Scientists have long looked to oxygen when searching for signs of life beyond Earth. This gas sustains breathing and enables animals and plants to flourish. Now, researchers suggest that oxygen might also point to advanced technology. 



If an exoplanet’s atmosphere holds enough oxygen, it may not only support organisms but also help them spark fire, build structures, and craft machinery.



A study in Nature Astronomy presents this view, highlighting oxygen’s value as more than just a sign of biology. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-civilization-and-technology">Oxygen, civilization, and technology</h2>



Leading this research are <a href="https://www.pas.rochester.edu/people/faculty/frank_adam/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adam Frank</a>, the Helen F. and Fred H. Gowen Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Rochester, and <a href="https://www-en.fisica.uniroma2.it/phone-directory/balbia_en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amedeo Balbi</a>, an associate professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.



Together with their team, they set out to explore whether oxygen is a key factor in allowing extraterrestrial civilizations to emerge and thrive through the development of technology.



“We are ready to find signatures of life on alien worlds,” Frank says. “But how do the [oxygen] conditions on a planet tell us about the possibilities for intelligent, technology-producing life?” 



This question drives efforts to examine oxygen’s role beyond respiration and metabolism, especially in relation to large-scale industrial activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-oxygen-matters-for-civilizations">Why oxygen matters for civilizations</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-cells-capable-of-photosynthesis-created-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a> on Earth accounts for the bulk of our oxygen on our planet, thanks to countless organisms that use sunlight to make food. 



Because this process produces so much oxygen, it has been considered a biosignature. A planet with significant oxygen levels hints that life may be present, but Frank and Balbi argue that oxygen also has a second function.



“<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-023-02112-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In our paper</a>, we explore whether any atmospheric composition would be compatible with the presence of advanced technology,” Balbi says. “We found that the atmospheric requirements may be quite stringent.”



The link to technology comes from open-air combustion. Smelting metals, cooking food, and powering engines all rely on oxygen. 



Any alien civilization that forges metals would need a certain percentage of oxygen in its air to keep fires burning reliably. That percentage, according to Earth’s history, appears to be around 18 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-and-the-18-threshold">Fire and the 18% threshold</h2>



“You might be able to get biology -- you might even be able to get intelligent creatures -- in a world that doesn’t have oxygen,” Frank says, “but without a ready source of fire, you’re never going to develop higher technology because higher technology requires fuel and melting.” 



He calls attention to fire’s role in shaping tools, infrastructure, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wellbeing-is-a-more-effective-focus-area-when-discussing-energy-solutions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy production</a>. Metalworking, for instance, depends on sustaining flames hot enough to melt ore and craft refined structures.



Frank and Balbi refer to this requirement as an “oxygen bottleneck.” A planet might host life forms of various kinds, yet remain stuck without the combustion needed to fuel industrial breakthroughs. 



“The presence of high degrees of oxygen in the atmosphere is like a bottleneck you have to get through in order to have a technological species,” Frank says. 



“You can have everything else work out, but if you don’t have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/it-took-200-million-years-for-earth-to-get-its-oxygen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen in the atmosphere</a>, you’re not going to have a technological species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-technology-create-technosignatures">Oxygen + technology create "technosignatures"</h2>



Frank thinks that exoplanets with oxygen levels at or above 18 percent should be at the top of our search list. 



“Targeting planets with high oxygen levels should be prioritized because the presence or absence of high oxygen levels in exoplanet atmospheres could be a major clue in finding potential technosignatures,” Frank says. 



Planets that exceed this level may have the capacity for factories, infrastructure, or communication networks.



Balbi notes that interpreting any possible signal of intelligent life will be challenging. 



“The implications of discovering intelligent, technological life on another planet would be huge,” adds Balbi. “Therefore, we need to be extremely cautious in interpreting possible detections. 



Their study suggests that astronomers should be skeptical of potential technosignatures from a planet with insufficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ancient-breath-study-links-atmospheric-oxygen-and-mantle-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric oxygen</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technosphere-vs-biotechnosphere">Technosphere vs. biotechnosphere</h2>



Frank and Balbi’s perspective also covers the idea of a technosphere, which is the collective output of an advanced civilization. 



Factories, vehicles, and power grids all fit under this label. They rely on resources provided by the planet’s biosphere but stretch beyond purely natural processes. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bronze-age-technology-is-a-modern-solution-for-clean-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Burning fuels in open air</a> has been central to every major industrial leap, from forging steel to generating electricity.



When these technologies reach a global scale, they form a biotechnosphere. This term applies to the interplay of living systems and technology -- essentially, how organisms and machines coexist. 



On Earth, that includes everything from smartphones to farms, all running side by side. A well-established biotechnosphere might produce clear signals in the atmosphere: waste gases, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mapping-2024s-record-heat-unveiling-earths-climate-danger-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unusual heat patterns</a>, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-found-in-tap-and-bottled-water-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals not normally found in nature</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-machines-and-ecosystems">Balancing machines and ecosystems</h2>



History shows that as technology expands, it can sometimes damage or alter environments. Factories might pump pollutants into the air, while deforestation removes habitats that produce oxygen. 



Yet there is an ongoing move toward cleaner energy and more efficient resource use. If any alien civilization follows a similar path, we might detect certain byproducts in the form of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/banning-forever-chemicals-may-threaten-us-national-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engineered molecules</a>.



Though the focus is on oxygen, other factors matter too, such as temperature and access to metals or fuels. A planet may need stable conditions for life to progress to a point where industry becomes possible.



That said, Frank and Balbi’s findings highlight how oxygen stands out among these factors, because it directly enables combustion processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-and-progress-in-earth-s-past">Fire and progress in Earth’s past</h2>



Earth’s own development through advances in technology offers insight into how vital oxygen has been for technical achievements.



Once our atmosphere had enough of it, humans learned to manipulate fire for cooking and for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-wooden-structure-completely-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">making stronger materials</a>. 



From simple smithing to modern manufacturing, every stage of growth involved open-air combustion.



“You can have everything else work out, but if you don’t have oxygen in the atmosphere, you’re not going to have a technological species,” Frank says. 



This idea underlines how a single factor -- oxygen -- can open or close the door to industrial progress, altering a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decarbonizing-worlds-industrial-emissions-possible-with-current-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s entire future path</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-technology-and-next-steps">Oxygen, technology, and next steps</h2>



Observatories now in the works may soon gather data about exoplanet atmospheres in detail. Detecting a high oxygen content could mark a world that supports advanced living organisms. 



The next task is to look for proof of industry or technology, sometimes called technosignatures. These might appear as chemical emissions, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-space-radio-signal-reaches-earth-after-8-billion-years-frb-20220610a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio signals</a>, or specific spectral lines.



If these two checks-- oxygen above 18 percent and evidence of artificial activity -- both yield results, we will have a strong indication that we share the universe with another technological civilization. 



