Ecological globalization
Ecosystems are increasingly connected by human activities such as transportation and land use. This can lead to
Search results for “Erosion”
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The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity -- TEEB
The TEEB report presents a comprehensive economic case for conserving biodiversity, citing severe consequences if current decline continues. Economic valuation studies show that the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services has significant human costs, particularly for the poor.
Woody and aquatic plants pose greatest invasive threat to China
Woody and aquatic plants pose significant threats to China's ecosystems, with the country at risk of catching up with the US in terms of invasive species. China has fewer invasive woody plants than the US, but the introduction of new species via international trade is expected to increase rapidly.
New species discovered in Brazil
Researchers from Conservation International discovered 14 new species in the Cerrado, a biodiversity hotspot threatened by deforestation and urbanization. The finds include a legless lizard and a tiny woodpecker, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts in this region.
Scientists head to warming Alaska on ice core expedition
Scientists from the University of New Hampshire and University of Maine are heading to Denali National Park on an ice core expedition to gather climate records from glaciers in the Alaska wilderness. The mission aims to provide a comprehensive picture of regional climate variability in the Arctic, spanning 2,000 years.
Scientists call for more access to biotech crop data
Biologists call for making detailed maps of biotech crops available to researchers, allowing them to analyze the effects on wildlife and water quality. The government's current data collection system is limited in spatial resolution, making it difficult to answer key questions about genetically engineered crops.
Self seeding: An innovative management system
Winter cover crops can perpetuate themselves through self-seeding, eliminating planting costs and time constraints for farmers. This innovative management system also enhances weed suppression and improves soil quality.
Elsevier launches new journal: Aeolian Research
Aeolian Research is a new quarterly journal launching January 2009, covering fundamental studies of wind physics and deposition of sediment. The journal aims to provide a single platform for aeolian process research, bringing together experts from various fields.
Indigenous peoples hardest hit by climate change describe impacts
Climate change affects indigenous people through increased diseases, droughts, and extreme weather events. They face displacement, human rights violations, and loss of land and resources due to biofuel production and renewable energy projects.
Coral reefs and climate change: microbes could be the key to coral death
Recent coral die-off events can be attributed to changes in the microbes living in and around reefs. Warmer sea temperatures allow disease-causing bacteria to thrive, weakening corals' defences. Scientists stress the need for better understanding of microbe processes to reduce reef decline.
Kalahari Desert soils and climate change
Researchers discovered that cyanobacteria in desert soils can fix atmospheric carbon dioxide, adding nutrients to the soil. The exchange of carbon between soils and atmosphere is significant in deserts, with small changes affecting fragile ecosystems supporting millions of poor pastoral farmers.
Can you rescue a rainforest? The answer may be yes
Researchers in Costa Rica have successfully restored a tropical rainforest ecosystem by planting mixed-species tree plantations on worn-out pasture land. The project, led by Carl Leopold, has shown promising results, with native species and fungi helping to control erosion and support growth.
Using ground-penetrating radar to observe hidden underground water processes
Researchers present applications of radar technology for exploring water beneath the surface, addressing soil erosion, groundwater depletion, and pollution. GPR-derived dielectric permittivity is used as a surrogate measure for soil water content, providing high-resolution subsurface images.
UM coral scientist Peter Glynn wins award for scholarly activity
Peter Glynn, a professor at the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School, has received the Provost's Award for Scholarly Activity for his groundbreaking research on coral reefs. His work highlights the impact of climate change on coral bleaching and death.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateMar 12, 2008
Watery pools in bone marrow key to psoriatic arthritic damage
Researchers discovered that watery pools of osteoclast precursors in the bone marrow near affected joints may be responsible for the erosion of bones in psoriatic arthritis. This finding provides clues on how to prevent this process and offers a promising direction for developing new treatments with fewer side effects.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateMar 3, 2008
Large source of nitrate, a potential water contaminant, found in near-surface desert soils
A UC Riverside-led study has discovered a vast pool of nitrate in near-surface desert soils under 'desert pavement', which could contaminate surface and groundwaters. The researchers warn that disruptions to these areas could result in wind erosion, transporting high levels of nitrate to groundwater or surface waters.
