theheartysoul--2020-11-18--Mystery Meteorite Contains “Impossible to Naturally Exist” Crystal

Our beloved planet is full of varying types of minerals .
Some of these are common , and some are exceedingly rare .
The universe contains an even greater array of “ impossible to naturally exist ” materials , thanks to its vastly different atmospheric conditions .
A few years ago , meteorologists discovered a mystery meteorite that contains an ultra-rare quasicrystal .
This is only the third time scientists have seen this type of crystal in nature .
To understand what a quasicrystal is , you first need to understand a regular crystal .
Examples of regular crystals include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These types of crystals are made up of atoms that are arranged in almost perfect symmetry , in repeating patterns [ 1,2 ] .
Polycrystals include most metals , rocks , and ice .
Their structures are more randomized and disordered , similarly to amorphous solids like glass , wax , and many plastics .
Quasicrystals , on the other hand , consist of a completely unique atomic structure .
Their atoms are still ordered , but the pattern isn ’ t periodic- it doesn ’ t repeat .
Essentially , quasicrystals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crystal with the chaotic arrangement of an amorphous solid [ 1,2 ] .
Pat Theil is a senior scientist at the US Department of Energy ’ s Ames Laboratory .
He explains quasicrystals using floor tiling as a metaphor .
Quasicrystals , like the ones found in this mystery meteorite , are like pentagons .
Pentagons can ’ t fit together as squares or triangles can .
To solve this problem , nature places other atomic shapes into the gaps .
Theil refers to these as glue atoms [ 3 ] .
Scientists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in this mystery meteorite .
Many of them , however , did not believe they were real .
Before the 1980s , scientists thought that crystals and amorphous solids were the only types of solids that could exist [ 4 ] .
In 1982 , however , Israeli chemist Daniel Shectman proposed the existence of quasicrystals .
His colleagues laughed him right out of the lab .
His peers ridiculed him for decades , telling him that a semi-ordered structure wasn ’ t possible .
Why ?
Because until that point , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structures followed very strict rules : In order for a structure to grow with a repeating , symmetrical structure , it had to consist of one of four types of rotational symmetry : two-fold , three-fold , four-fold , and six-fold .
( This should take you back to the floor tile example ) .
Quasicrystals break this rule because they have five-fold rotational symmetry [ 1 ] .
Eventually , other scientists got on board with Shectman ’ s research , and they started making quasicrystals in the lab .
Experts were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such crystals could exist in nature [ 4 ] .
That is , until the discovery of a mystery meteorite .
In 2009 , scientists were studying samples from the Khatyrka meteorite in northeastern Russia .
Within this mystery meteorite , they found two examples of quasicrystals that matched with crystals they ’ d made in the lab .
This was the first time scientists had found quasicrystals outside the lab , proving that they can , in fact , exist in nature [ 4 ] .
The researchers continued to study the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a third example of a quasicrystal .
Boris Shustov is the head of the Institute of Astronomy of the Russian Academy of Science .
He says that it is common to find new materials in meteorites because they form under conditions that are different from those that exist on earth .
The minerals in this mystery meteorite are microscopic .
The scientists said that it was subjected to temperatures greater than one thousand degrees celsius , which allowed it to form grains less than five micrometers in size .
Chi Ma is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Geological and Planetary Sciences division at Caltech .
He says that the Khatyrka meteorite is the only space rock we know of that contains metallic aluminum .
Ma and his team have also discovered 35 other minerals in this meteorite [ 1 ] .
Scientists still have many questions about the minerals in this mystery meteorite , such as how they came to be in the first place .
The researchers suggest that it was possibly due to a collision between asteroids .
The violent impact of such an event could provide the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Unfortunately , they have no way of proving this [ 4 ] .
The discovery of this new , never-before-seen quasicrystal demonstrates that we still have much to learn about this unique type of matter .
As scientists continue to study this space rock , they hope to find even more types of extraterrestrial materials .
Keep Reading : For the First Time Ever , Scientists Caught Time Crystals Interacting

