Home Blog Page 20

Can Marine Heat Waves Lead to Mass Extinction?

Adnan Mirza
-
0
Can Marine Heat Waves Lead to Mass Extinction?

In 2013, a marine heat wave swept across Southern Australia, raising sea surface temperatures to a scorching 27 degrees Celsius, well above the average of 24 degrees. This led to a distressing ecological event as a prolonged and widespread fish-kill occurred, affecting 29 species of marine life and spanning 2900 km of coastline from January to May 2013.

Studies revealed the presence of abrasive and harmful phytoplankton in unnaturally high concentrations, raising suspicions about the cause of the mass mortality event. Laboratory tests revealed the grim reality faced by the marine inhabitants, showing signs of long-term stress, gill damage, and bacterial infections in the dead fish.

Scientists pieced together the puzzle, attributing the devastation to the marine heatwave of 2013, which acted as a catalyst for the growth of harmful algal blooms in the region.

These blooms suffocated the marine life, leading to the tragic loss of fish and other species along the Southern Australian coastline. This event demonstrated the severe impact of marine heat waves on marine life. 

The 2013 disaster raised a critical question— Can marine heatwaves lead to mass extinctions? Understanding and addressing these effects is vital for the future health of our oceans, as it will help us develop strategies to mitigate these impacts, preserve marine biodiversity, and ensure the resilience of marine ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.

What is Marine Heat Waves?

Marine Heat Wave, Photo credit: Huang et al., 2017
Photo credit: Huang et al., 2017

The term “marine heatwave” (MHW) was first coined in 2011 following an unprecedented warming event that swept across Western Australia, triggering alarms among conservationists and environmental scientists.

This event marked a pivotal moment in our understanding of oceanic phenomena, as it highlighted the need for a clear definition and characterization of these extremely warm water episodes.

MHWs are prolonged periods of anomalously warm water at a specific location, distinguished by temperatures that exceed either fixed, seasonally varying, or cumulative thresholds.

According to the definition, a warming event lasting a minimum of five consecutive days qualifies as a marine heatwave, with the intensity determined by the magnitude of the temperature anomaly above the normal for that location and time of year.

The characteristics of MHWs, such as duration, intensity, location, and depth of ocean warming, are crucial in determining their impacts on marine ecosystems. MHWs can cover areas ranging from 500 to 2,000 kilometers and can persist for weeks to years, posing significant challenges to marine life and ecosystems.

Prolonged and intense MHWs can have devastating consequences, leading to mass coral bleaching, significant declines in kelp forests and seagrass meadows, and substantial biodiversity losses. These ecological impacts extend to socioeconomic realms, resulting in losses in fisheries income, erosion of essential ecosystem services, mass mortalities of iconic species, and stakeholder conflicts.

Research has shown that MHWs can be driven by a combination of oceanic and atmospheric processes, including changes in ocean currents, temporary weakening of winds, and anthropogenic warming. 

The impacts of MHWs can be location-, species-, and process-specific, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of these events and their effects on different ecosystems and communities.

Climate Change and Marine Heatwaves

These events are not only a natural phenomenon but are also intensified by anthropogenic warming activities, leading to more frequent and severe MHWs with lasting ecological and economic consequences.

The frequency and duration of MHWs have increased significantly over the past century, with a doubling of events since 1982 and a 50 percent increase in the total number of days with MHWs globally. 

This trend is expected to continue, with climate change projected to lead to more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense MHWs in the future.

The 2011 marine heatwave in Western Australia highlighted the crucial need for a standardised approach to defining and characterising these heatwaves. By clearly defining the parameters of these extreme warm water events, researchers can improve their understanding of the factors that drive marine heat waves, enhance predictive capabilities, and assess the significant impacts on marine ecosystems.

This knowledge is essential for developing effective adaptation and mitigation strategies to safeguard the health and resilience of our oceans in the face of a rapidly changing climate.

Effects of MHWs

The MHWs can drastically alter marine ecosystems, triggering events such as mass coral bleaching, the decline of kelp forests, and significant biodiversity losses. However, MHWs rarely occur in isolation. They often coincide with other stressors, such as increased turbidity, desiccation stress, harmful algal blooms, and anoxia.

These stressors create a complex web of interactions, intensifying the overall impact on marine species and ecosystems. This interconnected web of challenges poses severe threats to marine species and the overall health of our oceans.

Physiological processes governing the performance of an organism

High temperatures can have a significant impact on the physiological processes governing the performance of an organism. The consequences of MHWs can range from sublethal to lethal. A change in temperature influences fundamental biological functions such as photosynthesis, respiration, growth, reproduction, phenology, and survival of species.

As temperatures rise, organisms must utilize more energy to regulate their internal environment and cope with the altered conditions. This increased energy demand can lead to an energy deficit, particularly during intense MHWs, negatively affecting overall performance.

In response, some species opt to relocate or migrate to cooler waters, reducing local population densities. When relocation isn’t an option, species may resort to compensatory mechanisms to mitigate the energy deficit.

This may involve increased feeding habits, decreasing growth rates, or sacrificing reproductive efforts. The decline in energy availability can impair neuromuscular and physiological functions, jeopardizing individual survival.

Fish Species

Fish kill event (Photo credit: ABC news)
Fish kill event (Photo credit: ABC News)

MHWs can trigger mass mortality events among fish populations in the wild and aquaculture. These events are often associated with factors like harmful algal blooms, deoxygenation, and disease outbreaks exacerbated by elevated temperatures.

Fish species with narrow thermal tolerance are particularly vulnerable to the effects of MHWs. For instance, in the Red Sea, 40 species of coral fish succumbed to thermal stress and bacterial infections during a 2017 MHW.

In Chile, MHW-induced harmful algal blooms, dubbed Godzilla red tide events, killed 100,000 tons of coho salmon and trout. The notorious Blob events in 2014 and 2016 caused a drastic decline in the Pacific Cod population, prompting fishery closures.

In South Australia, 39 fish kill events were reported in 2013, with an estimate of about 100 – 2000 fish dying per km. Gill lesions were found in the dead fish. Laboratory tests showed the cause of death to be bacterial infection.

An interesting behaviour of trout during an MHW in the Coral Sea in 2016 was observed. The catchability of coral trout in the area significantly increased. Scientists attributed this behaviour to the fish being more active in feeding, making fish-catching baits more attractive to trout.

This is discussed in the previous section, as well as how increased temperature alters species’ feeding habits. Conversely, this increased catchability could have negative consequences, potentially leading to overfishing and a decline in the trout population.

Marine Forests

Marine forests, including kelp and seagrass ecosystems, are vital components of coastal environments, supporting diverse marine life. These underwater forests play essential roles in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.

They provide habitat and food for numerous species, help in carbon sequestration, offer coastal protection by stabilizing sediments, and contribute to nutrient cycling. However, marine heatwaves can devastate these sensitive ecosystems, leading to cascading effects throughout the marine environment.

Damaging Kelp Forests

MHWs can cause significant damage to kelp forests, resulting in habitat loss and shifts in species distribution and behaviour. In Baja, California, the MHW events of 2014 and 2016 destroyed a large portion of the region’s kelp forests.

This catastrophic loss disrupted the entire ecosystem, causing substantial shifts in habitat structure and species behaviour. Even more alarming, the Bull kelp species in New Zealand became regionally extinct during the 2017-18 MHW in the Tasman Sea.

Impacts on Seagrass Meadows

Seagrass meadows, another critical component of marine ecosystems, are also heavily impacted by MHWs. In the Mediterranean, the combined effects of MHWs and continuous sea warming have reduced Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows. This habitat shift has allowed non-native species to thrive, altering these ecosystems’ biodiversity and carbon capture capacity.

The most well-documented case occurred during the 2011 MHW in Western Australia, where a staggering 1,300 square kilometers of seagrass were decimated. This loss threatened the survival of numerous marine species, including sea snakes, dugongs, bottlenose dolphins, and green turtles, which rely on these habitats for food, shelter, and breeding grounds.

The impact of MHWs extends beyond the immediate destruction of marine habitats. In Western Australia, the 2011 MHW also led to the loss of 100 kilometers of kelp and fucoid forests.

A decade later, the affected areas’ vegetation, fish, and invertebrate communities struggle to recover. The loss of these “marine forests” disrupts biodiversity and compromises essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and nutrient cycling.

Coral Reefs bleaching

A before and after photo of coral bleaching on Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland. Photo credit: The Ocean Agency.
A before and after photo of coral bleaching on Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland. Photo credit: The Ocean Agency.

Coral reefs are among the most precious and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, providing habitat for numerous marine species and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. However, these vital ecosystems are severely threatened by the impacts of MHWs.

