<p>Anodorhynchus glaucus NatureServe Explorer Species Reports &#8212; NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/lake-st-clair-of-the-u-s-and-canada/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.</p>
<p>ITIS Reports &#8212; ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=0b0949fc84f043009fc678128ef9902f&amp;aqs=edge.0.69i59l2j69i57j69i60l3j0.712j0j9&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.</p>
<p>FWS Digital Media Library &#8212; The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service&#8217;s National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Anodorhynchus is a genus of large blue macaws from open and semi-open habitats in central and eastern South America. It includes two extant species, the hyacinth macaw and Lear&#8217;s macaw also known as the indigo macaw, and one probably extinct species, the glaucous macaw. At about 100 centimetres in length the hyacinth macaw is the longest parrot in the world. Glaucous and Lear&#8217;s macaws are exclusively cliff nesters; hyacinth macaws are mostly tree nesters. The three species mainly feed on the nuts from a few species of palms</p>


Anodorhynchus glaucus

<p>The rapid decline of many iconic animal species due to habitat loss presents one of the most critical challenges in modern conservation. <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, an organization typically associated with space exploration, has emerged as a valuable partner in the fight to save endangered animals. </p>



<p>By utilizing cutting-edge satellite technology, NASA provides vital data on endangered wildlife habitats, informing and driving conservation strategies around the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiger-conservation-nasa-maps-suitable-habitat">Tiger conservation: NASA maps suitable habitat</h2>



<p>Tigers, once widespread across Asia, have lost a staggering 93% of their historical range. However, a recent NASA-backed study paints a more optimistic picture. </p>



<p>Combining Earth observation data with extensive field research, the NASA wildlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemists-could-be-key-to-prevent-animal-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> study revealed significant tracts of "empty forest" that still offer suitable tiger habitat. This finding suggests that if these areas are protected and managed effectively, the potential for tiger range expansion could be substantial.</p>



<p>"There's still a lot more room for tigers in the world than even tiger experts thought," explained Eric Sanderson, a conservationist at the <a href="https://www.nybg.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Botanical Garden</a> and lead author of the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jaguar-conservation-priority-zones-by-nasa">Jaguar conservation: Priority zones by NASA</h2>



<p>In South America, jaguars face a similar crisis of shrinking territories, having lost roughly half of their original range. The Gran Chaco, the second-largest forest in South America, is a particularly crucial habitat for these elusive predators. By analyzing NASA satellite imagery and land-use data, scientists have mapped out priority conservation areas for jaguars within the Gran Chaco. </p>



<p>Disturbingly, over a third of these core habitats lack sufficient protection, leaving them vulnerable to deforestation and development. This data empowers conservationists to advocate for stronger legal safeguards in the most vital areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephant-conservation-habitat-preferences-to-mitigate-conflict">Elephant conservation: Habitat preferences to mitigate conflict</h2>



<p>African savanna elephants, now classified as endangered, struggle with the relentless expansion of human settlements into their native range. A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iss-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> study offers insights into elephant habitat preferences, particularly in less protected zones where conflict of with humans is more likely. The researchers found that elephants consistently favor dense forests, especially near waterways. </p>



<p>Unfortunately, these same areas are often targeted for tourism infrastructure. Armed with this knowledge, conservationists and land managers can work together to identify areas where development poses less risk to elephant populations, striking a balance between economic needs and conservation goals. </p>



<p>The experts can also strategically prioritize the protection of the dense forest habitats that elephants rely on for survival.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-a-technological-powerhouse-for-conservation">NASA: A technological powerhouse for conservation</h2>



<p>The use of satellite data in wildlife conservation is a rapidly growing field. NASA's vast satellite network and expertise provide unprecedented opportunities to monitor endangered animals and their habitats in real-time. </p>



<p>"Satellites observe vast areas of Earth's surface on daily to weekly schedules," said Keith Gaddis, ecological conservation program manager at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> headquarters in Washington. "That helps scientists monitor habitats that would be logistically challenging and time-consuming to survey from the ground - crucial for animals like tigers that roam large territories."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions-for-wildlife-conservation-by-nasa">Future directions for wildlife conservation by NASA</h2>



<p>Habitat loss is a major threat to wildlife around the world. Conservationists have traditionally relied on ground surveys to track animals and assess their environment. But this can be slow, expensive, and logistically challenging, especially for wide-ranging species or vast ecosystems.</p>



<p>This is where NASA is stepping in as a surprising hero for endangered animals. Their sophisticated satellites are providing a game-changing perspective on animal populations and their habitats.</p>



<p>Here's how NASA's technological advancements are revolutionizing wildlife conservation:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-detail-and-scope">Unprecedented detail and scope </h3>



<p>NASA satellites can observe massive areas of land in incredible detail. This allows conservationists to monitor vast ecosystems and track animal movements across huge distances, providing a much more comprehensive picture than traditional ground surveys.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-near-real-time-data">Near real-time data</h3>



<p>Gone are the days of waiting weeks or months for data analysis. New satellite technology allows for near real-time data collection and analysis. This means conservationists can respond to threats to animal populations or their habitats much faster and more effectively.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-warning-system">Early warning system</h3>



<p>By tracking changes in vegetation health, deforestation patterns, and human activity, satellites can serve as an early warning system for conservationists. This allows them to identify potential threats before they become serious problems for endangered species.</p>



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



<p>The detailed data collected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-rocks-nasa-dart-asteroid-deflection-mission-may-impact-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> satellites allows conservation experts to pinpoint exactly where endangered animals are located and what areas of their habitat are most critical for their survival. This empowers them to focus their conservation efforts on the areas that will have the biggest impact.</p>



<p>The future of wildlife conservation is becoming increasingly hi-tech. As NASA's satellite capabilities continue to develop, conservationists will have access to even more powerful tools to protect endangered species. This collaboration between space exploration technology and animal conservation holds immense promise for the future of our planet's incredible biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-you-can-get-involved">How you can get involved</h2>



<p>Consider the following ways to get involved:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support">Support</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Targeted donations:</strong> Instead of simply donating to a general cause, research organizations dedicated to protecting specific endangered species or ecosystems that align with your concerns. Effective organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) often have focused campaigns and projects for which your contribution can have a direct impact.</li>



<li><strong>Beyond money:</strong> Consider volunteering your time or skills. Many conservation organizations need help with administrative work, fundraising, field research, or public outreach, offering a chance to make a tangible difference.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raise-awareness">Raise awareness</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>The power of your voice:</strong> Share articles, research findings, and success stories about endangered species conservation within your social circles. Frame the issue in a way that connects with your friends and family, sparking genuine interest and a sense of urgency.</li>



<li><strong>Fact-based advocacy:</strong> Stay informed about threats to endangered species, legislative efforts to protect them, and the work of reputable conservation organizations. Share reliable information, counter misinformation, and encourage your network to make informed decisions as consumers and voters.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-make-informed-choices">Make informed choices</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Sustainable consumption:</strong> Research the environmental impact of your everyday purchases (food, clothing, household goods). Choose products with minimal packaging, produced with sustainable practices, and certified as fair trade or "wildlife-friendly" whenever possible.</li>



<li><strong>Scrutinize business practices:</strong> Support businesses with a proven commitment to reducing pollution, promoting responsible resource use, and reinvesting in conservation efforts. Let companies know that their environmental track record matters to you as a consumer.</li>



<li><strong>Reduce, reuse, recycle:</strong> This classic mantra remains vital. Minimize consumption, repair and repurpose what you can, and properly recycle everything else. These small actions collectively protect vital habitats for endangered species.</li>
</ul>



<p>By working together, we can help ensure a future where these magnificent creatures continue to thrive.</p>



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



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NASA is tracking endangered animal habitats from space

The rapid decline of many iconic animal species due to...

