- Manchester scientists have made a remarkable discovery of a novel one-dimensional superconductor, unlocking the quantum frontier
- 25th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
In a thrilling breakthrough in the realm of superconductivity, a team of researchers at The University of Manchester has achieved a stunning feat: robust superconductivity in high magnetic fields using a newly discovered one-dimensional (1D) system. This groundbreaking achievement paves the way for potential advancements in quantum technologies and opens doors to unexplored territories of condensed matter physics.
The research conducted by Professor Andre Geim, Dr Julien Barrier, and Dr Na Xin from Manchester University reveals their remarkable journey towards achieving superconductivity in the elusive quantum Hall regime. The quantum Hall regime, characterized by quantized electrical conductance, has long posed a formidable challenge to scientists seeking to harness its properties.
The initial attempts of the Manchester team followed the conventional path, bringing counterpropagating edge states into proximity with each other. However, these endeavors encountered limitations. Undeterred, the researchers adopted a new strategy inspired by their previous work on graphene domain boundaries, which demonstrated highly conductive properties. Leveraging this knowledge, they placed domain walls between two superconductors, achieving the ultimate proximity between counterpropagating edge states while minimizing the effects of disorder.
Dr. Barrier, lead author of the paper, explains the motivation behind their initial experiments, stating, "Our exploration stemmed from the persistent interest in proximity superconductivity induced along quantum Hall edge states. This notion has sparked numerous theoretical predictions regarding the emergence of enigmatic particles called non-abelian anyons."
To their astonishment, the Manchester team witnessed substantial supercurrents reaching temperatures as high as one Kelvin—a remarkable feat considering the extreme conditions of their experiments. Further investigation revealed that the proximity-induced superconductivity did not originate from the quantum Hall edge states along domain walls but rather from strictly one-dimensional electronic states within the domain walls themselves. These unique one-dimensional states confirmed to exist by the theory group of Professor Vladimir Fal'ko at the National Graphene Institute, exhibited a remarkable ability to hybridize with superconductivity, surpassing the capabilities of conventional quantum Hall edge states. The intrinsic one-dimensional nature of these interior states is believed to underpin the observed robust supercurrents in high magnetic fields.
The discovery of this new breed of single-mode one-dimensional superconductivity holds incredible promise for further research. Dr. Barrier elaborates, "In our devices, electrons propagate in two opposite directions within the same nanoscale space, without scattering. Such one-dimensional systems are exceedingly rare and hold the potential to address a wide range of problems in fundamental physics."
Building on their remarkable findings, the team has also demonstrated the ability to manipulate these electronic states using gate voltage, observing standing electron waves that modulate the superconducting properties. This exciting new system promises a bold future, with tantalizing potential for the realization of topological quasiparticles that combine the quantum Hall effect and superconductivity.
Dr. Xin concludes, "It is fascinating to contemplate the possibilities this novel system can offer. One-dimensional superconductivity presents an alternative pathway to realize topological quasiparticles, merging the quantum Hall effect and superconductivity. This is just one example of the vast potential held within our findings."
This groundbreaking research marks another significant stride forward in the field ofsuperconductivity, two decades after the advent of the first two-dimensional material, graphene, at The University of Manchester. With far-reaching implications for quantum technologies, this discovery of a novel one-dimensional superconductor promises to shape the future of scientific exploration, captivating the attention and interest of various scientific communities worldwide.
The esteemed National Graphene Institute (NGI), situated at The University of Manchester, stands as a global center of excellence for graphene and 2D material research. Established by Professors Sir Andre Geim and Sir Kostya Novoselov, who first isolated graphene in 2004, the NGI houses a community of specialists dedicated to transformative discoveries. Supported by cutting-edge facilities, including class 5 and 6 cleanrooms, the NGI possesses unparalleled capabilities for advancements in critical areas such as composites, energy, nanomedicine, membranes, and more.
As the scientific world eagerly awaits further revelations and explores the endless possibilities presented by this groundbreaking discovery, it is clear that the pioneering efforts of the Manchester team have propelled us toward new frontiers in quantum physics and held the potential to revolutionize a multitude of industries.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - AI software revolutionizes plant engineering to combat climate change
- 24th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
At Salk in La Jolla, researchers are collaborating to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to engineer plants that can help combat climate change. They are using a pioneering deep learning software called SLEAP to optimize plant root systems, which will capture and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This innovative research offers a promising solution to mitigate the impacts of global warming.
