Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Mountain Lions in Los Angeles Are Turning Nocturnal Due to Humans Encroaching Their Habitat, Study Finds

Mountain lions in Greater Los Angeles are becoming increasingly nocturnal as a response to human recreational activities, according to a study published on November 15 in the Biological Conservation journal. The research highlights how these large predators, also known as pumas or cougars, are adapting their natural activity patterns to minimise encounters with humans who frequent their habitats for hiking, cycling, and jogging. These behavioural shifts show and highlight the challenges faced by wildlife coexisting with urban populations.

Study Reveals Shifts in Activity Patterns

The study, led by Ellie Bolas, a doctoral researcher at the University of California, Davis, analysed data collected from 22 GPS-collared mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains between 2011 and 2018. Using exercise activity data from the online platform Strava, the team compared human recreational patterns with the movements of the collared mountain lions.

The findings revealed that mountain lions in areas with higher human activity shifted their peak activity times from dawn and dusk to night. This behavioural flexibility allows the predators to avoid human presence while continuing to hunt and carry out other essential behaviours.

Broader Implications for Wildlife and Coexistence

The phenomenon of animals becoming more nocturnal to evade humans is not exclusive to mountain lions. There have been similar trends observed before globally among other mammals. Research conducted in 2019 indicated that even the sound of human voices could deter mountain lions, demonstrating the deep-seated wariness of humans among these animals due to historical persecution.

Mountain lions in urban areas like Los Angeles face additional pressures, including habitat fragmentation, wildfires and low genetic diversity. The study highlights recreational activities as a potential stressor, affecting the energy they expend on hunting and survival.

Bolas emphasised the importance of recognising these adaptations, stating that coexistence relies on the flexibility exhibited by wildlife. Despite the challenges, mountain lions continue to adjust to human activity, demonstrating resilience in shared landscapes.

 



from Gadgets 360 https://ift.tt/CjBUK4m

Shastri picks 2 Indian players who can give Australia a headache

Ravi Shastri believes Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jasprit Bumrah are the key players for India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He highlighted Jaiswal's aggressive batting style and Bumrah's exceptional fast bowling as potential game-changers. For Australia, Shastri picked Pat Cummins, Steve Smith and Nathan Lyon as the players to watch out for.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/7PqMDgX

Tuesday, 19 November 2024

Blue Origin Targets November 22 for Next Space Tourism Flight NS-28

Jeff Bezos' aerospace venture, Blue Origin, has confirmed plans to launch its ninth crewed mission, NS-28, on Friday, November 22, 2024. The suborbital spaceflight will take off from the company's West Texas facility during a designated window starting at 10:30 a.m. EST. Viewers can watch the live broadcast via Blue Origin's official channels or Space.com, with coverage beginning 30 minutes before launch.

NS-28 Mission Details and Crew

The NS-28 mission will carry six passengers, including Emily Calandrelli, an MIT-educated engineer, science communicator, and author. The flight also includes Marc and Sharon Hagle, a married couple who previously flew on the NS-20 mission in March 2022. Austin Litteral, a giveaway winner sponsored by the shopping platform Whatnot, entrepreneur James (J.D.) Russell, and businessman Henry (Hank) Wolfond will complete the crew.

In conjunction with the mission, Sharon Hagle's nonprofit organisation, SpaceKids Global, has arranged an educational programme for young students. The "SpaceKids Global Press Squad," comprised of eight children aged 8 to 12, will report on the mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and receive a tour of Blue Origin's facilities.

Overview of Blue Origin's Suborbital Programme

The New Shepard rocket-capsule system will make its 28th launch during this mission, marking the ninth crewed flight for the autonomous suborbital vehicle. The trip is expected to last approximately 10 to 12 minutes, offering passengers several minutes of weightlessness and breathtaking views of Earth against the vastness of space.

Although Blue Origin has not disclosed the cost of its tickets, its primary competitor, Virgin Galactic, has previously announced a $600,000 price tag per seat. Virgin Galactic, however, is currently on hiatus as it develops a new fleet of Delta-class spaceplanes, anticipated to resume commercial operations in 2026.

 



from Gadgets 360 https://ift.tt/lR0gTZA

Hardik Pandya to play Mushtaq Ali Trophy under brother Krunal’s captaincy

Hardik Pandya is set to join his brother Krunal on the Baroda squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India's domestic T20 tournament. The tournament begins on November 23. Baroda, led by Krunal, are looking to improve on last year's runner-up finish and have started the domestic season strong with four wins out of five matches in Ranji Trophy.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/Lw72cR8

Monday, 18 November 2024

NASA Utilises Supercomputing to Drive Space Exploration and Earth Research

Supercomputing is transforming scientific research at NASA, aiding discoveries that span from our planet to the farthest reaches of space. At the International Conference for High Performance Computing (SC24), NASA is showcasing how this technology supports critical missions, including the Artemis programme, sustainable aviation, and studies of cosmic phenomena. Dr Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, is set to highlight these advances in her keynote, “NASA's Vision for High Impact Science and Exploration,” on 19 November.