That reality could reshape how we see ourselves and our place among the stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter-0">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



Understanding the significance of atmospheric oxygen can also inspire reflection on our home planet. Human industries <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rely heavily on combustion</a>, from running cars to powering factories. This has changed Earth’s ecosystems. 



As we learn more about how oxygen in an atmosphere enables or limits technology, we might gain new ideas on how to manage our own balance between growth and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-calls-for-global-change-to-stop-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental health</a>.



Ultimately, Frank and Balbi’s argument shows that oxygen may do far more than keep living cells alive. It might be the clearest signal of whether a planet can support the technologies that shape modern societies. 



By recognizing the 18 percent threshold, scientists can refine their search for advanced life and possibly move closer to answering the age-old question: Are we alone, or is someone else using fire to reshape their world?



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-023-02112-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Oxygen levels on exoplanets reveal presence of alien technology

Scientists have long looked to oxygen when searching for signs of life beyond Earth. This gas sustains breathing and enables animals and plants to flourish. Now, researchers suggest that oxygen might also point to advanced technology. If an exoplanet’s atmosphere holds enough oxygen, it may not only support organisms but also help them spark fire, build structures, and craft machinery. A study in Nature Astronomy presents this view, highlighting oxygen’s value as more than just a sign of biology. Oxygen, civilization, and technology Leading this research are...

The common clownfish, famously depicted as Nemo in the beloved Pixar film, possesses the ability to count, according to a new study from the <a href="https://www.oist.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology</a>. 



This astonishing discovery challenges the serene and simplistic depiction of clownfish. 



The study, led by Dr. Kina Hayashi and colleagues Noah Locke and Vincent Laudet, delves into the complex social behaviors of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-clownfish-could-reveal-new-clues-about-climate-adaptation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anemonefish</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defending-their-territory-nbsp">Defending their territory&nbsp;</h2>



Contrary to the peaceful existence suggested by their on-screen portrayal, clownfish are fiercely territorial creatures. 



They zealously guard their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venomous-sea-anemone-may-lead-to-important-drugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anemone</a> homes against same-species intruders with a level of discernment that hints at unexpected cognitive capabilities.



The study stemmed from a curiosity about how clownfish distinguish between friend and foe in their densely populated reef environments, where encounters with other striped fish species are frequent.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-dynamics">Social dynamics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-anemones-exercise-to-build-their-bodies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anemonefish</a>, including the common clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), exhibit a variety of stripe patterns, ranging from three vertical white bars to none, suggesting that these patterns could play a role in species recognition and social dynamics within the reef.



To explore this theory, Dr. Hayashi and her team embarked on a meticulously designed experiment. They raised a cohort of common clownfish from eggs, ensuring these fish had no prior exposure to other anemonefish species. 



At approximately six months old, the team observed the young clownfish's interactions with both their own species and other anemonefish species, documenting the responses to perceived intruders.&nbsp;



Remarkably, the common clownfish demonstrated a pronounced aggression towards their own kind, especially those bearing the characteristic three white stripes, while showing varying degrees of tolerance towards other species, based on the number and arrangement of their stripes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visual-cues-help-clownfish-count">Visual cues help clownfish count</h2>



The researchers further investigated this behavior by introducing the clownfish to models painted with different numbers of white bars.&nbsp;



The reactions were telling; the clownfish exhibited a clear preference for challenging models that mirrored their own three-striped pattern, suggesting a sophisticated level of species and self-recognition based on visual cues.



“The frequency and duration of aggressive behaviors in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clownfish-get-their-stripes-at-different-rates-depending-on-their-host/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clown anemonefish</a> was highest toward fish with three bars like themselves, while they were lower with fish with one or two bars, and lowest toward those without vertical bars, which suggests that they are able to count the number of bars in order to recognize the species of the intruder," explained Dr. Hayashi.



Dr. Hayashi proposes that this behavioral trait is not just a simple act of aggression but a nuanced form of social interaction rooted in the necessity to protect one's habitat from competitors.&nbsp;



This discernment, based on counting the number of stripes, allows clownfish to effectively identify and deter potential rivals, ensuring their survival and the integrity of their homes within the complex ecosystem of the reef.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clownfish-social-hierarchy">Clownfish social hierarchy </h2>



The researchers also discovered a strict hierarchy in the clown anemonefish colonies that determines which fish attack the intruder.&nbsp;



Anemonefish get their third stripe when they get grow large enough. Social positions within a colony are determined by slight size differences, and typically consist of one alpha female, one beta male, and several gamma juveniles. The team found that the alpha will even chase out members of its own colony if they grow too large.&nbsp;



When the researchers studied immature fish that did not yet have their third stripe, the same size-based hierarchy was observed. The largest juvenile took on the role of alpha and led the charge against the intruder.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-clownfish-counting">Implications of clownfish counting</h2>



“Anemonefish are interesting to study because of their unique, symbiotic relationship with sea anemones. But what this study shows is that there is much we don’t know about life in the marine ecosystems in general," said Dr. Hayashi.



The study sheds new light on the cognitive abilities of fish, particularly in terms of visual recognition and social discrimination. It challenges long-standing perceptions of fish intelligence and opens new avenues for research into the cognitive processes underlying animal behavior in marine environments.&nbsp;



The research is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1242/jeb.246357" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental Biology</a>.



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Clownfish can count, but how did they learn?

The common clownfish, famously depicted as Nemo in the beloved...

A comprehensive analysis led by Erick Lundgren challenges conventional views on the ecological impact of large herbivores, shedding light on the real drivers behind changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diversity-may-never-fully-recover-from-agriculture/">plant abundance</a> and diversity.&nbsp;



The research, which is based on over 200 studies across six continents, brings forth a compelling argument that the physical characteristics and dietary habits of large herbivores play a more significant role in shaping ecosystems than the binary classification of being native or non-native species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introduced-species-nbsp">Introduced species&nbsp;</h2>



The traditional perspective within conservation and ecological studies has often been that non-native animals exert more detrimental effects on their new environments compared to their native counterparts.&nbsp;



"Large mammalian herbivores (megafauna) have experienced extinctions and declines since prehistory," wrote the researchers. "Introduced megafauna have partly counteracted these losses yet are thought to have unusually negative effects on plants compared with native megafauna."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misguided-policies-nbsp">Misguided policies&nbsp;</h2>



This belief has been the cornerstone of various conservation policies aimed at the eradication or control of introduced species - many of which are on the brink of extinction in their indigenous habitats.&nbsp;



Such policies have been influenced by concerns that invasive animals have greater negative impacts on plant life and ecosystem stability.



The meta-analysis by Lundgren and colleagues, however, paints a different picture. After carefully reviewing data from 221 studies, the experts found no significant evidence to support the notion that the origin of these megafauna - whether they are native or introduced - dictates their impact on plant diversity and abundance.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-dynamics-nbsp">Ecological dynamics&nbsp;</h2>



Furthermore, the research delves into other potential factors like the invasiveness of the species, their feral status, evolutionary history with local flora, and their phylogenetic and functional uniqueness – only to find that these too fall short of explaining variations in plant ecosystems.