One of the most notable impacts of MHWs on coral reefs is coral bleaching. This phenomenon occurs when corals lose their vibrant colours and vital symbiotic algae, ultimately leading to their death.

The first reported case of coral bleaching dates back to 1998; since then, these events have become more severe and widespread. In 2014 and 2017, more than half of the world’s coral reefs were affected by bleaching events, highlighting the global scale of this ecological crisis.

The loss of reef habitat and structural integrity directly impacts the diversity of coral reef ecosystems and the species that rely on them. Major bleaching events, such as those experienced in the Great Barrier Reef in 2016, 2017, and 2020, have significantly declined coral-eating and herbivorous fish populations.

Concurrently, there has been an increase in plankton-eating fish and shifts in invertebrate communities, indicating profound changes in the ecosystem’s balance and functionality.

In addition to direct mortality, MHWs can also affect corals’ reproductive and growth capacity, leading to a chain of negative impacts on associated biodiversity.

Reduced reproductive and impaired growth rates can hinder the recovery and resilience of coral reef ecosystems, exacerbating the long-term consequences of MHWs.

Impacts on Other Species

Abalone (Photo credit: Shutterstock)
Abalone (Photo credit: Shutterstock)

In addition to impacting fish and marine vegetation, MHWs also have severe consequences for sessile invertebrates like scallops, mussels, and barnacles. For example, the 2011 MHW in Western Australia significantly declined scallop and blue swimmer crab populations, leading to fisheries closures lasting between 18 months to 5 years. These closures impact commercial fisheries and disrupt local ecosystems and traditional fishing communities.

Furthermore, between 1979 and 2020, approximately 2300 mass mortality events affecting around 90 types of benthic species, including corals, oysters, and mussels, were recorded globally, with many attributed to ocean warming and the associated MHWs.

Additionally, the 1998 El Niño event led to mass mortality of Galapagos sea lions and king penguins, further highlighting the wide-ranging impacts of MHWs on marine ecosystems and species diversity.

Effects of Marine Heatwaves on Ecosystem Services

Coral bleaching (Photo credit: Scientific American)
Coral bleaching (Photo credit: Scientific American)

Ecosystem services, the benefits healthy ecosystems provide to humans, encompass provisioning, cultural, regulating, and supporting services. These services are categorized into four types: provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services.

Provisioning services

Provisioning services involve extracting natural goods, such as food, wood, and medicinal herbs. MHWs can adversely affect ecosystems, leading to losses in fisheries income, erosion of essential ecosystem services, and mass mortalities of iconic species. For example, the 2016 MHW in the southern Pacific led to the largest farm fish mortality event ever recorded.

Two Harmful Algal bloom events in Chile, the Godzilla red tide events, resulted in the mortality of 100,000 metric tons of coho salmon and trou, corresponding to $800 million in losses, cost of 4500 jobs, and a 50 percent increase in the cost of exported salmon to the US. Similarly, the 2012 MHW caused a $38 million loss in the lobster industry due to early inshore migration and sudden availability.

Cultural Services

Cultural services encompass non-material benefits provided by ecosystems, such as cultural development, recreational activities, spiritual enrichment, and aesthetic values. MHWs can significantly impact cultural services, leading to losses in tourism revenue and recreational activities. For instance, the 2010 MHW in southeast Asian seas caused $49 to $74 million in losses in the tourism sector due to coral bleaching and mass mortality.

Regulating services

Regulating services involve the benefits derived from natural processes that help moderate environmental conditions and phenomena, such as climate regulation, disease control, water purification, nutrient cycling, carbon capture, and flood and storm protection.

MHWs can disrupt these regulating services, leading to ecosystem functioning and biodiversity changes. For example, the 2011 MHW in western Australia destroyed seagrass meadows, releasing 2-9 billion kg of CO2 into the atmosphere for three years, resulting in significant economic losses.

Supporting services

Supporting services provide biogenic structures for habitat for many species. MHWs can significantly impact supporting services, leading to ecosystem structure and function changes.

For instance, between 1998 and 2016, MHWs in the Indian Ocean destroyed more than 70 percent of corals, leading to habitat loss and a shift in the foundation species and ecosystem services. While some coral reefs recovered, others underwent regime shifts, altering the ecosystem’s foundation species and habitat services.

Is all is lost?

Marine heatwaves significantly threaten marine ecosystems, impacting biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal communities. However, all hope is not lost. Comprehensive research and innovative strategies are being developed to understand, predict, and mitigate the impacts of MHWs, safeguarding marine environments and human well-being.

Scientists are utilizing observational data from both natural events and controlled experiments to assess the impacts of MHWs. Mesocosm systems, which simulate natural environments under controlled conditions, allow for studying multiple species and community-level experiments, bridging the gap between field surveys and laboratory studies.

Sophisticated early warning systems are being developed, integrating real-time monitoring using in situ sensors and satellite data. These systems provide crucial information on the likelihood, intensity, frequency, duration, and potential impacts of MHWs. Near forecast systems offer predictions 5 to 7 days in advance, while seasonal forecasts provide longer-term predictions.

Historical observations and experimental data are combined to understand the effects of MHWs on ecosystems better. Models and systems can also predict socioeconomic outcomes, aiding in developing adaptive management strategies for fisheries-related communities.

Management techniques are being implemented to mitigate the impacts of MHWs. These strategies include changing fishing practices, introducing catch limits, targeting specific species, and implementing measures like artificial cooling and shading in fish farms. Creating seasonally protected areas can also help safeguard vulnerable species from the effects of MHWs.

Researchers are developing innovative techniques such as early-stage heat exposure, which exposes young individuals of species to heat during early development to enhance heat resistance. Additionally, breeding programs aim to identify and propagate heat-tolerant strains of species for fisheries.

Moreover, despite these challenges, marine organisms also exhibit remarkable resilience and adaptive strategies in the face of MHWs. Behavioural changes, such as seeking refuge in cooler habitats or adjusting activity patterns, allow species to cope with rising temperatures. Cellular mechanisms help protect vital functions and prevent damage to macromolecular components, albeit at the cost of reduced growth and reproductive success.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from human activities remains a critical challenge in tackling MHWs. Addressing the root cause of climate change is essential for mitigating the frequency and intensity of MHWs, protecting marine ecosystems, and ensuring the sustainability of coastal communities for future generations.

We can work towards a more resilient future for our oceans through continued research, innovative management, and global climate action.

What needs to be done?

Marine heatwaves pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, potentially triggering regional extinctions and, if left unchecked, even global mass extinctions. The compound effects of MHWs, combined with other stressors like ocean acidification, overfishing, and habitat destruction, can create cascading impacts that push vulnerable species to the brink of extinction.

While some marine species exhibit resilience and adaptive strategies in the face of rising temperatures, the increasing frequency, intensity, and duration of MHWs may exceed their ability to cope. 

A sudden, extreme event could act as a tipping point, initiating a catastrophic chain reaction that overwhelms the resilience of marine life. The short duration of these events may not allow sufficient time for species to evolve or adapt, leading to mass mortality and potential extinction.

Scientific research plays a crucial role in understanding and mitigating the impacts of MHWs on marine ecosystems. Ongoing efforts to monitor and forecast these events, assess their ecological and socioeconomic consequences, and develop adaptation strategies are essential for preserving marine biodiversity.

However, the most critical factor in mitigating the threat of MHWs and preventing mass extinctions is addressing the root cause of climate change. Global cooperation and concerted action to tackle climate change are essential for preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of marine ecosystems in the face of a rapidly changing climate.

References:

More from the Author: The Hidden Culprit of Winter Smog- Temperature Inversion

DNA— A Futuristic Data Storage and Computation Device

Mohammad Sulman Khan
-
0
DNA— A Futuristic Data Storage and Computation Device

The population of the world is around 8 billion and is constantly growing. With the advent of time, technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become a part of our daily lives. A lot of data is generated every second. Every time our interaction with the phone creates data. 

IDC (Internet Data Center) states we will have 175 Zettabytes of data by 2025. This data is so huge that if we have DVDs to store this data, the stack of DVDs would be large enough to wrap the earth 222 times. Recent research has demonstrated the capability of using DNA molecules to store genetic information, encode digital information, and do useful computations.

Structure of DNA (Credit: U.S. National Library of Medicine)
Structure of DNA (Credit: U.S. National Library of Medicine)

What is DNA?

DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid. It is basically a hereditary material consisting of a group of molecules carrying genetic information about a living organism. We can also call it the fingerprint of a living organism. It’s made up of long chains of molecules called nucleotides, which contain the instructions for an organism’s growth, development, functioning, and reproduction.