Redesigning Artemis Launch Systems

Supercomputers at NASA Ames have been pivotal in refining the Artemis II launch environment. The report from NASA revealed that simulations of the rocket plume interacting with the sound suppression system revealed how pressure waves from exhaust gases contributed to damage during Artemis I. These findings have informed redesigns of the flame deflector and mobile launcher to ensure astronaut safety for Artemis II, slated for 2025.

Optimising Aircraft for Fuel Efficiency

Efforts at NASA Ames are also addressing the future of aviation. By using computational models to refine aircraft wing and fuselage designs, researchers aim to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. These simulations demonstrated a potential 4% reduction in drag on existing designs, contributing to greener aviation goals.

Artificial Intelligence Enhancing Weather Forecasting

AI is playing a key role in weather and climate predictions. A model called Prithvi WxC, developed by NASA and IBM, uses vast datasets to create accurate forecasts. With 2.3 billion parameters, it can simulate complex phenomena like hurricane paths and climate shifts, providing valuable insights into extreme weather events.

Unravelling Neutron Star Mysteries

Simulations at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are advancing the understanding of neutron stars. By combining supercomputing with data from observatories like NICER, researchers have gained insights into phenomena such as pulsars' magnetic structures and extreme gravitational environments.

Modelling the Sun's Activity

Detailed 3D models of solar plasma are helping scientists at NASA Ames study the Sun's turbulent activity. These simulations explore processes driving solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which impact technologies on Earth.

Visualising Scientific Data for Clarity

NASA's visualisation tools make complex data accessible. Recent projects include simulations of carbon dioxide emissions and solar events, turning raw data into clear, actionable insights for researchers and the public.

Through high-performance computing, NASA continues to unlock mysteries of the universe and develop solutions to challenges on Earth.

 



from Gadgets 360 https://ift.tt/0m6vFnf

Sunday, 17 November 2024

'Kapil Dev can't be bigger than anyone else'

Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev emphasised that the government should decide on matters like ICC Champions Trophy 2025 venues and India-Pakistan matches. This follows the ICC's decision to move the 2025 Champions Trophy tour from Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK) to other locations after objections from the BCCI.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/bo8Wwn9

Sinner sweeps past Fritz to win ATP Finals

Jannik Sinner made history by clinching his first ATP Finals title with a convincing victory over Taylor Fritz in Turin. The 23-year-old Italian dominated the match, winning in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, to cap off a stellar year.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/1EbUjmI

Mendis guides Sri Lanka to ODI series win over NZ

Kusal Mendis' unbeaten 74 guided Sri Lanka to a three-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second ODI, securing a series win. Mendis' heroics came despite a groin injury and a challenging target of 210 runs. Sri Lankan spinners restricted New Zealand to 209, setting up their fifth bilateral series victory in 2024.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/JqsrgP0

Saturday, 16 November 2024

Pant, Gill can go to next level after Australia tour: Ganguly

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly shares his insights on India's upcoming series in Australia, emphasizing the importance of a strong start and the team's ability to adapt to challenging conditions. He also highlights the need for senior players to step up and guide the younger generation, expressing confidence in their potential to excel.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/1rZhSf3

India's T20I record in 2024: A year of domination marked by WC success

Team India concluded a record-breaking year in T20I cricket, securing 24 victories out of 26 matches. Their exceptional performance culminated in winning the T20 World Cup, marking their first ICC title in 11 years. The team embraced an aggressive batting approach, setting new records for centuries and high scores, while their bowlers consistently dismantled opponents.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/3hyq4pr

'The first thing I did was call my father': Vaibhav on U19 India selection

Thirteen-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been selected for the India Under-19 squad for the 2024 ACC Under-19 Asia Cup. The young cricketer, who debuted for Bihar at age 12, recently smashed a 58-ball century against Australia's U-19 team. Bihar Cricket Association President Rakesh Tiwari praised Vaibhav's dedication and expressed confidence in his ability to excel on the international stage.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/EjbgQxf

Friday, 15 November 2024

Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight Live: Will Jake survive the wrath of Tyson?



from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/Zp2IbkY

4th T20I: Samson, Varma lead India to series-clinching victory over SA

India triumphed over South Africa in the final T20I, securing a 3-1 series win. Arshdeep Singh's early wickets crippled South Africa's chase of 284, while centuries from Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma propelled India to their highest-ever T20I score overseas.

from Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Live Match Scores & Sports News Headlines, Results & more https://ift.tt/vmc6HdJ