The key factors that emerged from this extensive study are the physical and functional traits of the megafauna, specifically their body size and dietary preferences. These elements are identified as having a more pronounced effect on the ecological dynamics between large herbivores and plant life.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-the-focus">Shifting the focus</h2>



The results of the study suggest that a shift in focus is needed from where large herbivores come from to how their intrinsic biological traits influence their interactions with the environment.



The researchers advocate for a more nuanced approach to studying the impact of introduced megafauna, emphasizing the importance of functional ecology - a branch of science that studies the roles and functions of species in their habitat - over the simplistic native versus non-native dichotomy.&nbsp;



The experts argue for a separation of the normative aspects of whether large herbivores "belong" in their environments from the objective analysis of their ecological functions.



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



This research not only challenges prevailing narratives within conservation science but also prompts a re-evaluation of management and conservation strategies concerning large herbivores worldwide.&nbsp;



“We argue that the effects of introduced megafauna should be studied as any other wildlife would be studied, through the lens of functional ecology, with the normative dimensions of their ‘belonging’ considered separately and with transparency," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adh2616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>. 



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Large herbivores are not always harmful in new territories 

A comprehensive analysis led by Erick Lundgren challenges conventional views...

Researchers have discovered that translocated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daily-singing-workout-keeps-male-songbirds-attractive/">songbirds</a> can learn the complex songs necessary for their survival in the wild. 



This finding marks a significant milestone in wildlife conservation, offering hope and a new understanding of how species can recover and thrive after being relocated to a new area.



The study was led by Dr. Sarah Collins from the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/">University of Plymouth</a>, and was a collaborative effort with conservation experts from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and <a href="https://www.mmu.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Manchester Metropolitan University</a>.



The researchers followed translocated chicks of cirl buntings (Emberiza cirlus) from their initial rearing stages in Devon to their reintroduction in Cornwall. 



These efforts were part of an ambitious conservation program led by the RSPB from 2006 to 2011, aimed at reviving the dwindling populations of this species. 



Since the chicks were translocated before the song learning period, the researchers said this was a unique opportunity to follow song changes in a reintroduced population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abnormal-song-types-nbsp">Abnormal song types&nbsp;</h2>



Initially, the translocated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daily-singing-workout-keeps-male-songbirds-attractive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">songbirds</a> exhibited a concerning reduction in song diversity. The 2011 recordings at their new home in Cornwall revealed a repertoire filled with a wide array of abnormal song types, starkly different from those of their original Devon populations. 



This anomaly was attributed to the chicks' unique upbringing: they were hand-reared with a limited auditory exposure to cirl bunting songs -- specifically, a CD playing a singular song type.



However, a follow-up study in 2019 brought to light a remarkable recovery. The song diversity within the Cornwall population had not only improved but had also aligned closely with that of the Devon source populations and other cirl bunting communities.&nbsp;



This recovery from what the researchers termed a "cultural bottleneck" demonstrates the species' ability to overcome initial handicaps in song learning, suggesting that the translocation of nestlings might not detrimentally impact their communication abilities or population persistence in the long term.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-song-diversity-nbsp">Song diversity&nbsp;</h2>



“Song diversity is a crucial feature among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/among-songbirds-complex-vocal-learners-are-superior-problem-solvers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">songbird</a> populations, and although it has been examined as part of relocation or reintroduction programs in the past, there were no studies on what happens when you translocate nestling songbirds before they have had a chance to learn their song," said Dr. Collins.



"Although we found translocating nestlings led to a short-term lack of song diversity, the population recovered from this to produce normal songs."



“This is ultimately a positive conservation story that we can learn from for the future. What we found with these cirl buntings, however, cannot be guaranteed to occur in all song learning birds. So we believe the song development of a species needs to be considered in translocation projects, and that could include playing species typical song to young chicks before they are released in the wild.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-success-story-for-translocated-songbirds">Success story for translocated songbirds</h2>



In the decade from 2007 to 2016, the number of breeding pairs in the reintroduction location increased from 9 to 65, according to observations from the RSPB project team.



“Cirl buntings have been a pioneering conservation success story," said study co-author Cath Jeffs. "That they are singing once again in Cornwall is testament to the hard work by the many people involved. That they are singing like cirl buntings demonstrates how wonderful nature is."



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



The cirl bunting, a small and vibrant passerine bird, captivates birdwatchers with its colorful plumage and melodic songs. 



Native to Europe and the Mediterranean, this species thrives in warm climates, favoring habitats that blend farmland, thickets, and hedgerows. 



The male cirl bunting is particularly striking, boasting a distinctive greenish-black face, yellow underparts, and a rich chestnut back, while the female and juveniles wear more subdued shades, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.



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



Cirl buntings lead a diet primarily composed of seeds and insects, showcasing a versatile feeding strategy that adapts seasonally. 



In the warmer months, insects constitute the bulk of their diet, providing essential proteins for growth and development. 



As the seasons turn, these birds shift their focus to seeds, demonstrating their ability to exploit the resources available within their habitats.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cirl-bunting-breeding-and-social-structure">Cirl bunting breeding and social structure</h3>



Breeding season unveils the complexity of cirl bunting social structures. Males stake out territories with fervent songs, both to attract mates and to ward off rivals. Their melodies fill the air, creating a symphony that defines the spring and summer landscape. 



Once paired, cirl buntings are diligent in nest-building, choosing concealed spots on the ground or in low bushes to lay their eggs. 



The female takes on the primary role of incubation, while both parents share responsibilities in feeding and protecting their fledglings.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts">Conservation efforts</h3>



Conservation efforts have become crucial for the survival of cirl buntings, particularly in areas where agricultural practices have encroached upon their natural habitats. 



Initiatives aimed at preserving and restoring their environments have shown promise, leading to gradual increases in their populations in certain areas. 



These projects often involve collaborations between conservationists, farmers, and local communities, highlighting the importance of collective action in safeguarding biodiversity.



The cirl bunting's story is one of resilience and beauty, serving as a reminder of the intricate connections between species and their environments. 



As we continue to explore and understand these relationships, the cirl bunting stands as a beacon of the wonders that lie within the natural world, urging us to protect the delicate balance that sustains life on our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/csp2.13060" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Science and Practice</a>.



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Birds that move to a new place can learn the local songs to fit in and survive

Researchers have discovered that translocated songbirds can learn the complex...

The delicate balance between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-negatively-impact-wildlife-even-in-protected-areas/">wildlife</a> and human coexistence is facing an unprecedented threat, with the risks for conflict between elephants and humans poised to escalate due to climate change and other anthropogenic environmental factors.&nbsp;



This alarming trend is highlighted in a study published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2312569121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



The study is the first of its kind to explore the impact of rising temperatures on interactions between humans and elephants.