Detecting bone erosion in arthritic wrists
Researchers used CT and MRI scans to detect bone erosions in RA wrists, finding that CT was more sensitive, but with limitations. The study validates the use of Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) scores for erosion assessment.
Dust in West up 500 percent in past 2 centuries, says CU-Boulder study
A new CU-Boulder study reveals a 500% increase in West US dust levels over the past two centuries, primarily caused by westward expansion and livestock grazing. The research indicates 'dust fall' is five to seven times heavier than at any time in the previous 5,000 years.
Unique Martian formation reproduced, reveals brief bursts of water
Researchers have reproduced Mars fan formations in a laboratory setting, suggesting brief releases of water from the planet's interior. The findings indicate that stepped fans on Mars were formed by rapid water release, rather than long-term erosion, and would require significant amounts of water.
Resuscitating our seas -- Noted UNH oceans expert to address annual AAAS meeting
Noted UNH oceans expert Andrew A. Rosenberg will address the issue of how to protect and manage ocean resources at this year's American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting. He emphasizes the need to learn from past mistakes and adopt new approaches such as ecosystem-based management.
New study shows extent of harmful human influences on global ecosystems
A new study has mapped the extent of human impact on global oceans, revealing that over 40% of the world's oceans are severely affected. The study highlights the most heavily impacted regions, including coral reefs and seagrass beds, which house a vast majority of marine life.
New dinosaur from Mexico offers insights into ancient life on West America
Scientists unveil Velafrons coahuilensis, a massive duck-billed dinosaur from Mexico's Cerro del Pueblo Formation. The discovery provides valuable insights into the region's ecosystem and mass death events, challenging previous understanding of West America's Late Cretaceous history.
The best of times and the worst of times: Sustaining the future of academic GI
The AGA Institute's report highlights the need for GI divisions to evolve, with recommendations including training in leadership skills and business practices. The report also emphasizes the importance of improving faculty retention and workforce issues through innovative policies and technologies.
As a river runs through it, a Death Valley stream offers insights into flooding and climate change
Researchers studied a diverted Death Valley stream to understand the effects of climate change on river flooding and erosion. The unique opportunity provided by the 1941 diversion allowed scientists to observe changes in the creek's behavior over time, revealing the impact of altered water flow on geological processes.
Smithsonian study: Sediment prediction tools off the mark
A recent Smithsonian study reveals that widely used sediment prediction tools are failing to accurately forecast sediment delivery to the Chesapeake Bay. The researchers suggest a shift in focus towards understanding what happens near streams and during high-level stream events.
River plants may play major role in health of ocean coastal waters
Research at MIT suggests that aquatic plants in rivers can help dampen storm surge, lower nutrient levels, and promote sediment accumulation. By understanding how water flows through plant canopies, ecologists can determine the optimal vegetation patch length and planting density for river restoration.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJan 29, 2008
Man-made changes bring about new epoch in Earth's history
Researchers identify significant human effects on the environment, including altered sediment patterns, carbon cycle disruptions, and ocean acidification. The International Commission on Stratigraphy is considering formal adoption of the Anthropocene as a new geological epoch.
Rwanda's Gishwati Forest selected as site for historic conservation project
The Gishwati Forest Reserve in Rwanda will become the country's first national conservation park, focusing on restoration of biodiversity, ecosystem services, and promoting local economic development through ecotourism. The project aims to create a model for Africa's ambitious forest restoration efforts.
Overgrazing accelerating soil erosion in northern Mexico
A recent study found that soil erosion in northern Mexico is accelerating due to overgrazing, leading to the loss of fertile land and vegetation. The research team used a rainfall index type hydrological model to simulate soil moisture levels and runoff rates, revealing that areas with low rainfall are most prone to sheet erosion.
Electric sand findings could lead to better climate models
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new model that matches real-world measurements of saltation better than classical theory. This new knowledge helps scientists understand how aerosols are released, affecting Earth's climate by blocking and absorbing sunlight.
