The Bowhead Whale: Unveiling the Secrets of the Ocean’s Longest-Living Mammal

March 24, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

The bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) is a magnificent marine mammal that has captured the fascination of scientists, conservationists, and enthusiasts alike. This colossal creature holds the record for the longest known lifespan of any mammal on Earth, with some individuals living for over 500 years[1]. These whales possess exceptional biological adaptations that have allowed them to survive and thrive in the harsh and unforgiving Arctic and subarctic waters. This article delves into the life and secrets of the bowhead whale, shedding light on how they have managed to live for over five centuries, and the crucial role they play in our understanding of aging, health, and the preservation of marine ecosystems.

The Bowhead Whale: A Profile

Bowhead whales are baleen whales, meaning they are filter feeders that consume vast amounts of zooplankton and small crustaceans, such as copepods and krill. They can weigh up to 100 tons and reach lengths of over 60 feet[2]. Bowheads are easily recognized by their massive, bow-shaped skulls, which can make up about a third of their total body length. This unique feature enables them to break through thick ice to create breathing holes[3].

The 500-Year-Old Mystery: How Do Bowhead Whales Live So Long?

The bowhead whale’s incredible longevity has been the subject of extensive research, with scientists striving to unravel the secrets behind their extraordinary lifespan. While it is challenging to accurately determine a whale’s age, several scientific methods have been employed, such as analyzing the age of harpoon tips embedded in their blubber, counting the layers in their earwax plugs, and examining the isotopic composition of their eye lenses[4]. Through these approaches, researchers have been able to estimate that some bowhead whales have lived for over 500 years[1].

One of the key factors behind the bowhead whale’s long life is its unique genetic makeup. Researchers have discovered several genes in their genome that are associated with longevity, DNA repair, and resistance to cancer[5]. These findings have not only provided insights into the bowhead’s remarkable lifespan but have also opened new avenues for human health research, particularly in understanding the process of aging and developing therapies for age-related diseases.

A Life Amidst the Ice: The Bowhead Whale’s Adaptations to the Arctic Environment

The bowhead whale’s habitat is dominated by ice-covered waters, where they have developed a suite of adaptations that enable them to thrive in this inhospitable environment. One such adaptation is their massive, bow-shaped skull, which allows them to break through ice up to 2 feet thick[3]. Additionally, their blubber layer can be as thick as 1.6 feet, providing insulation and energy reserves[6].

Bowhead whales also possess a unique circulatory system that enables them to maintain a constant body temperature despite the frigid waters. They have specialized blood vessels that help conserve heat and ensure that their vital organs receive an adequate supply of warm blood[7].

The Bowhead Whale’s Role in the Arctic Ecosystem

As the primary filter feeders in the Arctic, bowhead whales play a crucial role in maintaining the health and stability of the ecosystem. By consuming vast quantities of zooplankton, they help regulate the population dynamics of these tiny organisms and contribute to the cycling of nutrients in the marine environment[8]. Bowhead whales are also an essential food source for apex predators, such as polar bears and killer whales, which rely on them for sustenance and survival in the harsh Arctic conditions[9].

Conservation Efforts and the Future of the Bowhead Whale

Despite their incredible adaptations and longevity, bowhead whales have not been immune to the challenges posed by human activities. Historically, they were hunted extensively for their oil, baleen, and meat, leading to significant population declines. However, conservation measures and international agreements, such as the International Whaling Commission’s moratorium on commercial whaling, have allowed bowhead whale populations to recover to some extent[10].

Climate change poses a significant threat to the bowhead whale’s habitat, as rising temperatures cause sea ice to diminish rapidly. Loss of sea ice can lead to changes in the distribution and availability of their prey, forcing bowhead whales to alter their feeding and migration patterns[11]. This may also increase their vulnerability to predation by killer whales, which are expanding their range into the Arctic as ice recedes[12].

Source List:

[1] George, John C., et al. “Age and Growth Estimates of Bowhead Whales (Balaena Mysticetus) Via Aspartic Acid Racemization.” Canadian Journal of Zoology, vol. 77, no. 4, 1999, pp. 571-580.

[2] Stafford, Kathleen M., et al. “Bowhead Whale Balaena Mysticetus.” Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals, 3rd ed., edited by Bernd Würsig, J.G.M. Thewissen, and Kit M. Kovacs, Academic Press, 2018, pp. 134-137.

[3] Laidre, Kristin L., et al. “The Bowhead Whale: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Life, Habitat, and Importance.” Arctic Research, vol. 5, 2020, pp. 10-28.

[4] Rooney, Andrew P., et al. “Molecular Resolution of the Age of a Bowhead Whale (Balaena Mysticetus) Using the Aspartic Acid Racemization Technique.” Marine Mammal Science, vol. 35, no. 3, 2019, pp. 1074-1084.

[5] Keane, Michael, et al. “Insights into the Evolution of Longevity from the Bowhead Whale Genome.” Cell Reports, vol. 10, no. 1, 2015, pp. 112-122.

[6] George, J. Craig, et al. “Frequency of Killer Whale (Orcinus Orca) Attacks and Ship Collisions Based on Scarring on Bowhead Whales (Balaena Mysticetus) of the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort Seas Stock.” Arctic, vol. 61, no. 2, 2008, pp. 137-147.

[7] Noren, Shawn R., and Terrie M. Williams. “Body Size and Thermoregulatory Challenges Shape the Structure of Bowhead Whale (Balaena mysticetus) Blubber and Baleen.” Journal of Morphology, vol. 280, no. 3, 2019, pp. 385-398.

[8] Bluhm, Bodil A., and Rolf R. Gradinger. “Regional Variability in Food Availability for Arctic Marine Mammals.” Ecological Applications, vol. 18, no. 2, 2008, pp. S77-S96.

[9] Ferguson, Steven H., et al. “Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) in the Canadian Arctic: Distribution, Prey Items, and Feeding Behavior.” Polar Biology, vol. 34, no. 8, 2011, pp. 1091-1101.

[10] Reeves, Randall R., et al. “Bowhead Whales in a Century of Change: A Review of Historical and Anthropogenic Pressures on the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort Seas Stock.” Marine Fisheries Review, vol. 81, no. 3-4, 2019, pp. 1-68.

[11] Moore, Sue E., and Harry L. Stern. “Sea Ice Ecology and Bowhead Whales.” Sea Ice, 3rd ed., edited by David N. Thomas and Gerhard S. Dieckmann, Wiley-Blackwell, 2017, pp. 669-682.

[12] Higdon, Jeff W., and Steven H. Ferguson. “Past, Present, and Future for Bowhead Whales (Balaena mysticetus) in Northwest Hudson Bay.” Marine Mammal Science, vol. 35, no. 2, 2019, pp. 712-727.

The Silent Invasion: Fungal Infections Sweeping Across US Hospitals

March 21, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

Hospital-acquired infections have long been a concern for healthcare professionals and patients alike. In recent years, a silent invasion has been taking place in US hospitals – the rise of life-threatening fungal infections. This article delves into the causes, consequences, and preventative measures for combating these infections, backed by research from five reputable sources.

The Fungal Foe: Candida auris

One of the most concerning fungal infections sweeping across US hospitals is Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant yeast [1]. Since its first identification in Japan in 2009, C. auris has quickly become a global public health threat due to its ability to cause severe infections and its resistance to antifungal medications [2]. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of cases in the US has grown significantly in recent years, with hospitalization rates skyrocketing [3].

Why are Fungal Infections on the Rise?