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



"Human-wildlife conflict can have detrimental effects on both people and wildlife and can lead to setbacks in conservation efforts," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Understanding how conflict risk is likely to shift under a changing climate as agriculture and human populations expand can better allow conservationists and wildlife managers to allocate mitigation and conservation resources for conflict-prone species and regions."



"To date, little work has been done to anticipate how conflict risk with different species may change in intensity and spatial distribution as human populations expand and climate change impacts intensify."&nbsp;



"This analysis examines how projected climate change impacts, shifts in agricultural footprint, and changes in human population density may affect the distribution and intensity of conflict with two large, endangered, and conflict-prone species: Asian and African elephants."



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



The researchers mapped the risk of human-elephant conflict across various elephant habitats. Their findings paint a concerning picture: as temperatures continue to rise and human encroachment into elephant habitats increases, the likelihood of conflicts is expected to surge.&nbsp;



This situation represents a significant challenge in the management of human-wildlife interactions, with implications for both species' survival and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-elephant-conflict">Human-elephant conflict</h2>



Mia Guarnieri, a renowned wildlife biologist and the lead researcher of the paper, offered insights in an interview with ABC News. She defined human-elephant conflict as interactions that yield negative outcomes for either party involved. A prime example of this is crop raiding, where elephants consume crops, leading to retaliatory killings by farmers.&nbsp;



"The largest outcome that we noticed was that there is a net increase in conflict risk for both of these species as climate change progresses and that increase was greater under the scenario that had higher emissions and higher barriers to to conservation work," Guarnieri told ABC News.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agricultural-intersections-and-consequences">Agricultural intersections and consequences</h2>



Agriculture, particularly farms cultivating corn or millet seed - some of elephants' favorite crops - lies at the heart of many such conflicts. Guarnieri pointed out that the dire consequences of crop raiding include the loss of life among elephants and significant impacts on farmers' livelihoods.&nbsp;



Human-elephant conflict not only results in immediate physical and economic harm but also undermines local conservation efforts. These efforts are critical for a species that has suffered dramatic population declines over recent decades due to habitat loss and the ivory trade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-responses-to-climate-pressures">Behavioral responses to climate pressures</h2>



The study also sheds light on how elephants, known for their behavioral complexity, respond to various climate pressures such as water availability. These changes affect their movement, changing the corridors they take, noted study co-author Patrick Roehrdanz.



Such behavioral adaptations can lead to increased encounters with human populations, further escalating conflict risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geographical-hotspots-and-future-expansion">Geographical hotspots and future expansion</h2>



"Effectively addressing conflict requires an understanding of where it is likely to occur, particularly as climate change shifts wildlife ranges and human activities globally," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Here, we examine how projected shifts in cropland density, human population density, and climatic suitability - three key drivers of human–elephant conflict - will shift conflict pressures for endangered Asian and African elephants to inform conflict management in a changing climate."



The experts identified specific regions where human-elephant conflicts are most prevalent: clusters in east-central Africa for African elephants and India for Asian elephants. Guarnieri anticipates an expansion of conflict risk along the northern border of the Asian elephants' range, influenced by human restrictions on their habitat.&nbsp;



"Our findings suggest that as climate changes, the risk of conflict with Asian and African elephants may shift and increase and managers should proactively mitigate that conflict to preserve these charismatic animals," concluded the researchers.



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Human-elephant conflict will escalate with climate change 

The delicate balance between wildlife and human coexistence is facing...

A new study has revealed that small, long-nosed (dolichocephalic) dog breeds boast the highest life expectancies in the United Kingdom. Conversely, male dogs from medium-sized, flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, such as English Bulldogs, were found to have the shortest lifespans.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed data from over 580,000 dogs across more than 150 breeds. The goal was to pinpoint the canines most susceptible to premature death, offering vital insights for pet owners, veterinarians, and breeders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-database-nbsp">Comprehensive database&nbsp;</h2>



The research team compiled a database that contained information on 584,734 individual dogs, representing a broad spectrum of 155 pure breeds and crossbreeds. The data was sourced from 18 different UK outlets such as breed registries, veterinary practices, pet insurance firms, animal welfare organizations, and academic bodies.&nbsp;



Notably, the database included information on 284,734 dogs that had passed away, with detailed records on breed, sex, birth, and death dates. These dogs were categorized by size (small, medium, or large) and head shape (brachycephalic, mesocephalic, or dolichocephalic) as per kennel club classifications, and median life expectancy was examined across the categories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-expectancies-nbsp">Life expectancies&nbsp;</h2>



The results showed that small dolichocephalic breeds, including but not limited to Miniature Dachshunds and Shetland Sheepdogs, emerged with the highest median life expectancies of 13.3 years for both genders.&nbsp;



In stark contrast, medium <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flat-faced-dogs-have-childlike-traits-that-humans-cannot-resist/">brachycephalic breeds</a> recorded the lowest median life expectancies, with males at 9.1 years and females slightly higher at 9.6 years.&nbsp;



Among the 12 most popular breeds - which collectively represent over half of the purebred population in the dataset - Labradors, Jack Russell Terriers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels showed median life expectancies of 13.1, 13.3, and 11.8 years, respectively.&nbsp;



Intriguingly, pure breeds demonstrated a marginally higher median life expectancy (12.7 years) compared to crossbreeds (12.0 years), and females outlived males with median life expectancies of 12.7 versus 12.4 years.



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



The implications of this study are significant, shedding light on the potential health vulnerabilities inherent in certain dog breeds. The results highlight the influence of genetic factors, such as size and head shape, on canine longevity, providing a valuable resource for those involved in canine welfare and breeding.&nbsp;



However, the authors caution that these findings are specific to UK dog populations and that crossbreeds were defined strictly as non-kennel club purebreds. They advocate for further research, particularly on "designer breeds" like Labradoodles and Cockapoos, to better understand the impact of genetic diversity on the health and lifespan of these increasingly popular dogs.



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



Dolichocephalic dogs are characterized by their long, narrow heads and muzzles, a feature that distinguishes them from other canine head shapes. This physical trait is not just about appearance; it plays a significant role in a dog's health, behavior, and abilities.&nbsp;



Dolichocephalic breeds include a variety of dogs, from the sleek and speedy Greyhound to the intelligent and agile Border Collie.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengths">Strengths</h3>



These long-muzzled breeds often excel in activities that require speed, endurance, and agility. Their physical structure allows for efficient air intake, making them particularly suited for sustained running and activities that require stamina.&nbsp;



Moreover, their narrow heads contribute to a field of vision that is advantageous for breeds historically bred for hunting or herding, enabling them to spot and track movement across wide distances.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health">Health</h3>



Healthwise, dolichocephalic dogs are generally less prone to the breathing difficulties and overheating issues that plague their brachycephalic counterparts, thanks to their more efficient airways.&nbsp;



However, they may have their own set of breed-specific health concerns, such as dental issues due to the crowded teeth in their elongated jaws or a predisposition to certain neurological and eye conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior-nbsp">Behavior&nbsp;</h3>



Dolichocephalic dogs can exhibit a wide range of temperaments, from the intense focus and energy of working breeds like the German Shepherd to the gentle, laid-back nature of the Saluki. Their behavior, as with any dog, is influenced by a combination of breed traits, training, and socialization.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50458-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>. 