Each nucleotide is composed of one of four nucleobases (adenine [A], thymine [T], cytosine [C], or guanine [G]) and a sugar-phosphate backbone.  DNA encodes genetic information like data can be encoded onto electronic-based storage devices. That’s why we called it the natural storage device.

Ages of Data

In the early history of humankind, the only way of storing data and conveying information was by painting and carving.  Lascaux Cave Paintings, a collection of paintings (approximately 20,000 years old) discovered in caves of the Dordogne region of southwestern France. These paintings include animals such as horses, bulls, and deer, as well as abstract symbols that give insights into the lives and beliefs of early humans, possibly serving as a form of communication or storytelling within their community. Sumerian Cuneiform Tablets are one of the oldest forms of writing (around 3500 BCE). 

They were used to record a variety of information, such as temple activities, trade, stories, and myths. By this time, humans had developed a lot of storage devices like Magnetic Tape, Hard Disk drives, SSDs, USB, NVMe (Non-Volatile Media Express), etc.  After many developments, we are able to store 4TB of data on a single SD card, which is so compact that we can handle it with our fingertips. Now, we are in the age of big data. So, the world is searching for a new mode of data storage devices. And one possible answer to their questions is “DNA.”

“DNA is really good at storing information because it’s much more compact (3-to-6 orders of magnitude) and more reliable than electronic memory. It can hold a lot of data and lasts much longer without getting damaged”, said researchers at RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology).

History of Data Storage. (Credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University)
History of Data Storage. (Credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University)

DNA as a Storage Device

“We are in the age where vast data is generated every second and needs to be stored somewhere. The conventional way of storing data is in data centers. Building more data centers isn’t the optimal solution. Each data center consumes power equivalent to a city block, making it unsustainable to maintain, construct, and operate traditional data centers at an increasing rate,” study co-author Amlan Ganguly, head of the Department of Computer Engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), said in a statement.

Companies such as Microsoft have also recognized DNA as one candidate to manage and store skyrocketing amounts of data. DNA storage is also much more expensive to manufacture. The cost of chemically synthesizing DNA is still high at $3,500 per 1 megabyte (MB) of information. The capacity of the DNA to store data is 200 petabytes (PB) per gram. The latest research has revealed that just four grams of DNA could store the annual global digital information.

DNA as a Computation Device

DNA computing is an exciting technology in computing. Instead of silicon-based electronic circuits, it utilizes molecular reaction techniques to compute DNA molecules. Scientists (Arnav Solanki et al.) have created a new Biocomputing chip that makes calculations using a DNA substrate.

This is a platform or surface on which instructions are read and used to perform tasks, kind of like a special type of paper on which instructions are written, including mathematical operations indispensable to big data processing and artificial intelligence (AI) training. 

Researchers (Arnav Solanki et al.) described the new Biocomputing platform in the journal PLOS One. DNA-based devices have previously been used to encode data on a small scale, but this prototype chip also uses DNA to process data.

Researchers (Seth Shipman et al.) have previously built DNA-based storage devices, encoding the DNA molecules of bacteria with a video of a horse in 2017. The comparative analysis outlined in a 2018 paper published in the journal 3Biotech revealed that data transfer rates on DNA-based storage platforms are considerably slower than those of conventional storage devices.

In the study, Amlan Ganguly and his team explored techniques for manipulating DNA at the molecular level to replicate numerous functions analogous to those of computing, including sequencing (data reading) and synthesizing (data writing).

The encoded data on the DNA by nicking (cutting of DNA) strands at specific locations to represent the 1s and 0s of binary, and represented different calculations by using a network of microfluidic channels. This transfers fluids around an integrated circuit to perform functions as chemical reactions. DNA processing can also offer “unprecedented parallelism’, the ability of modern computer systems to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, said Amlan Ganguly in their paper.  

DNA is now the best option in this era, where data storage is a big problem due to its large storage capacity. DNA is incredibly good at storing information and can last a really long time. But now it’s not only about storage; scientists are exploring how to use DNA for computations.  They have built  Microfluidic devices that can store data and perform useful computations. This new Microfluidic device is a proof-of-concept, but the scientists hope that by scaling the device, it can one day be used to train AI systems. 

Of course, there are still some hurdles to overcome, like cost and performance optimization, but possibilities are endless. Imagine a future where all our data is stored in tiny DNA molecules, and computers solve complex problems using biology instead of silicon chips. It’s a wild idea, but it just might be the key to unlocking a whole new world of technology.

References

Also, Read: Viral Conjunctivitis— All You Need to Know

“Speak on behalf of Mother Nature before we can’t”— Communicating Environmental and Healthcare Awareness

Sadaf Sarfraz
-
0
“Speak on behalf of Mother Nature before we can’t”— Communicating Environmental and Healthcare Awareness

Have you ever wondered why it seems more accessible for the average person to participate in political discussions, yet basic scientific concepts like hyperglycemia or the consequences of burning trees remain somewhat mysterious?

Why is the average person only striving to get money but not interested in learning? Why is learning about science and getting knowledge limited to a specific age group? Why do we confine knowledge about science to textbooks and classrooms while political information is readily accessible on social media and TV?

The need of the hour is to make scientific knowledge as prevalent and accessible as discussions about politics.

Give man money, and you’ll feed one person, but if you give a man knowledge, you’ll feed a family. – Dr. Muhammad Mustafa

Effective communication can help demystify complex health issues, providing the public with reliable information that empowers them to make informed decisions [1]. It involves not just the transmission of data but also ensuring that the information is relatable, understandable, and actionable. This is crucial in an age where misinformation can spread rapidly and severely affect public health. As John Young said,

In the face of climate change and persistent healthcare challenges, effective communication of scientific knowledge emerges as a beacon of hope. The need for urgent action has never been more apparent when it comes to environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and deforestation. However, environmental science is often complex and challenging for the general public to understand.

“Speak on behalf of Mother Nature before we can’t,” –Dr. Muhammad Mustafa

Effective science communication

Science communication aims to clarify how various processes work, such as how a virus infects a person or the importance of new cancer treatments for healthcare professionals and patients[2]. It strives to present this information in a clear, relatable, and meaningful way.

Similarly, health communication focuses on presenting scientific information in a way that resonates with audiences, offering practical steps they can take to improve their health or prevent disease. It often goes beyond cellular interactions to apply scientific findings to entire populations, making the science applicable and beneficial to everyday life and public health efforts. 

A Glimpse of Lahore Science Mela 2023. Photo KSS
A Glimpse of Lahore Science Mela 2023. Photo KSS

Science communicators use different channels like documentaries, articles, and social media campaigns to translate scientific research into gripping narratives that resonate with people of various ages and backgrounds[3]. Promoting scientific literacy and encouraging informed decision-making can be accomplished by education systems, media outlets, and community organizations[2]

Science communicators and some notable organizations, like the Khwarizmi Science Society, play a crucial role in simplifying this complexity. By organizing the Lahore Science Mela in the past several years, they have played a significant role in conveying information in a way that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their impact on the environment.

Through initiatives like workshops, public lectures, and educational outreach programs, a deeper understanding of environmental issues can promote sustainable practices. 

Science festivals can act as social glue, Dr. Sabieh Anwar.

By amplifying the voices of scientists and providing accessible platforms for dialogue, these organizations contribute significantly to raising awareness and driving positive change for the environment and public health.

Science communication makes environmental issues more relatable and concrete, encouraging people to take action and feel a shared sense of responsibility towards the planet.

Healthcare communication

Healthcare is another area where science communication plays a crucial role. Effective communication is essential in raising awareness and shaping behavior, from combating infectious diseases to promoting healthy lifestyles. One of the primary aims of healthcare communication is to give people the tools to take charge of their health and well-being[3]. 

Science communicators empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health by translating complex medical jargon into accessible language and providing evidence-based information. Science communication offers people with the knowledge they need to prevent diseases, manage chronic conditions, and seek appropriate medical care through public health campaigns, educational resources, or online platforms.

Fostering scientific literacy

Fostering a culture of science literacy and critical thinking is fundamental for building resilience against misinformation and pseudoscience. Science communicators employ various strategies to spread environmental and healthcare awareness effectively.

They often use storytelling to convey complex scientific concepts in relatable and engaging ways, capturing the audience’s attention and evoking empathy. 

Additionally, visuals such as infographics, videos, and interactive media enhance comprehension and make abstract ideas more tangible [4]. Collaboration with scientists, policymakers, and community organizations amplifies the reach and impact of communication efforts.

Interactive engagement through workshops, citizen science projects, and online forums fosters participation and facilitates two-way communication. 