Originally developed for tracking animal movement, SLEAP has been repurposed by Salk Fellow Talmo Pereira and plant scientist Professor Wolfgang Busch to analyze plant root growth with extraordinary precision and efficiency. The scientists have unlocked a sophisticated tool to expedite the design of climate-saving plants by utilizing this state-of-the-art AI software. This is a pivotal endeavor advocated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to limit global temperature rise.
The study published in Plant Phenomics on April 12, 2024, introduced a new protocol for utilizing SLEAP to analyze various aspects of plant root systems. These include depth, mass, and angle of growth. The painstaking process of manually measuring these physical characteristics posed significant challenges and time constraints to researchers before the advent of SLEAP. The innovative combination of computer vision and deep learning incorporated within SLEAP has revolutionized this paradigm, enabling researchers to achieve accurate and rapid analysis of plant root features without the cumbersome, frame-by-frame manual labor required by previous AI models.
One of the most striking achievements resulting from the application of SLEAP to plants is the development of the most extensive catalog of plant root system phenotypes to date. This invaluable resource facilitates the identification of genes associated with specific root characteristics and elucidates the complex relationships between different root traits, providing crucial insights into the genes most beneficial for optimizing plant designs.
The transformative capabilities of SLEAP were further demonstratedthrough the creation of the sleap-roots toolkit, open-source software that empowers SLEAP to process biological traits of root systems. This toolkit not only expedited the analysis of plant images but also outperformed existing practices by annotating 1.5 times faster, training the AI model 10 times faster, and predicting plant structure on new data 10 times faster, all while maintaining or even improving accuracy.
By seamlessly connecting phenotype and genotype data, SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit are poised to revolutionize the efforts of Salk's Harnessing Plants Initiative to engineer plants with enhanced carbon-capturing capabilities and deeper, more robust root systems. These advancements hold the potential to accelerate the development of climate-resilient plants that can significantly mitigate the impacts of climate change.
SLEAP has not only positioned Salk as a trailblazer in plant engineering but has also garnered attention from scientists at NASA, reflecting the global impact and potential of this pioneering technology. With accessibility and reproducibility at the forefront of its design, SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit offer an invaluable resource to researchers worldwide, heralding a new era of plant engineering and environmental conservation.
As the collaborative team at Salk embarks on new frontiers, including the analysis of 3D data using SLEAP, the profound impact of this deep learning software on accelerating plant designs and shaping the future of climate change research is already palpable. The journey to refine, expand, and share SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit is poised to continue for years to come, cementing their vital role in advancing scientific endeavors and making a significant impact in the global fight against climate change.
This exploration of SLEAP's potential to engineer plants reflects a convergence of diverse disciplines, showcasing the remarkable potential of AI-led innovation in shaping a sustainable future and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to create profound and transformative scientific advancements.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - AI software revolutionizes plant engineering to combat climate change
- 24th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
At Salk in La Jolla, researchers are collaborating to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to engineer plants that can help combat climate change. They are using a pioneering deep learning software called SLEAP to optimize plant root systems, which will capture and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This innovative research offers a promising solution to mitigate the impacts of global warming.
Originally developed for tracking animal movement, SLEAP has been repurposed by Salk Fellow Talmo Pereira and plant scientist Professor Wolfgang Busch to analyze plant root growth with extraordinary precision and efficiency. The scientists have unlocked a sophisticated tool to expedite the design of climate-saving plants by utilizing this state-of-the-art AI software. This is a pivotal endeavor advocated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to limit global temperature rise.
The study published in Plant Phenomics on April 12, 2024, introduced a new protocol for utilizing SLEAP to analyze various aspects of plant root systems. These include depth, mass, and angle of growth. The painstaking process of manually measuring these physical characteristics posed significant challenges and time constraints to researchers before the advent of SLEAP. The innovative combination of computer vision and deep learning incorporated within SLEAP has revolutionized this paradigm, enabling researchers to achieve accurate and rapid analysis of plant root features without the cumbersome, frame-by-frame manual labor required by previous AI models.
One of the most striking achievements resulting from the application of SLEAP to plants is the development of the most extensive catalog of plant root system phenotypes to date. This invaluable resource facilitates the identification of genes associated with specific root characteristics and elucidates the complex relationships between different root traits, providing crucial insights into the genes most beneficial for optimizing plant designs.