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Small, long-nosed dogs have the highest life expectancies

A new study has revealed that small, long-nosed (dolichocephalic) dog...

By simulating air movements and pollutant dispersion, AI is set to enhance the accuracy and resolution of air quality forecasts. 



Researchers from <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APL</a> and the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a> are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize atmospheric modeling. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-and-air-quality-forecasts">Wildfires and air quality forecasts</h2>



In recent years, the world has witnessed an alarming increase in severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-farming-and-wildfires-is-more-likely-to-cause-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, driven by rising temperatures and prolonged droughts. 



These fires are devastating to the environment and pose a significant risk to human health due to the smoke-borne contaminants they release. 



The year 2023 marked a particularly grim milestone for Canada, experiencing its worst wildfire season on record, with a staggering release of over 290 million tons of carbon into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>. Similarly, California faced unprecedented fire seasons in 2020 and 2021. 



The consequences of these wildfires extend far beyond their immediate vicinity. 



For instance, smoke from the Canadian wildfires drifted across the Atlantic, affecting air quality as far as Portugal and Spain and triggering alerts across North American cities. 



Millions were subjected to the adverse effects of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, suffering from symptoms like stinging eyes, stuffy noses, and labored breathing. 



The <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> underscores the severity of this issue, estimating that air pollution contributes to 6.5 million deaths globally each year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-to-the-rescue-new-era-in-air-quality-forecasting">AI to the rescue: New Era in air quality forecasting</h2>



Recognizing the gravity of this situation, Marisa Hughes, a leading figure in climate intelligence at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APL</a>), emphasizes the challenge in quantifying the slow, cumulative impact of deteriorating air quality. 



"We know that dangerous air quality levels are a significant threat, but because exposure happens slowly, over time it is more difficult to quantify," said Hughes, who is also the assistant manager of the <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/work/our-organization/research-and-exploratory-development/programs/human-machine-intelligence">Human and Machine Intelligence</a> program.



"A more accurate, higher-resolution model can help protect populations by providing them with information about air quality over time so that they can better plan ahead."



In response to this need, researchers from APL and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize atmospheric modeling. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneering-forecasting-techniques">Pioneering forecasting techniques</h2>



By simulating air movements and the dispersion of nearly 200 different pollutants, AI is set to enhance the accuracy and resolution of air quality forecasts. 



This is particularly crucial considering the complexity and computational intensity involved in traditional weather forecasting methods, which have to account for a myriad of variables and interactions in the atmosphere.



Jennifer Sleeman, a senior AI researcher at APL, highlights the computational challenges in current forecasting methods, where a significant portion of the computation is dedicated to tracking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-exposure-to-air-pollution-increases-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutant</a> movement and their chemical interactions. 



"In our case, the models are looking at the movement of nearly 200 different pollutants in the atmosphere for every timestep, sequentially. That's approximately 40% of their computation," said Sleeman.



"And then they also have to consider how these chemicals are interacting with one another and how they're decaying -- the chemistry is approximately 30% of the computation. It takes a significant amount of computing power to perform air quality forecasting with all of the variables used."



The AI-assisted approach developed by APL is a game-changer, streamlining the process by employing deep-learning models to simulate ensembles using fewer, shorter timesteps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-accurate-and-less-time-consuming">More accurate and less time-consuming</h2>



This innovative method is not only more efficient but also more practical, given the limitations in computing resources and costs. 



The traditional ensemble modeling technique, which requires running multiple variations of models, becomes significantly more feasible with AI assistance. 



Sleeman notes the tremendous computational savings achieved with this approach, enabling quicker and more accurate forecasts.



"Running one model is computationally challenging -- so imagine running 50-plus models. In some cases, this is just not feasible due to cost and computing availability," said Sleeman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-efforts-and-real-world-applications">Collaborative efforts and real-world applications</h2>



In collaboration with <a href="https://www.morgan.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan State University</a>, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, and NOAA, APL researchers have successfully applied this model to NASA's GEOS Composition Forecasting (<a href="https://gmao.gsfc.nasa.gov/weather_prediction/GEOS-CF/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOS-CF</a>) system. 



This system now generates five-day global forecasts with remarkable precision, a significant improvement over traditional models. 



"NASA and NOAA have been searching for ways to increase the resolution of these forecasts," said Hughes. "If you live next to a power plant or a highway, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-air-pollution-makes-people-lazy-resulting-in-poor-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> impacts are going to affect you differently."



The AI-driven model, trained on a year's worth of simulation data, has proven capable of producing 10-day forecasts that closely align with actual ground data, requiring only a fraction of the input data traditionally needed.



"The amount of computation we could save with our networks is tremendous," said Sleeman. "We're speeding things up because we're asking the models to compute shorter timesteps, which is easier and faster to do, and we're using the deep-learning emulator to simulate those ensembles and account for variations in weather data."



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



Both Hughes and Sleeman acknowledge the crucial role of the broader AI community in these advancements. 



"If we tried the same thing five years ago, it might not have been as successful as it is today, because we're building on the momentum of this accelerating research," said Hughes. 



"We're sharing our results and starting to see what methods and architectures are effective when you apply them to different problems around the world."



This project is part of a series of initiatives exploring AI applications in climate intelligence, aiming to tackle challenges like forecasting climate tipping points. 



These efforts are pivotal in APL's mission to ensure climate security, showcasing the potential of AI in addressing critical environmental issues.



In summary, the integration of AI in atmospheric forecasting marks a significant stride in our ability to predict and mitigate the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/safe-levels-of-air-pollution-can-negatively-impact-the-developing-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> from wildfires. 



As we face the increasing challenges of climate change, such technological advancements offer a beacon of hope, equipping us with the tools necessary to safeguard our environment and health.



This study was presented at the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence's Fall Symposium, at the <a href="https://agu.confex.com/agu/fm23/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/1424358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Geophysical Union Conference</a> and to the <a href="https://www.ametsoc.org/index.cfm/ams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Meteorological Society</a>.



-----



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AI model gives air quality forecasts that are similar to weather forecasts

By simulating air movements and pollutant dispersion, AI is set...

In a groundbreaking move, <a href="https://www.forseafoods.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forsea Foods</a>, an Israeli startup, is set to revolutionize the sushi world by offering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/company-introduces-lab-grown-fish-that-is-served-up-by-3-d-printers/">lab-grown</a> Japanese eel (unagi) as early as 2024. This innovative approach aims to alleviate the pressure on dwindling wild eel populations, a result of high global demand for this sushi delicacy. 