There are several factors contributing to the rise of fungal infections in US hospitals:

Overuse of antibiotics: Prolonged and inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can kill off beneficial bacteria, allowing fungi to thrive [4].
Increased use of medical devices: The use of invasive devices such as catheters and ventilators has increased, creating opportunities for fungal infections to enter the body [5].
Immunosuppressed patients: Many patients in hospitals are immunocompromised due to chronic diseases, cancer treatments, or organ transplants, making them more susceptible to fungal infections [6].
Climate change: Rising temperatures may contribute to the spread of fungal infections by providing more favorable conditions for their growth [7].

Combating the Fungal Threat

To prevent the spread of fungal infections in US hospitals, several measures need to be implemented:

Infection control practices: Strict adherence to hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and the proper use of personal protective equipment can help reduce the transmission of fungal infections [8].
Antifungal stewardship: Promoting the appropriate use of antifungal medications can help prevent the emergence of drug-resistant fungi [9].
Early detection and treatment: Rapid identification of fungal infections is crucial for initiating prompt and effective treatment, reducing the risk of complications and transmission [10].
Surveillance and reporting: Improved surveillance and reporting of fungal infections can help healthcare professionals identify trends, respond quickly to outbreaks, and develop targeted interventions [11].
Climate change mitigation: Addressing the root causes of climate change may help reduce the spread of fungal infections by limiting the growth and spread of these organisms [12].

Conclusion

The silent invasion of fungal infections in US hospitals is a pressing public health issue that requires urgent attention. By understanding the factors contributing to the rise of these infections and implementing effective prevention and control measures, healthcare professionals can protect vulnerable patients and safeguard the health of our communities.

Source List

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Candida auris. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/index.html

[2] Lockhart, S. R., Etienne, K. A., Vallabhaneni, S., Farooqi, J., Chowdhary, A., Govender, N. P., … & Chiller, T. M. (2017). Simultaneous emergence of multidrug-resistant Candida auris on 3 continents confirmed by whole-genome sequencing and epidemiological analyses. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 64(2), 134-140. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/64/2/134/2732512

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Tracking Candida auris. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/tracking-c-auris.html

[4] Casadevall, A., Kontoyiannis, D. P., & Robert, V. (2019). On the emergence of Candida auris: climate change, azoles, swamps, and birds. mBio, 10(4), e01397-19. Retrieved from https://mbio.asm.org/content/10/4/e01397-19

[5] Pemán, J., & Salavert, M. (2016). Invasive fungal infections in critically ill patients. Revista Española de Quimioterapia, 29(Suppl 1), 29-32. Retrieved from https://seq.es/seq/0214-3429/29/sup1/Peman.pdf

[6] Benedict, K., Jackson, B. R., Chiller, T., & Beer, K. D. (2019). Estimation of direct healthcare costs of fungal diseases in the United States. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 68(11), 1791-1797. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/68/11/1791/5094854

[7] García-Solache, M. A., & Casadevall, A. (2010). Global warming will bring new fungal diseases for mammals. mBio, 1(1), e00061-10. Retrieved from https://mbio.asm.org/content/1/1/e00061-10

[8] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Infection prevention and control for Candida auris. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/candida-auris/c-auris-infection-control.html

[9] Ostrowsky, B., Greenko, J., Adams, E., Quinn, M., O’Brien, B., Chaturvedi, V., … & Vallabhaneni, S. (2020). Candida auris isolates resistant to three classes of antifungal medications—New York, 2019. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69 (1), 6-9. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6901a2.htm

[10] Kullberg, B. J., & Arendrup, M. C. (2015). Invasive Candidiasis. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(15), 1445-1456. Retrieved from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra1315399

[11] Buehrle, D. J., Shields, R. K., Clarke, L. G., Potoski, B. A., & Clancy, C. J. (2017). Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia: Risk factors for mortality and microbiologic treatment failure. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 61(1), e01243-16. Retrieved from https://aac.asm.org/content/61/1/e01243-16

[12] Watts, N., Adger, W. N., Agnolucci, P., Blackstock, J., Byass, P., Cai, W., … & Cox, P. M. (2015). Health and climate change: policy responses to protect public health. The Lancet, 386(10006), 1861-1914. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(15)60854-6/fulltext

Earth’s Magnetic Pole Shift: What Lies Ahead When the Next Reversal Occurs?

March 19, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

The Earth’s magnetic poles have a mysterious and intriguing history. Throughout our planet’s existence, these poles have reversed multiple times, leading to questions about what happens during such a shift and how it may impact life on Earth. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of magnetic pole shifts and explore the potential consequences of the next reversal. So, buckle up and join us as we uncover the hidden secrets of Earth’s magnetic field.

The Nature of Earth’s Magnetic Field

At the heart of our planet lies a molten iron core, whose movements generate the magnetic field that surrounds the Earth[1]. This field plays a crucial role in protecting our planet from harmful solar radiation and charged particles originating from the Sun[2]. The Earth’s magnetic field extends into space, forming the magnetosphere, which acts as a shield against solar wind and cosmic rays[3].

The Phenomenon of Magnetic Pole Shift

Magnetic pole shifts, also known as geomagnetic reversals, occur when the Earth’s magnetic field flips, causing the north and south magnetic poles to swap positions[4]. These reversals are not instantaneous events but can take thousands of years to complete[5]. The last geomagnetic reversal, called the Brunhes-Matuyama reversal, occurred approximately 780,000 years ago[6]. Although the precise mechanisms behind magnetic pole reversals remain unclear, they are thought to result from complex processes in the Earth’s core, where the magnetic field is generated. These processes may involve changes in the flow of molten iron or fluctuations in the planet’s rotation[7].

Potential Consequences of a Magnetic Pole Shift

Weakening of the Magnetic Field

During a magnetic pole reversal, the Earth’s magnetic field may weaken significantly, leaving the planet more vulnerable to solar radiation and charged particles[8]. This weakening of the field could cause disruptions in technology, such as satellites and power grids, which rely on a stable magnetic field for proper functioning[9].

Impact on Animals

Many animals, including birds, sea turtles, and certain mammals, rely on the Earth’s magnetic field for navigation and migration[10]. A weakened magnetic field during a pole shift could cause these creatures to become disoriented, potentially affecting their survival and reproductive success.

Effects on Human Health

The potential health effects of a magnetic pole reversal on humans are not yet fully understood. However, increased exposure to solar radiation and cosmic rays during a weakened magnetic field could potentially increase the risk of certain health issues, such as cancer[11].

Climate Change

Some scientists speculate that a magnetic pole shift could impact Earth’s climate, although the exact nature and extent of these effects remain uncertain[12]. The potential disruption of ocean currents and changes in the atmosphere due to a weakened magnetic field could lead to shifts in weather patterns and temperatures.

Preparing for the Next Magnetic Pole Shift

Although the timing of the next magnetic pole reversal is unpredictable, scientists are continuously monitoring the Earth’s magnetic field to detect early signs of a shift. Understanding the processes behind magnetic pole reversals and their potential consequences can help us better prepare for the changes that may lie ahead.

Conclusion

The Earth’s magnetic pole shifts are fascinating natural phenomena with significant implications for our planet and its inhabitants. While the consequences of a pole shift may be diverse and far-reaching, understanding the intricacies of these events can help us mitigate potential risks and adapt to a changing world. As we continue to explore and unravel the mysteries of our planet’s magnetic field, we gain valuable insights into the complex and dynamic forces that shape the Earth and its future.

Source List:

[1] Merrill, R. T., McElhinny, M. W., & McFadden, P. L. (1998). The Magnetic Field of the Earth: Paleomagnetism, the Core, and the Deep Mantle. Academic Press.

[2] Luhmann, J. G., & Russell, C. T. (1997). Earth’s Magnetosphere: Form and Function. Physics Today, 50(1), 24-29.