The transformative capabilities of SLEAP were further demonstratedthrough the creation of the sleap-roots toolkit, open-source software that empowers SLEAP to process biological traits of root systems. This toolkit not only expedited the analysis of plant images but also outperformed existing practices by annotating 1.5 times faster, training the AI model 10 times faster, and predicting plant structure on new data 10 times faster, all while maintaining or even improving accuracy.
By seamlessly connecting phenotype and genotype data, SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit are poised to revolutionize the efforts of Salk's Harnessing Plants Initiative to engineer plants with enhanced carbon-capturing capabilities and deeper, more robust root systems. These advancements hold the potential to accelerate the development of climate-resilient plants that can significantly mitigate the impacts of climate change.
SLEAP has not only positioned Salk as a trailblazer in plant engineering but has also garnered attention from scientists at NASA, reflecting the global impact and potential of this pioneering technology. With accessibility and reproducibility at the forefront of its design, SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit offer an invaluable resource to researchers worldwide, heralding a new era of plant engineering and environmental conservation.
As the collaborative team at Salk embarks on new frontiers, including the analysis of 3D data using SLEAP, the profound impact of this deep learning software on accelerating plant designs and shaping the future of climate change research is already palpable. The journey to refine, expand, and share SLEAP and the sleap-roots toolkit is poised to continue for years to come, cementing their vital role in advancing scientific endeavors and making a significant impact in the global fight against climate change.
This exploration of SLEAP's potential to engineer plants reflects a convergence of diverse disciplines, showcasing the remarkable potential of AI-led innovation in shaping a sustainable future and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to create profound and transformative scientific advancements.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - University of Geneva researches a massive magnetic star eruption that is illuminating a nearby galaxy
- 24th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
A groundbreaking discovery has been made by the University of Geneva in a recent publication concerning the eruption of a mega-magnetic star that illuminated a neighboring galaxy. An international team of researchers, including UNIGE researchers, identified a rare cosmic phenomenon involving an extremely magnetic neutron star,known as a magnetar. The observational data was collected by the European Space Agency's (ESA) satellite, INTEGRAL, which detected a burst of gamma rays coming from the nearby galaxy M82. After the detection, the ESA's XMM-Newton X-ray space telescope was used to search for any afterglow from the explosion, but it yielded no results.
The automatic data processing system, particularly the IBAS (Integral Burst Alert System), provided a crucial automatic localization of the event coinciding with the galaxy M82, situated 12 million light-years away. The IBAS was developed and operated by scientific and engineering teams from the University of Geneva in collaboration with international partners. "One of the most striking aspects of this discovery is the rapid alert dissemination enabled by our automatic data processing system," stated Carlo Ferrigno, senior research associate at UNIGE's Astronomy Department. The system's ability to promptly localize such significant cosmic events is paramount in facilitating timely follow-up observations, as emphasized by the immediate request for XMM-Newton's follow-up observation post the gamma-ray burst detection.
This discovery signifies a milestone in the elucidation of these enigmatic cosmic phenomena as it marks the first confirmed instance of a magnetar flare outside our galaxy. "The search for additional magnetars in other extra-galactic star-forming regions is crucial to comprehending the frequency and mechanisms behind these flare events," added Volodymyr Savchenko, another senior research associate at UNIGE's Faculty of Science.
The INTEGRAL satellite played an invaluable role in this discovery, coupled with the sophisticated automatic data processing system, demonstrating the pioneering nature of the research conducted by the University of Geneva. As the inclusive collaboration of international researchers continues to unveil the mysteries of the universe, the inherent significance of advanced data processing systems in facilitating such discoveries remains undeniable. According to the researchers, this recent cosmic event sheds new light on the understanding of magnetars and neutron stars, providing crucial insights into the mechanisms governing these highly magnetic and energetic celestial bodies.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - Supercomputer simulations uncover the dynamics of undercurrent accelerating the melting of ice shelves
- 23rd Apr, 2024
- LATEST
New research conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Southampton, UK has provided new insights into the melting of floating sections of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet and how it contributes to rising global sea levels. The study, published in the prestigious journal Science Advances, sheds light on the mechanisms that drive the melting of ice shelves beneath the ocean's surface.