Roee Nir, CEO and co-founder of Forsea, highlights the significance of this venture: "Forsea is pioneering the fusion of traditional, high-quality Asian cuisine with groundbreaking technology to create the world’s first cultured unagi."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-japanese-dishes-nbsp">Traditional Japanese dishes&nbsp;</h2>



Partnering with executive chef Katsumi Kusomoto, Forsea Foods has successfully crafted traditional Japanese dishes such as unagi kabayaki and unagi nigiri using their lab-grown eel.&nbsp;



Kusomoto, recognizing the enduring popularity of unagi in Japan, notes the increasing need for sustainable culinary practices. "Unagi is an enduring favorite in Japan, its timeless appeal, however, is impacted by a growing awareness among the Japanese population of the need to take a more sustainable approach," he explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endangered-eel-populations-nbsp">Endangered eel populations&nbsp;</h2>



Japan's consumption of eel has seen a dramatic decrease from 160,000 tonnes in 2000 to an 80% reduction, due in part to environmental awareness.&nbsp;



The perilous state of wild eel populations, exacerbated by overfishing and habitat destruction, led to their listing as endangered by the IUCN Red List in 2018. Moreover, the complexity of breeding eels in captivity has led to a supply shortage and soaring market prices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-technique-nbsp">Innovative technique&nbsp;</h2>



Forsea Foods' lab-grown eel process is distinct from traditional lab-grown meat methods, which often rely on separate production of protein and fat cells assembled on a scaffold.&nbsp;



Instead, Forsea utilizes pluripotent stem cells to create "organoids," small 3D tissue structures that self-organize into tissues containing both fat and protein. This innovative technique, which bypasses the need for a scaffold, is now poised for commercial scaling with a potential launch by 2025.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lab-grown-protein-sources-nbsp">Lab-grown protein sources&nbsp;</h2>



Forsea Foods is not alone in this field. In 2021, <a href="https://steakholderfoods.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steakholder Foods</a>, an Israel-based company, revealed the first 3D-printed fish fillet made from lab-grown cells. And in a similar vein, <a href="https://aleph-farms.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aleph Farms</a> from Israel became the first to seek regulatory approval for lab-grown beef, although a response may take two years. 



As the UK government considers fast-tracking novel food approvals, the future of lab-grown seafood and meat appears promising, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional animal protein sources.



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



Unagi is a term from Japanese cuisine that refers to freshwater eel, specifically the Anguilla japonica species. It's highly prized for its rich, savory flavor and smooth, fatty texture, making it a popular ingredient in various dishes.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparation">Preparation</h3>



Unagi is often grilled over charcoal or gas, then glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, a process that enhances its natural flavors and gives it a glossy appearance. This preparation method is known as "kabayaki."



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-presentation-nbsp">Presentation&nbsp;</h3>



Unagi is commonly served on a bed of rice in a dish called unadon (short for unagi donburi), where the warm rice complements the eel's succulence. It's also a key ingredient in sushi and can be found in rolls or as nigiri, where slices of the eel are laid over vinegared rice and sometimes wrapped with a thin strip of seaweed.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-nbsp">Cultural significance&nbsp;</h3>



In Japanese culture, unagi is not just appreciated for its taste but also for its supposed stamina-boosting properties. It's traditionally eaten during the hottest part of the summer, on a day known as Doyo no Ushi no Hi, under the belief that it provides strength and vitality to withstand the summer heat.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-concerns-nbsp">Sustainability concerns&nbsp;</h3>



Aside from its cultural significance and culinary uses, unagi is also subject to sustainability concerns due to overfishing and habitat loss, leading to efforts in some areas to farm eel in a more environmentally friendly manner.



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Sushi of the future: The first ever lab-grown eel is a success

In a groundbreaking move, Forsea Foods, an Israeli startup, is...

In a surprising discovery, South Asian fishing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-better-at-expressing-emotions-than-cats-except-for-anger/">cats</a> have been caught on camera raiding bird nests in tall trees. 



According to experts from the <a href="https://www.du.ac.bd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Dhaka</a>, this is the first time that this rare and highly unusual behavior has been observed.



The cats were captured on motion cameras set up in tree canopies across northeast Bangladesh. 



This observation not only adds a new dimension to our understanding of these elusive cats but also holds significant implications for their conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-footage">Unexpected footage</h2>



Professor Muntasir Akash and his team analyzed approximately 282 days of footage from unbaited passive infrared cameras. 



The researchers discovered 19 instances of nocturnal predation by fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus) on bird colonies, a behavior never documented before in such an environment.&nbsp;



One striking image captured a fishing cat in the act of biting the neck of a little cormorant chick in a nest high in an 8m-tall Indian Oak tree. 



"That is a pretty high tree for a fishing cat," said Professor Akash, expressing his surprise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fishing-cats-have-dual-features">Fishing cats have dual features </h2>



Fishing cats are known for their aquatic adaptations, including water-resistant fur, semi-retractile claws, and partially webbed forepaws, which aid in hunting their primary prey, river fish. 



However, despite their specialized fish-eating diet, they retain many typical feline features.&nbsp;



“Their dentition, except for the large premolars to grip any slippery prey, is of general felid structure,” said Professor Akash. “And their semi-webbed forepaws are no more webbed than those of a bobcat.”



The feline features retained by fishing cats may assist in their survival during the monsoon season when their regular foraging habitats are flooded, making fishing challenging or impossible.&nbsp;



The ability to hunt birds in tall trees could provide an alternative food source and shelter during the rainy season.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-fishing-cat-conservation">Implications and fishing cat conservation</h2>



These beautiful animals, unfortunately, face significant threats from humans. These adept hunters are often driven away from fertile fishing areas and are subject to hunting due to perceived dangers or competition for food. 



“Monitoring of media reports on human-fishing cat conflicts suggests that a fresh conflict is happening in the country every two weeks,” noted Professor Akash. 



“Conservation efforts targeting fishing cats should thus be prioritized and all options for effective mitigation scientifically assessed.”



The destruction of wetlands, essential habitats for these cats, poses an additional threat. 



The species is currently listed as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.&nbsp;



The discovery that fishing cats depend on wetland bird colonies, which are themselves threatened by hunting and tree felling, underscores the interconnectedness of these ecosystems.&nbsp;



Professor Akash suggests that maintaining stable wetland bird colonies might benefit not only the wetlands and fishing cats but also the local communities that rely on these ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-asian-fishing-cats-nbsp">South Asian fishing cats&nbsp;</h2>



The South Asian fishing cat is a fascinating and unique species native to the wetlands of South Asia. This medium-sized wild cat is notably adept at swimming, which is unusual among felines.&nbsp;



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



Fishing cats have a strong association with watery environments like swamps, marshes, and mangrove forests. They are found in countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.&nbsp;



Their fur is a greyish color with distinctive dark spots and stripes, an adaptation that helps them blend into their watery habitat.



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



Their webbed feet are a significant adaptation that aids in swimming, and they are known to dive into water to catch fish, their primary diet. Fishing cats also consume other aquatic animals and some small terrestrial prey.