Study shows pine bark naturally reduces osteoarthritis knee pain
A double-blind study published in Nutrition Research reveals Pycnogenol improves physical function by 52 percent in patients suffering from OA. The antioxidant plant extract also controls inflammation and complements existing strategies for treating osteoarthritis.
Understanding the origin of rubies and sapphires to improve prospecting strategies
Researchers from IRD, CNRS, and Universities worldwide studied oxygen isotope compositions to identify rubies' sources. They found 62% came from mantle origin and 20% from deep continental crust, improving prospecting strategies for these precious stones.
'Magma P.I.' unearths clues to how crust was sculpted
Geologist Bruce Marsh proposes that magma channels fractured the Earth's surface, providing a 'template' for later erosion to create valleys and mountain ranges. The discovery in Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys dates back at least 180 million years, shedding light on land-surface evolution.
Limited biofuel feedstock supply?
Researchers report that sustainable biomass production may be hindered by soil organic matter needs, suggesting a need for alternative crops and improved agricultural practices. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple factors beyond just soil erosion when evaluating feedstock supply.
New European loess map
The new European loess map provides a comprehensive overview of fertile soils in Europe, covering around one-fifth of the continent. The map, created using modern digital information systems, links coordinates and factual information, offering valuable insights for agriculture, soil erosion, and climate history.
Elsevier to partner with the IRTCES
Elsevier has partnered with IRTCES and WASER to enhance the International Journal of Sediment Research's global presence through ScienceDirect, providing a platform for sedimentation engineering and water management research. The journal will offer certification and wider dissemination to a global audience.
Agricultural soil erosion is not adding to global warming
Researchers found that erosion acts as a sink for atmospheric carbon, capturing about 1.5% of annual fossil-fuel emissions worldwide. This challenges previous estimates suggesting soil erosion could be a significant source or sink of carbon.
Agricultural soil erosion not contributing to global warming, study shows
Agricultural soil erosion removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits, creating carbon sinks equivalent to 1.5% of annual fossil fuel emissions. The study challenges previous assessments that erosion contributes significantly to global warming.
Geologists recover rocks yielding unprecedented insights into San Andreas Fault
Scientists have extracted intact rock samples from 2 miles beneath the San Andreas Fault, a major breakthrough in understanding the fault's composition and behavior. The recovered cores provide unprecedented insights into the mechanism of earthquakes and the movement of tectonic plates.
Great Plains' historical stability vulnerable to future changes
The Great Plains' stability is threatened by demographic shifts, environmental degradation, and economic pressures. Despite increased crop productivity, the region faces challenges such as soil erosion, high nitrate runoff, and declining aquifers.
Impact of Arctic heat wave stuns climate change researchers
A recent Arctic heat wave has led to a significant revision of climate change forecasts and research findings. The extreme temperatures on Melville Island have caused widespread erosion, changed sediment loads, and impacted water quality, highlighting the urgent need for improved models predicting future climate change in the High Arctic.
Iowa State researcher studies the sustainability of the bioeconomy
Researchers explore potential for enhanced nutrient cycling through coupling of agricultural and bioenergy systems to improve sustainability of biomass production. The study reports that up to 78% of nitrogen fertilizer could be recovered from an integrated biological and thermochemical process.
Tectonic plates act like variable thermostat
A recent PNAS study found that the current Earth system has improved heat regulation compared to 60 million years ago when small tectonic plates existed. The research suggests that plate size and number significantly affect heat loss, with smaller plates leading to greater heat escape from the mantle.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2007
What we can learn from the biggest extinction in the history of Earth
Researchers found a massive, rapid release of carbon may have triggered the Permian-Triassic extinction. The Great Bank of Guizhou fossil beds in China provide valuable insights into this event.
Conventional plowing is 'skinning our agricultural fields'
No-till agriculture is more sustainable than conventional plow-based methods, which increase soil erosion. By preserving crop stubble and using disking, no-till farming builds soil fertility and stores carbon, offering a win-win solution for climate change.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2007
Can hemp help the everglades?