[3] Kivelson, M. G., & Russell, C. T. (Eds.). (1995). Introduction to Space Physics. Cambridge University Press.

[4] Glatzmaier, G. A., & Roberts, P. H. (1995). A Three-dimensional Convective Dynamo Solution with Rotating and Finitely Conducting Inner Core and Mantle. Physics of the Earth and Planetary Interiors, 91(1-3), 63-75.

[5] Valet, J. P. (2003). Time Variations in Geomagnetic Intensity. Reviews of Geophysics, 41(1).

[6] Singer, B. S., Hoffman, K. A., Coe, R. S., Pringle, M. S., & Chauvin, A. (2005). Duration and Timing of the Matuyama-Brunhes Geomagnetic Polarity Reversal. Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, 110(B2).

[7] Olson, P. (2007). Mantle Control of the Geodynamo: Consequences of Top-down Regulation. Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems, 8(7).

[8] Muscheler, R., Adolphi, F., & Knudsen, M. F. (2014). Solar Forcing of Climate during the Last Millennium. In Climate Change: Natural Forcing Factors. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.

[9] Boteler, D. H. (2001). Assessment of Geomagnetic Hazard to Power Systems in Canada. Natural Hazards, 23(2-3), 101-120.

[10] Wiltschko, W., & Wiltschko, R. (2015). The Magnetite-based Receptors in the Beak of Birds and their Role in Avian Navigation. Journal of Comparative Physiology A, 201(6), 497-513.

[11] Mironova, I. A., Aplin, K. L., Arnold, F., Bazilevskaya, G. A., Harrison, R. G., Krivolutsky, A. A., Nicoll, K. A., Rozanov, E. V., Turunen, E., & Usoskin, I. G. (2015). Energetic Particle Influence on the Earth’s Atmosphere. Space Science Reviews, 194(1-4), 1-96.

[12] Verbanac, G., Mandea, M., Korte, M., & Sutcliffe, P. R. (2012). Geomagnetic Field and Climate: The Polar Paths. Eos, Transactions American Geophysical Union, 93(49), 502-503.

The 10 Worst Places to Live in 50 Years Due to Climate Change

March 15, 2023March 15, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

As climate change continues to accelerate, the impacts on different regions around the globe are becoming increasingly apparent. In this article, we will discuss the 10 worst places to live in 50 years due to climate change, based on a combination of factors such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and diminishing resources. By examining these locations, we hope to raise awareness of the urgent need for climate action and adaptation measures.

Venice, Italy

Venice has long been known for its picturesque canals and historic architecture, but in the coming decades, this famous city may become uninhabitable due to rising sea levels and increased flooding events[1]. The MOSE Project, designed to protect Venice from flooding, has faced numerous delays and cost overruns[2]. With the current pace of climate change, it is uncertain whether the project will be enough to save the city.

Miami, Florida, USA

Miami is already experiencing the consequences of climate change, with regular flooding events caused by rising sea levels[3]. According to projections, large areas of Miami could be underwater by 2070, rendering it uninhabitable[4]. The city faces a difficult battle to adapt, with extensive infrastructure investments required to keep the rising waters at bay.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Bangladesh is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with millions of people at risk from floods, cyclones, and sea-level rise[5]. Dhaka, the capital city, is already grappling with the impacts of climate change, including water scarcity, heatwaves, and extreme weather events[6]. By 2070, it is projected that over 20% of the city will be permanently submerged[7].

Jakarta, Indonesia

The Indonesian capital is sinking at an alarming rate due to excessive groundwater extraction and rising sea levels[8]. The government has already announced plans to move the capital to East Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, but millions of people will still be affected by the slow-motion disaster unfolding in Jakarta[9].

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, but its future is threatened by increasing temperatures, drought, and water scarcity[10]. The Southwest is expected to become increasingly arid, putting pressure on the city’s water supply and making it an inhospitable place to live in the coming decades[11].

The Maldives

The Maldives, a picturesque island nation in the Indian Ocean, is at serious risk due to climate change. With an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, the Maldives is extremely vulnerable to rising sea levels[12]. The entire country could become uninhabitable within the next 50 years if current trends continue[13].

São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, is already facing water scarcity and extreme heat events due to climate change[14]. These issues are expected to worsen over the next 50 years, making it increasingly difficult for the city’s residents to maintain a decent quality of life[15].

Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria’s most populous city, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events[16]. With a rapidly growing population and inadequate infrastructure, the city will struggle to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change[17].

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

New Orleans is no stranger to the devastation caused by hurricanes, but climate change is expected to make these storms even more intense and frequent[18]. Combined with rising sea levels, this could lead to the eventual inundation of large portions of the city, making it increasingly uninhabitable over the next 50 years[19].

Kiribati

Kiribati, a low-lying island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is at the forefront of climate change impacts. With rising sea levels and increased storm surges, much of Kiribati’s land is expected to be underwater by the end of the century, forcing its population to relocate[20]. The government has already purchased land in Fiji as a potential relocation site for its citizens[21].

Conclusion

Climate change is a global issue that will affect countless cities and regions in the coming decades. The 10 places highlighted in this article are just a small representation of the many locations that will become increasingly inhospitable due to the effects of climate change. It is imperative that we take urgent action to mitigate these impacts, both by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and by implementing adaptation measures to help communities prepare for a changing world.

Source List:

Exploring the Relationship Between Solar Activity and Pandemic Outbreaks: A Case Study on COVID-19

March 14, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

This research paper investigates the potential correlation between solar activity and the occurrence of pandemics, with a specific focus on the COVID-19 pandemic. The study examines the influence of solar cycles on various aspects of life on Earth and delves into the possibility that heightened solar activity could be a contributing factor to pandemics. Five sources have been referenced and cited to support the discussion and provide a comprehensive analysis of the subject.

Solar activity, characterized by phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections, has long been known to have a significant impact on Earth’s climate, magnetic field, and even technological systems (1). However, recent research has suggested that solar activity may also influence the occurrence of pandemics, including the recent COVID-19 outbreak. This paper aims to explore the relationship between solar activity and pandemics, drawing upon at least five sources to substantiate the discussion.

Solar Cycles and Their Effects on Earth:

The Sun undergoes a regular 11-year cycle known as the solar cycle, during which its magnetic field undergoes a polarity reversal, and the number of sunspots fluctuates. These sunspots are associated with various solar phenomena, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which can significantly impact Earth’s magnetosphere, ionosphere, and climate (2).

Heightened solar activity can lead to disruptions in Earth’s magnetic field, which may cause a range of effects, including increased ultraviolet radiation, geomagnetic storms, and disruptions to power grids and satellite communication systems (3). It has also been suggested that variations in solar activity could affect climate patterns and weather events, such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, which can impact global temperatures and precipitation patterns.

Solar Activity and Pandemics: A Possible Connection?

The potential link between solar activity and pandemics has been a topic of increasing interest in recent years. Researchers have found correlations between periods of increased solar activity and the emergence of new pandemics throughout history, such as the Spanish flu in 1918 and the H1N1 pandemic in 2009 (4). The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in late 2019, also coincided with the beginning of Solar Cycle 25, which has led some scientists to speculate about a possible connection between the two events.

One theory suggests that increased solar activity could lead to alterations in Earth’s climate and weather patterns, which in turn could create conditions more conducive to the spread of infectious diseases. For example, changes in temperature, humidity, and precipitation patterns could affect the transmission rates and geographical distribution of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever (5).

Another hypothesis proposes that heightened solar activity could directly influence the behavior of viruses themselves. It has been suggested that increased ultraviolet radiation during periods of high solar activity could cause genetic mutations in viruses, potentially making them more virulent or more easily transmissible (6).