Transparency and trustworthiness are paramount, with communicators being transparent about scientific limitations and sources of information. They empower individuals to take action by providing practical tips and resources, inspiring a sense of agency.

By translating complex scientific concepts into accessible information, fostering dialogue, and empowering individuals, science communication drives positive change and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world. In the 21st century, investing in effective science communication is not just an option—it’s a necessity.

References: 

  • Goldstein, C.M., et al., Science Communication in the Age of Misinformation. Ann Behav Med, 2020. 54(12): p. 985-990.
  • Chowning, J.T. et al., Fostering critical thinking, reasoning, and argumentation skills through bioethics education. PLoS One, 2012. 7(5): p. e36791.
  • Chichirez, C.M. and V.L. Purcărea, Interpersonal communication in healthcare. J Med Life, 2018. 11(2):119-122.
  • Hutchins, J.A., TAILORING SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATIONS FOR AUDIENCE AND RESEARCH NARRATIVE. Curr Protoc Essent Lab Tech, 2020. 20(1).

More from the Author: Navigating Bipolar Battles, Schizophrenia Struggles, and Déjà Vu Realities in Pakistan

Scientific Fraud— Questioning the credibility of global research?

Saadeqa Khan
-
0
Scientific Fraud— Questioning the credibility of global research?

According to the International Directory of Open Science Journals, more than 9 million scientific papers were published in 2023. Statistics show that the global scholarly journal publishing market was set to grow by 1.95 billion dollars in 2023; by 2027, it is expected to rise to 3.1 billion dollars.

Several developed countries allocate special funds for research in their annual budget, due to which scientific research has accelerated in recent years. However, an international scandal reveals that thousands of bogus research papers are being published in science journals, and the situation worsens yearly. 

Meanwhile, plagiarism in peer review remained surprisingly overlooked despite a notable rise in such cases in recent years. According to a study published in Nature, many published scientific papers worldwide are reviewed and retracted yearly, but in 2023, more than ten thousand such papers were retracted.

Another study published in Springer revealed that an in-depth analysis of fifty suspected scientific papers had detected plagiarised content. 

The debate sparked after the Standford University Scandal!

In July 2023, a global debate kick-started when Marc Tessier-Lavigne [The then] President of Standford Univeristy announced his resignation after an independent review of his research. The investigations found significant flaws in the studies he supervised a decade ago. 

Although Tessier Lavigne was cleared of accusations of scientific fraud and misconduct, the review said his work had several problems and fell below customary standards of scientific rigor.

Tessier-Lavigne said, “I expect there may be an ongoing discussion about the report and its conclusions, at least in the near term, which could lead to debate about my ability to lead the university into the new academic year.”

Theo Baker, the investigative editor of the Stanford University newspaper “Stanford Daily,” was awarded the “George Polk Journalism Award” for exposing this mishandling in scientific papers. After the revelation of this scandal, the voices against fraud in scientific publications got another spark worldwide. 

AI helps Scientists to trick reviewers 

Richard Van Noorden, editor of Nature, says that scientific papers can be manipulated in several ways. For example, they create fake research data with the help of artificial intelligence and chatbots, specifically ChatGPT, taking data from Google, duplicating images and troubled phrases, etc. 

He further points out that in peer review fraud, scientists help each other pass research data without analysis. Most of such papers have text or content stolen from other research papers. Several editors and journals manipulated the metadata of accepted papers to increase citations of specific scholars and journals.

While talking to the Guardian, Professor Dorothy Bishop of Oxford University says that “the extent of fraudulent papers publication is creating serious problems for science. Building a cumulative approach to a subject in many fields is becoming arduous because we lack a solid foundation of trustworthy findings.”

“The startling rise in the publication of sham science papers has its roots in China, where young doctors and scientists seeking promotion must have published scientific papers. This demand has given rise to scientific fraud, and shadow organizations known as “paper mills” now supply fabricated papers for journal publication.”

“The practice then spread to India, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, eastern Europe, and several other countries with paper mills selling fabricated papers to science journals. There is a growing demand for such papers as young ­scientists are more eager to boost their careers in international universities by claiming false research experience.”

“Journal editors have sometimes been bribed to accept articles, while paper mills have established their agents as guest editors who allow reams of ­falsified work to be published”, she argued. 

"It is good news that more than ten thousand research papers were retracted in 2023. This comes after a big year debating on this topic and the topic of finding fraudulent practices."
“It is good news that more than ten thousand research papers were retracted in 2023. This comes after a big year debating on this topic and the topic of finding fraudulent practices.” Photo, Evolution News

Spotting fraudulent scientific papers!

Even scientific research cannot spare from the increasing influence of digital media worldwide. A new trend in scientific communities is to send out a press release to media outlets before publishing their research papers. In these press releases, the researchers over-exaggerate as a breakthrough research, but later, it turns out to be bogus. 

Elisabeth Bik, a Science Integrity consultant — says that the growing trend of fake scientific research is a cause for serious concern for scientists and researchers worldwide. To address this problem, some scientists have formed non-profit groups revealing such bogus research. There are also websites like “PeerPub” and “Retraction Watch“—these sites have complete data of all the retracted science papers. 

Lonni Besançon, a researcher at Columbia University, expresses her joy and says— “It is good news that more than ten thousand research papers were retracted in 2023. This comes after a big year debating on this topic and the topic of finding fraudulent practices.”

“Of course, some researchers like me may always see the glass half empty — and I would still argue that probably many more papers should have been retracted and that, as I have lamented several times, the process of correcting the scientific literature is too slow, too opaque, and too bureaucratic. While at the same time not protecting, funding, or rewarding the hardworking sleuth behind the work.”

“Most of the sleuthing work takes place despite, rather than thanks to, the present publication and editorial system. She argues that the data or metadata to facilitate investigations is often not published or available”.

Mikolaj Piniewski, the study’s lead author published in the Springer, is affiliated with the Warsaw University of Life Sciences. He explains that his team used AI to highlight manipulation in 50 research papers. AI can detect patterns in papers that should not be there in principle and identify plagiarized content within the paper and original sources.

He further elucidates that his team of researchers asked the authors of the fifty suspected papers to publish their complete data. Later on, an Excel sheet of data was analyzed with the help of AI. The analysis found that most data had been repeatedly copied, pasted, and manipulated.

In December 2023, a Nature analysis revealed that among large research-producing nations, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Russia, and China have had the highest retraction rates over the past decades.
In December 2023, a Nature analysis revealed that among large research-producing nations, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Russia, and China have had the highest retraction rates over the past decades. Photo Prof Graham kendall

The Nerve-Breaking situation for Pakistan!

In December 2023, a Nature analysis revealed that among large research-producing nations, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Russia, and China have had the highest retraction rates over the past decades. Pakistan stands as the second nation with the highest research retraction rate worldwide. 

 Dr. Nayyar Alam, a senior researcher and geologist, expresses his concern and says, “Publishing scientific papers is significant for students and scientists. Many international universities and research institutions have for admission and the progress of scientists that includes several published research papers in reputed science journals.”

Moreover, he points out the main reasons for this downfall in scientific research— firstly, a shortage of international-level research in Pakistan’s universities is due to insufficient budget. The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan is running short of funds to sponsor research projects. At the same time, our laboratories are deficient in modern equipment and facilities. 

A third reason is the absence of science writing skills in English. Our students can hardly write science essays due to mere writing training in academic institutions. The students and researchers prefer fake resources like paper mills to get admission to international universities. These papers are retracted after some time, and the situation is quite disturbing to hardworking researchers. 

Like several other fields of life, corruption is creeping into the global scholarly journal publishing market. Ten of thousands of students and scientists are building their careers on the back of this tidal wave of fraudulent papers. But every now and then— they have to face the harsh reality of life, as the world is now more aware of such false practices. 

Several efforts are underway to ensure the highest research standards worldwide. Organizations sponsoring or funding research demand scientists publish all of their data to be thoroughly scrutinized. Science journals that publish new studies have already started screening suspected data— everyone involved in the process, including funding, production, and publication, is on ALERT now!

More from the Author: Breaking the Odds in Field Epidemiology in Pakistan

Flickers in the Void Dark Stars and their Secret Energy Source

Faraz Iqbal
-
0
Flickers in the Void Dark Stars and their Secret Energy Source

Fusion-powered stars stand as celestial beacons in the vast fabric of the universe, illuminating the blackness of space with their incandescent brilliance. They project a fascinating alchemy at their heart, in which the simplest atom, hydrogen, evolves into heavier elements via a chain reaction known as nuclear fusion. 

The Origin of Dark Star Idea

The concept of dark stars originated through a series of discussions between Freese and Doug Spolyar. Mr. Spolyar is a former University of California, Santa Cruz graduate student.