<p>In the realm of astrophysics, the existence of dark matter has been a prevailing theory used to explain the anomalies observed in the universe. Unlike ordinary matter, dark matter does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it invisible and detectable only through its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational effects</a>. </p>



<p>Recent computer simulations conducted by a team of astronomers, including those from the <a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Irvine</a>, provide compelling support for this elusive component of our universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-observations-and-theory">Bridging observations and theory</h2>



<p>The primary question addressed by the research is whether the universe can be fully explained by the matter that we can see and measure directly or if the concept of dark matter is necessary to account for observations that otherwise remain unexplained. </p>



<p>Currently, the consensus among physicists leans heavily towards the necessity of dark matter to explain phenomena such as the behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-stars-may-hold-the-key-to-understanding-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> and galaxies.</p>



<p>Study lead author Francisco Mercado, a recent PhD graduate from the Department of Physics &amp; Astronomy at UC Irvine, is now a postdoctoral scholar at Pomona College.</p>



<p>"Our paper shows how we can use real, observed relationships as a basis to test two different models to describe the universe. We put forth a powerful test to discriminate between the two models," said Mercado.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-existence-of-dark-matter">Existence of dark matter </h2>



<p>The team's approach involved running simulations that incorporated both normal matter and dark matter. These simulations aimed to recreate the features observed in real galaxies, which are challenging to explain without the presence of dark matter. </p>



<p>The findings reveal that these features indeed match those expected in a dark matter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-may-reveal-the-origin-of-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.</p>



<p>"We show that such features appear in observations of many real galaxies. If we take these data at face value, this reaffirms the position of the dark matter model as the one that best describes the universe we live in," explained Mercado.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-role-of-dark-matter">Confirming the role of dark matter</h2>



<p>The study also explored the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visible-matter-dark-matter-evolved-together-big-bang/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visible matter</a> and the inferred presence of dark matter in galaxies. </p>



<p>James Bullock, dean of the UCI School of Physical Sciences, provided further insight. "Observed galaxies seem to obey a tight relationship between the matter we see and the inferred dark matter we detect, so much so that some have suggested that what we call dark matter is really evidence that our theory of gravity is wrong," said Professor Bullock.</p>



<p>"What we showed is that not only does dark matter predict the relationship, but for many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> it can explain what we see more naturally than modified gravity. I come away even more convinced that dark matter is the right model."</p>



<p>Interestingly, the observations that confirmed these features were initially conducted by proponents of a dark matter-free universe. </p>



<p>"The observations we examined - the very observations where we found these features - were conducted by adherents of dark matter-free theories. Despite their obvious presence, little-to-no analysis was performed on these features by that community. It took folks like us, scientists working with both regular and dark matter, to start the conversation," noted Professor Jorge Moreno of Pomona College.</p>



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



<p>"As stars are born and die, they explode into supernovae, which can shape the centers of&nbsp;galaxies, naturally explaining the existence of these features," said Moreno. "Simply put, the features we examined in observations require both the existence of dark matter and the incorporation of normal-matter physics."</p>



<p>With the dark matter model gaining traction as the most accurate description of the universe, the researchers are not resting on their laurels. </p>



<p>Mercado shared his vision for the next steps: "It would be interesting to see if we could use this same relationship to even distinguish between different dark matter models. Understanding how this relationship changes under distinct dark matter models could help us constrain the properties of dark matter itself."</p>



<p>As the research continues, the hope is that further simulations and observations will not only validate the presence of dark matter but also help refine our understanding of its properties, potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries in our comprehension of the cosmos.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/530/2/1349/7645231?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a></em>.</p>



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Existence of dark matter confirmed by new study

In the realm of astrophysics, the existence of dark matter...

<p>In a focused effort to reduce carbon emissions across the U.S. to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-pricing-will-help-achieve-net-zero-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">net zero</a>, researchers have united from various Department of Energy national laboratories. </p>



<p>This comprehensive initiative is led by teams at the <a href="https://www.ornl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oak Ridge National Laboratory</a> and includes collaboration from Pacific Northwest, Brookhaven, Argonne, Lawrence Berkeley, Ames, and <a href="https://www6.slac.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SLAC National Accelerator laboratories</a>. Together, the experts are targeting some of the most carbon-intensive sectors of the economy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovering-carbon-from-existing-processes">Recovering carbon from existing processes </h2>



<p>Traditionally, efforts to mitigate carbon emissions have focused on capturing or sequestering carbon - known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decarbonizing-worlds-industrial-emissions-possible-with-current-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decarbonization</a>. </p>



<p>However, a new strategy, which the researchers refer to as "defossilization," seeks to minimize the need for extracting new fossil fuels. Instead, it emphasizes recovering and repurposing carbon from existing processes and products. </p>



<p>Stephen Streiffer, the director of ORNL, highlighted the importance of this collaborative effort: "Carbon is a vital part of many of today’s products and processes, and we must be creative in how to address its use in the face of global climate change," said Streiffer.</p>



<p>The proposed "circular economy" would aim to reclaim much of the carbon already present in areas like power generation and materials difficult to recycle, such as biomass, municipal waste, biomethane, carbon dioxide, and plastics. </p>



<p>By reusing carbon where possible, this approach could significantly reduce new emissions, particularly in sectors like transportation and industry, which together account for over 50% of the U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-carbon-footprint-urban-farms-and-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon footprint</a> and are notoriously hard to transition to electricity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Need for defossilization&nbsp;to reduce carbon emissions </h2>



<p>“Electrifying with carbon-free energy sources will be a critical component of decarbonization. However, several segments of our economy, including the manufacturing of chemicals and polymeric materials, will continue to need carbon,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>“In addition, segments of our transportation economy will also be difficult to electrify due to the size and weight of the batteries that would be needed, including aviation, long-haul, heavy-duty, and marine transportation. Together, these ‘hard-to-electrify’ segments contribute to ~20% of the overall US greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Although efforts are being made to decarbonize parts of these segments, they are unlikely to completely transition from carbon. We can reduce carbon use by increasing efficiency and reducing waste, but that approach alone will not be sufficient to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We therefore posit that defossilization, or removing fossil fuels while still using carbon in our economy, is a critical part of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions for difficult-to-electrify sectors.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-translating-discoveries-into-applications">Translating discoveries into applications</h2>



<p>Achieving the ambitious goal of a circular carbon economy requires a rapid advancement in scientific and technological innovation.</p>



<p>Michelle K. Kidder, a distinguished researcher and program manager at ORNL, emphasized the urgency of this task. "Maintaining today’s 15- to 20-year discover-design-develop-deploy cycle will not allow us to slow, stop, or even reverse climate impacts in time to meet aggressive 2030 and 2050 U.S. targets," said Kidder. </p>



<p>"We must instead find new ways to approach fundamental advancements in science and more quickly translate discoveries into applications that can make significant impact on emissions reductions."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-barriers-to-reduce-carbon-emissions">Overcoming barriers to reduce carbon emissions</h2>



<p>Hundreds of scientists and technical experts from across the national laboratory system are diligently working to overcome longstanding scientific and technological barriers.</p>



