ScienceDaily: Environment - February 21, 2025
Top environment research news
Does planetary evolution favor human-like life? Study ups odds we're not alone
Humanity may not be extraordinary but rather the natural evolutionary outcome for our planet and likely others, according to a new model for how intelligent life developed on Earth.
New AI system accurately maps urban green spaces, exposing environmental divides
A research team has unveiled a new artificial intelligence (AI) system that uses satellite imagery to track urban green spaces more accurately than prior methods, critical to ensuring healthy cities.
Closing the recycle loop: Waste-derived nutrients in liquid fertilizer
Researchers have succeeded in establishing a method for producing recycled liquid fertilizer that contains high concentrations of phosphorus.
Scientists decode DNA of white oak tree
Highly valued economically, ecologically and culturally, the white oak (Quercus alba) is a keystone forest species and is one of the most abundant trees across much of eastern North America. It also faces declining seedling recruitment in many parts of its range. Researchers describe the species' complex genome, providing insights into fundamental questions about plant evolution, tree breeding and genetic improvement efforts that could help forest managers plan for and address future forest resources.
Promising new class of antimalarial drugs discovered
Epigenetic inhibitors as a promising new antimalarial intervention strategy? A new study identifies an inhibitor of gene regulation that specifically kills the malaria pathogen.
Housing damage resulting from great east Japan earthquake and all-cause mortality
Scientists know that natural disasters have negative health effects on survivors, but long-term observations are lacking. To help fill this gap, a research team has investigated the connection between the degree of housing damage caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) and all-cause mortality. Using long-term observation periods, this research project shows no significant relationship between the degree of house damage and all-cause mortality.
Biologists discover a new type of control over RNA splicing
Biologists have discovered a new type of RNA-splicing regulation that helps to determine which protein-coding exons will be included in messenger RNA transcripts.
Scientists call for efforts to protect habitats of critically endangered shark species
The whitefin swellshark has been assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as Critically Endangered for a number of years due to declines largely attributed to fishing practices. New research suggests it will be forced to move and adapt under the future ocean conditions presently forecast as a result of climate change, but that finding a new home may pose challenges.
Turtles change nesting patterns in response to climate change
New research shows that turtles are responding to climate change by nesting earlier.
Digging into a decades-old hepatitis B mystery suggests a new potential treatment
In their effort to answer a decades-old biological question about how the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is able to establish infection of liver cells, researchers have identified a vulnerability that opens the door to new treatments.
Big birds like emus are technical innovators, study shows
Large birds -- our closest relations to dinosaurs -- are capable of technical innovation, by solving a physical task to gain access to food.
Scientists warn of increased mpox transmission
International researchers warn that the ongoing mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has the potential to spread across borders more rapidly. The mpox virus has mutated, and the new variant, clade 1b, has become more infectious.
Chlorine plus UV light degrades toxins caused by harmful algae blooms
Researchers say chlorine in combination with ultraviolet light works to degrade deadly toxins created by harmful algae blooms in drinking water.
For success in bioelectronics, build with nature-inspired design
Researchers have 3D printed bioelectronic scaffolds that have the properties cells need to form new tissue.
We can farm more seafood while minimizing its impact on biodiversity
Humanity can farm more food from the seas to help feed the planet while shrinking mariculture's negative impacts on biodiversity, according to new research.
Biodiversity in England's rivers improved as metal pollution reduced
An improvement in freshwater biodiversity in England's rivers was linked to reductions in pollution of zinc and copper, largely due to the decline of coal burning and heavy industry, say researchers. Invertebrates are used as an important measure of a river's biodiversity and health, and Environment Agency data show there was a widespread, significant increase in species richness across England in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, there has been little significant further improvement since then. Therefore, a team of scientists looked for the possible reasons for this, using statistical modelling to investigate a wide range of different chemical and physical factors, such as temperature, river flow and landscape.
A catalytic two-step: Transforming industrial CO2 into a renewable fuel
Scientists have taken a critical next step in creating a scalable process to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and 'recirculate' it as a renewable fuel. Chemists now describe their latest breakthrough in creating methanol -- a widely used liquid fuel for internal combustion and other engines -- from industrial emissions of CO2, a primary greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. The process could have far-reaching applications throughout industry.
Ginger compound has potential to treat inflammatory bowel disease
Researchers have found a compound in ginger, called furanodienone (FDN), that selectively binds to and regulates a nuclear receptor involved in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While researchers have been aware of FDN for decades, they had not determined its functions or targets in the body until now.
New process gets common rocks to trap carbon rapidly, cheaply
Scientists have discovered how to turn common minerals into materials that spontaneously remove and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In the lab, the materials pull CO2 from the air thousands of times faster than occurs with natural rock weathering.
Global retreat of glaciers has strongly accelerated
Researchers present a global assessment of ice loss since the beginning of the millennium. In a global comparison, the glaciers in the Alps and Pyrenees are melting the fastest.