Pondering over the influence of dark matter on the first stars that emerged in the universe, they reached out to Paolo Gondol. He is an astrophysicist at the University of Utah and subsequently joined the team.

After years of development and exploration, they published their initial paper on this groundbreaking theory in the journal Physical Review Letters in 2008.

The Enigma of Dark Stars

These three objects (JADES-GS-z13-0, JADES-GS-z12-0, and JADES-GS-z11-0) were initially identified as galaxies in December 2022 by the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES). Now, a team including Katherine Freese at The University of Texas at Austin speculates they might actually be “dark stars,” theoretical objects much bigger and brighter than our sun, powered by particles of dark matter annihilating. Image credit: NASA/ESA.
These three objects (JADES-GS-z13-0, JADES-GS-z12-0, and JADES-GS-z11-0) were initially identified as galaxies in December 2022 by the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES). Now, a team including Katherine Freese at The University of Texas at Austin speculates they might actually be “dark stars,” theoretical objects much bigger and brighter than our sun, powered by particles of dark matter annihilating. Image credit: NASA/ESA.

Astrophysicists at the University of Texas at Austin said on July 14, 2023, that they’ve now identified three bright objects that might be “dark stars.” Until now, “dark stars” have only existed as theoretical creations in the domains of mathematical models and scientific ideas. The term ‘Dark’ does not refer to the luminosity of the star but to dark matter as the power source at its core, rather than the typical nuclear fusion reactions that power ordinary stars.

Recent findings were published in the  Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research revealed three mysterious celestial objects that, Originally identified as galaxies in December 2022 by the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES), the three candidate dark stars, named JADES-GS-z13-0, JADES-GS-z12-0, and JADES-GS-z11-0, have now become subjects of intense scientific inquiry.

“It’s more likely that something within the standard model needs tuning because proposing something entirely new, as we did, is always less probable,” Freese said. “But if some of these objects that look like early galaxies are actually dark stars, the simulations of galaxy formation agree better with observations.”.

While this discovery does not prove their existence, it has sparked renewed interest among scientists and astronomers to investigate this cosmic mystery further.

 “Discovering a new type of star is pretty interesting all by itself, but discovering it’s dark matter that’s powering this — that would be huge,” said Freese, director of the Weinberg Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Jeff and Gail Kodosky Endowed Chair in Physics at UT Austin.

You see slightly varying estimates for the percentage of dark matter in our universe. But, according to Fig. Modern theorists, there’s vastly more dark matter than ordinary matter in our universe.

Modern theorists believe there’s vastly more dark matter than ordinary matter in our universe. Image via NASA/ WMAP
Modern theorists believe there’s vastly more dark matter than ordinary matter in our universe. Image via NASA/ WMAP

The Dark Matter Enigma and Model for Dark Stars

Now, let’s drive into the heart of the mystery – dark matter. It’s arguably one of the most compelling mysteries in contemporary astrophysics, and it’s no wonder it has both seasoned physicists and curious minds on the edge of their seats. Unlike ordinary matter, dark matter does not emit, absorb, or reflect light. It’s invisible, making it notoriously difficult to detect directly.

The model by Freese and her colleagues assumes that dark stars form in clouds made mostly of hydrogen, with dark matter contributing just 0.1% of the mass. When two dark matter particles collide, they can annihilate each other, releasing photons, electrons, and other particles. Most of these by-products stay in the cloud, depositing heat into its gas and causing it to glow like a normal star.

“Dark stars are a theoretically intriguing idea,” says Julian Muñoz, a cosmologist at the University of Texas at Austin who was not involved in the current work. “Self-annihilations are a fairly generic signature of many dark matter models.” They are a central feature in one popular model, in which dark matter comprises weakly interacting massive particles or WIMPs.

Some Important Results Deduced from the Existence of Dark Stars

Let’s go on to the results, where things get even more intriguing. This is more than simply physics; it’s a cosmic narrative that has the potential to alter our fundamental understanding of the cosmos.

Early Universe Dynamics: But hold on, there’s more. Dark stars may have evolved in the very early stages of the universe when conditions were significantly different than they are now.

Supermassive Black Holes’ Seed: We’ve arrived at the climax. If dark stars exist, they have the potential to shed light on the genesis and expansion of supermassive black holes (SMBHs). Dark stars may act as cosmic seeds from which these enormous black holes sprout, offering light on the earliest conditions that lead to the formation of SMBHs.

The author acknowledges his teachers, Dr. Fatima Bint e Munir and  Dr. Atif Shahbaz, for their coordination. 

Also read: A New Phenomenon of Origination of Planets & Stars as “Twins”

Is Artificial Intelligence Our Ally or an Enemy?

Aliza Waqar
-
0
Is Artificial Intelligence Our Ally or an Enemy?

“Success in creating AI would be the biggest event in human history. Unfortunately, it might also be the last unless we learn how to avoid the risks.”  ~Stephen Hawking   

The rise of AI is like watching a sci-fi movie unfold, except we’re all trying to figure out if AI will become our helper or an unforeseen Master. I am sure you’ve seen many things on the wonders of Artificial Intelligence but where there is light, there is also shadow. Artificial Intelligence holds unbelievable promise for improving our lives in vast measures, it also presents challenges and threats that we must address. 

Ever wondered what exactly artificial intelligence is and why everyone wants to indulge in it? What is the hype around it, and is it really a threat to humankind? Let’s dive in.

Well, Artificial Intelligence has been tossed around for decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it started gaining attention. 

The term “artificial intelligence” was officially used at Dartmouth College, where researchers discussed the probability of creating machines that could mimic human intelligence. In today’s day and age, it isn’t a mere term or concept but an everyday reality for us. AI invades various surfaces of society, reshaping how we work, communicate, and interact with technology.

The appeal of AI lies in its ability to solve problems in previously impossible or impractical ways. AI can automate repetitive tasks, saving time and effort. It’s like having a clever robot buddy that can learn and make your life efficient.

Speaking of robots, AI is far more progressed than just GPT-4. Have you met with the humanoid robot Ameca, which acts as a translator using the OpenAI’s ChatGPT bot, that could potentially extinct human translators? [2]

A well-read research paper that looks further into this is “The Malicious Use of Artificial Intelligence: Forecasting, Prevention, and Mitigation,” published in February 2018. [3] This paper is authored by researchers from the Future of Humanity Institute. It is known for being the Center for the Study of Existential Risk, OpenAI, and others. 

It explores the possible negative impacts of Artificial Intelligence if used wickedly. Highlighting situations where AI could be exploited for cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and autonomous weapons systems raises significant ethical and security concerns. Here is a series of advancements in Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) that have created synthetic faces that are becoming increasingly indistinguishable from real ones.

Humanoid robot Ameca, which acts as a translator using the OpenAI’s ChatGPT bot - artificial intelligence
Humanoid robot Ameca, which acts as a translator using the OpenAI’s ChatGPT bot

One of the most prominent downsides of AI is mentioned as a personalized attack to extract sensitive information or money from individuals. The rise of facial recognition technology has ushered in a new era of possibilities: an AI tool called Synthesia. This tool can generate human-like voices and AI avatars that could be used in several positive ways, such as making a marketing campaign, making content online, or training videos. However, this AI tool has sparked many concerns about privacy and cybersecurity. 

As mentioned in the paper, a phishing attack refers to a cybercrime tactic where individuals or organizations attempt to deceive users into disclosing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card details, or other personal data. It also addresses Political, Physical, and Digital Security risks like an individual’s online information used for impersonation and milking their real contacts; cybercriminals can use AI techniques to process payment or ransomware victims.

The research paper discusses the importance of active measures to mitigate the risks associated with the cruel use of AI and the need for disciplinary cooperation among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to develop safeguards and regulations that ensure AI technologies are deployed responsibly.

A recent article shed light on the unstoppable surge of Generative AI, which showed that approximately 77 percent of devices include AI [4] in some form, like opening your phone with the face ID or ads on social media, to famous digital assistants like SIRI or ALEXA. However, this personalized AI experience raises dual concerns. While 57 percent fear AI may replace humans, [5] 51 percent lack trust in companies to safeguard their data, leading to worries about privacy, security, misinformation, and job insecurities. 

Now the lingering question: could Artificial Intelligence defy its creators and dominate humanity, as depicted in movies? 

Well, not exactly. The maintenance, power supply, and programming are essential for Generative AI, Robots, and GANs, and all rely on human involvement. Also, Governments, corporations, and individuals each play a role in the development, deployment, and regulation of any form of new research or development. 