Our beloved planet is full of varying types of minerals. Some of these are common, and some are exceedingly rare. The universe contains an even greater array of “impossible to naturally exist” materials, thanks to its vastly different atmospheric conditions. A few years ago, meteorologists discovered a mystery meteorite that contains an ultra-rare quasicrystal.
This is only the third time scientists have seen this type of crystal in nature.
What is a Quasicrystal?
To understand what a quasicrystal is, you first need to understand a regular crystal. Examples of regular crystals include snowflakes, diamonds, and table salt. These types of crystals are made up of atoms that are arranged in almost perfect symmetry, in repeating patterns [1,2].
Polycrystals include most metals, rocks, and ice. Their structures are more randomized and disordered, similarly to amorphous solids like glass, wax, and many plastics.
Quasicrystals, on the other hand, consist of a completely unique atomic structure. Their atoms are still ordered, but the pattern isn’t periodic- it doesn’t repeat. Essentially, quasicrystals combine the symmetrical properties of a regular crystal with the chaotic arrangement of an amorphous solid [1,2].
Pat Theil is a senior scientist at the US Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory. He explains quasicrystals using floor tiling as a metaphor.
“If you want to cover your bathroom floor, your tiles can be rectangles or triangles or squares or hexagons,” she said. “Any other simple shape won’t work, because it will leave a gap.” [3]
Quasicrystals, like the ones found in this mystery meteorite, are like pentagons. Pentagons can’t fit together as squares or triangles can. To solve this problem, nature places other atomic shapes into the gaps. Theil refers to these as glue atoms [3].
A Controversial Discovery
Scientists have known about quasicrystals long before finding them in this mystery meteorite. Many of them, however, did not believe they were real.
Before the 1980s, scientists thought that crystals and amorphous solids were the only types of solids that could exist [4]. In 1982, however, Israeli chemist Daniel Shectman proposed the existence of quasicrystals. His colleagues laughed him right out of the lab.
His peers ridiculed him for decades, telling him that a semi-ordered structure wasn’t possible. Why? Because until that point, scientists believed that perfect symmetry in atomic structures followed very strict rules:
In order for a structure to grow with a repeating, symmetrical structure, it had to consist of one of four types of rotational symmetry: two-fold, three-fold, four-fold, and six-fold. (This should take you back to the floor tile example).
Quasicrystals break this rule because they have five-fold rotational symmetry [1].
Eventually, other scientists got on board with Shectman’s research, and they started making quasicrystals in the lab. Experts were still not sure, however, if such crystals could exist in nature [4].
That is, until the discovery of a mystery meteorite.
A Mystery Meteorite
In 2009, scientists were studying samples from the Khatyrka meteorite in northeastern Russia. Within this mystery meteorite, they found two examples of quasicrystals that matched with crystals they’d made in the lab.
This was the first time scientists had found quasicrystals outside the lab, proving that they can, in fact, exist in nature [4].
The researchers continued to study the meteorite, and in 2016 they found a third example of a quasicrystal.
Boris Shustov is the head of the Institute of Astronomy of the Russian Academy of Science. He says that it is common to find new materials in meteorites because they form under conditions that are different from those that exist on earth.
“This is a fairly common phenomenon due the fact that a number of minerals and substances that can be formed and are formed under cosmic conditions, are not found on Earth,” he said [5].
The minerals in this mystery meteorite are microscopic. The scientists said that it was subjected to temperatures greater than one thousand degrees celsius, which allowed it to form grains less than five micrometers in size.
Chi Ma is the director of the Analytical Facility of the Geological and Planetary Sciences division at Caltech. He says that the Khatyrka meteorite is the only space rock we know of that contains metallic aluminum. Ma and his team have also discovered 35 other minerals in this meteorite [1].
Mystery Meteorite: Further Study Ahead
Scientists still have many questions about the minerals in this mystery meteorite, such as how they came to be in the first place. The researchers suggest that it was possibly due to a collision between asteroids. The violent impact of such an event could provide the necessary heat and energy to form quasicrystals. Unfortunately, they have no way of proving this [4].
The discovery of this new, never-before-seen quasicrystal demonstrates that we still have much to learn about this unique type of matter. As scientists continue to study this space rock, they hope to find even more types of extraterrestrial materials.
Keep Reading: Rock Used as a Doorstop Is Actually Meteorite Worth 100K
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-11-18--Inside the skinny home that disappears into the tree canopy of a nature reserve

