New Zealand’s kākāpō, the world’s heaviest parrot species, faced imminent extinction due to hunting, predators, and habitat loss in the mid-1900s. However, dedicated conservation efforts since the 1970s, focused on offshore islands where predators are systematically eradicated, have seen the kākāpō population grow from fewer than 60 in 1995 to over 200 today. With a keen interest in restoring the species to the mainland, the New Zealand Department of Conservation and Ngāi Tahu Continue reading “New Zealand’s Quest to Save its Rotund, Flightless Parrots” »
The emerging field of research into the connection between microbes, mood, and mental health is shedding light on a previously overlooked aspect of our well-being. Recent studies suggest that maintaining a healthy brain involves tending to our gut microbiome, challenging conventional wisdom that focused solely on the brain itself. Rather than relying on pills and supplements, the current consensus is that a key factor in nurturing a flourishing gut microbiome lies in consuming better food. The intricate world of microbes in our guts not only aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and fending off harmful organisms but, intriguingly, may also influence our mood and mental health.
Neuroscientist John Cryan, based at University College Cork in Ireland, has been at the forefront of uncovering the ways in which intestinal microbes impact the brain and behavior of humans and animals.
Surprisingly, his research has indicated that the effects observed in rodents are paralleled in humans. Notably, studies have demonstrated that transplanting gut microbes from individuals with psychiatric disorders, such as depression, into rodents can induce similar symptoms in the animals. The mechanisms through which these effects occur include the influence of gut bacteria on the immune system, communication via the vagus nerve connecting the gut to the brain, and the synthesis of molecules by microbes that nerve cells utilize for communication. Acknowledging that microbes were present first and our species has evolved in their presence, researchers argue that it’s not surprising that the microbiome is implicated in numerous physiological processes. Studies have revealed that growing up in a germ-free environment significantly affects the development of the mouse brain, emphasizing the profound impact of microbial presence on neurological development. Moreover, the immune system is intricately shaped by microbial signals, with gut inflammation capable of influencing mood and manifesting symptoms akin to depression and anxiety. Recognizing the interconnectedness of the body and the brain with microbes is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of health and well-being.
The Folk and Flora Lighting Collection, envisioned by the talented artist and vintage curator Carmen Nash, presents an exquisite blend of earthy sophistication and timeless illumination. Nash’s creative journey, influenced by her exposure to luxury design and rooted in her spirituality and Black Southern heritage, has resulted in a collection that seamlessly weaves together elements of folk art stories and personal storytelling. The eight lamps within the collection are Continue reading “Folk and Flora Lighting Collection Is Earthy, Sophisticated Illumination” »
Katerina Marchenko’s artistic prowess shines through her innovative approach to embroidery, where she transforms long, colorful strands of yarn into stunning, larger-than-life portraits. The juxtaposition of the intricate art form against the delicate tulle canvas adds an extra layer of complexity to her works, demanding precision and skill from the artist. The result is a series of human faces brought to life on an impressive scale, defying the conventional expectations of embroidery confined to smaller dimensions. Marchenko’s commitment to transparency in her creative process is evident through the mesmerizing timelapse videos she shares, revealing her hands gracefully weaving the vibrant threads through the tulle, Continue reading “Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits by Katerina Marchenko” »
Engaging in musical activities throughout life has been associated not only with a sense of enjoyment and emotional well-being but also with tangible cognitive benefits, as highlighted by the PROTECT study. The research, open to individuals aged 40 and above, examined data from over a thousand participants, revealing that playing a musical instrument or singing can positively impact brain health. Beyond the emotional rewards and the joy of musical expression, the study found a correlation between musical engagement and enhanced memory and cognitive speed in individuals aged 40 and above. The study, which Continue reading “Singing or Playing Music Throughout Life is Linked with Better Brain Health While You Age” »
Meet Erica Hart, a 44-year-old pet detective whose passion for reuniting lost dogs with their owners has led her on 330 successful missions, all conducted for free using a thermal imaging drone. In April 2018, Erica received her first drone as a gift from her father. Little did she know that this technology would become a vital tool in her Continue reading “Meet the Pet Detective Who’s Tracked Down and Reunited 330 Lost Dogs with Owners for Free – Using Thermal Imaging” »
Measured Architecture has skillfully crafted a waterfront vacation home on Mayne Island, British Columbia, seamlessly merging contemporary building techniques with the rich history of centuries-old timber. The Shor House stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment to sustainable design, showcasing the potential of careful deconstruction and refurbishment of wooden buildings to extend the life-cycle of materials otherwise destined for landfill. Continue reading “Measured Architecture has Designed a Waterfront Vacation Home Combining Contemporary Building Techniques and Centuries-Old Timber” »
Full of youthful energy and optimism, two college buddies embarked on a unique adventure after recently graduating from college. Pooling their resources, they scraped together just enough money to purchase a breathtaking plot of land cradled on three sides by the vast expanse of Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Years passed, marked by camping trips, shared cocktails, and fond memories. As retirement loomed on the horizon, the friends, now Continue reading “Two Friends Bought Utah Land as College Grads. Now They’ve Built an Off-Grid Retreat for Retirement” »
In a pioneering move towards sustainable energy infrastructure, Sweden has become the site of the world’s first full-scale timber wind turbine. Standing at an impressive height of 105 meters, the tower was constructed by Modvion, a wood technology company. While the rotor blades and generator hub adhere to conventional materials, the tower itself is made of laminated veneer lumber (LVL), an engineered wood comprised of thin veneer strips bonded together. This innovative approach not only withstands the forces exerted by a turning turbine but also represents a significant Continue reading “First Full-Height Timber Wind Turbine Opens in Sweden” »