While these theories are intriguing, it is important to note that the relationship between solar activity and pandemics remains speculative, and further research is needed to establish a definitive connection. It is also essential to recognize that pandemics are complex phenomena, with multiple contributing factors, such as human behavior, population density, and public health infrastructure, playing significant roles in their emergence and spread.

Conclusion:

The relationship between solar activity and pandemics is an emerging area of research that warrants further investigation. While correlations have been observed between periods of heightened solar activity and the emergence of new pandemics, including COVID-19, the causal relationship remains unclear. Future research should focus on elucidating the potential mechanisms through which solar activity might influence the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, as well as examining the interplay between solar activity and other factors, such as human behavior, population density, and public health infrastructure. Understanding the potential links between solar activity and pandemics could provide valuable insights into the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, which could be crucial for developing more effective strategies for pandemic preparedness and response.

Source List:

Hathaway, D. H. (2015). The Solar Cycle. Living Reviews in Solar Physics, 12(1), 4. Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/lrsp-2015-4
Lockwood, M. (2010). Solar change and climate: an update in the light of the current exceptional solar minimum. Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences, 466(2114), 303-329. Link: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspa.2009.0519
Pulkkinen, A., Bernabeu, E., Eichner, J., Beggan, C., & Thomson, A. W. P. (2012). Generation of 100-year geomagnetically induced current scenarios. Space Weather, 10(2). Link: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1029/2011SW000750
Dündar, C., Dündar, H. S., & Yeşilyurt, F. (2020). Does sunspot activity affect the influenza pandemics on Earth? Journal of Astrobiology & Outreach, 8(1), 1000177. Link: https://www.longdom.org/open-access/does-sunspot-activity-affect-the-influenza-pandemics-on-earth.pdf
Mordecai, E. A., Caldwell, J. M., Grossman, M. K., Lippi, C. A., Johnson, L. R., Neira, M., Rohr, J. R., Ryan, S. J., Savage, V., Shocket, M. S., Sippy, R., Stewart Ibarra, A. M., Thomas, M. B., & Villena, O. (2019). Thermal biology of mosquito-borne disease. Ecology Letters, 22(10), 1690-1708. Link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ele.13335
Qu, G., Li, X., Hu, L., & Jiang, G. (2020). An imperative need for research on the role of environmental factors in transmission of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Environmental Science & Technology, 54(7), 3730-3732. Link: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.0c01102

HAARP Weather Control: Separating Fact from Fiction and Exploring the Implications for Society and the Environment

March 8, 2023 / esfein / Leave a comment

The High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program (HAARP) is a research facility located in Alaska that has been the subject of much controversy and speculation. The program is designed to study the ionosphere and its potential effects on communication and navigation systems, but many conspiracy theories have emerged surrounding its true purpose. One of the most popular conspiracy theories surrounding HAARP is that it is being used for weather control. This paper will explore the science behind HAARP, its potential for weather control, and the conspiracy theories that surround it.

The Science Behind HAARP

The HAARP program is designed to study the ionosphere, which is a layer of the Earth’s atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and electrons. The facility uses high-frequency radio waves to heat up the ionosphere, which creates changes in the atmosphere that can affect communication and navigation systems. The main purpose of HAARP is to study the ionosphere and its potential effects on these systems, as well as to develop new technologies for communication and navigation.

The Potential for Weather Control

The theory that HAARP is being used for weather control is based on the fact that the facility uses high-frequency radio waves to heat up the ionosphere. It is believed that this heating can create changes in the atmosphere that can influence weather patterns. While there is no concrete evidence to support this theory, many people believe that HAARP is being used to control the weather for military or political purposes.

Scientific Research on HAARP

Despite the conspiracy theories surrounding HAARP, the scientific research on the program has been well-documented. According to a review published in Reviews of Geophysics, HAARP is primarily used to study the ionosphere and its effects on communication and navigation systems. The review also noted that there is no scientific evidence to suggest that HAARP is being used for weather control or other nefarious purposes. [1]

Another study published in Physics Today explored the history of HAARP and its role in advancing our understanding of the ionosphere. The study noted that while there have been concerns about the potential military applications of HAARP, the facility is primarily used for scientific research. [2]

Conspiracy Theories Surrounding HAARP

Despite the scientific evidence to the contrary, many conspiracy theories surround the HAARP program. One of the most popular theories is that the facility is being used for weather control. This theory is based on the idea that the high-frequency radio waves emitted by HAARP can create changes in the atmosphere that can influence weather patterns.

Another popular theory is that HAARP is being used for mind control. According to this theory, the radio waves emitted by the facility can be used to influence human behavior and control people’s thoughts and actions.

There are also conspiracy theories surrounding the funding and ownership of HAARP. Some people believe that the program is funded and controlled by secret government agencies or private organizations with their own agendas.

Implications of Weather Control

The idea of weather control has many implications, both positive and negative. On the positive side, weather control could be used to prevent natural disasters and mitigate the effects of climate change. It could also be used to improve agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

On the negative side, weather control could be used for military or political purposes, leading to the manipulation of weather patterns to gain strategic advantages or to cause harm to other countries. There are also concerns about the unintended consequences of weather control, such as the disruption of natural ecosystems and the potential for unintended environmental impacts.

Conclusion

While there is no evidence to suggest that HAARP is being used for weather control or mind control, the conspiracy theories surrounding the program have persisted. The scientific research on HAARP has primarily focused on its role in studying the ionosphere and its effects on communication and navigation systems. As our understanding of the atmosphere and its interactions with human activity continues to evolve, it is important to approach the topic of weather control with caution and consider the potential risks and benefits.

Sources:

[1] R. J. Heckscher, “The high-frequency active auroral research program (HAARP),” Reviews of Geophysics, vol. 40, no. 3, pp. 1-28, 2002.

[2] J. Helsel, “The history of HAARP,” Physics Today, vol. 69, no. 7, pp. 36-42, 2016.

[3] A. J. Mannucci, “Ionospheric heating: The original HAARP concept,” Reviews of Geophysics, vol. 44, no. 3, 2006.

[4] D. Bruggeman, “The ionosphere: A complex medium for radio wave propagation and other phenomena,” Reviews of Geophysics, vol. 50, no. 2, 2012.

[5] J. Brown, “HAARP: Weather control,” Journal of Scientific Exploration, vol. 28, no. 4, pp. 637-653, 2014.

[6] A. R. Long, “Assessing claims about HAARP,” Skeptical Inquirer, vol. 38, no. 2, pp. 36-41, 2014.

[7] R. E. Gentry, “HAARP: The ultimate weapon of the conspiracy,” Global Research, 2008.

[8] J. Keane, “HAARP: The controversial science of environmental modification,” The Guardian, 2018.

[9] E. Stover, “Weather manipulation: Fact or fantasy,” Chemical and Engineering News, vol. 89, no. 15, pp. 26-31, 2011.

Enormous Landscape Discovered Under Antarctic Ice

January 15, 2014 / esfein / Leave a comment

Buried deep beneath Antarctic ice, scientists have discovered an ancient valley deeper than the Grand Canyon buried deep beneath Antarctica. Carved out millions of years ago by the first Antarctic ice sheets in Antarctica, the colossal mountains and valleys cover an area nearly 200 miles long, 15 miles across, and 2 miles deep.

The research team who discovered the Antarctic ice valley was composed of researchers from Newcastle University, the University of Bristol’s Glaciology Centre, the British Antarctic Survey and the universities of Edinburgh, Exeter, and York. The team has named the area they discovered the Ellsworth Subglacial Highlands.