The West Antarctic Ice Sheet has been losing significant mass in recent decades, which has contributed to the global rise in sea levels. If the entire ice sheet melts, it could lead to a five-meter increase in sea levels worldwide. The study highlights the role played by the Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW) which is up to 4°C warmer than the local freezing temperatures and flows beneath the ice shelves in West Antarctica, causing them to melt from below. Since a significant portion of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet is below sea level, it is particularly vulnerable to the intrusion of this warm water, which could cause the ice to retreat further in the future.
The researchers used high-resolution simulations on supercomputers to investigate the complex dynamics of the undercurrent that transports the warm water towards the ice shelves. They discovered that when the warm CDW interacts with the ice shelf, it not only melts the ice but also mixes with the lighter, melted freshwater. As this mixed water rises through the water layers above, it spreads out and stretches the layer of CDW vertically, creating a swirling motion in the water. If a trough is present near the coast, this swirling motion carries the water away from the ice shelf cavity and toward the shelf's edge due to the movement of pressure within the fluid. This movement generates a current along the seafloor slope, directing more warm water towards the ice shelf. The underwater current originates slightly farther away from the ice shelf and intensifies as more ice melts, transporting even greater amounts of warm water toward the ice shelves.
Dr. Alessandro Silvano from the University of Southampton, coauthor of the study, emphasizes the significance of their findings, stating that "Scientific models that don't include the cavities under ice shelves are probably overlooking this positive feedback loop. Our results suggest it's an important factor that could affect how quickly ice shelves melt and how stable the West Antarctic Ice Sheet is over time."
The study highlights the critical role played by supercomputer simulations in advancing our understanding of climate-related phenomena and their implications for our planet's future. The research conducted by the international collaboration was made possible by support from the National Science Foundation and the Natural Environment Research Council. These groundbreaking findings offer invaluable insights into the current state of Antarctica's ice shelves and their susceptibility to further melting.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - AI tool predicts responses to cancer therapy using information from each cell of the tumor
- 18th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
A recent study conducted by researchers from Sanford Burnham Prebys in La Jolla, CA and the National Cancer Institute has highlighted the extraordinary capabilities of a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool called PERsonalized Single-Cell Expression-Based Planning for Treatments in Oncology (PERCEPTION). The tool utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze information from every cell of a tumor, allowing clinicians to predict how patients will respond to cancer therapy.
Traditional methods of precision oncology treatments have focused on identifying genetic mutations in cancer driver genes and matching patients with targeted therapies accordingly. However, many cancer patients do not benefit from these early targeted therapies. To address this challenge, the team of researchers led by Dr. Sanju Sinha developed a new computational pipeline to predict patient response to cancer drugs at the single-cell level.
The team used transcriptomics, the study of transcription factors, to develop PERCEPTION. The tool provides a deep understanding of the clonal architecture of the tumor and can even detect the emergence of drug resistance by analyzing messenger RNA molecules expressed by genes. This ability to monitor resistance offers the potential for treatment modification and adaptation to the evolving nature of cancer cells.
To build PERCEPTION, the researchers employed transfer learning, a branch of AI, to leverage limited single-cell data from clinics. The tool was pre-trained using published bulk-gene expression data from tumors and then fine-tuned using single-cell data from cell lines and patients. The researchers successfully validated PERCEPTION by accurately predicting patient responses to monotherapy and combination treatments in three independently conducted clinical trials for multiple myeloma, breast, and lung cancer.
Dr. Sanju Sinha cautions that while PERCEPTION holds tremendous promise, it is not yet ready for clinical use. However, its success in predicting treatment responses underscores the potential of using single-cell information to guide personalized treatment strategies. The researchers hope that these findings will encourage the adoption of PERCEPTION in clinics, generating more data that can be used to refine and further develop the tool for clinical use.
"The quality of the prediction rises with the quality and quantity of the data serving as its foundation," says Dr. Sinha. "Our goal is to create a clinical tool that can predict the treatment response of individual cancer patients in a systematic, data-driven manner. We hope these findings spur more data and more such studies, sooner rather than later."
The development of PERCEPTION represents a significant step forward in the field of precision oncology, offering hope for improved treatment outcomes and enhanced patient care. As the researchers continue to refine this AI tool, its potential impact on cancer therapy is monumental. The groundbreaking research was supported by funding from the Intramural Research Program of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and various NIH grants.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - NASA's Near Space Network enables the PACE Climate Mission to establish communication with Earth
- 17th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
NASA's PACE mission achieved a significant milestone by successfully transmitting its first operational data back to scientists and researchers. This was made possible, in part, by NASA's Near Space Network's innovative data-storing technology, which introduced two key enhancements for PACE and other upcoming science missions.