Architects can design structures that seem to be impossible .
They are creatives while also being masters of math and sciences .
Putting all that together has resulted in some out of this world creations .
Enter “ the skinny home ” , or more commonly known as the House of the Big Arch .
The tall house in South Africa ’ s Bushveld ecoregion is almost completely invisible from those flying overhead .
The designers weaved the house between the flora and didn ’ t chop down a single tree during construction .
The House of the Big Arch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Johannesburg , is the genius behind this unique building .
The House of the Big Arch weaves between the riverine forest and the red sandstone cliffs by the Waterberg Reserve .
[ 1 ] An elderly couple who loves nature and wanted to reside in the Waterberg Mountains commissioned this structure .
The building avoids the trees around it , creating an incredible , unseen-before structure .
The couple often opens up their farm to underprivileged youths from surrounding areas and educate them about the environment .
The couple is extremely knowledgeable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they love to share their wisdom with youngsters because “ There is too much beauty here for us to use up all by ourselves.
” [ 2 ] Advertisement As per the owner ’ s request , the studio was mindful of the nature around them as they built .
Before they began the project , Frankie Pappas laser-scanned the whole area and created a 3D virtual forest to help them ensure their design works .
“ Any funky bulges and protrusions in the plan of the building were dictated by where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the team in their project description .
“ The underlying concept was to bridge the landscape between riverine forest and sandstone cliff , whilst raising the living space into the tree canopy , among the abundant arboreal life , ” they continued .
“ The building is organized as one long thin building which slots between the forest trees .
The shapes of the additions to the central building are dictated by the position and size of the surrounding trees.
” This resulted in long and extremely skinny home amidst a dreamlike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the entrance , the building is only 11 feet wide .
The main floor holds a kitchen , dining area , a sunny living room , and stunning outdoor porch with a brick firepit .
Smooth wooden bridges connect the rooms of the building together .
The arch that gave the home its name supports a small winging bench and an above-ground pool .
The ground floor also contains various courtyards toe display the beautiful surrounding nature , and a library and office .
In the basement , there ’ s a cooled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chilled , and store food supplies .
Because the house is in such a remote area , it runs off-grid .
It relies on 172 square feet of solar panels for energy and rainwater collection .
Materials such as rough stock bricks and sustainably-grown timbers , glass , and aluminum were used to increase its off-grid capabilities .
The architects optimized the natural environment — such as the natural shade and ventilation — to reduce energy demands .
“ This building is a careful and direct response to this particular portion of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Waterberg of this particular portion of the Bushveld , ” said the studio .
“ This architecture could exist nowhere else in the world.
” [ 3 ] All Photo Credits go to Frankie Pappas

Architects can design structures that seem to be impossible. They are creatives while also being masters of math and sciences. Putting all that together has resulted in some out of this world creations. Enter “the skinny home”, or more commonly known as the House of the Big Arch.
The tall house in South Africa’s Bushveld ecoregion is almost completely invisible from those flying overhead. The designers weaved the house between the flora and didn’t chop down a single tree during construction.
The House of the Big Arch
Frankie Pappas, an architecture studio based in Johannesburg, is the genius behind this unique building. The House of the Big Arch weaves between the riverine forest and the red sandstone cliffs by the Waterberg Reserve. [1]
© Frankie Pappas
An elderly couple who loves nature and wanted to reside in the Waterberg Mountains commissioned this structure. The building avoids the trees around it, creating an incredible, unseen-before structure. The couple often opens up their farm to underprivileged youths from surrounding areas and educate them about the environment. The couple is extremely knowledgeable of the flora and fauna about them and they love to share their wisdom with youngsters because “There is too much beauty here for us to use up all by ourselves.” [2]
© dook + VISI
As per the owner’s request, the studio was mindful of the nature around them as they built. Before they began the project, Frankie Pappas laser-scanned the whole area and created a 3D virtual forest to help them ensure their design works.
“Any funky bulges and protrusions in the plan of the building were dictated by where trees allowed us to build,” said the team in their project description.
© Frankie Pappas
“The underlying concept was to bridge the landscape between riverine forest and sandstone cliff, whilst raising the living space into the tree canopy, among the abundant arboreal life,” they continued. “The building is organized as one long thin building which slots between the forest trees. The shapes of the additions to the central building are dictated by the position and size of the surrounding trees.”
© Frankie Pappas
“Skinny House”
© dook + VISI
This resulted in long and extremely skinny home amidst a dreamlike forest canopy. Once you walk past the entrance, the building is only 11 feet wide. The main floor holds a kitchen, dining area, a sunny living room, and stunning outdoor porch with a brick firepit.
© dook + VISI
Smooth wooden bridges connect the rooms of the building together.
© Frankie Pappas
The arch that gave the home its name supports a small winging bench and an above-ground pool.
© Frankie Pappas
The ground floor also contains various courtyards toe display the beautiful surrounding nature, and a library and office.
© dook + VISI
In the basement, there’s a cooled cellar to keep cured meats and wine chilled, and store food supplies.
© dook + VISI
Because the house is in such a remote area, it runs off-grid. It relies on 172 square feet of solar panels for energy and rainwater collection. Materials such as rough stock bricks and sustainably-grown timbers, glass, and aluminum were used to increase its off-grid capabilities. The architects optimized the natural environment — such as the natural shade and ventilation — to reduce energy demands.
© Frankie Pappas
“This building is a careful and direct response to this particular portion of this particular riverine forest of this particular portion of the Waterberg of this particular portion of the Bushveld,” said the studio. “This architecture could exist nowhere else in the world.” [3]
All Photo Credits go to Frankie Pappas