Bio-hybrid drone uses silkworm moth antennae to navigate using smell
Conventional drones use visual sensors for navigation. However, environmental conditions like dampness, low light, and dust can hinder their effectiveness, limiting their use in disaster-stricken areas. Researchers have now developed a novel bio-hybrid drone by combining robotic elements with odor-sensing antennae from silkworm moths. Their innovation, which integrates the agility and precision of robots with biological sensory mechanisms, can enhance the applicability of drones in navigation, gas sensing, and disaster response.
Urban environments promote adaptation to multiple stressors
Animal populations from urban areas show significantly higher resilience to stressful environmental conditions. The mussel and crustacean species studied were able to adapt to disturbed environments, making them more resistant to environmental changes such as climate and land-use change.
How the brain balances risk and reward in making decisions
Research in mice identifies brain circuitry that supports certain reward-based decisions.
New environmentally-friendly mortar reduces heat loss
A mortar made from recycled plastic and silica aerogel which improves insulation and reduces plastic waste has been developed.
Feed additives can reduce campylobacter in free-range broilers
New research has yielded promising results in the fight against campylobacter in free-range chicken flocks. Trials demonstrate that adding biochar to chicken feed can reduce campylobacter in chickens by up to 80%. This could potentially lead to fewer foodborne illnesses among humans.
A breakthrough in hydrogen catalysis: Electronic fine-tuning unlocks superior performance
In a breakthrough for hydrogen technology, researchers have introduced an innovative electronic fine-tuning approach that enhances the interaction between zinc and ruthenium.
'Glacial fracking': A hidden source of Arctic greenhouse gas emissions
Arctic glaciers are leaking significant amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Glacial melt rivers and groundwater springs are transporting large volumes of methane from beneath the ice to the atmosphere. This previously unrecognized process could contribute to Arctic climate feedbacks, accelerating global warming.
Novel carbon-based materials to remove hazardous 'forever chemicals' in water
New research has emerged on the development of a novel membrane distillation system and an adsorbent (a substance that can trap chemicals on its surface) for the removal of hazardous perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Scientists utilized carbon-based materials to successfully remove PFAS from water. This innovative approach could contribute to sustainable purification technologies in the future.
New research shows neonatal HSV infections may lead to long-term cognitive impairment
Very early exposure to even a very small dose of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in infant mice can lead to cognitive decline later in life, according to new findings. This is significant because of emerging data in human studies showing an association between HSV and Alzheimer's disease in humans.
Resilient algae may speed up Greenland ice melt
New research reveals that ice algae can store nutrients which may enable them to colonize more of the ice sheet, darkening and melting it.
Parasitic orchids are healthier
Why have some orchids stopped photosynthesis and become parasites feeding on fungi? Researchers found that in at least one species the transition may be driven by the opportunity -- more than by the need -- to do so.
Wild fish can recognize individual divers
For years, scientific divers at a research station in the Mediterranean Sea had a problem: at some point in every field season, local fish would follow them and steal food intended as experimental rewards. Intriguingly these wild fish appeared to recognize the specific diver who had previously carried food, choosing to follow only them while ignoring other divers. To find out if that was true, a team conducted a series of experiments while wearing a range of diving gear, finding that fish in the wild can discriminate among humans based on external visual cues.
Using a data-driven approach to synthesize single-atom catalysts that can purify water
Researchers tested a strategy for developing single-atom catalysts that may help us develop more efficient methods for water purification.
Repeated invasions shape NZ's bird life
New esearch shows Aotearoa has been increasingly accepting new bird species from around the world since the start of the Ice Age, offering clues into future migration patterns.
New study uncovers how genes influence retinal aging and brain health
Researchers used mice with nine different genetic backgrounds to identify factors influencing eye aging, paving the way for eye-based diagnostics for neurodegenerative diseases.
No increase in grain dust explosion incidents last year, decrease in injuries
Nine U.S. grain dust explosions in 2024 caused two injuries and no fatalities, according to a nationwide annual summary. These numbers are similar to last year's (nine explosions, 12 injuries and no fatalities) and on-par with the 10-year national average of 8.6 explosions. The explosions occurred in four feed mills, three grain elevators, one ethanol plant and one corn processing plant.
Ecologist finds eastern monarch butterflies delaying fall migration
The study was one of several that assessed the effects of climate change on three species of butterflies whose populations are declining.
From plants to people: How amino acid, vitamin balance links plant immunity to epilepsy
A groundbreaking study has revealed a surprising biochemical connection between plant immune responses and human neurological health. Researchers have discovered that the metabolic pathways regulating vitamin B6 homeostasis -- critical in certain forms of epilepsy and immune function -- are shared by plants and humans.
Researchers developed a new system for turning used coffee grounds into a paste, which they use to 3D print objects, such as packing materials and a vase. They inoculate the paste with Reishi mushroom spores, which turn the coffee grounds into a resilient, fully compostable alternative to plastics.
A treatment-resistant, severe type of asthma successfully modeled in mice
Researchers are tackling neutrophilic asthma, successfully developing one of the first mouse models of the condition.