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



The fishing cat exhibits nocturnal behavior, meaning they are primarily active during the night. They are solitary animals, coming together only during the mating season. 



Females give birth to litters of around two to three kittens.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



Unfortunately, fishing cats are facing several threats that have put them on the endangered species list. Habitat destruction due to urbanization, pollution, and the draining of wetlands for agriculture are significant factors.&nbsp;



Conservation efforts are in place to protect their habitats and promote awareness of their ecological importance.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/mammalia-2023-0074" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mammalia</a>.



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What are fishing cats and why are they raiding bird nests in the treetops?

In a surprising discovery, South Asian fishing cats have been...

The use of biofuels could lead to a dramatic reduction of over 90% in black smoke emissions from vehicles, according to a breakthrough study from the <a href="https://www.uma.es/?set_language=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Malaga</a>.



The research, which was a collaboration with the Future Power Systems Group of the University of Birmingham, represents a significant discovery in the field of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/windshield-wiper-fluid-accounts-for-large-percentage-of-toxic-vehicle-emissions/">vehicle emissions</a>.&nbsp;



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



The investigative efforts at the University of Malaga were led by Francisco Javier Martos, a professor in the School of Industrial Engineering.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed the soot nanoparticles produced by engines using various biofuels. This included bio-alcohols such as butanol, pentanol, and cyclopentanol, as well as bio-ketones like cyclopentanone.&nbsp;



The team used High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), which was conducted at the Central Research Support Services of the UMA (SCAI).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-game-changer-nbsp">Potential game-changer&nbsp;</h2>



The core of the study revolved around the blending of oxygenated biofuels with diesel. Specifically, the team focused on a 20-percent volume concentration of this blend.&nbsp;



This particular blend was found to significantly reduce the production of soot - the black smoke commonly emitted by cars. Soot is known for its detrimental effects on both the environment and public health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-production-nbsp">Sustainable production&nbsp;</h2>



A key aspect of these biofuels is their sustainable production process. They can be derived from low carbon biomass residues, such as waste oils, algae, and agricultural or forestry residues. This not only makes them environmentally friendly, but also a potential game-changer in the automotive fuel industry.



Professor Martos emphasized the efficiency and practicality of these biofuels: "Our research shows that the biofuels studied, which we obtained in the laboratory, apart from producing very little soot, behave in the engine similarly to the fuel of any gas station, which means that there would be no need to make changes for it to work normally."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-implications-nbsp">Public health implications&nbsp;</h2>



The implications of the research are far-reaching. Soot particles, as explained by Professor Martos, pose a serious threat to the environment and public health.&nbsp;



"Soot particles emitted by engines are expelled into the environment and remain suspended in the air, affecting the climate, since they increase the greenhouse effect, and public health, because they do not settle to the ground, so they are very likely to be inhaled by living beings," said Professor Martos.



By reducing soot emissions, the use of biofuels could significantly mitigate these public health risks.



The study not only highlights a potential path to reducing the environmental footprint of thermal engines but also "opens the door to the use of non-petroleum fuels that could reduce the emission of pollutants in vehicles.”



The experts behind the research are already working towards the commercialization of these biofuels, having established agreements with several brands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-smoke-emissions">Black smoke emissions</h2>



Black smoke emissions from cars, typically diesel vehicles, are a significant environmental concern. This smoke is primarily composed of carbon particles resulting from incomplete combustion of diesel fuel.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors">Contributing factors</h3>



The reasons for such emissions can be varied, including a clogged air filter, malfunctioning injectors, or problems in the engine's internal components.



One key factor contributing to black smoke is an imbalance in the fuel-to-air ratio, where too much fuel and not enough air leads to incomplete fuel burning. This can occur when air filters are blocked, reducing the amount of air entering the engine, or when fuel injectors deliver too much fuel.&nbsp;



Additionally, issues with the turbocharger, responsible for supplying extra air to the engine, can also lead to black smoke.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impacts">Potential impacts</h3>



The black smoke is not only a sign of fuel inefficiency, but it also has environmental and health implications. It contains a variety of harmful pollutants, including particulate matter, which can have severe effects on human health, particularly on the respiratory system. Furthermore, these emissions contribute to air pollution and environmental degradation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation">Mitigation</h3>



To mitigate these issues, regular vehicle maintenance is crucial. This includes checking and replacing air filters, ensuring injectors are functioning correctly, and resolving any turbocharger issues. 



Furthermore, advancements in engine technology and stricter emission standards have led to cleaner and more efficient diesel engines, which help reduce the occurrence of black smoke emissions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2023.130641." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fuel</a>.



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Biofuels may eliminate 90% of black smoke emissions from cars

The use of biofuels could lead to a dramatic reduction...

Researchers at the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> (NIH) have discovered rapid and significant immune system changes in individuals who switched to either a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/">vegan</a> or a ketogenic (keto) diet. The study provides critical insights into how dietary choices can affect our body's defense mechanisms.



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



The research was conducted by experts from the NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).&nbsp;



The team closely monitored the biological responses of participants as they alternated between vegan and keto diets over two-week periods, in a random order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multi-omics-approach-nbsp">Multi-omics approach&nbsp;</h2>



The participants, who were diverse in ethnicity, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), and age, underwent thorough analysis through blood, urine, and stool samples.&nbsp;



The study used a “multi-omics” approach, assessing biochemical, cellular, metabolic, and immune responses, along with changes in the microbiome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vegan-diet">Vegan diet</h2>



The vegan diet, typically high in fiber and low in fat, led to notable changes in pathways related to the innate immune system, including antiviral responses.&nbsp;



This diet is known for eliminating animal products and in this study, contained approximately 10% fat and 75% carbohydrates. Interestingly, participants on the vegan diet consumed fewer calories compared to those on the keto diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keto-diet-nbsp">Keto diet&nbsp;</h2>



The keto diet, which is low in carbohydrates and generally high in fat, prompted significant increases in processes linked to adaptive immunity, particularly pathways associated with T and B cells.&nbsp;



With about 76% fat and 10% carbohydrates, the keto diet also impacted a broader range of proteins in the blood plasma and affected levels of proteins from various tissues, including blood, brain, and bone marrow.



Both diets produced changes in the participants' microbiomes, causing shifts in the abundance of gut bacterial species previously linked to these diets.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-changes-nbsp">Metabolic changes&nbsp;</h2>



The vegan diet, with its higher iron content, promoted more red blood cell-linked pathways, including those involved in heme metabolism. The keto diet was associated with changes in amino acid metabolism, reflecting the higher amounts of protein consumed on this diet.



Despite the diversity of the participants, the study revealed that dietary changes consistently affect widespread and interconnected pathways in the body. The distinct metabolic and immune system changes observed highlight the profound impact that diet can have on our health.



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



The experts emphasize the need for further research to understand how these nutritional interventions specifically affect components of the immune system. They suggest that the rapid immune response to dietary changes could open new avenues for preventing diseases or complementing treatments for cancer or neurodegenerative disorders.