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--How To Set A Mousetrap

How To Set A Mousetrap

As wintertime approaches , all of the furry little friends outdoors will seek warmth .
However , sometimes this means finding warm places inside people ’ s homes .
For mice , this is the perfect time to find the best hiding spot with the best food .
People tend to get worried about having unwanted guests during the holiday season .
It ’ s a good idea to learn how to set a mousetrap as well as dealing with pests .
You ’ ll be able to protect yourself and your pets from these nasty little mice !
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neighborhood , you ’ re in luck !
This video provided by the hardware company provides an excellent demonstration of how to set a mousetrap .
It ’ s important to pay close attention to what you are doing as you set the mousetrap .
Using a traditional mousetrap like the one in the video , this method works for most traps .
A lot of people have the idea that using cheese is a good idea for a mousetrap .
However , using something such as peanut or almond butter proves much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mice or rats to touch the release lever .
If it were a piece of cheese , then a rodent could easily steal it without getting trapped .
( 1 ) First , remove and discard the staple that holds the little latching wire .
This is the latch you will use to set the spring-loaded trap with .
Second , using your choice of delicious sandwich butter , coat the bait holder .
Third , gently peel back the spring-loaded part of the trap with the latch wire over it .
Carefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attached to the bait holder .
Finally , you should now be ready to set your mousetrap .
( 1 ) Read : ‘ Hyper-aggressive ’ cannibal rats swim up toilets during lockdown to find food Being careful not to accidentally set off the trap in your hands , place the mousetrap mindfully .
You will also want to avoid setting your mousetrap anywhere your pets can get into it .
If you can isolate a spot or know of a particular corner , be mindful of who can get to the trap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t want your children to accidentally get hurt .
Ideally , if you have no pets , you would place these traps along the wall .
There also may be openings somewhere you can find and set mousetraps in these areas .
You ’ ll want to check your attic space for any potential entrances .
Set mousetraps all along the walls and corners of your attic space .
It also might be a good idea to do a quick survey of your home on the outside .
Set mousetraps at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 2 ) Ace Hardware also provides some pretty helpful tips on how to prevent mice and rat problems .
Although setting mousetraps all-around your house is important , so are these other precautions .
If you truly want to rid your home of any rodents , you should try these methods .
As demonstrated in the video by Ace Hardware , there are multiple cheap products you can use .
Using steel wool as a blockade to mice and rat entrances can prove useful .
Break up the steel wool into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cram the opening with wool .
The steel wool is too tough for them to chew through and wears their teeth down .
You can also try using the rodent repellents Ace Hardware shows how to use .
The general idea is to seal up any kind of potential entrance that a mouse could crawl through .
Some people set mousetraps on top of their rooves sometimes as an extra precaution .
If you think you ’ re setting too many traps , you actually might not be setting enough .
After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate .
Read : How to Keep Mice and Other Rodents Out of Your Home , Garage , and Camper If you want complete honesty , no , these traditional traps aren ’ t exactly humane but tend to be the quickest solution .
There are however several types of no-kill & DIY mousetraps to choose from .
Whichever way you approach your rodent problem , you will find that getting rid of them will save you a lot of trouble in the long run .
Time to start getting ready for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reading : The One Natural Way to Keep Mice out of Your Home – It ’ s the Only Tactic You ’ ll Need