Corporations innovate through research and development while also obeying regulatory requirements and ethical guidelines. So, it’s safe to say there’s not much to worry about besides some job insecurities. [6]

The strength of Artificial Intelligence depicted in movies is mainly dramatized for entertainment purposes. Whereas Artificial Intelligence might have advanced significantly in recent years, it still operates within the boundaries of its programming and the limitations set by its creators. That said, it’s essential to recognize the potential risks associated with AI development, and these risks must be carefully managed through ethical guidelines and responsible development practices.

But why should we keep up with the advancement of artificial intelligence?

AI has a prominent position now, providing us with a further understanding of our intelligence. The growth of AI is crucial; learning and actively using AI tools is important not just to stay informed by the latest AI but also to form your own opinions on it and identify issues that could form risks towards security or privacy issues. 

While challenges and doubts may be linked to the increase of AI, there’s also significant potential for positive impact and growth when approached with careful consideration and practical planning.

In the near future, its implications on society, economy, and governance are key for navigating responsibly and harnessing its potential for the betterment of humanity, and hopefully, stricter laws will be formed around its data storage and usage to safeguard the rights of AI’s users. 

REFERENCES:
  • P. Sturgeon, “Talent Talk: The Fascinating, Frightening Potential of AI,” Plastics Today, August 14,
  • 2023.
  • R. Huppke, “Just a quick heads up: AI-powered robots will kill us. K, bye.,” USA Today, 2023.
  • S. Farquhar, “Arxiv Papers,” Feburary 2018. [Online].
  • A. Cardillo, “How Many Companies Use AI? (New Data),” EXPLODING TOPICS, 2024.
  • B. PERRIGO, “Exclusive: U.S. Must Move ‘Decisively’ to Avert ‘Extinction-Level’ Threat From AI,
  • Government-Commissioned Report Says,” TIME, 2024.
  • M. Roser, “Artificial intelligence is transforming our world — it is on all of us to make sure that it
  • goes well,” OurWorldInData.org, 2022.
  • F. Ghunaim, “Key Statistics and Trends: The Unstoppable Rise of AI,” SPECTRA, 2023.

Night Owl’s cheatsheet—Mastering Melatonin’s sleep clock for ultimate rest

Malaika Awan
-
0
Night Owl’s cheatsheet—Mastering Melatonin’s sleep clock for ultimate rest

A peaceful quietness blankets the surroundings as the sun sets, inviting meditation and mindfulness. Many people find that the peaceful embrace of the night provides a welcome change of pace after the day’s exhausting activities. But, against this peaceful background, a specific group of people—the night owls—constantly battle to get enough sleep. However, a hidden key to unlock restful nights for these dark residents is known as melatonin. Melatonin, a hormone with strong effects that are frequently disregarded, has the potential to help us understand the fascinating night owl’s sleep schedule.

Understanding melatonin and the sleep cycle

Melatonin, often referred to as “the hormone of darkness,” plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycles, serving as our body’s internal timekeeper. Produced by the pineal gland in the brain, its levels fluctuate in a 24-hour cycle, controlled by our body clock. Receptors in the hypothalamus’s suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) control this hormone’s secretion. Its production is sensitive to environmental light cues, which orchestrate our transition between wakefulness and slumber. 

When darkness descends, signaling the onset of nighttime, the pineal gland responds by releasing melatonin into the bloodstream. This surge in melatonin levels prepares our bodies for restorative sleep. Blood melatonin levels rise about two hours before bedtime, helping establish conditions favorable to sleep by slightly lowering core body temperature. As dawn approaches and daylight filters through, melatonin production diminishes, aligning with our body’s natural rhythm to prepare for awakening and the activities of the day. 

One notable phenomenon within this melatonin-driven cycle is the “forbidden zone” for sleep—a period during the early evening hours when the body’s propensity to fall asleep is notably low. This period typically spans from around 6 PM to 9 PM, during which individuals may find it challenging to initiate rest despite feeling tired. It is recommended not to try sleeping during this time zone as it might affect an individual’s sleep instinct later. 

However, as this window closes, usually between 9 PM and 11 PM, the sleep gate opens, marking the onset of increased sleepiness and facilitating easier entry into a restful state. A decrease in melatonin levels in our body can cause hindrances to our sleep and can lead to sleep disturbances.  

Blood melatonin levels rise about two hours before bedtime, helping establish conditions favorable to sleep by slightly lowering core body temperature.
Blood melatonin levels rise about two hours before bedtime, helping establish conditions favorable to sleep by slightly lowering core body temperature.

Factors decreasing melatonin release in the human body

Factors that decrease melatonin release in the body include certain drugs like beta blockers and NSAIDs, which inhibit its production. Beta-blockers, commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure, work by inhibiting specific receptors, consequently decreasing melatonin release. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin and several other over-the-counter painkiller drugs, suppress nighttime melatonin levels. Blue light exposure at night also suppresses melatonin levels. 

Aging reduces pineal gland function, diminishing melatonin production. Short-term fasting and nutrient deficiencies in folate, magnesium, and zinc further contribute to decreased melatonin levels. Staying up late, the common nocturnal habit of night owls can harm their physical and psychological well-being.

Night owls’ nocturnal habits and psychological well-being

The psychological well-being of night owls can be significantly affected by their nocturnal habits. Staying up late into the night can contribute to mood disturbances, including heightened feelings of anxiety and depression. Disrupted sleep patterns impact neurotransmitters and hormones responsible for regulating emotional states, such as serotonin and cortisol, leading to increased stress levels and vulnerability to emotional ups and downs. Furthermore, impaired cognitive function due to inadequate sleep can result in difficulties in thinking clearly and making effective decisions. 

Night owls may also experience alterations in appetite and eating habits, often succumbing to late-night cravings and unhealthy dietary choices. Interruption of the circadian rhythm, sleep-wake cycles, and low levels of melatonin hormone are considered risk factors for a variety of health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and various sleep disorders.

Sleep disorders and melatonin

Sleep disorders can wreak havoc on our lives, affecting everything from our mood to our overall health. One common culprit behind these disorders is insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Our natural melatonin levels decrease as we age, making us more susceptible to insomnia. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, has shown promise in treating insomnia, especially in older adults. 

But melatonin isn’t just for insomnia. It has also been studied for its role in managing other sleep-related issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing is disrupted during sleep. Melatonin has been found to mitigate some of the complications associated with OSA, such as cardiovascular problems and inflammation.

Sleep disorders can wreak havoc on our lives, affecting everything from our mood to our overall health.
Sleep disorders can wreak havoc on our lives, affecting everything from our mood to our overall health.

Enhancing melatonin levels in the body

Implementing various strategies can be beneficial in enhancing melatonin production and promoting healthy sleep.

  • Manage light exposure: Seek natural light in the morning and daytime, and avoid bright light about 90 minutes before bedtime to regulate melatonin levels.
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine intake before bedtime to support higher melatonin levels.
  • Incorporate melatonin-rich foods into your diet, including tomatoes, rice, barley, strawberries, olive oil, milk, pistachios, walnuts, seeds, eggs, fish, tart cherries, and goji berries into the diet to naturally boost melatonin levels.
  • Dimming lights and reducing screen time before bed to minimize exposure to blue light, which suppresses melatonin production.
  • Establishing a consistent sleep schedule synchronizes the body’s internal clock and facilitates the natural release of melatonin at the appropriate times.
  • Supplementing with melatonin: Discuss the potential benefits and considerations of using melatonin supplements to regulate sleep patterns, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into one’s routine.
  • Lifestyle adjustments for optimal sleep: Highlight the importance of creating a sleep-friendly environment, practicing relaxation techniques, and prioritizing self-care to support restful nights and overall well-being.
REFERENCES:
  • Konttinen, H., Kronholm, E., Partonen, T., Kanerva, N., Männistö, S., & Haukkala, A. (2014). Morningness-eveningness, depressive symptoms, and emotional eating: A population-based study. Chronobiology International. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24417521. doi:10.3109/07420528.2013.877922
  • Zizhen Xie, Fei Chen, William A. Li, Xiaokun Geng, Changhong Li, Xiaomei Meng, Yan Feng, Wei Liu & Fengchun Yu (2017): A review of sleep disorders and melatonin, Neurological Research.
  • McGrane IR, Leung JG, St. Louis E, et al. Melatonin therapy for REM sleep behavior disorder: a critical review of evidence. Sleep Med. 2015;16:19–26.
  • Poza, J.J., Pujol, M., Ortega-Albás, J.J. and Romero, O., 2022. Melatonin in sleep disorders. Neurología (English Edition), 37(7), pp.575-585.
  • Benca, R.M., Okawa, M., Uchiyama, M., Ozaki, S., Nakajima, T., Shibui, K. and Obermeyer, W.H., 1997. Sleep and mood disorders. Sleep medicine reviews, 1(1), pp.45-56.
  • Stoschitzky, K., Koshucharova, G., Zweiker, R., Maier, R., Watzinger, N., Fruhwald, F.M. and Klein, W., 2001. Differing beta‐blocking effects of carvedilol and metoprolol. European journal of heart failure, 3(3), pp.343-349.
  • Dawson, D. and Encel, N., 1993. Melatonin and sleep in humans. Journal of pineal research, 15(1), pp.1-12.
  • Brown, G.M., 1994. Light, melatonin and the sleep-wake cycle. Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, 19(5), p.345.
  • Skocbat, T., Haimov, I. and Lavie, P., 1998. Melatonin-the key to the gate of sleep. Annals of medicine, 30(1), pp.109-114.
  • Zisapel, N., 2010. Melatonin and sleep. The Open Neuroendocrinology Journal, 3(1).
  • Kun, X., Cai Hong, H. and Subramanian, P., 2019. Melatonin and sleep. Biological Rhythm Research, 50(3), pp.490-493.