<p>ORNL's research, for instance, combines advanced tools such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-pinpointed-a-catalyst-for-co2-conversion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> and machine learning with chemistry to develop new materials. </p>



<p>This effort is bolstered by Frontier, the world’s fastest supercomputer, which supports essential high-performance computations for developing new energy technologies. These include advanced nuclear reactors and potential fusion solutions aimed at reducing carbon emissions.</p>



<p>As these scientific endeavors progress, it is crucial to integrate techno-economic and lifecycle analyses. This approach is vital for identifying the potential environmental and social impacts of new technologies, ensuring that solutions are not only effective but also equitable. </p>



<p>"Even as we look for alternatives to reusing and keeping carbon in play, defossilization must allow equitable and ecological solutions for everyone," explained Kidder. "If we can bring this vision to fruition at the urgent pace needed, we also can reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> and its consequent impact on the environment while ensuring that no community is left behind."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-effort-to-reduce-carbon-emissions">A collaborative effort to reduce carbon emissions</h2>



<p>The roadmap laid out by these researchers offers a promising path toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. By fostering collaboration and accelerating the pace of innovation, there is hope for significantly reducing the U.S. carbon footprint, closing the carbon cycle, and achieving the net-zero emissions necessary to combat climate change effectively. </p>



<p>This ambitious endeavor not only seeks to safeguard the planet but also to ensure a healthier, more sustainable environment for future generations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41570-024-00587-1.epdf?sharing_token=PUggHP_nq8r_hrAIep2o49RgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0PYLMGfmgLY4H7W4X3IBUuVZbR3_VV9dyRQYLo943vVN07-OKCQlFHAYuzHwW5rjH0CQqN5e6fVhv6iQLUZrR7rs3u9ESakdwiIyGOA5oTrFv9bwv6bcAjrqOc8Q-sq6yw%3D" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Chemistry</a></em></em>.</p>



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Circular economy needed to reduce America's carbon emissions

In a focused effort to reduce carbon emissions across the...

Somewhere,In,The,Universe.,Space,Landscape.,Curvature,Of,Space-time.,Elements

<p>Researchers have stumbled upon a phenomenon that could rewrite our understanding of the universe's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-living-things-are-affected-by-gravitational-tides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational forces</a>. Known as the "cosmic glitch," this discovery highlights anomalies in gravity's behavior on an immense scale, challenging the established norms set by Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity.</p>



<p>For over a century, general relativity has served as the backbone for our understanding of cosmic phenomena, ranging from the dynamics of the Big Bang to the intricacies of black holes. The theory posits that gravity influences not only the three spatial dimensions but also time itself. </p>



<p>Validated through numerous tests and observations, general relativity has been a robust model that physicists and astronomers worldwide rely on.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-einstein-s-legacy">Challenging Einstein's legacy</h2>



<p>However, when applied to the vast scales of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clusters</a> and beyond, this model begins to show cracks. </p>



<p>Robin Wen is the project's lead author and a recent graduate in Mathematical Physics from the <a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Waterloo</a>. "At these colossal distances, general relativity starts to deviate from what we observe. It’s as if gravity’s influence weakens by about one percent when dealing with distances spanning billions of light years," explained Wen.</p>



<p>This observation has puzzled scientists for more than twenty years. Considerable efforts have been made to address these discrepancies and better understand the anomalies observed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cosmic glitch adds a footnote to general relativity </h2>



<p>Niayesh Afshordi, a professor of Astrophysics at the University of Waterloo and a researcher at the Perimeter Institute, shared insights on the universe's expansion. </p>



<p>"Almost a century ago, astronomers discovered that our universe is expanding,” said Professor Afshordi. "The farther away galaxies are, the faster they are moving, to the point that they seem to be moving at nearly the speed of light, the maximum allowed by Einstein’s theory. Our finding suggests that, on those very scales, Einstein’s theory may also be insufficient.”</p>



<p>Furthermore, the research team has developed a new model that modifies and extends Einstein’s equations to better fit these cosmic observations. </p>



<p>This doesn’t just patch a hole; it enhances our overall understanding of gravity without compromising the successful applications of general relativity that are crucial in other scientific fields.</p>



<p>Robin Wen describes this update as a critical clarification to Einstein’s original theory: "Think of it as a footnote - once you reach a cosmic scale, additional terms and conditions apply."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unraveling the mysteries of gravity</h2>



<p>Using this model that modifies general relativity could be the breakthrough that unlocks further mysteries of the cosmos. "This might just be our first clue in solving a larger cosmic puzzle that spans the vast expanses of space and time," noted Afshordi.</p>



<p>As the scientific community continues to test and refine this new approach to understanding gravity, the anticipation grows. </p>



<p>The implications of the research are far-reaching, potentially leading to new theories that offer a more detailed and comprehensive understanding of the fundamental forces that govern our universe.</p>



<p>This discovery challenges long-held scientific views and is a vibrant example of how scientific inquiry continuously evolves, each solution prompting new questions in the relentless quest for deeper truths.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Theory of general relativity</h2>



<p>The theory of general relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein in 1915, describes gravity not as a conventional force, but as a curvature of space-time caused by mass and energy. This marked a profound departure from Newtonian physics, where gravity was considered a force acting at a distance.</p>



<p>Einstein's theory suggests that objects such as planets and stars alter the geometry of space-time around them, and this curvature influences the motion of other objects. This is often visualized as a heavy object placed on a stretched rubber sheet, causing it to deform, and smaller objects rolling towards it due to the deformation.</p>



<p>One of the most famous predictions of general relativity was the bending of light by gravity, which was confirmed during a solar eclipse in 1919, when stars near the Sun appeared slightly displaced from their expected positions. </p>



<p>This phenomenon, known as gravitational lensing, along with the precise precession of Mercury's orbit, and the redshift of light escaping gravitational fields, serve as key evidences for the theory.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <em><em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1475-7516/2024/03/045">Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics</a></em></em>.</p>



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'Cosmic glitch' discovered in gravity's behavior challenges Einstein's general relativity theory

Researchers have stumbled upon a phenomenon that could rewrite our...

<p>While the benefits of exercise on overall health are broadly recognized, the intricate biological responses triggered at a cellular level by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/active-aging-physical-activity-has-a-direct-impact-on-life-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> have only recently been explored in depth. </p>



<p>A landmark study involving an array of scientific experts from various U.S. institutions has significantly advanced our understanding of this complex phenomenon.</p>



<p>The scientists employed a range of sophisticated techniques to investigate the molecular changes that occur across different organs during periods of intense exercise. </p>



<p>The study revealed that physical activity influences a multitude of cellular and molecular mechanisms across all 19 organs analyzed in the rats used for the experiment. </p>



<p>The findings show that the body's adaptation to exercise extends well beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-molecule-that-helps-grow-stronger-and-bigger-muscles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle growth</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-cardiovascular-benefits-of-exercise-are-unlimited/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular health</a>, encompassing significant changes in organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-the-molecular-benefits-of-exercise">Insights into the molecular benefits of exercise</h2>



<p>The study was a part of an ambitious initiative, the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC), which began in 2016. </p>



<p>This project brings together researchers from prestigious institutions such as the <a href="https://www.broadinstitute.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard</a>, <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a>. </p>



<p>The consortium involved leading scientists who envisioned a comprehensive analysis of exercise's effects at the molecular level. The project was originally conceived of by&nbsp;Steve Carr, senior director of Broad’s Proteomics Platform.</p>