As wintertime approaches, all of the furry little friends outdoors will seek warmth. However, sometimes this means finding warm places inside people’s homes. For mice, this is the perfect time to find the best hiding spot with the best food. People tend to get worried about having unwanted guests during the holiday season. It’s a good idea to learn how to set a mousetrap as well as dealing with pests. You’ll be able to protect yourself and your pets from these nasty little mice!
Ace Hardware’s ‘How To Set A Mousetrap’
If you have an Ace Hardware in your neighborhood, you’re in luck! This video provided by the hardware company provides an excellent demonstration of how to set a mousetrap.
It’s important to pay close attention to what you are doing as you set the mousetrap. Using a traditional mousetrap like the one in the video, this method works for most traps. A lot of people have the idea that using cheese is a good idea for a mousetrap. However, using something such as peanut or almond butter proves much more useful. The butter forces the mice or rats to touch the release lever. If it were a piece of cheese, then a rodent could easily steal it without getting trapped. (1)
First, remove and discard the staple that holds the little latching wire. This is the latch you will use to set the spring-loaded trap with. Second, using your choice of delicious sandwich butter, coat the bait holder. Third, gently peel back the spring-loaded part of the trap with the latch wire over it. Carefully position the latch underneath the small hook attached to the bait holder. Finally, you should now be ready to set your mousetrap. (1)
Where To Set A Mousetrap?
Being careful not to accidentally set off the trap in your hands, place the mousetrap mindfully. You will also want to avoid setting your mousetrap anywhere your pets can get into it. If you can isolate a spot or know of a particular corner, be mindful of who can get to the trap. If not your pets you certainly don’t want your children to accidentally get hurt.
Ideally, if you have no pets, you would place these traps along the wall. There also may be openings somewhere you can find and set mousetraps in these areas. You’ll want to check your attic space for any potential entrances. Set mousetraps all along the walls and corners of your attic space. It also might be a good idea to do a quick survey of your home on the outside. Set mousetraps at any outside entrances that you may find. (2)
Additional Precautions
Ace Hardware also provides some pretty helpful tips on how to prevent mice and rat problems. Although setting mousetraps all-around your house is important, so are these other precautions. If you truly want to rid your home of any rodents, you should try these methods.
As demonstrated in the video by Ace Hardware, there are multiple cheap products you can use. Using steel wool as a blockade to mice and rat entrances can prove useful. Break up the steel wool into small enough pieces and using a pencil to cram the opening with wool. The steel wool is too tough for them to chew through and wears their teeth down. You can also try using the rodent repellents Ace Hardware shows how to use.
The general idea is to seal up any kind of potential entrance that a mouse could crawl through. Some people set mousetraps on top of their rooves sometimes as an extra precaution. If you think you’re setting too many traps, you actually might not be setting enough. After all, rodents reproduce at an alarming rate.
Read: How to Keep Mice and Other Rodents Out of Your Home, Garage, and Camper
Is This Humane?
If you want complete honesty, no, these traditional traps aren’t exactly humane but tend to be the quickest solution. There are however several types of no-kill & DIY mousetraps to choose from.
Whichever way you approach your rodent problem, you will find that getting rid of them will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Time to start getting ready for a rodent-free holiday season this year!
Keep reading: The One Natural Way to Keep Mice out of Your Home – It’s the Only Tactic You’ll Need


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--Why We Can’t Sleep Without a Blanket, Even on a Hot Night