More From the Author: Practical Tips and Strategies to Reduce Carbon Footprints in Daily Life

Nanoscience— In Energy Sustainability Outlook

Muhammad Kashif Raza
-
0
Nanoscience— In Energy Sustainability Outlook

For more than 200 years, fossil fuel has been the primary source of energy, enabling the Industrial Revolution and technological advancement of society as a whole. As we know previously, energy is based on non-renewable resources, and we have to look for some renewable means for our energy. We need any source that enables us to meet our energy requirements and store enough amount of energy, leading us toward future energy conversion. In the article, I have discussed the different aspects of nanoscience for future sustainability using nanostructure for energy storage devices, i.e., Supercapacitors, Metallic Ion rechargeable batteries, Fuel Cells, etc.

In the near future, fossil fuels, particularly oil, will continue to play a significant role in the global economy. As consumption reaches its peak and consumer demand rises, the world must either discover new energy supplies or substantially improve existing energy technologies. The world has come to comprehend that using fossil fuels excessively threatens the planet’s ecosystems. The advancement of green energy is one of the most pressing global challenges due to the demand for alternative, clean energy sources and the preservation of the environment.

Nanomaterials have the potential to completely transform techniques for storing energy, rendering them superior, accessible, and sustainable. Thanks to their special nanoscale features, they can significantly improve many energy storage systems, eventually leading to a more environmentally friendly future.

Figure 1: A schematic represents the usage of nanomaterials in nanotechnology for designing the nanoscale devices i.e., for Supercapacitors, Batteries and Fuel Cells [1]
Figure 1: A schematic represents the usage of nanomaterials in nanotechnology for designing nanoscale devices, i.e., for Supercapacitors, Batteries, and Fuel Cells [1]

There is no dispute that in order for the globe’s economy and climate to have an environmentally friendly future, renewable energy must account for a sizable share of renewable energy consumption.

The natural reconfiguration tendencies of two-dimensional shapes (2D) nanomaterials, which drastically limits the way they can be used, undercuts the rapidly expanding interest in these materials. New porous heterostructures combining monolayered mesoporous substrates with two-dimensional nanosheets can significantly increase the selection of innovative substances in battery-based electrochemical energy technologies.

Advancements in Nanoscience

Many additional two-dimensional materials, including nanosheet-like structures, such as transition metal oxides (TMO), dichalcogenides, and transition metal carbides (TMCs) or transition metal nitrides (MXenes), have gained more attention as graphene was initially experimentally separated in 2004.

Beside other traditional materials with thicknesses in millimeters (mm) or micrometers (ꭎm), MXenes are just a few atoms thick. MXenes resemble tiny sheets with a high surface area and volume proportion. This gives ions plenty of room to gather and take part in energy storage workflows, particularly in supercapacitors.

Interestingly, even though the thickness of MXenes is a hundred times less than that of human hair, the research proceeded by the University of British Colombia (UBC), National Science Foundation, UK, and A.J. Drexel Institute of materials showed that their researchers created lightweight, 3D- printed polymer waveguides for satellites, coating them with conductive MXene nanomaterials to enable high-quality signal transmission for space rockets. This is how nanostructures like MXenes and other composites are providing the world with an opportunity to move toward future sustainability.

Figure 2:  A brief guiding schematic for the usage of Nanomaterials in different daily life applications [5]
Figure 2:  A brief guiding schematic for the usage of Nanomaterials in different daily life applications [5]

Unlike conventional materials, nanostructures (the basics of nanoscience) have many more tiny molecules or atoms on their interfaces. This boosts excitability and the easy availability of working spots for energy-related instances, such as the electrochemical processes in Supercapacitors, batteries, and fuel cells. Due to the use of lithium-ion batteries in portable and light electric products, backup energy storage components, and hybrid electric automobiles, the demand for these batteries has significantly expanded.

An American computer scientist and mathematician Ralph Merkle once said very precisely;

“Nanotechnology is an idea that most people simply didn’t believe. We’ll have more power in the volume of a sugar cube than exists in the entire world today.”

Figure 3: The nanoscience is fueling the world with green energy and striving for lowering its pollution for sustainability. [6]
Figure 3: The nanoscience is fueling the world with green energy and striving to lower its pollution for sustainability. [6]

Researchers are striving to enhance the energy density, power density, durability, and reliability of lithium-ion batteries through the integration of nanomaterials into all of these different elements. These properties are essential for their wide adoption in various applications, including portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid energy storage.

Nanostructures for Energy Conversion Applications

High energy and power density may be achieved concurrently because of nanoparticles’ characteristic short diffusion paths and high surface-to-volume ratio. Additionally, the ability of nanomaterials to work with cutting-edge manufacturing processes like spray coating, printing, roll-to-roll assembly, and others makes it possible to design and create flexible, foldable, and smart energy storage systems.

Thinking precisely toward storing Energy

The more we are heading in the future, we will be gaining advancement in the energy storage direction. With the growing population around us, researchers are thinking more precisely to meet the requirements of future energy consumption using cutting-edge materials and technology for a better and secure future.

In conclusion, one can say that nanomaterials are the little titans altering our technological environment in the field of nanoscience. Despite their tiny size, they are incredibly powerful, holding the potential to advance energy, medicine, and other fields.

A world of whispered miracles, where nanoparticles dance with atoms, is hidden from observation. They hold the pathway to energy revolutions, medical wonders, and a sustainable future with their quiet influence. When seen from a macro perspective, what might appear to be a whisper at the nanoscale becomes a roar of innovation. Scientists use nanomaterials to create marvels, much like painters do on miniature canvases.

There is a journey into nanoscience that lies beyond the horizon of ordinary materials. In this context, nanomaterials take on the role of cosmic explorers, laying the foundation for a new era in energy, medicine, and sustainability ahead in the future. The blueprint for tomorrow’s legacy resides inside the tiny structures of nanomaterials. Their pioneering attitude inspires the quest for sustainable energy, revolutionary healthcare, and an innovatively driven world.

References


Also Read:Is electrical energy an alternative to more carbon footprints?

Spiders on Mars? The truth behind the mysterious clusters on the Red Planet

Scientia Staff
-
0
Spiders on Mars? The truth behind the mysterious clusters on the Red Planet

The European Space Agency (ESA) recently shared pictures of the mysterious spider-like clusters on the planet Mars. The space agency has, however, clarified that these spider-like dark features on the Red Planet form “when spring sunshine falls on layers of carbon dioxide deposited over the dark winter months.” 

The view of Ice-Spiders on Mars. Photo ESA.
The view of Ice-Spiders on Mars. Photo ESA.

The sunlight causes carbon dioxide ice at the bottom of the layer to turn into gas, which subsequently builds up and breaks through slabs of overlying ice. The gas bursts free in Martian springtime, dragging dark material up to the surface as it goes and shattering layers of ice up to a meter thick.

The emerging gas, laden with dark dust, shoots up through cracks in the ice in the form of tall fountains or geysers before falling back down and settling on the surface. This creates dark spots between 45 m and 1 km across. This same process creates characteristic ‘spider-shaped’ patterns etched beneath the ice – and so these dark spots are a telltale sign that spiders may be lurking below.

Perspective view of Mars' Inca City. Photo ESA
Perspective view of Mars’ Inca City. Photo ESA

Mars Express’s High-Resolution Stereo Camera captured this new view of Inca City and its hidden arachnid residents. The space agency is still not sure exactly how Inca City formed. It could be that sand dunes have turned to stone over time. Perhaps material such as magma or sand is seeping through fractured sheets of Martian rock. Or, the ridges could be ‘eskers’, winding structures related to glaciers.