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



<p>“Regular exercise provides wide-ranging health benefits, including reduced risks of all-cause mortality, cardiometabolic and neurological diseases, cancer and other pathologies,” wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>“Exercise affects nearly all organ systems in either improving health or reducing disease risk, with beneficial effects resulting from cellular and molecular adaptations within and across many tissues and organ systems.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Various ‘omic’ platforms (‘omes’) including transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics and metabolomics, have been used to study these events. However, work to date typically covers one or two omes at a single time point, is biased towards one sex, and often focuses on a single tissue, most often skeletal muscle, heart or blood, with few studies considering other tissues.”</p>



<p>“Accordingly, a comprehensive, organism-wide, multi-omic map of the effects of exercise is needed to understand the molecular underpinnings of exercise training-induced adaptations.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormously-valuable-resource">Enormously valuable resource </h2>



<p>The expansive study not only scrutinized tissues from various organs but also revealed how these organs contribute to regulating immune response, stress reactions, and even pathways related to chronic conditions like inflammatory liver disease and heart disease.</p>



<p>"It took a village of scientists with distinct scientific backgrounds to generate and integrate the massive amount of high quality data produced,” said Carr.</p>



<p>“This is the first whole-organism map looking at the effects of training in multiple different organs. The resource produced will be enormously valuable, and has already produced many potentially novel biological insights for further exploration.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-changes-from-exercise">Molecular changes from exercise </h2>



<p>One of the more significant revelations was the discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stanford-blood-test-measures-the-molecular-effects-of-exercise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular changes</a> that might explain why the liver becomes less fatty during exercise. Such insights could pave the way for new treatments for conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.</p>



<p>In addition, the research team hopes their findings can eventually be used to personalize exercise plans based on an individual's health status or to develop therapeutic strategies that mimic the benefits of physical activity for those unable to exercise regularly.</p>



<p>The data from this extensive study have been made available in an <a href="https://motrpac-data.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">online public repository</a>, allowing other researchers to access and utilize this information for further study. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-impacts-thousands-of-molecules">Exercise impacts thousands of molecules</h2>



<p>The collective effort of the teams involved required significant coordination, as highlighted by Clary Clish, one of the lead researchers. “The amount of coordination that all of the labs involved in this study had to do was phenomenal.” </p>



<p>This meticulous planning allowed for nearly 10,000 assays, resulting in approximately 15 million measurements on blood and solid tissues.</p>



<p>Through these efforts, the researchers have observed that exercise impacts thousands of molecules, with notable changes occurring in the adrenal gland, which plays a crucial role in regulating immunity, metabolism, and blood pressure. </p>



<p>Additionally, the study uncovered sex-specific differences in immune response, providing a nuanced understanding of how exercise affects males and females differently over time. Most immune-signaling molecules unique to females showed changes in levels between one and two weeks of training, while those in males showed differences between four and eight weeks, noted the experts.</p>



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



<p>As research continues, these insights offer a promising frontier for enhancing human health through a more refined understanding of the molecular benefits of exercise. </p>



<p>The pioneering study not only furthers our understanding of the biological responses to physical activity but also sets the stage for tailored health interventions that could one day revolutionize personal health and wellness.</p>



<p>"Altogether, this multi-omic resource serves as a broadly useful reference for studying the milieu of molecular changes in endurance training adaptation and provides new opportunities to understand the effects of exercise on health and disease," concluded the researchers.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06877-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em></em>.</p>



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



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Metamorphosis: Exercise triggers molecular changes in major organs

While the benefits of exercise on overall health are broadly...

Silhouette,Of,A,Girl,In,Lotus,Position,On,The,Background

<p>In recent years, the scientific community has been increasingly interested in the potential benefits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-is-far-better-than-drugs-to-spark-creativity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelics-could-help-us-reinvent-ourselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychedelics</a>. A fascinating study has uncovered the synergistic effects of psilocybin and meditation, revealing how this combination can enhance insightfulness and alter brain activity patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-doors-of-perception-during-meditation">Unlocking the doors of perception during meditation</h2>



<p>Berit Singer and a team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a> and the University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich have published their findings in the journal <em>Scientific Reports</em>. </p>



<p>The study involved 36 experienced meditators who participated in a 5-day psilocybin-assisted meditation retreat, following a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study design.</p>



<p>The participants completed two fMRI brain imaging sessions, one day before and one day after the retreat. Each scan session consisted of resting-state, focused attention, and open monitoring sequences, with each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-meditation-transforms-gut-microbes-for-optimal-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> lasting 7 minutes. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-synergy-of-psilocybin-and-meditation">Mapping the synergy of psilocybin and meditation</h2>



<p>The researchers used a novel approach based on the Mapper algorithm from topological data analysis to generate subject-specific maps for two groups (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a> vs. placebo, 18 subjects/group) of experienced meditators.</p>



<p>The study revealed several intriguing findings:</p>



<ul>
<li>Psilocybin-induced positive derealization, when accompanied by enhanced open-monitoring meditation, was linked to the optimal transport (OT) distance between open-monitoring and resting state.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Enhanced meta-awareness through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loving-kindness-meditation-increases-positive-emotions-and-happiness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation practice</a> in experienced meditators, combined with potential psilocybin-induced positive alterations in perception, mediate insightfulness.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Psilocybin alters the perception of the external world, presumably by increasing informational richness, which is reflected by increased OT distances between open-monitoring and resting state post-retreat.</li>
</ul>



<p>Singer, one of the study's lead authors, expressed her fascination with the application of pure mathematics, especially topology, to extract important information from latent structures in data. </p>



<p>Speaking to PsyPost, she expressed her surprise by the common structure revealed among the subject-specific Mapper graphs, despite their initial apparent differences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-consciousness">New perspective on consciousness</h2>



<p>This study provides a novel perspective on the potential synergistic effects between mindfulness practices and psilocybin. It suggests that the combination of enhanced meta-awareness through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-may-lead-to-better-focus-sleep-and-sex-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> and psilocybin-induced positive alterations in perception can foster insightfulness.</p>



<p>The findings also highlight the importance of understanding the neurophysiology of meditation and psychedelics beyond the conventional measures of functional connectivity, resting-state networks, and signal variability. </p>



<p>By applying topological data analysis, the researchers were able to uncover organizational principles and characteristics of whole-brain activity patterns during different styles of meditation and psilocybin-induced alterations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-effects-of-psilocybin-on-the-brain">Positive effects of psilocybin on the brain</h2>



<p>As researchers continue to investigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-offers-new-explanation-for-how-psychedelic-drugs-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects of psilocybin</a> on the brain, they have uncovered several positive outcomes that may revolutionize the way we approach mental health treatment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity with and without meditation</h3>



<p>One of the most promising effects of psilocybin on the brain is its ability to promote neuroplasticity and enhance neural connectivity. </p>



<p>Studies have shown that psilocybin can facilitate the growth of new neural connections and increase the flexibility of existing ones. </p>



<p>This heightened neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt and reorganize itself more efficiently, which may contribute to the long-lasting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australia-is-the-first-country-to-legalize-psychedelics-for-mental-health-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">positive changes</a> observed in individuals who have undergone psilocybin-assisted therapy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reduction of anxiety and depression</h3>