Picture this scenario : It ’ s a hot night .
You ’ re tossing and turning , the stifling temperatures making it impossible to fall asleep .
Despite the heat , however , there ’ s one thing you can ’ t part with : your blanket .
Even though it ’ s ninety degrees in your room , you just can ’ t go to sleep without a blanket .
Many of us have been in a similar situation .
Despite the high temperatures , we still have this instinctual need to have a covering while we sleep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turns out , science has an explanation for why , no matter how hot it gets , we just can ’ t sleep without a blanket .
Why We Can ’ t Sleep Without a Blanket Most people sleep with some kind of covering .
A 2002 paper by Carol Worthman and Melissa Melby of Emory University studied sleeping arrangements around the world .
They found that the only people who sleep with no covering are nomadic foragers .
Everyone else prefers to cover themselves up with something , whether that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plant matter [ 1 ] .Advertisement According to scientists , there is both a behavioural component and a psychological component for why we need a blanket ( or at least some type of covering ) to fall asleep .
Within those two components , there appears to be three main reasons why we can ’ t sleep without a blanket : Sleep consultant Anna McGinn explains that using a blanket helps us deal with our lower nightly body temperature .
She says that our circadian rhythm , which is the main driver behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body temperature starting at two in the afternoon .
This temperature continues to drop gradually throughout the evening and night [ 2 ] .
The purpose of this temperature drop is to help you eventually fall asleep .
Essentially , when your body is more heated , you will feel more alert .
When your body cools down , you feel sleepier .
This is why many sleep experts recommend keeping the temperature of your room lower at night- to help you sleep [ 3 ] .
During the day , your body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body temperature .
At night , however , things begin to change .
The first few hours of sleep your body temperature will continue to drop , but in the second half of the night , when you ’ re experiencing rapid eye movement ( REM ) sleep , your body loses its ability to thermoregulate [ 4 ] .
Essentially , you become more like a reptile .
As mammals , we can regulate our body temperatures through sweating and shivering .
Reptiles can ’ t do that , so instead , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up or cool them down .
This is why you often see lizards sitting in a patch of sun .
During REM sleep , we lose our ability to shiver .
For this reason , we look for an external source to keep us warm .
This holds true in hot climates , because even there the temperatures drop at night .
Just as we ’ re entering REM sleep , the temperature is reaching its coolest point [ 5 ] .
Read : The science behind why your body jerks when you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of temperature control is not the only thing that happens during REM sleep .
Studies show that during the REM periods of sleep , our bodies drastically lower their levels of serotonin .
Serotonin , also known as “ the happy chemical ” , promotes feelings of calm , happiness , and wellbeing [ 6 ] .
Blankets , however , appear to increase our serotonin levels .
Several studies have shown that sleeping with a weighted blanket in particular can increase the amount of serotonin your brain is producing [ 7 ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can ’ t sleep without a blanket is simply because it ’ s what you ’ ve always done .
If your parents put you to bed with a blanket , you will likely continue to do so as an adult .
Babies are not as good at thermoregulating as adults .
For this reason , your parents wrapped you in a blanket when you were an infant to keep you warm at night [ 8 ] .
This habit has probably made you associate a blanket with sleep .
Without it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routine .
What To Do If You ’ re a Hot Sleeper If you ’ re someone who often finds they get very hot at night , but you still can ’ t sleep without a blanket , McGinn has some advice for you : • Keep the temperature of your room cooler .
The ideal sleep temperature is between 19 and 23 degrees celsius ( 66 to 73 degrees fahrenheit ) .
• Don ’ t sleep naked .
Instead , choose clothes and blankets made of lighter , breathable fabrics .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cotton , or bamboo .
• Use light-colored blankets , which absorb less light .
• Consider using a cooling pad or blanket .
Of course , many other factors can affect whether or not you get a good night ’ s sleep , like your sleeping position .
But don ’ t worry , science can fix that , too .
McGinn admits that finding what works for you can be a challenge .
It is important , though , that everyone figures out the best sleeping arrangements for them , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ 2 ] .
Keep Reading : What Happens When You Don ’ t Wash Your Sheets