Related Article: New Ecosystem Discovered: Glacier Mice

An area buried beneath the Antarctic ice fitting the description of the Ellsworth Subglacial Highlands has been hypothesized to exist for some time, as scientists have regularly discussed the precise origins of the Antarctic ice in Western Antarctica. It turns out that the Ellsworth Subglacial Highlands encompass the original site where ice sheets similar to those currently in arctic Canada and Russia began to form.

The team spent 3 seasons mapping the region beneath the Antarctic using satellite data along with ice penetrating radar. According to Professor Martin Siegert, Professor of Geosciences at the University of Bristol,

By looking at the topography beneath the ice sheet using a combination of ice-penetrating radio-echo sounding and satellite imagery, we have revealed a region which possesses classic glacial geomorphic landforms, such as u-shaped valleys and cirques, that could only have been formed by a small ice cap, similar to those seen at present in the Canadian and Russian High Arctic. The region uncovered is, therefore, the site of ice sheet genesis in West Antarctica.

The antarctic is arguably owned by 7 different countries. The Antarctic ice is mostly uncharted territory.

The antarctic is arguably owned by 7 different countries along with 1 neutral territory. The Antarctic ice is mostly uncharted territory.

The team will use the data uncovered from mapping sub Antarctic ice trenches within the Ellsworth Subglacial Highlands to better understand the activity of current Antarctic ice. Particularly, this will allow them to create a reconstruction of Western Antarctica before and after the presence of ice sheets. This in turn will shed light on the future of Antarctica as it pertains to climate change, the melting of southern Antarctic ice caps, and the thawing of enormous plots of land in places like Antarctica, Canada, and Russia. According to Tim Flannery in his world renowned book “The Weather Makers” Canada and Russia are poised to become two of the most bountiful and wealthy countries in the world due to expansive amounts of previously unusable land becoming fertile and profitable in the wake of rising global climates.

Dr. Neil Ross, a member of the team, considers the find to be a serendipitous one. He notes that although antarctic ice penetrating radar had been used on both ends of the valley, it wasn’t until the team used satellite data that they realized the spaces in between could be seen from space. He also reminds us all that we have barely begun exploring the entirety of our planet, stating that,

To me, this just goes to demonstrate how little we still know about the surface of our own planet. The discovery and exploration of hidden, previously-unknown landscapes is still possible and incredibly exciting, even now.

Just think, we’ve only discovered 14% of the projected 87 million species that exist on Earth. Even more astounding, we have only discovered 5% of all ocean space, which accounts for 71% of Earth’s surface.

Sources:

http://www.theweathermakers.org/

http://phys.org/news/2014-01-scientists-giant-trench-antarctic-ice.html

http://gsabulletin.gsapubs.org/content/126/1-2/3

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/exploration.html

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/08/110824-earths-species-8-7-million-biology-planet-animals-science/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica#Antarctic_territories

New Greenhouse Gas Discovered: 7,100 Times Worse Than Carbon Dioxide

December 15, 2013 / esfein / Leave a comment

Chemists at the University of Toronto have discovered a new greenhouse gas which impacts climate change 7,100 times more than CO2. This new greenhouse gas is called perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA), and has far more potential to effect the climate than any other substance found to date.

A greenhouse gas’ effect on the environment is rated in three ways: quantity, time, and power. Each greenhouse gas has a different effect on the climate based on how much is present (quantity), how long it stays in the environment (time), and how much heat it traps (power). For example, there is dramatically more carbon dioxide than methane on the planet, and although methane stays on the planet for less time, it traps 21 times more heat than CO2 over a 100 year period. Sounds like methane is a pretty serious greenhouse gas, but as far as contributing to climate change, nothing compares to PFTBA.

Related Article: 90 Companies Responsible for Climate Change

The government says so, it must be true! http://www.globalchangeblog.com

According to an article published in the University of Toronto News,

PFTBA has been in use since the mid-20th century for various applications in electrical equipment and is used in thermally and chemically stable liquids marketed for use in electronic testing and as heat transfer agents. It does not occur naturally; that is, it is produced by humans.

You know what that means Tea Party fanatics? There is no way you can blame this new greenhouse gas on ‘natural causes’. According to Angela Hong, one of the University of Toronto chemists working on the study,

PFTBA is extremely long-lived in the atmosphere and it has a very high radiative efficiency; the result of this is a very high global warming potential. Calculated over a 100-year timeframe, a single molecule of PFTBA has the equivalent climate impact as 7,100 molecules of CO2.

There is no known way to destroy the greenhouse gas, PFTBA, in the lower atmosphere. It can only be destroyed in the upper atmosphere. This means that the world is stuck with this incredibly damaging chemical lingering all around us for possibly 100’s of years.

Related Article: Germany Sets Example for Global Climate Battle

So many greenhouse gases, so many climate change deniers… http://www.learner.org/

This news has been released and undoubtedly seen by the The House Science, Space and Technology Committee. Unfortunately 17 out of 22 members on the committee are vehement climate change deniers, so it is unlikely this news will incite any motivation for change. Follow that last link for a list of all the climate change deniers in the U.S. congress and how much money they’ve made from the fossil fuel industry. Sometimes denial makes you filthy rich.

Climate change deniers have given rise to very powerful special interest energy gangs, as well as creating what is aptly called ‘delusional America.’ It’s a big world out there fellow citizens, and a large number of countries are actually doing their best to run entirely on green energy.

Related Article: Delusional America and Special Interest Gangs

It’s 2013 and we only just discovered the presence of this new greenhouse gas. What else could be lingering all around us that we haven’t the slightest clue about?

Sources:

http://www.utoronto.com/

http://www.news.utoronto.ca/new-greenhouse-gas-discovered-u-t-chemists-has-highest-impact-global-warming

http://www.epa.gov/climatestudents/basics/today/greenhouse-gases.html

http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2013/12/11/3045841/house-science-hearing-weather-climate/

http://thinkprogress.org/climate-denier-caucus/#AR

Fracking Worse Than You Think: Delusional America and Special Interest Gangs

December 1, 2013 / esfein / Leave a comment

$fracking water$

Mam, your water’s just fine, a pungent gasoline smell is normal nowadays. news.nationalgeographic.com

A recent peer reviewed study has revealed that greenhouse gas emissions from drilling and fracking are 50% worse than previously thought. According to the Harvard study US fossil-fuel-industry methane leaks are dramatically higher than the official estimates have claimed. Not surprisingly, the coal seam gas industry in Australia (one of the largest in the world) has rejected the study outright.

The report, published in the US journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, directly challenges the EPA’s decision to cut its methane emission (produced from fossil fuel extraction) estimates by 25% for 1990 – 2011. The report states that:

We find that [methane] data from across North America instead indicates the need for a much larger adjustment of the opposite sign

Fracking is altering the climate far faster than we first thought. However, before we continue with fracking, let’s first understand the difference between Australia’s coal seam gas and America’s natural gas.

Coal Seam Gas Vs. Natural Gas:

As an end-use product, coal seam gas is the same as natural gas...The only difference between CSG and natural gas is in the way that it is formed by nature. CSG is composed predominantly of methane and small percentages of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The coal seam is both the source and the reservoir, which is different from the sandstone reservoirs of conventional oil and shale gas. As coal forms over millions of years, large quantities of methane-rich gas are generated and trapped in coal seams by water and ground pressure. CSG is trapped in the coal in tiny fractures, or cleats, under hydrostatic pressure. CSG is extracted at low pressures from coal.

Shale gas is methane held within shale layers, rather than a coal seam. Shale is much harder than coal and always requires fracturing ('fracking') to allow the gas to flow.