<p>Psilocybin has demonstrated remarkable potential in alleviating symptoms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-microdosing-may-improve-mental-health-by-boosting-stress-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety and depression</a>, even in cases where conventional treatments have failed. </p>



<p>Research suggests that psilocybin can modulate the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to a reduction in negative thought patterns and an increase in positive emotions. </p>



<p>Moreover, the profound mystical experiences often associated with psilocybin use may help individuals gain new perspectives on their lives and develop a greater sense of meaning and purpose.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Increased openness and creativity</h3>



<p>Studies have found that psilocybin can enhance openness, a personality trait characterized by curiosity, imagination, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. </p>



<p>Increased openness has been linked to improved creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and overall psychological well-being. </p>



<p>By fostering a more open and flexible mindset, psilocybin may help individuals break free from rigid thought patterns and explore novel ideas and solutions, particularly during meditation practice.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-and-the-future-of-psychedelic-meditation">Psilocybin and the future of psychedelic meditation</h2>



<p>In summary, the study by Singer and her colleagues has opened up new avenues for exploring the potential benefits of combining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-breathing-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> and psychedelics. </p>



<p>As Singer noted, "These findings provide a novel perspective on meditation and psychedelics that may reveal potential novel brain markers for positive synergistic effects between mindfulness practices and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/synthetic-psilocybin-less-effective-therapy-than-natural-mushroom-extract/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a>."</p>



<p>By applying novel techniques like topological data analysis, the researchers have uncovered intriguing synergistic effects between psilocybin and meditation, revealing how this combination can enhance insightfulness, alter brain activity patterns, and potentially lead to new therapeutic approaches for mental health and well-being. </p>



<p>As the scientific community continues to investigate the neurophysiology of meditation and psychedelics, this study serves as a catalyst for further research, promising to deepen our understanding of consciousness and the mechanisms underlying the positive effects of these practices.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-55726-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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



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Psilocybin deeply enhances meditation insights

In recent years, the scientific community has been increasingly interested...

<p>It's a common concern among parents: the impact of social media on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teens-losing-sleep-smartphones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lives</a> of children and teens. Many worry that these digital interactions might replace or damage real-life social skills and connections.</p>



<p>However, recent findings suggest that these fears may be unfounded. In fact, kids who are active on social media are also actively engaging in social activities offline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-offline-activity-among-social-media-users">More offline activity among social media users</h2>



<p>A recent study led by Silje Steinsbekk, a professor in the Department of Psychology at <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTNU</a>, challenges the prevailing notions about social media use among youth. </p>



<p>"On the contrary, we find that people who use social media a lot spend more time with friends offline," said Professor Steinsbekk.</p>



<p>This observation stems from a comprehensive analysis carried out as part of the Trondheim Early Secure Study, which tracked around 800 young individuals over key developmental ages at 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18 years old.</p>



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



<p>“Throughout childhood and adolescence, social skills develop in interaction with the social environment, including parents, family, and friends. While not long ago, such interactions solely took place face-to-face, teens now spend an average of almost 4 h daily on social media like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“However, questions remain as to how social media use affects the development of social skills, which is important to know given the beneficial outcomes of such skills and the drawbacks of lacking them in terms of mental health, academic achievement, coping, and self-esteem.”</p>



<p>“On the one hand, it has been argued that social media interactions provide fewer affordances to practice social skills, thus negatively impacting the development of such skills. On the other hand, it has been hypothesized that social media may constitute an additional arena for social interaction, potentially promoting social skills via more opportunities to interact.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This study is the first to examine the validity of these contrasting hypotheses. In addition, it investigates whether increased.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-enhances-not-hinders-social-engagement">Social media enhances, not hinders, social engagement</h2>



<p>The research team delved into critical a question: Does more time on social media affect children’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/screen-time-does-not-inhibit-social-skills-among-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social skills</a> and their real-world interactions with peers? </p>



<p>The results were conclusive. "Social media is a new arena for social interaction. We found no evidence to support the notion that social media hampers the development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-social-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social skills</a>," said Professor Steinsbekk.</p>



<p>The study further demonstrated that children who are frequently active online often spend several evenings a week socializing with their friends in person.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-aspects-of-social-media-use">Complex aspects of social media use </h2>



<p>While the study provides reassurance, it also highlights the more complex aspects of social media use. The research indicated that children with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-discovery-social-anxiety-can-be-targeted-in-the-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social anxiety</a> might be especially susceptible to the adverse effects of extensive use.</p>



<p>"This correlation was weak, so we are reluctant to draw strong conclusions until more research has been done," said Professor Steinsbekk.</p>



<p>The research serves as an important reminder of the complexity of how social media interacts with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-break-can-significantly-improve-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the study also pointed to potential benefits of social media, such as increased closeness in friendships, the formation of new friendships, and the strengthening of existing ones. </p>



<p>These positive aspects could explain why more socially active children also engage more offline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapidly-evolving-nature-of-technology">Rapidly evolving nature of technology </h2>



<p>The study concludes on a cautiously optimistic note. "We hope the findings can help reduce parents’ concerns somewhat," said Professor Silje Steinsbekk.</p>



<p>However, she also emphasizes the rapidly evolving nature of technology and its challenges for research. This underscores the need for ongoing study to keep pace with technological advances and their implications for young users.</p>



<p>The insights from this study are critical not just for understanding the social dynamics of today's youth but also for guiding future research and policy. </p>



<p>"Social media has created a new social landscape for adolescents. Knowledge is needed on how this landscape shapes adolescents’ social skills and time spent with friends, as these outcomes are important to mental health and psychosocial functioning," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>As we navigate this ever-changing digital landscape, it is crucial to stay informed about the real effects of our online behaviors on offline relationships. While the digital age poses new challenges, it also offers new avenues for connection and social growth.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563224001031?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em><em>Computers in Human Behavior</em></em>.</a></p>



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



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

Kids who are active on social media are just as active offline

It's a common concern among parents: the impact of social...

Particles,,Quantum,Entanglement,(quantum,Correlation),,Quantum,Mechanics.,3d,Illustration

<p>Researchers have uncovered a fundamental connection between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum entanglement</a>, entropy, and the laws of thermodynamics. This discovery sheds new light on the behavior of quantum systems and could have far-reaching implications for the development of quantum technologies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-quantum-entanglement-met-the-rule-of-entropy">When quantum entanglement met the rule of entropy</h2>



<p>Bartosz Regula from the <a href="https://www.riken.jp/en/research/labs/rqc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RIKEN</a> Center for Quantum Computing and Ludovico Lami from the <a href="https://www.uva.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Amsterdam</a> have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the nature of quantum entanglement. </p>



<p>Through probabilistic calculations, they have shown that there is indeed a rule of entropy governing this enigmatic phenomenon.</p>



<p>"Our findings mark significant progress in understanding the basic properties of entanglement, revealing fundamental connections between entanglement and thermodynamics, and crucially, providing a major simplification in the understanding of entanglement conversion processes," said Regula.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-law-of-thermodynamics-and-quantum-systems">Second law of thermodynamics and quantum systems</h2>



<p>The second law of thermodynamics, which states that a system can never move to a state with lower entropy, is one of the most fundamental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laws of nature</a>. It creates the "arrow of time" and encapsulates the dynamics of even the most complex physical systems.</p>



<p>However, as we delve deeper into the quantum world, it becomes increasingly important to understand how this law applies to quantum systems. </p>