When a satellite orbits in space, it generates crucial data about its health, location, battery life, and more. At the same time, the mission's scientific instruments capture images and data that support the overall objective of the satellite. However, transmitting this data back to Earth poses several challenges, which include extreme distances and disruptions or delays that can occur during transmission.
To tackle these challenges, NASA's Near Space Network integrated Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN) into four new antennas and the PACE spacecraft. DTN allows for the safe storage and forwarding of data when disruptions occur, ensuring that important information is not lost.
Kevin Coggins, Deputy Associate Administrator for NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program, stressed the importance of DTN, stating, "DTN is the future of space communications, providing robust protection of data that could be lost due to a disruption. PACE is the first operational science mission to leverage DTN, and we are using it to transmit data to mission operators monitoring the batteries, orbit, and more. This information is critical to mission operations."
The PACE mission, located approximately 250 miles above Earth, aims to collect data that helps researchers better understand carbon dioxide exchange between the ocean and atmosphere, monitor air quality and climate-related atmospheric variables, and study the health of the ocean by examining phytoplankton.
While PACE is the first operational science user of DTN, demonstrations of the technology have been successfully conducted on the International Space Station. In addition to DTN, the Near Space Network collaborated with commercial partner Kongsberg Satellite Services in Norway to integrate four new antennas into the network.
These antennas, located in Fairbanks, Alaska; Wallops Island, Virginia; Punta Arenas, Chile; and Svalbard, Norway, allow missions to downlink terabytes of science data at once. As PACE orbits Earth, it will downlink its science data 12 to 15 times a day to three of the network's new antennas, resulting in a daily transmission of 3.5 terabytes of science data.
These advancements in network capability, including DTN and the new antennas, contribute to the Near Space Network's mission to support science missions, human spaceflight, and technology experiments.
Deputy Associate Administrator Kevin Coggins expressed his satisfaction with NASA's Near Space Network, stating, "NASA's Near Space Network now has unprecedented flexibility to get scientists and operations managers more of the precious information they need to ensure their mission's success."
In addition to these new capabilities, the network is also expanding its portfolio by increasing the number of commercial antennas. In 2023, NASA issued a request for proposal seeking commercial providers to integrate into the growing portfolio of the Near Space Network. With an enhanced capacity, the network can support additional science missions and provide more opportunities for data transmission.
The Near Space Network, funded by NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program office at NASA Headquarters in Washington, operates from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and these recent enhancements mark significant progress in advancing communication systems for missions near Earth and in deep space.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - Scientists utilize supercomputer simulations to examine the heated roots of the Sun to clarify the mysteries of solar moss
- 17th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
Cutting-edge research and supercomputer simulations reveal the mechanisms behind the heating of the enigmatic "moss" on the Sun's surface, providing new insights into the awe-inspiring power of our star.
In a groundbreaking scientific discovery, NASA scientists have made significant strides in unraveling the perplexing enigma of the Sun's "moss." This moss-like structure, a small-scale, patchy plasma formation in the solar atmosphere that shares an uncanny resemblance to earthly plants, has puzzled researchers for decades. However, thanks to the recent breakthrough enabled by NASA's High-Resolution Coronal Imager (Hi-C) sounding rocket and the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) mission, combined with complex 3D supercomputer simulations, the mystifying puzzle is beginning to come together.
Named after its moss-like appearance, the region emerged into scientific consciousness back in 1999 through NASA's TRACE mission. Nestled within the center of a sunspot group and concealed beneath gossamer-like coronal loops, the moss straddles two atmospheric layers known as the chromosphere and corona, with engineers and scientists working tirelessly to unravel its secrets.
In the quest to understand the mechanism responsible for heating the moss, researchers have long been confounded by the extreme temperature disparity within this fascinating solar feature. While the surface just below the moss blazes at around 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit, the moss itself reaches blistering temperatures of nearly 1 million degrees Fahrenheit, defying conventional wisdom. Finally, through a combination of advanced observations and intricate 3D simulations, a remarkable discovery has been made.
The key insight derived from this comprehensive approach is the role of electrical currents. Within the moss region, an intricate web of magnetic field lines intertwines, akin to invisible spaghetti, generating electrical currents that contribute to heating the plasma. While the underlying mechanism responsible for this local heating is still not fully understood, this breakthrough represents a significant leap towards unraveling the broader question of why the Sun's corona is exponentially hotter than its surface.