Sweet molasses feed key to understanding grazing behavior in cattle
Researchers tempted grazing cattle with sweet molasses feed to discover whether cows would roam far to graze or stick close to the herd, water supplies and feed stations.
Biomedicine shows the way to future food crops
Researchers have introduced genetic material into plants via their roots, opening a potential pathway for rapid crop improvement.
Designing antivirals for shape-shifting viruses
Viruses, like those that cause COVID-19 or HIV, are formidable opponents once they invade our bodies. Antiviral treatments strive to block a virus or halt its replication. However, viruses are dynamic -- constantly evolving and changing shape, which can make designing antiviral treatments a challenge.
Study reveals extent of ecological damage from Niger Delta oil spills
An international research team has used earth observation radar data to map oil pipeline networks covering a 9000 km2 region in the Niger Delta and pinpoint where crude oil spills have caused the most acute damage to the delicate mangrove ecosystem.
Scientists decode diet from stool DNA -- no questions asked
Scientists have developed a breakthrough method to track diet using stool metagenomic data. This non-invasive, data-driven approach offers an objective alternative to traditional food diaries and questionnaires, which are still the gold standard in dietary assessment but can suffer from misreporting and compliance issues.
Biologists transform gut bacteria into tiny protein pharmacies
Biologists converted gut bacteria into miniature protein factories that manufacture and release a sustained flow of targeted proteins inside the lower intestines. This technique solves one of the longstanding problems surrounding gastrointestinal drug delivery.
Researchers have discovered a new method by which a catalyst can be used to selectively burn one molecule in a mixture of hydrocarbons -- compounds made of hydrogen and carbon atoms.
New research adds evidence that learning a successful strategy for approaching a task doesn't prevent further exploration, even if it reduces performance.
Rapid environmental change can threaten even a peaceful Daisyworld
Using mathematical modeling, researchers have discovered that rate-induced tipping, which can happen if an environment changes too fast, can happen even in Daisyworld, a simple daisy-filled ecological model. If the planet heats up or cools down too quickly, all the daisies will go extinct, even if they would otherwise have been able to survive just fine under those conditions. This discovery mirrors similar observations found in other models and observed in real-life ecosystems.
Air inside your home may be more polluted than outside due to everyday chemical products
Bringing aromas indoors with the help of chemical products -- yes, air fresheners, wax melts, floor cleaners, deodorants and others -- rapidly fills the air with nanoscale particles that are small enough to get deep into your lungs, engineers have found over a series of studies.
Animals as architects of Earth: First global study reveals their surprising impact
Animals are not just inhabitants of the natural world -- they are its architects. A new study has revealed how hundreds of species shape the landscapes we depend on, from vast termite mounds visible from space to hippos carving drainage systems and beavers creating entire wetlands.
Near-complete skull discovery reveals 'top apex', leopard-sized 'fearsome' carnivore
A rare discovery of a nearly complete skull in the Egyptian desert has led scientists to the 'dream' revelation of a new 30-million-year-old species of the ancient apex predatory carnivore, Hyaenodonta.
Reintroducing wolves to Scottish Highlands could help address climate emergency
Reintroducing wolves to the Scottish Highlands could lead to an expansion of native woodland which could take in and store one million tons of CO2 annually, according to a new study.
This research is absolutely nuts -- for better health care
A nut used in herbal tea has become a hydrogel perfect for a variety of biomedical uses in new research. Scientists created a malva nut hydrogel for medical uses ranging from wound care to ECG readings. The research doesn't rely on the rumored health benefits of the nuts -- in China, they're known as the sore throat remedy Pangdahai (PDH) -- but for their ability to swell 20 times their weight in water.
Scientists use distant sensor to monitor American Samoa earthquake swarm
In late July to October 2022, residents of the Manu'a Islands in American Samoa felt the earth shake several times a day, raising concerns of an imminent volcanic eruption or tsunami.
Research reveals how Earth got its ice caps
The cool conditions which have allowed ice caps to form on Earth are rare events in the planet's history and require many complex processes working at once, according to new research.
Scientists discovered years ago that the hypothalamus -- which helps to manage body temperature, hunger, sex drive, sleep and more -- includes neurons that express the protein opsin 3 (OPN3). Far less clear, however, was what this light-sensing protein does so deep inside the brain. A study now suggests that OPN3 plays an important role in regulating food consumption.
Marine mystery solved: How anemonefish avoid stings from their sea anemone hosts
The clownfish-anemone living arrangement is one of the most widely recognized examples of symbiosis. Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding how anemonefish can live safely among sea anemones without being stung by their venomous tentacles, solving a century-long mystery. Scientists have discovered that anemonefish have evolved to maintain very low levels of sialic acid in their skin mucus to avoid triggering the release of nematocysts (stinging cells) in their sea anemone hosts. The researchers found that sea anemones also lack these sugar compounds in their own mucus, likely to avoid stinging themselves. Their findings suggest anemonefish might be using a similar protective strategy to their hosts.