<p>Quantum entanglement, a key resource that underlies much of the power of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computers</a>, has been the focus of research in quantum information science for decades. Despite its significance, little is currently understood about the optimal ways to make effective use of it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probabilistic-transformations-and-reversible-entanglements">Probabilistic transformations and reversible entanglements</h2>



<p>The difficulty in establishing a "second law" for quantum entanglement lies in the fact that entanglement transformations must be made reversible, just like work and heat can be interconverted in thermodynamics. </p>



<p>However, ensuring the reversibility of entanglement is much more challenging than in the case of thermodynamic transformations.</p>



<p>Previous attempts at establishing a reversible theory of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-gravity-quantum-nature-entanglement-mechanics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entanglement</a> have failed, and it was even suspected that entanglement might be irreversible. This made the quest for a "second law" of entanglement seem like an impossible one.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-to-reversible-quantum-connections">Key to reversible quantum connections</h2>



<p>Regula and Lami solve this long-standing conjecture by using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-ping-pong-game-played-by-two-atoms-controlling-photons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">probabilistic entanglement</a> transformations. These transformations are only guaranteed to be successful some of the time, but in return, they provide an increased power in converting quantum systems.</p>



<p>Under such processes, the authors show that it is indeed possible to establish a reversible framework for entanglement manipulation. </p>



<p>They identify a setting in which a unique entropy of entanglement emerges, and all entanglement transformations are governed by a single quantity. </p>



<p>The methods they used could be applied more broadly, showing similar reversibility properties for more general <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-chemical-complexity-of-quantum-decoherence-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum resources</a> as well.</p>



<p>"This not only has immediate and direct applications in the foundations of quantum theory, but it will also help with understanding the ultimate limitations on our ability to efficiently manipulate entanglement in practice," Regula explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-entanglement-entropy-as-a-new-frontier">Entanglement entropy as a new frontier</h2>



<p>While this discovery marks a significant milestone in understanding the basic properties of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secure-quantum-communication-one-step-closer-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entanglement</a>, there is still much to be explored. </p>



<p>Regula notes that even stronger forms of reversibility have been conjectured, and there is hope that entanglement can be made reversible under weaker assumptions than those made in their work, without relying on probabilistic transformations.</p>



<p>"Understanding the precise requirements for reversibility to hold thus remains a fascinating open problem," Regula concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-leap-into-the-future">Quantum leap into the future</h2>



<p>In summary, the important discovery by Bartosz Regula and Ludovico Lami marks a significant milestone in our understanding of quantum entanglement and its relationship to the fundamental laws of thermodynamics. </p>



<p>Their work provides a new framework for analyzing and manipulating entanglement while opening exciting avenues for future research. </p>



<p>As we continue to explore the quantum world and harness its potential for revolutionary technologies, this finding will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating phenomena that lie at the heart of quantum mechanics.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-47243-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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



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Quantum entanglement does, in fact, follow a rule of entropy

Researchers have uncovered a fundamental connection between quantum entanglement, entropy,...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagulls-birds-more-intelligent-than-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seagull</a> species with larger brains are more likely to choose cliffs for nesting and may also be better adapted to urban environments, such as the rooftops of buildings, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>.</p>



<p>Exploring the link between brain size, wing shape, nesting habits, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-lizards-show-physical-and-genetic-adaptations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban adaptation</a>, the experts discovered that over half of cliff-nesting gull species are nesting in urban settings, a significant contrast to the 11% of non-cliff-nesting species doing the same. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seagulls-nesting-in-challenging-environments">Seagulls nesting in challenging environments</h2>



<p>The research highlights a correlation between larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagulls-birds-more-intelligent-than-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain sizes</a> and the ability to adapt to more challenging nesting environments.</p>



<p>“Many people will be familiar with gulls nesting and foraging in urban areas,” said lead author Madeleine Goumas, a former postdoctoral research associate at Exeter's Center for Ecology and Conservation. “It's not something you might expect from a seabird, so we wanted to try to understand why they do it."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seagulls-nesting-in-urban-settings-nbsp">Seagulls nesting in urban settings&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research involved a comprehensive review of existing studies, analyzing urban breeding and foraging behaviors among different seagull species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings revealed that 13 of the 50 gull species have adapted to urban environments for breeding, with the same number identified as urban foragers; nine species engage in both behaviors.</p>



<p>The data showed that 53% of cliff-nesting gull species were found to nest in urban areas, compared to only 11% of non-cliff-nesters.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seagulls-with-larger-brains">Seagulls with larger brains</h2>



<p>“We found that gull species with larger brains are more likely to be cliff-nesters, and cliff-nesting species are more likely to breed in urban areas,” said senior author Neeltje Boogert, a senior lecturer in biosciences at Exeter.</p>



<p>“It's also not a fixed behavior in most gulls. While non-cliff-nesting species nest exclusively on the ground, most cliff-nesting species nest either on cliffs or the ground.”</p>



<p>“This suggests that bigger brains enable these gull species to be flexible with regard to where they choose to nest, and this allows them to use unconventional sites, like buildings, for raising their young.”</p>



<p>Regarding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-foraging-behavior-changing-climate-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging behavior</a>, the study concluded that neither brain size nor wing shape, which influences maneuverability, were definitive factors in predicting urban foraging activities.</p>



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



<p>The scientists also examined the conservation status of these seagulls, discovering that those with stable or growing populations were more likely to utilize urban habitats compared to those in decline. Among the ten gull species listed as Threatened or Near Threatened, only the black-legged kittiwake was observed using urban settings.</p>



<p>“Whether or not species use urban areas has important implications for conservation,” Boogert explained. “If we can understand the factors that allow animals to use urban areas, we can better understand how to help those that aren't faring so well.”</p>



<p>“Urbanization is a major problem for a lot of animals. It looks like some gull species have managed to overcome some of the challenges that prevent other animals from using urban areas, but we need more long-term studies as well as comparative studies on other taxa to fully understand the impacts of urban living,” Goumas added.</p>



<p>This research is part of a broader investigation into gull behavior, which includes studies on how gulls prefer food handled by humans and how maintaining eye contact can deter them from stealing food.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-seagull-nesting-behaviors-nbsp">More about seagull nesting behaviors&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Seagulls are fascinating creatures, particularly when it comes to their nesting behaviors, which exhibit some unique strategies adapted to their environments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Generally, seagulls are colonial nesters, meaning they prefer to nest in large groups, which offers protection against predators. The location of these colonies can vary widely, including isolated, flat roofs of buildings, sandy beaches, or rocky cliffs near the sea.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nesting-strategies">Nesting strategies</h3>



<p>A typical nesting site is chosen for its safety from ground predators and its proximity to food sources. Seagulls are quite adaptable and may adjust their nesting strategies based on their environment. For instance, urban gulls might nest on man-made structures, while those in more natural settings will choose spots that offer natural protection.</p>



<p>When building their nests, seagulls use a variety of materials, including sticks, seaweed, and feathers, constructing them to cradle their eggs securely. A seagull's nest is relatively simple, not much more than a scrape on the ground or a slight mound to keep the eggs in place.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-pairs-nbsp">Mating pairs&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Seagulls are also particularly defensive of their nesting sites. Both the male and female participate in nest building and the care of the young. The mating pair typically forms a bond that can last many years and is reinforced each season through ritual behaviors and mutual care.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breeding-season">Breeding season</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-snowstorms-impact-breeding-success-of-petrels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeding</a> season is a noisy time in a gull colony, filled with calls and aggressive interactions between neighbors and intruders. Eggs are generally laid from late March through May, with the specifics depending on the location and species. The incubation period for seagull eggs lasts about three to five weeks, and both parents share the duty of warming the eggs.</p>



<p>Once hatched, the chicks are semi-precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile from the moment of birth, yet remain dependent on their parents for food and protection. The young are usually ready to fly and leave the nest within six weeks after hatching, though parental care may continue until they are fully capable of independent survival.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2024.1256911" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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

Big-brained seagulls choose more challenging nesting sites

Seagull species with larger brains are more likely to choose...