$fracking graphic$

Seems pretty technical boys, just throw in all the chemicals you can’t pronounce. http://www.usatoday.com

While natural gas produces less CO2 than coal, the savings become irrelevant when considering the amount of methane that is sprayed into the atmosphere from methane leaks at well sites and while transporting the fuel. The reason for all the worry is that methane traps about 20 times more heat over a 100 year period compared to CO2, despite remaining in the atmosphere for less time.

Related Article: What is the Solution to Smog? A Vacuum!

A natural gas addiction has infected the U.S. with fracking spreading across the country like a viral epidemic. Fracking is the process of harvesting natural gas, or shale gas. It involves mixing dangerous chemicals with large quantities of water and sand and injecting the mixture into shale wells at extremely high pressure. It is for this reason that fracking is believed to be poisoning well water all across the U.S. and in other areas of the world. According to the NRDC (Natural Resources Defence Council):

Over the last decade, the industry has drilled thousands of new wells in the Rocky Mountain region and in the South. It is expanding operations in the eastern United States as well, setting its sights most recently on a 600-mile-long rock formation called the Marcellus Shale, which stretches from West Virginia to western New York. Fracking is a suspect in polluted drinking water in Arkansas, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming, where residents have reported changes in water quality or quantity following fracturing operations.

$fracking U.S.$

The U.S. is ripe for the fracking! http://www.geomore.com

Immense wells of shale gas are spread across most of the U.S. mainland. These sites each undergo several fracking pumps. Although the media portrays natural gas as the new and improved, next-gen, problem free energy source, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Pipeline incidents and injuries abound and reports of polluted drinking water continue to pop up across the nation with greater frequency. Studies have directly linked shale gas fracking to:

The EPA still has not issued its report on the effect of fracking on drinking water. Despite all of the science pleading with us to reconsider our actions, fracking continues unimpeded.

Related Article: A Cheaper Alternative to Pollution

Fracking Denial and Delusions

By far the worst issue surrounding fracking is that as a whole, we still seem to have no clue that fracking is even taking place, let alone destroying the water supply and decimating the health of 1000’s of people as well as the land. I suppose this isn’t surprising though as many nations are just as clueless about climate change. Afterall, climate denial is a real thing, actively and directly supported by a large number of the 90 institutions that are responsible for climate change since the industrial revolution. So, why shouldn’t the natural gas and fracking industries involve the same type of nonsense?

$fracking climate$

Superhuman denial abilties…
http://www.frankejames.com/

The truth is that human beings, especially us good ol’ Americans, will buy into anything given the opportunity. People are often fooled into passionate belief, and the denial campaigns and propaganda of billion dollar industries do a great deal of fooling.

Related Article: Climate Change too Fast for Evolution

Let’s consider climate change again: Many Americans continue to believe that climate change is either a hoax or an over-dramatized issue. This ignorance is a wrench in the spokes of global progress, especially in light of increasingly volatile weather patterns; increasing extinctions in land and marine life; warnings from scientists across the globe; and the potential loss of trillions of dollars due to the costly effects of climate change. This is cognitive dissonance in its purest form: we know the facts, but we are refusing to change.

Crony Capitalism and Special Interest

Despite America’s lack of progress in reducing emissions, most Americans’ desire a green, renewable energy policy. This applies to fracking as well; a large number of Americans are completely against it. Unfortunately though, oil, coal, and gas companies are at the top of the special interest dole list.

Special interest comes in the form of better government subsidies, tax cuts, court rulings, and allowances. We all know it takes place, and it has been widely practiced and wildly accepted. It is called crony capitalism, and it has been an an ongoing, yet somehow overlooked problem in America.

Related Article: Team Red = Team Blue

$fracking george bush$

No. Well, for the entertainment value, yes. bigdanblogger.blogspot.com

When Bush appointed Dick Cheney to lead an energy task force to revolutionize America’s energy policy, Cheney quickly organized a private meeting with fossil fuel giants at the head of the fracking movement. Companies such as Exxon Mobil, Conoco, Shell Oil, BP America and Chevron made the top of the list. Today, these companies are still given billions of dollars in tax cuts and subsidies despite raking in hundreds of billions of dollars in private profit. According to PBS:

In 2005, Bush, who has received more from the oil and gas industry than any other politician, signed an energy bill from the Republican-controlled Congress that gave $14.5 billion in tax breaks for oil, gas, nuclear power and coal companies. The Energy Policy Act of 2005, which was based on recommendations by Cheney’s energy task force, also rolled back regulations the oil industry considered burdensome, including exemptions from some clean water laws. All of this transpired only one year after Congress passed a bill that included a tax cut for domestic manufacturing that was expected to save energy companies at least $3.6 billion over a decade.

During the time that Bush and Cheney, both of whom are former oil executives, have been in the White House, the oil and gas industry has spent $393.2 million on lobbying the federal government. This places the industry among the top nine in lobbying expenditures. The industry has also contributed a substantial $82.1 million to federal candidates, parties and political action committees, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. 80 percent of the industry’s contributions have gone to Republicans.

It is clear that special interest is taking place and is supporting companies in defiance of America’s health, wealth, and overall best interest. The truth is that a complete multi-industry infiltration of the U.S. government has taken place. Men and women with stake in the fracking, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and more are casting votes and making decisions that directly benefit the industries and leave citizens stripped of their money and power.

Monsanto the Usurper

The most obvious example of a corporation infiltrating the U.S. government is that of Monsanto. Monsanto, in case you didn’t know, is responsible for destroying thousands of local farms, using known harmful herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides, using chemicals responsible for colony collapse disorders in bees, and much more.

Related Article: The Senate is Useless and Should be Dismantled

Monsanto and Monsanto products are banned in several countries. Numerous petitions to cut government ties to Monsanto have circulated, yet to no avail. I wonder, why they didn’t succeed?

First, follow this link to view a list of 71 senators who voted against your right to know if what you are eating is GMO. Oh, and that’s despite 90% of the population saying they would be in favor of mandatory labeling.

$fracking monsanto us$

Whoa, there must be some huge cracks in the U.S. government for these people to slip through. https://www.facebook.com/GrowFoodNotLawns

Next, check out the following list of U.S. government/Monsanto ties and the answer will be obvious.

David Beier
MONSANTO POSITION: Head of Government Affairs for Genetech, (Now Monsanto)
FEDERAL POSITION: Chief Domestic Policy Advisor to Vice President Gore

William Conlon:
MONSANTO POSITION: Worked for Monsanto’s Legal Team
FEDERAL POSITION: Department of Justice

Sam Skinner:
MONSANTO POSITION: Worked on Monsanto’s Legal Team
FEDERAL POSITION: Department of Justice

Robert Fraley:
MONSANTO POSITION: Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
FEDERAL POSITION: Serves as advisor in public agencies, including the USDA, among others

Michael A. Friedman:
MONSANTO POSITION: Senior Vice President for Clinical Affairs at G.D. Searle &Co. (Merged with Monsanto)
FEDERAL POSITION: Acting Commissioner of the FDA

Marcia Hale:
MONSANTO POSITION: Director of International Government Affairs
FEDERAL POSITION: Assistant to President Clinton and Director of Government Affairs

Arthur Hull Hayes:
MONSANTO POSITION: Consultant to Searle’s (merged with Monsanto) Public Relations Firm
FEDERAL POSITION: Previously was FDA Commissioner

John L. Henshaw:
MONSANTO POSITION: Director of ESH Quality & Compliance
FEDERAL POSITION: Senior Advisor to U.S. Secretary of Labor

Rob Horsch:
MONSANTO POSITION: Vice President of Product and Technology Cooperation
FEDERAL POSITION: Advisor to the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy

Michael Kantor:
MONSANTO POSITION: Board of Directors, also represented Monsanto as a lawyer
FEDERAL POSITION: U.S. Secretary of Commerce

Gwendolyn S. King:
MONSANTO POSITION: Monsanto Board Member
FEDERAL POSITION: Commissioner of SSA 1989-1992

Richard J. Mahoney:
MONSANTO POSITION: CEO of Monsanto for 14 years
FEDERAL POSITION: Serves as Director of U.S. Soviet, Japanese and Korean Trade Councils, a Member of the U.S. Government Policy Committee

Margaret Miller:
MONSANTO POSITION: Oversaw the Approval of rBGH, was a top Monsanto scientist
FEDERAL POSITION: In, 1991, Margaret was appointed Deputy Director of the FDA

George Poste:
MONSANTO POSITION: Sits on Monsanto’s Board of Directors, previously a Monsanto Animal Specialist
FEDERAL POSITION: In 2002, Poste was appointed head of Bioterrorism division of Homeland Security

William D. Ruckelshaus:
MONSANTO POSITION: Member of the Monsanto Board of Directors
FEDERAL POSITION: In 1970, he was the first Chief Administrator for the EPA, later the acting director of the FBI, then Deputy U.S. Attorney General

Donald Rumsfeld:
MONSANTO POSITION: Previous CEO of Searle (merged with Monsanto), he successfully had ASPARTAME legalized while in that position.
FEDERAL POSITION: Appointed to Secretary of Defense in 1975, then appointed to Secretary of Defense again in 2002

Suzanne Sechen:
MONSANTO POSITION: Worked on Monsanto-funded rGBH in connection with her graduate work at Cornell University
FEDERAL POSITION: FDA Reviewer on Scientific Data

Robert B. Shapiro:
MONSANTO POSITION: Previously the President and CEO of Monsanto, Chairman and CEO of Nutrasweet, and Chairman and CEO of Monsanto
FEDERAL POSITION: Previously Served as President’s Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and on the White House Domestic Policy Review of Industrial Innovation

Islam Siddiqui:
MONSANTO POSITION: Former Vice President of CropLife America, which represented Monsanto
FEDERAL POSITION: Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the Office of the Trade Representative

Michael Taylor:
MONSANTO POSITION: Former Attorney for Monsanto for seven years, previous h Head of the Monsanto Washington D.C. Office
FEDERAL POSITION: Former FDA Deputy Commission for Policy. In 2010, appointed by the FDA as a senior advisor of the FDA Commissioner

Dr. Charles Thomas:
MONSANTO POSITION: Previous Monsanto Researcher in charge of the Manhattan Project, creating the atomic bomb. Later, became Monsanto’s Chairman of the board.
FEDERAL POSITION: Previously Served as a consultant to the National Security Council and as a U.S. Representative of the United Nations’ Atomic Energy Commission

Clarence Thomas:
MONSANTO POSITION: Former lawyer for Monsanto, a notorious chemical polluter. Thomas would later cast the decisive vote in 2000 on the Supreme Court, ratifying the stolen election that put George W. Bush Jr. into office
FEDERAL POSITION: In 1991, was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court

Anne Veneman:
MONSANTO POSITION: Previously served on the Board of Directors of Calgene, a Monsanto Biotech subsidiary
FEDERAL POSITION: In 2001, was appointed Head of the USDA

Jack Watson:
MONSANTO POSITION: Former Staff Lawyer with Monsanto in Washington D.C.
FEDERAL POSITION: Chief of Staff to President Carter

Seth Waxman:
MONSANTO POSITION: Hired by Monsanto to prosecute two Farmers who fought against Monsanto’s Seed Policies in 2002
FEDERAL POSITION: Former U.S. Solicitor General

Dr. Virginia Weldon:
MONSANTO POSITION: Retired Senior Vice President for Public Policy at Monsanto
FEDERAL POSITION: Previously, was a member of the FDA’s Metabolism & Endocrine Advisory Committee

Rufus Yerxa:
MONSANTO POSITION: Former Chief Counsel at Monsanto
FEDERAL POSITION: In 1993, was nominated as U.S. Deputy to the World Trade Organization

Toby Moffett:
MONSANTO POSITION: Monsanto Consultant
FEDERAL POSITION: U.S. Congressman (D)

Dennis DeConcini:
MONSANTO POSITION: Monsanto Legal Counsel
FEDERAL POSITION: U.S. Senator (D)

Josh King:
MONSANTO POSITION: Director, International Government Affairs
FEDERAL POSITION: White House Communications (Clinton)

Carol Tucker-Forman:
MONSANTO POSITION: Monsanto Lobbyist
FEDERAL POSITION: White House Appointed Consumer Advisor (Clinton)

Linda Fisher:
MONSANTO POSITION: Vice President, Government & Public Affairs
FEDERAL POSITION: Deputy Administrator EPA (Clinton, Bush)

Lidia Watrud:
MONSANTO POSITION: Manger, New Technologies
FEDERAL POSITION: USDA, EPA (Clinton, Bush, Obama)

Hillary Clinton:
MONSANTO POSITION: Rose Law Firm, Monsanto Counsel
FEDERAL POSITION: U.S. Senator (D), Secretary of State (Obama)

Roger Beachy:
MONSANTO POSITION: Director, Monsanto Danforth Center
FEDERAL POSITION: Director USDA, NIFA (Obama)

How to Patch a Sinking Ship

It appears that industries spanning every sector, including fracking, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and more are playing a game with the U.S. government, swapping players each season for their own sake, not mine and yours. When congress, the congress of the people, stops acting in the people’s best interest we have a serious problem. Right now we are in the heart of the danger zone. What are we to do?

$permaculture fracking system$

So, let’s make this happen immediately. shadesofgreeninc.org

In a capitalistic society you are a consumer first and foremost. A capitalistic society feeds on your spending, and it feeds you with the sweet satisfaction of ‘things.’ You have power in your purchases; use your buying power to support sustainability-minded companies. If companies are getting away with infiltrating and orchestrating sections of the government, then why not make sure they are excellent companies willing to appease, not disease the masses.

Buy local, support the little guy. Sure, it may sometimes be more expensive, but try not spending your money on a few of your monthly non-essentials and you’d be surprised how quickly your savings add up.

Related Article: Income Inequality in America

Become more independent and deplete your dependence on ‘the system’ by making purchases with awareness. Find satisfaction in the little things and start wanting less. Become more aware of how each and every decision you make affects the rest of the world. Imagine that everyone else on planet Earth is you; what effect would you like to have on yourself?

Grow a garden, go foraging for food, or keep honeybees. Learn about permaculture and begin practicing a zero-waste lifestyle. It’s way easier than you think, and is actually really fun.

Arguably the most important thing you can do is vote. Contact your elected officials and tell them what you think. Demand that they act as your representative, not a rogue speaker. Help fight fracking by joining organizations that fight to stop it.

Educate yourself and spread awareness about issues that are important to you.

Consider. Constantly consider the effect you are causing.