More about Mars: Mars Colonization: What decades of missions have revealed

Let’s heal the Earth to unleash the power of earning a better livelihood

Maira Masood
-
0
Let’s heal the Earth to unleash the power of earning a better livelihood

Last week, the largest city, Dubai, was brought to a halt, with one of the worst rain events in decades flooding streets, homes, and highways. The heavy rains also halted air traffic, damaged buildings and streets — and left climate experts and common citizens asking whether one of the world’s hottest and driest cities should be better prepared for extreme storms.   

In March 2021, the coast of New South Wales (NSW), Australia, was hit by a disastrous flood. Sydney received 40 percent of its annual rainfall in that time period, flooding numerous households and displacing large masses. Around 29,000 damage claims were put forward by different insurance companies, owing to the extent of damage this vicious flooding had caused. Such natural disaster unveils the social and economic distress mankind is indulged in.

Earth is the only planet mankind can inhabit because nature has provided it with ample blessings: freshwater, fertile soil, vegetation, appropriate climate, glaciers, deserts, and much more. Exhausting these natural supplies and littering the earth is one of our greatest threats. It is paramount to realize the extent of damage we, humankind, have done to the earth. Restoring the earth to its original state seems plausible, but we can still aim to reduce the damage we are currently doing. Earth’s deterioration is combinatorial factor damage. Thus, to pace down the damage, we need to understand and be receptive to the mankind-induced factors that are vandalizing planet Earth. 

Human-derived factors that are destroying Earth:

Pollution

Water, air, or land pollution is one of the most destructive issues for the earth. The accelerating rate by which we are polluting this planet is an eye-opener. Pollution at such alarming rates is imperiling our survival and affects the biodiversity of various species of animals. Ocean acidification, spillage of oil at shipping ports, industrial and domestic waste discharge into water bodies, and the release of harmful gases (Sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen monoxide) all impair the quality of life on Earth. This further gives birth to infinite waterborne or airborne diseases, such as cholera, lung and respiratory diseases, etc.

Earth Day 2024
The accelerating rate by which we are polluting this planet is an eye-opener.

One of the recent episodes of pollution has brought long-term damage to it. 20,000 tons of diesel leakage in a river in Russia after a storage tank collapsed is one of the biggest man-induced damages done in 2020. The oil flowed into the Ambarnaya River, covering a 7.5-mile area. The oil also contaminated the Daldykan River. According to the former deputy chief of Russian environmental watchdog Rosprirodnadzor, Oleg Mitvol, the entire cleanup process will cost $1.5 billion and span around 10 years. This spillage is a potent threat to marine life. 

Land-use change

Another major concern for humanity is deforestation. With the increased demand for clear land for different activities, forests are being cleared faster. Lack of forest cover is one of the root causes of other issues, such as loss of soil fertility, fluctuations in the water cycle, and habitat destruction, to name a few. Forest fires further add to the unproductivity of land. Destruction of natural landscapes and ecosystems is another outcome of human activities such as mining, fishing, etc. The land that provides us with food and a cover is collapsing in the blink of an eye. 

The deforestation rate in Pakistan is accelerating between 0.2% to 0.5 % per annum, the highest worldwide, contributing to a 4% to 6% decline in its wood biomass per annum. Assessing a research report, Justice Jawad Hasan (Pakistan) observed that the natural forest cover had declined from 3.59 million hectares to 3.32m hectares at an average rate of 27,000 hectares annually. This deterioration will exploit nature to alarming levels.

The exploitation of natural resources

Humans have been exploiting the earth’s natural resources to produce products for their survival. This practice has been carried out for decades. However, over-exploitation and overuse of natural resources are depleting them quicker than usual. Overfishing, excessive deforestation, and abundant extraction of non-renewable raw materials such as coal, gypsum, and natural gas are disturbing nature’s balance. Our hunger for the accessibility of these resources has masked the potential damage these practices are bringing forth.  

earthday 2024
Humans have been exploiting the earth’s natural resources to produce products for their survival.

Our dependence on non-renewable energy sources is so pronounced that it is polluting the environment to a much greater extent. Groundwater extraction and solid waste dumping have lowered the water table. It has led the land to become waterlogged and saline, making it unfit to be used for agricultural activities. Barren land means no food supplies, which leads to starvation.

Genetic advancement

As exciting as these terms sound, genetic modifications and research have an underlying dark side to them. Tampering with the natural human genome, introducing or eliminating specific genes, and adding or omitting various physical traits according to human needs are disturbing natural phenomena. Genetic modifications have resulted in the introduction of non-native species of animals and a new variety of crop plants, all modified to the demands of mankind.  

Reaping benefits for our survival, also called “advancement,” actually reduces our chances of survival. Genetically modified organisms and transgenic organisms disrupt the germline. They can pose much stronger natural selection phenomena, with increased competition leading to the extinction of rare species, all of which affect biodiversity on planet Earth.

Overpopulation

With the global population exceeding 7.9 billion, overconsumption of resources and a shrinking planet is no surprise. The birth rate graph shows that it is rising exponentially. A larger population requires more land, resources, and infrastructure. This is an added burden on Earth as it exceeds the Earth’s capacity to support life. With an increasing population to feed, more land is needed to practice modern agricultural techniques to meet the increasing demand for food. Moreover, the consumption of non-renewable energy resources in industries and transport has also heightened, further sinking the quality of life on Earth and polluting the environment.

According to the Global Outlook for Water Resources to the Year 2025, it is estimated that by 2025, more than half of the world population will face water crises, and human water demand will contribute to 70 percent of all available freshwater. According to a Harvard study, “Over the next forty years, nearly all (97 percent) of the 2.3 billion projected increase will be in the less developed regions, with nearly half (49 percent) in Africa.

Industrialization

Automation and the Industrial Revolution depict numerous advantages to humankind that can confer more damaging consequences for the earth. The production of efficient and user-friendly means of transport, such as cars, airplanes, buses, and ships, is one of the major sources of pollution. The release of toxic gases from these means of transport pollutes the air we breathe and is harmful to the human body. This also brings several associated health-related risks and diseases, such as chronic lung infections, asthma, allergies, etc.

The use of coal dates back to the time of the Industrial Revolution. The black smoke/carbon released is again a threat to plants, polluting water bodies and land.

Automation and the industrial revolution depict numerous advantages to humankind that can confer more damaging consequences for the earth
Automation and the Industrial Revolution depict numerous advantages to humankind that can confer more damaging consequences for the earth

Furthermore, the production of plastics (non-degradable), cleaning agents, pesticides and insecticides, and pharmaceuticals is degrading this planet. Lead and other additives used in the production of paints lead to several environmental concerns. Similarly, the cleaning agents can be bio-active with a range of consequences, including health-associated risks. Pesticides and Insecticides, though used for crop production, can prove to be fatal. They are drained off into streams and lakes, causing eutrophication that kills the underwater living organisms.

Land contamination, particularly lead-associated land contamination, is a major drawback of industrialization. Landscape damage, ecosystem disturbance, and biodiversity reduction are some of the many drawbacks of industrialization.

Global warming

Global warming is escalating at an unprecedented rate. The increase means the daily temperature can potentially transition the climate of the entire world for the worse. Depleting the ozone layer due to releasing toxic and harmful substances into the environment further adds to higher daily temperatures. With no cloud cover to protect us from harmful UV radiation, we destroy the planet with our own hands. Cancers, especially skin cancer, are prevalent due to exposure to direct UV radiation. 

The ever-rising temperatures mean more evaporation of water from water bodies, more transpiration in plants, and distortion in the normal water cycle. Less condensation takes place, which leads to less precipitation. High temperatures mean that the frozen water bodies, such as glaciers and snow-covered areas, are melting faster. This leads to floods, which devastates large communities and socio-economic setups. Animals such as polar bears, accustomed to living in lower temperatures, must migrate. Lack of food availability, changes in seasonal rainfall patterns, and dry, polluted air are all the unknowable problems we face.

According to the National Climate Assessment, human causes are the biggest reason for global warming. The harmful pollutants released into the environment act as a cushion that absorbs the Ultraviolet rays and makes the planet warm. Such climatic shifts can jeopardize our chances of survival and potentially make the earth a non-habitable place, just like the other solar system planets.

To ensure a healthy lifestyle for present and future generations, to ensure Earth remains an inhabitable planet, and to validate a supreme quality of life on this planet, we must change our practices, implement environmentally friendly procedures, reduce population rates, and prevent the exhaustion of resources.

References:

1...192021...81Page 20 of 81