<p>Researchers have deciphered a surprising genetic mystery centered around the sugary substance found in what gardeners commonly refer to as "tomato tar." This sticky, gold-black substance, which often clings to the fingers of those who have pruned <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-talk-to-one-another-to-signal-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomato plants</a> barehanded, is actually made up of acylsugars and acts as a natural flypaper for potential pests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-to-the-root-of-the-acylsugar-tomato-enigma">Getting to the root of the acylsugar tomato enigma</h2>



<p><a href="https://directory.natsci.msu.edu/Directory/Profiles/Person/100372" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Last</a>, a researcher at Michigan State University (<a href="https://www.msu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MSU</a>), led the team that made these fascinating discoveries. The Last lab specializes in acylsugars and the tiny, hair-like structures called trichomes, where they are produced and stored. </p>



<p>Recently, other researchers reported finding acylsugars in tomato roots, which came as a surprise to the plant science community. The MSU team wanted to investigate how these root acylsugars functioned and where they originated from.</p>



<p>The researchers found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-use-their-roots-to-ration-water-during-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomato plants</a> synthesize chemically unique acylsugars in their roots and trichomes through two parallel metabolic pathways. </p>



<p>"What's so remarkable about these specialized metabolites is that they're typically synthesized in highly precise cells and tissues," said Rachel Kerwin, a postdoctoral researcher at MSU and first author of the latest paper. </p>



<p>"Take for instance acylsugars. You won't find them produced in the leaves or stems of a tomato plant. These physically sticky defense metabolites are made right in the tip of the trichomes," she continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knocking-out-genes-to-find-tomato-acylsugar-secrets">Knocking out genes to find tomato acylsugar secrets</h2>



<p>To tackle this evolutionary enigma, the lab members collaborated with specialists at MSU's <a href="https://rtsf.natsci.msu.edu/mass-spectrometry/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics Core</a> and staff at the Max T. Rogers Nuclear Magnetic Resonance facility (<a href="https://nmr.natsci.msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NMR</a>). </p>



<p>They compared metabolites from tomato seedlings' roots and shoots and found noticeable differences in the chemical make-up of aboveground and belowground acylsugars, defining them as different classes of acylsugars entirely.</p>



<p>Robert Last offers a useful analogy to explain the geneticist's approach to biology: "Imagine trying to figure out how a car works by breaking one component at a time. If you flatten a car's tires and notice the engine still runs, you've discovered a critical fact even if you don't know what the tires exactly do." </p>



<p>By knocking out candidate genes, the researchers proved the existence of two parallel metabolic pathways in the same plant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-genes-cluster-for-a-purpose">When genes cluster for a purpose</h2>



<p>Jaynee Hart, a postdoctoral researcher and second author on the paper, investigated the functions of trichome and root enzymes. </p>



<p>She found a promising link between root enzymes and the root acylsugars, further proving the parallel metabolic pathways in a single <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-fruit-warns-the-rest-of-the-plant-when-attacked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomato plant</a>.</p>



<p>The paper also reports an unexpected twist concerning biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), which are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-genes-that-help-fruit-adapt-to-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collections of genes</a> physically grouped on the chromosome and contribute to a particular metabolic pathway. </p>



<p>The Last lab discovered that the root-expressed acylsugar enzyme resides in the same cluster as the genes linked to trichome acylsugars in tomato plants, despite being expressed in different tissues and under different conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-19-million-years-of-evolution">19 million years of evolution</h2>



<p>Kerwin delved into the evolutionary trajectory of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-plants-emit-sounds-when-they-are-stressed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solanaceae species</a> to identify when and how these two unique acylsugar pathways developed. </p>



<p>The researchers highlighted a moment some 19 million years ago when the enzyme responsible for trichome acylsugars was duplicated, eventually leading to the root-expressed acylsugar pathway.</p>



<p>"Plants have evolved to make so many amazing poisons and other biologically active compounds," said Last. "From pharmaceuticals, to pesticides, to sunscreens, many small molecules that humans have adapted for different uses come from the arms race between plants, microbes and insects."</p>



<p>These breakthroughs also emphasize the importance of natural pesticides, which defense metabolites like acylsugars ultimately represent. </p>



<p>Last raises the question, "If we find that these root acylsugars are effective at repelling harmful organisms, could they be bred into other nightshades, thereby helping plants grow without the need for harmful synthetic fungicides and pesticides? These are questions at the core of humanity's pursuit of purer water, safer food and a reduced reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acylsugars-tomato-plants-and-the-quest-for-safer-food">Acylsugars, tomato plants, and the quest for safer food</h2>



<p>In summary, the discoveries made by the Last lab at Michigan State University reveal the fascinating world of acylsugars and the complex evolutionary history of tomato plants. </p>



<p>By unraveling the mysteries of tomato tar and identifying the parallel metabolic pathways responsible for acylsugar production in trichomes and roots, these researchers have opened up new avenues for exploring the potential of natural pesticides. </p>



<p>Their work contributes to our understanding of plant biology and raises important questions about the future of sustainable agriculture and the role that acylsugars could play in reducing our reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals. </p>



<p>As we continue to explore the secrets hidden within the Solanaceae family, we move closer to achieving the goal of safer food, purer water, and a greener future for all.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn3991" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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



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Tomatoes live in their own ‘parallel universe’ in the plant kingdom

Researchers have deciphered a surprising genetic mystery centered around the...

<p>Precipitation may hold the key to the future of the Colorado River, a crucial water source for millions that has faced a persistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorado-river-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> spanning decades. </p>



<p>Recent findings from a comprehensive modeling study suggest that precipitation could play a crucial role in shaping the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorado-river-basin-has-lost-enough-water-to-fill-lake-mead/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river’s future</a>. This marks a significant shift from previous models, which primarily focused on the impact of warming temperatures. </p>



<p>The new study incorporates both temperature and precipitation patterns in the river’s headwaters. The results reveal that precipitation is likely to be the dominant factor influencing the river’s flow over the next quarter-century.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factoring-precipitation-into-colorado-river-predictions">Factoring precipitation into Colorado River predictions</h2>



<p>This optimistic scenario is backed by extensive data analysis and climate projections by researchers affiliated with the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES). The experts, who utilized projections from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), present a nuanced view. </p>



<p>"Yes, the temperature is warming, but that’s not the full story - you add precipitation and you get a fuller picture," explained CIRES Fellow and study co-author Balaji Rajagopalan.</p>



<p>Martin Hoerling, the study's lead author, elaborated on the findings: "We find it is more likely than not that Lee Ferry flows will be greater during 2026-2050 than since 2000 as a consequence of a more favorable precipitation cycle." </p>



<p>This means that despite the warming temperatures, increased precipitation could compensate, potentially mitigating some of the negative effects on the river's flow.</p>