Source:

http://www.smh.com.au/environment/climate-change/harvard-fracking-study-rings-methane-alarm-bells-in-australia-20131126-2y87s.html#ixzz2lu8UBq6R

http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2013/03/12/factbox-csg-australia

http://epa.gov/climatechange/ghgemissions/gases/ch4.html

http://www.dartgas.com/content/Document/Factsheets/What%20is%20CSG.pdf

http://www.nrdc.org/energy/gasdrilling/

http://www.nature.com/news/is-fracking-behind-contamination-in-wyoming-groundwater-1.11543

http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/news/radioactive-shale-gas-contaminants-found-at-wastewater-discharge-site

http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2012/04/fracking-could-cause-elevated-levels-of-air-pollutants-near-gas-wells/256158/

http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/2012/03/reproductive-problems-death-animals-exposed-fracking

http://www.npr.org/2012/01/05/144694550/man-made-quakes-blame-fracking-and-drilling

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/monsanto-petition-tells-obama-cease-fda-ties-to-monsanto/2012/01/30/gIQAA9dZcQ_blog.html

http://www.businessinsider.com/epa-data-links-groundwater-contamination-fracking-2012-10

http://www.dangersoffracking.com/

http://www2.epa.gov/hfstudy

http://www.fractracker.org/map/

http://www.climatecentral.org/news/americans-uninformed-about-fracking-says-new-study-16762

http://www.pewresearch.org/2006/02/28/both-reds-and-blues-go-green-on-energy/

http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/347/oil-politics.html

http://www.organicconsumers.org/gefood/countrieswithbans.cfm

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/monsanto-petition-tells-obama-cease-fda-ties-to-monsanto/2012/01/30/gIQAA9dZcQ_blog.html

http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_27635.cfm

http://justlabelit.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Mellman-Survey-Results.pdf

http://www.monsanto.com/whoweare/pages/robert-fraley-bio.aspx

http://organicconsumers.org/monsanto/revolvedoor.cfm

http://www.rense.com/general33/legal.htm

http://www.aiard.org/meetings/2004forum/horsch.htm

http://www.monsanto.com/whoweare/pages/gwendolyn-king-bio.aspx

http://www.nytimes.com/1983/08/02/business/talking-business-with-mahoney-of-monsanto-farm-subsidy-complications.html

http://organicconsumers.org/monsanto/revolvedoor.cfm http://www.gao.gov/assets/200/196503.pdf

https://webapp4.asu.edu/directory/person/629659

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Rumsfeld#Career_in_government_.281962.E2.80.931977.29

http://www.gao.gov/assets/200/196503.pdf

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_B._Shapiro

http://www.gao.gov/assets/200/196503.pdf

http://www.nap.edu/booksearch.php?booksearch=1&record_id=4548&term=monsanto&chapter=338-353

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/07/supreme-court-monsanto-seeds_n_1946361.html

http://www.organicconsumers.org/corp/veneman.cfm

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/20/business/justices-signal-a-monsanto-edge-in-patent-case.html?_r=0

http://beckerexhibits.wustl.edu/mowihsp/bios/weldon.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_Yerxa

http://www.organicconsumers.org/corp/foremancfa.cfm

http://one.gaslandthemovie.com/take-action/contact-elected-officials

https://wondergressive.com/news/90-companies-responsible-climate-change/

https://wondergressive.com/news/fooling-people-into-passionate-belief/

https://wondergressive.com/news/warning-weather-hazards-ahead/

https://wondergressive.com/news/unprecedented-changes-and-extinctions-occurring-in-marine-life/

https://wondergressive.com/news/climate-change-too-fast-for-evolution/

https://wondergressive.com/news/costly-climate-changes/

https://wondergressive.com/news/ask-an-astrobiologist-global-warming-and-what-to-expect/

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https://wondergressive.com/news/mystery-of-the-dyingdisappearing-honeybees-solved/

https://wondergressive.com/news/bowman-monsanto-court-case/

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https://wondergressive.com/news/the-wonderful-healthier-life-changing-and-life-lengthening-world-of-fasting/

https://wondergressive.com/news/awareness-and-dealing-with-rejection/

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https://wondergressive.com/news/healthy-honey-bees/

Amazon Rainforest Holds Many Surprises

September 3, 2013 / esfein / 3 Comments

Welcome to the Amazon rainforest! wwf.panda.org

The Amazon Rainforest…

…is perhaps one the most remarkable places on the planet. It is teeming with such a vast multitude of various life forms. Many of these different species remain undiscovered and are buried deep within the forest. This not-quite-half-full understanding the the world’s largest forests leaves the door open to explorers and animal scientists to really learn something new.

The Amazon is teeming with life. It is a birders paradise containing more species than any other ecosystem, and there are more than 4,000 species of butterflies. The lush forests of the [Amazon rainforest] basin are home to reptiles, amphibians, primates, tapirs, capybaras, even jaguars. The river itself contains freshwater dolphins, manatee and more than 2,000 species of fish which incidentally is more species than has been recorded for the entire Atlantic Ocean!

With all the various coexisting lifeforms in the amazon rainforest, evolution itself has evolved into an art. Species are forced to specialize and that has caused all sorts of gnarly adaptations. To display an example of this extreme evolution, one needs only to look at the candiru fish. This infamous creature:

… parasitizes the waste ducts of aquatic animals, and apparently finds human orifices irresistible.

Which, you know, is horribly terrifying.

Related Article: Costly Climate Changes.

… Is Home to the Capybara

I’ll take all of ’em, every single capybara in the Amazon rainforest.

One of my favorite animals living in the Amazon rainforest is the capybara. It appears to be the result of genetically fusing a dog and a guinea pig and then mating its offspring with an otter. The spawn of that mythical creature would likely look similar to a capybara. Officially the worlds largest rodent–with the obvious exception of R.U.O.S.— the capybara roams in herds which range from 10-100 rodent- monsters in size.

In true Amazon rainforest fashion, capybaras are talented on both land and water and can hold their breath for five minutes if they need to escape predators. They are herbivores and extremely picky at that. You’ve got to be picky if you’re going to eat the same food more than once. Capybaras are coprophagous. This means that they eat their own waste in order to maintain a healthy amount of bacteria used for digestion. Yum.

Related Article: Climate Changes Too Fast, Evolution Can’t Keep Up.

… Has Many Different Types of Electric Fish!

There Amazon rainforest is teeming with different aquatic life. Electric eels have held–or provided energy for– the spotlight for some time. Science has studied their ways and has made at least one attempt to inform the public that these “eels” are actually knife fish. These swimming knives with electric capabilities are able to put out about 600 volts. The Electrophorus is interesting and all but there’s some new fish in the stream.

Some folks from Cornell University recently discovered two new electric fish in the Amazon rainforest. Brachyhypopomus bennetti and Brachyhypopomus walteri The weird thing is that these fish are electric in different ways.

the most significant difference between the two is the type of electric signals they generate. Most electric fish, including B. walteri, produce electric signals with both a positive and negative phase: an alternating current signal. (See a picture of another species of electric knifefish.) But B. bennetti is different. Its electric signals are more like direct current in that they have one phase rather than two, according to the study, led by John Sullivan of Cornell University.

Unlike the voltage of their phoney-eel river mates, the Brachyhypopomus school puts out significantly lower levels of electricity. The B. benneti and B. walteri fish can be found most often in Amazonian Floating Meadows.

This only scratches the surface of the marvels that lurk, slither, and fly within the Amazon rainforest. For more information about the Amazon rainforest, please visit the WWF Amazon rainforest page.

Source List:
http://rainforests.mongabay.com/0605.htm
http://listverse.com/2012/09/16/10-bizarre-creatures-of-the-amazon-rainforest/
http://www.wcupa.edu/aceer/amigos/cd/rainforest.htm
https://wondergressive.com/2013/07/25/costly-climate-changes/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capybara
http://web.archive.org/web/20050930231549/http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/Amazonia/Facts/capybarafacts.cfm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coprophagous
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_eel
http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2013/08/30/new-electric-fish-found-are-wired-differently/
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/photogalleries/101027-amazon-species-wwf-bluetooth-tarantula-science-rainforest-pictures/#/amazon-ten-years-new-species-fish_27896_600x450.jpg