"The convergence of high-resolution observations and advanced numerical simulations has allowed us to shed light on this 25-year-old mystery," shared Souvik Bose, a research scientist at Lockheed Martin Solar and Astrophysics Laboratory and Bay Area Environmental Institute, NASA's Ames Research Center. "But it is essential to note that this milestone only forms a fraction of the puzzle; the path ahead still holds numerous unanswered questions."
This groundbreaking discovery opens new avenues for further research and marks an inspiring turning point. The scientific community now stands poised to delve deeper into the secrets of our Sun, armed with an invigorated determination to unravel the mechanisms that govern its immense heat and energy.
However, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. The quest to fully comprehend the interplay between the corona and the moss will require more observations and continued technological advancements. NASA's High-Resolution Coronal Imager (Hi-C) is set to launch again this month, adding another layer of understanding as it captures a solar flare and potentially additional moss regions in conjunction with the IRIS mission.
MUSE (MUlti-slit Solar Explorer), a promising future mission, is also on the horizon, with scientists and engineers working tirelessly to develop new instruments that will unlock even deeper insights into the enigmatic phenomena occurring on our Sun's surface.
The meticulous observations and cutting-edge supercomputer simulations offer not only a glimpse into the secrets of the Sun but also serve as a testament to the remarkable potential of human ingenuity. As we venture further into the exploration of space, these breakthroughs remind us that through the intertwining of diverse perspectives, innovative technologies, and unwavering curiosity, we have the power to unlock the mysteries of the universe.
Let these recent discoveries be a beacon of inspiration, underscoring the importance of investment in scientific research and space exploration. Together, we can embark on a journey to uncover the awe-inspiring intricacies of our celestial neighbor and expand our knowledge of the universe that surrounds us.
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - Salt marsh restoration study reveals promising results for climate resilience
- 11th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
Supercomputer simulations demonstrate the transformative power of salt marsh restoration in mitigating flood risk and building climate resilience in the San Francisco Bay.
In the face of climate change and the escalating threats of sea level rise and storm-driven flooding, UC Santa Cruz researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery. Through the use of advanced supercomputer simulations, they have uncovered the immense potential of salt marsh restoration as a critical tool in reducing flood risk and bolstering community resilience in our local waterways.
The study delves into the social, economic, and ecological benefits of marsh restoration. The research team, led by a postdoctoral fellow from UC Santa Cruz's Center for Coastal Climate Resilience (CCCR), worked closely with local flood managers and planners to incorporate their expertise into the models.
Using a hydrodynamic model of San Francisco Bay, particularly focusing on San Mateo County, the most vulnerable county to future flooding in California, the team ran supercomputer simulations of the shoreline in both restored and non-restored scenarios during storms. The results were nothing short of remarkable.
"We have found compelling evidence that marsh restoration can reduce flood risk to people and property locally, providing both community and ecosystem co-benefits," revealed Rae Taylor-Burns, a fellow at CCCR.
"The Bay Area, being low-lying and densely populated, faces significant risk from climate change impacts. By restoring our marshes, we can not only protect ourselves but also stimulate ecological revival."
The study identified priority areas in San Mateo County where salt marsh restoration could maximize socio-economic impacts by reducing flood risk. With the help of a detailed flood model, researchers evaluated the risk of flooding with and without salt marshes and highlighted the areas where restoration interventions would make the most significant difference.
Crucially, the study also placed a monetary value on the flood risk reduction benefits, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of investing in marsh restoration. This opens doors to potential public and private funding opportunities for restoration projects.
However, the implications of wetland restoration go far beyond flood protection alone. The study underlines the multiple benefits that come with it, including carbon sequestration, habitat preservation, and recreational opportunities. It paints a compelling case for embracing nature-based solutions and adopting comprehensive climate resilience strategies that can help mitigate the impacts of future climate change.
"We must explore innovative solutions to enhance community resilience in the face of escalating climate challenges," emphasized Michael W. Beck, director of the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience and a co-author of the study. "Salt marsh restoration represents a nature-based approach that can not only complement traditional infrastructure but also safeguard our coastal communities."
The findings from this study offer hope and inspiration for coastal communities worldwide facing similar threats. By integrating salt marsh restoration into their climate resilience strategies, they can leverage funding opportunities from programs like FEMA grants or initiatives like Regional Measure AA, which provides significant financial support for marsh restoration throughout San Francisco Bay.