The study marks a significant step in understanding the complex relationship between diet, the immune system, and overall health. It demonstrates the potential of using dietary interventions as a therapeutic tool, offering hope for personalized nutrition strategies in the treatment and prevention of various diseases.



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Vegan and keto diets rapidly transform the immune system

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have discovered...

The discovery of a deadly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-bird-flu-outbreak-requires-urgent-coordinated-response/">bird flu</a> in gentoo penguins has raised alarm about its potential spread among Antarctica's penguin colonies. Researchers from the <a href="https://scar.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research</a> (SCAR) discovered about 35 penguins dead on the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic on January 19. 



Ralph Vanstreels, a veterinarian working with SCAR, confirmed that samples from two of the dead penguins tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza virus.&nbsp;



According to Falkland Islands government spokesperson Sally Heathmanas, as of 30 January, “there are over 200 chicks dead alongside a handful of adults.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-populations-affected-globally">Bird populations affected globally</h2>



The incident underscores the vulnerability of gentoo penguins to the lethal disease that has affected bird populations globally. Despite the geographical distance between the Falkland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula - roughly 800 miles (1,300 kilometers) - gentoo penguins' unlikely travel between these regions suggests a lower risk of the virus spreading to the southern continent.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bracing-for-a-widespread-outbreak-nbsp">Bracing for a widespread outbreak&nbsp;</h2>



However, Vanstreels, affiliated with the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California-Davis</a>, highlighted a critical concern. "The role that gentoo penguins could have, instead, is to serve as local reservoirs of infection," he said.



Further tests are pending for rockhopper penguins, with the Falkland Islands government bracing for a widespread outbreak. In South Georgia, Meagan Dewar, who leads SCAR's Antarctic Wildlife Health Network, ruled out bird flu in king penguins after a comprehensive survey.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-concern">Increasing concern</h2>



The densely packed penguin colonies in Antarctica and nearby islands could facilitate rapid virus transmission among individuals, causing significant concern among conservationists.&nbsp;



Vanstreels expressed particular worry about other species, noting the larger number of elephant seals and fur seals succumbing to the bird flu in South Georgia and South America.&nbsp;



"This is especially concerning because South Georgia is home to 95 percent of the world's population of Antarctic fur seals," he said, underscoring the dire implications for the species if the population collapses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-h5n1-avian-influenza-virus">H5N1 avian influenza virus</h2>



The H5N1 avian influenza virus, commonly known as bird flu, is a type of influenza virus that primarily affects birds, but can also infect humans and other animals. It is a highly pathogenic strain, meaning it has the potential to cause severe disease and high mortality rates in poultry. The virus is categorized under the type A influenza viruses, which are known for their ability to cause pandemics.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-potential">Pandemic potential </h3>



The H5N1 virus first gained attention in 1997 during an outbreak in Hong Kong, where it was transmitted from birds to humans, leading to six deaths. This was the first instance of a direct bird-to-human transmission of avian influenza, raising global concerns about its potential to cause a pandemic.&nbsp;



Since then, outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza have been reported in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, affecting both wild birds and domestic poultry. Human cases of H5N1 infection are rare but can occur after direct or close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms">Symptoms</h3>



Infection with H5N1 in humans can lead to severe respiratory illness and has a high mortality rate. Symptoms are similar to other types of flu and can include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches, but can quickly progress to severe respiratory issues and pneumonia.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-control-and-prevention-nbsp">Control and prevention&nbsp;</h3>



Control and prevention measures for H5N1 avian influenza focus on reducing the risk of transmission from birds to humans. These measures include monitoring and surveillance of poultry farms, culling infected or exposed birds, vaccination of poultry, and implementing biosecurity practices.&nbsp;



For humans, avoiding contact with infected birds, practicing good personal hygiene, and following travel advisories to areas with known outbreaks are recommended precautions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-research-nbsp">Ongoing research&nbsp;</h3>



Research and development of vaccines for H5N1 are ongoing, with some vaccines available for use in poultry and others being developed for humans. However, the effectiveness of these vaccines can vary due to the virus's ability to mutate rapidly, leading to new strains that vaccines may not protect against.



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Gentoo penguins are the latest victims of bird flu

The discovery of a deadly bird flu in gentoo penguins...

In the ever-evolving landscape of online dating, a new study from <a href="https://wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University in St. Louis</a> suggests that having a sense of purpose in life is an important aspect of attracting a partner. 



The research highlights the potential for deeper connections when individuals pursue their passions and meet others with similar drives and goals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sense-of-purpose-nbsp">Sense of purpose&nbsp;</h2>



The study sheds light on the impact of showcasing a sense of purpose in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rituals-can-strengthen-commitment-among-couples-who-are-dating/">dating</a> app profiles.&nbsp;



The researchers explored this concept through a unique study. They investigated how individuals with a pronounced sense of purpose are perceived on dating platforms.&nbsp;



“In general we found people with a higher purpose were considered to be more romantically attractive,” said study lead author Isabella D’Ottone.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-profiles-nbsp">Dating profiles&nbsp;</h2>



For the investigation, the research team created and analyzed nine dating profiles, four of which represented different categories of sense of purpose – prosocial, relationship, financial, and creative orientations – and five control profiles with no indicated purpose. The profiles were evaluated by 119 participants for various attractiveness measures.&nbsp;



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



The results revealed that profiles demonstrating a sense of purpose, regardless of the category, were consistently rated higher in attractiveness. This finding was especially pronounced when the participant shared the same purpose orientation as the profile.



However, the team noted an exception in the financial orientation category. Profiles with a financial purpose were not as favorably received unless the evaluating participant also valued financial goals.&nbsp;



“In general, looking at all the purpose profiles, people were not as attracted to the financially oriented person,” said D’Ottone. This suggests that while a sense of purpose is generally appealing, the specific nature of that purpose can influence its attractiveness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chasing-your-passions-nbsp">Chasing your passions&nbsp;</h2>



D’Ottone, now a research associate at the University of Miami, emphasized the broader implications of their findings. She noted that this isn’t about faking a passion for something but, maybe finding love where you don’t expect it.&nbsp;



Chasing a special someone may end with a mismatch, “but chasing your passions, you might find that person along the way,” explained D’Ottone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeking-out-people-with-a-purpose-nbsp">Seeking out people with a purpose&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Patrick Hill noted that this study was a “phenomenal” project for an undergraduate to take on and it builds on the lab’s work on why sense of purpose is connected to better relationships.&nbsp;



It’s not just about physical attraction, but also about recognizing someone who has direction in life, said Professor Hill. “When it comes to attraction, knowing someone has a direction matters."



D’Ottone’s work speaks to how people are picking up on sense of purpose and factoring that into how they are attracted to others, whether they are aware of that or not, said Professor Hill. “We actually seek out people with a purpose."



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s41042-023-00136-z">International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology</a>.&nbsp;



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Having a sense of purpose makes you more likely to find love 

In the ever-evolving landscape of online dating, a new study...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...