



<p>This is no small feat, as it could decrease energy use in the capture process, contributing to a reduction in industrial CO2 emissions and supporting clean energy production through hydrogen purification.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gas-separation-solutions">Gas separation solutions</h2>



<p>The membrane's adaptability is another of its stellar qualities, offering unmatched versatility for industrial applications. </p>



<p>It's very much a one-size-fits-all solution, capable of changing shape to suit different conditions and operational needs, which makes it ideal for diverse gas separation tasks.</p>



<p>By selecting specific MOP structures and polymers, industries can fine-tune the membrane's properties to target various gases under different environmental conditions, optimizing performance for each unique requirement and maximizing efficiency in complex processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scaling-up-and-broadening-the-scope">Scaling up and broadening the scope</h2>



<p>Of course, the membrane is still in its early stages, and significant work remains before it can reach widespread industrial use. </p>



<p>Ensuring the membrane's production can be scaled efficiently and cost-effectively will be essential for its long-term viability.</p>



<p>“The next challenge is scaling up production to make this membrane technology feasible for large-scale applications," said Professor Dun-Yen Kang at National Taiwan University.</p>



<p>Meeting this challenge would enable industries to incorporate this breakthrough into their operations, leading to notable advancements in gas separation processes on a larger scale.</p>



<p>This step is critical to seeing the technology's true potential realized in industrial settings and maximizing its impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-urgent-plea-sustainable-climate-solutions-save-earth-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable practices</a>.</p>



<p>There's also the desire to broaden the scope of gases that can be effectively separated by exploring combinations of MOPs and polymers, paving the way for new use cases and innovative applications. </p>



<p>Kang noted that this could open doors for wider applications, making the membrane a versatile tool in advanced gas separation techniques and further strengthening its relevance in various sectors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-applications-and-industry-impact">Real-world applications and industry impact</h2>



<p>The innovative nature of this phase-transformable membrane could revolutionize various industries. </p>



<p>In the energy sector, its adaptive properties enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-solar-powered-device-produces-both-clean-water-and-clean-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogen purification</a>, increasing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. </p>



<p>This support for hydrogen-based clean energy is pivotal in global transitions away from fossil fuels.</p>



<p>In carbon capture initiatives, integrating this adaptable membrane into current infrastructure could transform how industries manage their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circular-economy-needed-to-reduce-americas-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>, making it easier to comply with environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.</p>



<p>The scalability of this membrane could also mean broader adoption across fields like chemical manufacturing, air purification, and waste management, further demonstrating its versatility and transformative potential.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53560-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: KaiLi Chien</p>



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



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Shape-shifting membrane could be the key to cleaner energy

For those of us who are not scientists, the world...

<p>In an era characterized by rapid technological development and growing environmental concerns, photosynthesis stands as a remarkable example of nature's enduring efficiency and sustainability.</p>



<p>This fundamental process, which has powered life on Earth for billions of years, exemplifies a balance that modern science strives to emulate.</p>



<p>Consequently, the need for innovative and sustainable solutions has become more pressing than ever, driven by the urgency to combat climate change and reduce our reliance on finite resources. </p>



<p>One potential answer lies in harnessing and replicating the natural processes that sustain ecosystems.</p>



<p>Mimicking photosynthesis may hold the key to transforming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-hydrogen-energy-production-just-got-a-lot-easier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy production</a>, creating renewable pathways, and promoting a cleaner, more resilient future for generations to come.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-photosynthesis-and-clean-energy">Artificial photosynthesis and clean energy</h2>



<p>In a decisive step towards the future, a team of brilliant minds from the <a href="https://www.jaist.ac.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology</a> (JAIST) and the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a> have taken a leaf out of nature's book. </p>



<p>They have created an inventive new hydrogel that could drastically improve clean energy production by harnessing the power of natural processes.</p>