We must recognize the critical role of our coastal wetlands as national infrastructure. The Center for Coastal Climate Resilience's work extends beyond California, providing support for coral reefs in regions such as Guam, Hawai'i, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. By elevating the importance of coastal wetlands, we can ensure their protection and preservation, not just for ourselves but also for future generations.
As we navigate the challenges of climate change, let us embrace the power of scientific advancements, such as supercomputer simulations, to guide us toward sustainable solutions. By restoring salt marshes, we have a tangible opportunity to safeguard our communities, foster ecological rejuvenation, and forge a resilient future amidst the changing tides.
In the words of Michael W. Beck, "Nature beckons us to adapt and thrive. Let us heed its call and embark on a journey towards a safer and more resilient tomorrow."
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream. - Salt marsh restoration study reveals promising results for climate resilience
- 11th Apr, 2024
- LATEST
Supercomputer simulations demonstrate the transformative power of salt marsh restoration in mitigating flood risk and building climate resilience in the San Francisco Bay.
In the face of climate change and the escalating threats of sea level rise and storm-driven flooding, UC Santa Cruz researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery. Through the use of advanced supercomputer simulations, they have uncovered the immense potential of salt marsh restoration as a critical tool in reducing flood risk and bolstering community resilience in our local waterways.
The study delves into the social, economic, and ecological benefits of marsh restoration. The research team, led by a postdoctoral fellow from UC Santa Cruz's Center for Coastal Climate Resilience (CCCR), worked closely with local flood managers and planners to incorporate their expertise into the models.
Using a hydrodynamic model of San Francisco Bay, particularly focusing on San Mateo County, the most vulnerable county to future flooding in California, the team ran supercomputer simulations of the shoreline in both restored and non-restored scenarios during storms. The results were nothing short of remarkable.
"We have found compelling evidence that marsh restoration can reduce flood risk to people and property locally, providing both community and ecosystem co-benefits," revealed Rae Taylor-Burns, a fellow at CCCR.
"The Bay Area, being low-lying and densely populated, faces significant risk from climate change impacts. By restoring our marshes, we can not only protect ourselves but also stimulate ecological revival."
The study identified priority areas in San Mateo County where salt marsh restoration could maximize socio-economic impacts by reducing flood risk. With the help of a detailed flood model, researchers evaluated the risk of flooding with and without salt marshes and highlighted the areas where restoration interventions would make the most significant difference.
Crucially, the study also placed a monetary value on the flood risk reduction benefits, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of investing in marsh restoration. This opens doors to potential public and private funding opportunities for restoration projects.
However, the implications of wetland restoration go far beyond flood protection alone. The study underlines the multiple benefits that come with it, including carbon sequestration, habitat preservation, and recreational opportunities. It paints a compelling case for embracing nature-based solutions and adopting comprehensive climate resilience strategies that can help mitigate the impacts of future climate change.
"We must explore innovative solutions to enhance community resilience in the face of escalating climate challenges," emphasized Michael W. Beck, director of the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience and a co-author of the study. "Salt marsh restoration represents a nature-based approach that can not only complement traditional infrastructure but also safeguard our coastal communities."
The findings from this study offer hope and inspiration for coastal communities worldwide facing similar threats. By integrating salt marsh restoration into their climate resilience strategies, they can leverage funding opportunities from programs like FEMA grants or initiatives like Regional Measure AA, which provides significant financial support for marsh restoration throughout San Francisco Bay.
We must recognize the critical role of our coastal wetlands as national infrastructure. The Center for Coastal Climate Resilience's work extends beyond California, providing support for coral reefs in regions such as Guam, Hawai'i, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. By elevating the importance of coastal wetlands, we can ensure their protection and preservation, not just for ourselves but also for future generations.
As we navigate the challenges of climate change, let us embrace the power of scientific advancements, such as supercomputer simulations, to guide us toward sustainable solutions. By restoring salt marshes, we have a tangible opportunity to safeguard our communities, foster ecological rejuvenation, and forge a resilient future amidst the changing tides.
In the words of Michael W. Beck, "Nature beckons us to adapt and thrive. Let us heed its call and embark on a journey towards a safer and more resilient tomorrow."
Post is under moderationStream item published successfully. Item will now be visible on your stream.