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



<p>“Of concern to Colorado River management, as operating guidelines post-2026 are being considered, is whether water resource recovery from low flows during 2000–2020 is possible,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>“Here we analyze new simulations from the sixth generation of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) to determine plausible climate impacts on Colorado River flows for 2026–2050 when revised guidelines would operate.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We constrain projected flows for Lee Ferry, the gauge through which 85% of the river flow passes, using its estimated sensitivity to meteorological variability together with CMIP6 projected precipitation and temperature changes.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-perspective-on-river-flows">Historical perspective on river flows</h2>



<p>The analysis confirmed that natural fluctuations in precipitation have historically dictated the river's flow patterns, causing periods of both abundance and scarcity. </p>



<p>The most recent drought, which started in 2000, has been primarily due to reduced precipitation, leading to significantly lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-have-altered-river-flow-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river flows</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-projections-and-policy-considerations">Future projections and policy considerations</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, the research team used the latest climate models to predict future conditions. They discovered a promising 70 percent chance of increased precipitation in the Colorado River's headwaters - regions that contribute the majority of the river's water. </p>



<p>This increase could partially offset the effects of rising temperatures. "Depending on the river’s temperature sensitivity, this wet signal compensates some, if not all, of the depleting effects from basin warming," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>However, the team also cautions policymakers about the inherent uncertainties. Although the outlook is generally positive, there remains a 4 percent chance that river flows could decline further, a scenario that could exacerbate the current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-water-crisis-could-spiral-out-of-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water crisis</a>. </p>



<p>"Decision makers are confronted with a more optimistic vision of the available supply in coming decades than might have generally been foreseen previously, but they must also consider a small, but perhaps unacceptable, risk for historically low flows," said Hoerling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precipitation-insights-for-colorado-river-management">Precipitation insights for Colorado River management</h2>



<p>As the deadline to set new guidelines for managing the Colorado River approaches, these findings offer a glimmer of hope but also a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. </p>



<p>The study underscores the importance of considering both temperature and precipitation in water management strategies, ensuring that policies are robust enough to handle potential extremes. This balanced, informed approach could help safeguard the river's health and secure water resources for future generations.</p>



<p>The analysis not only sheds new light on the dynamics of the Colorado River but also provides valuable insights for policymakers as they plan for the coming decades. </p>



<p>By acknowledging the full spectrum of potential scenarios, from optimistic to cautionary, stakeholders can better prepare for the future, ensuring that the river continues to sustain the vast region it serves.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <em><em><a href="https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/clim/aop/JCLI-D-23-0617.1/JCLI-D-23-0617.1.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Climate</a></em></em>.</p>



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



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

Can precipitation help the Colorado River recover from decades of drought?

Precipitation may hold the key to the future of the...

Smiling,Woman,Buying,Packed,Salad,While,Shopping,At,Grocery,Store.

<p>The concept of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/american-consumers-wasting-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expiration</a> dates on food packaging may soon become obsolete, thanks to innovative smart technologies developed by a team of researchers. These inventors have created a suite of tests that could allow food packages to actively indicate if their contents are contaminated. </p>



<p>This advancement aims to bridge the gap between food producers and regulators to foster the integration of these tests into commercial products, potentially revolutionizing how we determine food freshness, reducing waste, and preventing illness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smart-packaging-replacing-food-expiration-dates">Smart packaging replacing food expiration dates</h2>



<p>Currently published in the journal <em>Nature Reviews Bioengineering</em>, this new study suggests that while the tests associated with smart packaging would impose a minimal cost -- mere cents per package -- the benefits far outweigh these expenses. </p>



<p>Food producers, often wary of passing additional costs onto consumers, may find these smart packaging solutions an economically viable alternative to traditional expiration dates.</p>



<p>According to the researchers, smart packaging could shield producers from the costs linked to reputational damage and recalls during foodborne illness outbreaks. </p>



<p>Moreover, this technology could drastically cut down on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freshness-sensors-reduce-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food waste</a> and associated health-care costs, saving society hundreds of billions of dollars globally each year.</p>



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



<p>"On the one hand, people want to have safe food to eat. On the other, they don’t want to pay more for their food, because prices are high already and seem only to be climbing higher,” notes Tohid Didar, a key author of the study and a noted biomedical engineer from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mcmaster University</a>. </p>



<p>He stresses the importance of initiating discussions among researchers, policymakers, corporations, and consumers to address these challenges collaboratively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regulatory-hurdles-in-smart-food-packaging">Regulatory hurdles in smart food packaging</h2>



<p>The adoption of this technology requires significant changes to food regulations and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-turn-banana-peels-into-eco-friendly-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging</a> practices -- changes that may initially meet resistance. </p>



<p>Despite these hurdles, the potential benefits are too significant to ignore, and the researchers are optimistic about achieving widespread acceptance of the technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-current-system">The current system</h2>



<p>The researchers argue that the traditional practice of using "expiration" or "consume by" dates is not only arbitrary but overly cautious. </p>



<p>This system often leads to the disposal of food that is perfectly safe to eat, incurring enormous costs for both producers and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consumers-driven-bias-unreliable-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumers</a>. </p>



<p>To illustrate, Didar points out that Canada discards about $40 billion worth of food annually, a higher per capita waste than the US or UK.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Smart food packaging beyond expiration dates</h2>



<p>Since 2018, the research team has developed and validated various packaging-based methods to detect or halt spoilage, potentially replacing traditional expiration dates. These innovative solutions include:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Sentinel wrap</strong>: A plastic wrap capable of detecting spoilage and visually indicating when food items like meat, cheese, or produce are no longer safe.</li>



<li><strong>Hand-held tests</strong>: Devices that deliver real-time results, enabling wholesalers and retailers to identify and pull spoiled goods from the supply chain before reaching consumers.</li>



<li><strong>Lab-on-a-package</strong>: Small, integrated tests within food trays that signal spoilage visibly.</li>



<li><strong>Sprayable bacteriophage gels</strong>: Food-safe sprays that eliminate harmful bacteria responsible for food contamination.</li>
</ul>



<p>These technologies are designed to detect biochemical signals from common spoilage organisms like Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli, and are easily adaptable to current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/9936-chemicals-found-in-plastic-products-used-for-food-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging processes</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-collaborative-network">Building a collaborative network</h2>



<p>"It’s one thing to do research in the lab, publish papers, and file patents, but it’s another to have a product that’s tangible -- that people can use,” notes Shadman Khan, the lead author and a PhD candidate. </p>



<p>The team has been actively engaging with food producers in North America and Europe and regulatory bodies like the <a href="https://inspection.canada.ca/eng/1297964599443/1297965645317" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Food Inspection Agency</a> to ensure the technologies are practical and regulatory-compliant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-from-expiration-dates-to-detection-based-systems">Shift from expiration dates to detection-based systems</h2>



<p>The researchers advocate for a shift from a calendar-based to a detection-based system for food freshness and safety, recognizing the need to update our approaches to reflect new technological capabilities. </p>



<p>This change, while substantial, is deemed necessary to align with current and future demands of food safety and sustainability.</p>



<p>In conclusion, the development of smart packaging technologies represents a promising frontier in food safety and waste reduction. </p>



<p>It is a call to action for regulators, producers, and consumers to reconsider and possibly retire outdated methods like the expiration date in favor of more precise and reliable indicators.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44222-024-00190-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Bioengineering</a></em>.</p>



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



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Smart food packaging makes expiration date labels unnecessary

The concept of expiration dates on food packaging may soon...

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