A four-year study found that sunn hemp cover crop significantly reduces contamination levels of atrazine and its products in groundwater. The use of sunn hemp can help mitigate the risk of groundwater contamination in Southern Florida, where soil and water conditions indicate potential for leaching from atrazine-based herbicides.
Researchers plumb mysteries of Antarctic Mountains
Scientists at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory report that the Transantarctic Mountains formed from the remnants of a gigantic high plateau. The study reveals that the adjacent land sank, and glaciers accentuated the topography, leading to peaks up to 4.5 kilometers high.
The future of biofuels is not in corn
A comprehensive review of biofuel literature reveals corn ethanol is the least sustainable feedstock, offsetting only 15% of gasoline demand. Cellulosic ethanol offers a 87% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more viable alternative for combating global warming.
A new plant-bacterial symbiotic mechanism promising
A team of researchers has discovered a new plant-bacterial symbiotic mechanism that allows certain leguminous plants to fix nitrogen more efficiently. This finding has significant implications for agriculture, particularly in tropical countries, and could lead to increased crop yields while reducing fertilizer use.
Blood protein offers clues to heart attack in seemingly healthy people
A new study found high levels of MPO to signal increased risk for heart disease nearly a decade before conventional risk factors set off alarms. Elevated MPO levels also indicate unstable plaque and may be used to detect vulnerable patients.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 2, 2007
Improper consumption of acidic foods could lead to destroyed enamel
Consuming acidic foods and beverages can lead to tooth erosion, causing decay and damage to dental enamel. Dr. Bartlett advises patients to wait at least 20 minutes before brushing after eating or drinking an acidic food or beverage, and to minimize snacking throughout the day.
Bone erosion reduced by denosumab in phase 2 trial
A phase 2 trial found that denosumab reduced the progression of bone erosion in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The treatment group experienced significant reductions in erosion scores, even as early as six months, compared to the control group.
A new plant-bacterial symbiotic mechanism promising for crop applications
A team of researchers has revealed a new mode of communication between plants and bacteria that can form nodules on stems, enabling higher nitrogen fixation. This discovery calls into question the traditional model of molecular communication in rhizobia-legume symbiosis.
AGU Journal Highlights -- May 16, 2007
The Three Gorges Dam in China is shrinking the Yangtze delta due to sediment retention. Meanwhile, a new model suggests that massive methane releases from Arctic permafrost are unlikely in this century. Satellite data also reveals complex flood wave patterns in the Amazon River, which can improve hazard identification. Additionally, hi...
How to look at dinosaur tracks
Researchers provide a guide for geologists to account for various factors, including erosion types and surface conditions, when examining dinosaur tracks. They describe different levels of preservation, such as true tracks and undertracks, which reveal the squishing and displacement of sand when dinosaurs took steps.
Was Bristol Channel hit by a tsunami?
A team of researchers has found conclusive evidence of tsunamis in the Bristol Channel, which they attribute to a catastrophic wave erosion event that occurred on January 30, 1607. The study uses established catalogues of geomorphic features to demonstrate the impact of tsunamis on coastal landscapes.
Green tea compound suppresses factors causing cartilage, bone destruction in arthritis
A study found that green tea compound epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inhibits production of inflammatory molecules involved in joint damage. EGCG also blocks the production of interleukin-6 and prostaglandin E2, reducing inflammation in joints.
Ancient coral reef tells the history of Kenya's soil erosion
A 300-year record of soil erosion in Kenya has been created using coral samples from the Indian Ocean, revealing a dramatic increase in erosion since British colonialism began. The study highlights the importance of sustainable land use practices to mitigate soil erosion and its consequences for food production.
Birkhed receives Research in Dental Caries Award
Dr. Dowen Birkhed, a renowned expert in dental caries research, has received the prestigious IADR Research in Dental Caries Award. Over 35 years of dedicated research have led to numerous publications and awards.
Arctic sea ice decline may trigger climate change cascade, says University of Colorado study
A new University of Colorado at Boulder study suggests that the Arctic sea ice decline may have reached a tipping point, triggering a cascade of climate change affecting Earth's temperate regions. The loss of ice could lead to changes in atmospheric patterns, impacting weather and agriculture globally.