<p>This bioinspired hydrogel is capable of producing hydrogen and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-oxygen-discovery-deep-ocean-no-photosynthesis-baffles-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen</a> through a process that closely mirrors photosynthesis, offering a unique method for energy generation. </p>



<p>Sunlight, instead of electricity, is used to split water molecules, leading to the generation of hydrogen - a clean, renewable, and efficient source of energy that holds great potential for future energy systems.</p>



<p>This is a remarkable breakthrough, as explained by Professor Kosuke Okeyoshi, who led the research team. He emphasized the significance of this achievement in advancing renewable technologies.</p>



<p>"Hydrogen is a fantastic energy source because it is clean and renewable. Our hydrogels offer a way to produce hydrogen using sunlight, which could help sustainably reshape energy technologies," said Professor Okeyoshi.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-sun-soaked-gel">Science behind the sun-soaked gel</h2>



<p>The hydrogels were developed by Professor Okeyoshi, his doctoral student Reina Hagiwara at JAIST, and Professor Ryo Yoshida at the University of Tokyo. They function based on their meticulously planned polymer networks.</p>



<p>These networks govern the vital electron transfer required for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/removing-carbon-dioxide-from-seawater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water-splitting</a>. Packed with functional molecules, like ruthenium complexes and platinum nanoparticles, the hydrogels replicate photosynthesis. </p>



<p>"The biggest challenge was figuring out how to arrange these molecules so they could transfer electrons smoothly," noted Professor Okeyoshi. "By using a polymer network, we were able to prevent them from clumping together, which is a common issue in synthetic photosynthesis systems."</p>



<p>“What’s unique here is how the molecules are organized within the hydrogel," said Hagiwara. "By creating a structured environment, we’ve made the energy conversion process much more efficient.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-prospects-for-clean-energy">Bright prospects for clean energy</h2>



<p>This innovative hydrogel tackles one of the key limitations of previous artificial photosynthesis systems - molecule aggregation. </p>



<p>By averting this, the researchers were able to enhance the activity of the water-splitting process and produce more hydrogen than older methods.</p>



<p>This discovery has significant implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bronze-age-technology-is-a-modern-solution-for-clean-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean energy</a>. The dawn of a future where renewable hydrogen could drive industries, transport, and energy storage systems is closer than ever.</p>



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



<p>Nevertheless, there are still hurdles to overcome. “We have shown the potential, but now we need to refine the technology for industrial use. The possibilities are exciting, and we’re eager to continue pushing forward," said Professor Okeyoshi.</p>



<p>Going forward, the team aims to accomplish precise integration within the hydrogels to further increase their energy conversion efficiency. </p>



<p>Their continued efforts will be pivotal in bringing this innovative technology closer to practical, sustainable energy solutions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scaling-up-and-potential-applications">Scaling up and potential applications</h2>



<p>While this breakthrough marks an exciting step forward, the path to practical implementation still poses challenges. </p>



<p>Transitioning this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-hydrogel-can-extract-unlimited-amounts-of-water-from-the-air-even-in-deserts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogel</a> technology from research to real-world applications will require further innovation and testing. </p>



<p>Ensuring that the hydrogels can be produced at a larger scale and integrated into existing energy systems is key to unlocking their potential.</p>



<p>The promise of sunlight-driven hydrogen production could extend to various industries - powering vehicles, supporting energy storage, and fueling large-scale facilities.</p>



<p>If successfully adopted, this technology could significantly contribute to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and advancing global sustainability efforts.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/cc/d4cc04033c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Communications</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Kosuke Okeyoshi from JAIST</p>



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Artificial photosynthesis could transform power generation

In an era characterized by rapid technological development and growing...

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06/14/1976	41 FR 24062 24067	Endangered Status for 159 Taxa of Animals; 41 FR 24062 24067
09/26/1975	40 FR 44392 44333	CITES: Proposed Endangered Status for 216 Species on Convention Appendix I; 40 FR 44392 44333