Picture this scenario: It’s a hot night. You’re tossing and turning, the stifling temperatures making it impossible to fall asleep. Despite the heat, however, there’s one thing you can’t part with: your blanket. Even though it’s ninety degrees in your room, you just can’t go to sleep without a blanket.
Many of us have been in a similar situation. Despite the high temperatures, we still have this instinctual need to have a covering while we sleep. But why is that?
It turns out, science has an explanation for why, no matter how hot it gets, we just can’t sleep without a blanket.
Why We Can’t Sleep Without a Blanket
Most people sleep with some kind of covering. A 2002 paper by Carol Worthman and Melissa Melby of Emory University studied sleeping arrangements around the world. They found that the only people who sleep with no covering are nomadic foragers. Everyone else prefers to cover themselves up with something, whether that’s a cotton sheet or some form of plant matter [1].
According to scientists, there is both a behavioural component and a psychological component for why we need a blanket (or at least some type of covering) to fall asleep. Within those two components, there appears to be three main reasons why we can’t sleep without a blanket:
Temperature Regulation
Sleep consultant Anna McGinn explains that using a blanket helps us deal with our lower nightly body temperature. She says that our circadian rhythm, which is the main driver behind sleep, begins to lower our core body temperature starting at two in the afternoon.
This temperature continues to drop gradually throughout the evening and night [2].
The purpose of this temperature drop is to help you eventually fall asleep. Essentially, when your body is more heated, you will feel more alert. When your body cools down, you feel sleepier. This is why many sleep experts recommend keeping the temperature of your room lower at night- to help you sleep [3].
During the day, your body does an excellent job of regulating your body temperature. At night, however, things begin to change. The first few hours of sleep your body temperature will continue to drop, but in the second half of the night, when you’re experiencing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, your body loses its ability to thermoregulate [4].
Essentially, you become more like a reptile. As mammals, we can regulate our body temperatures through sweating and shivering. Reptiles can’t do that, so instead, they use external sources to warm them up or cool them down. This is why you often see lizards sitting in a patch of sun.
During REM sleep, we lose our ability to shiver. For this reason, we look for an external source to keep us warm. This holds true in hot climates, because even there the temperatures drop at night. Just as we’re entering REM sleep, the temperature is reaching its coolest point [5].
They Keep Us Calm
Loss of temperature control is not the only thing that happens during REM sleep. Studies show that during the REM periods of sleep, our bodies drastically lower their levels of serotonin. Serotonin, also known as “the happy chemical”, promotes feelings of calm, happiness, and wellbeing [6]. Blankets, however, appear to increase our serotonin levels.
Several studies have shown that sleeping with a weighted blanket in particular can increase the amount of serotonin your brain is producing [7].
“The firm pressure of the blankets activates the nervous system and releases serotonin – a chemical in the body that helps us feel calm and also helps to release melatonin, which is a natural sleep hormone that helps prepare us to sleep,” McGinn said [2].
Conditioning
The third and final reason why you can’t sleep without a blanket is simply because it’s what you’ve always done. If your parents put you to bed with a blanket, you will likely continue to do so as an adult.
Babies are not as good at thermoregulating as adults. For this reason, your parents wrapped you in a blanket when you were an infant to keep you warm at night [8]. This habit has probably made you associate a blanket with sleep. Without it, something feels missing from your nightly routine.
“We’re cueing to our body (and) cuing to our brain that it’s time to go to sleep because you got the blanket on,” says McGinn [2].
What To Do If You’re a Hot Sleeper
If you’re someone who often finds they get very hot at night, but you still can’t sleep without a blanket, McGinn has some advice for you:
Keep the temperature of your room cooler. The ideal sleep temperature is between 19 and 23 degrees celsius (66 to 73 degrees fahrenheit). Don’t sleep naked. Instead, choose clothes and blankets made of lighter, breathable fabrics. Good fabrics for this are flax, cotton, or bamboo. Use light-colored blankets, which absorb less light. Consider using a cooling pad or blanket.
Of course, many other factors can affect whether or not you get a good night’s sleep, like your sleeping position. But don’t worry, science can fix that, too.
McGinn admits that finding what works for you can be a challenge. It is important, though, that everyone figures out the best sleeping arrangements for them, so they can have a good nights rest [2].


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--5 Ways How To Thicken Chili

5 Ways How To Thicken Chili

The chilly and chili season is upon us !
The cold weather is the perfect excuse to start making your famous chili .
Chili is probably one of the best meals you could make for winter time .
The thick , savory , deliciousness that warms our insides and brightens our moods with every bite .
If you ’ re a big fan of chili , you ’ re definitely going to want to learn how to thicken your chili this year .
You ’ ll be the talk of Thanksgiving and have them begging for more in December .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can choose from .
However , people often like to use corn starch to thicken their chili .
You can also use maize starch too if that ’ s all you can find .
The reason why people like to use corn starch is that it ’ s the perfect ingredient to thicken meals with .
You can also use corn starch to thicken sauces and soups .
The process is very simple .
First , mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch and 1 tbsp of cold water together .
Then , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mixture into the pot .
Finally , let your pot of chili simmer for a few minutes as the corn starch dissolves completely .
Luckily , corn starch doesn ’ t alter the flavor of the chili too much but can dilute it if you use a lot .
However , if you ’ re making a large amount of chili it should be okay to add more .
You ’ ll find that this technique is very fast-acting as your chili thickens and becomes glossy .
Incase you ’ re wondering , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same thing .
Advertisement Cornmeal essentially has the same thickening effect on chili as corn starch does .
Cornmeal is typically used to make cornbread , johnnycakes , and spoonbread .
If you ’ re familiar with these breads , you already know just how thick they come .
You might even find cornbread being paired with chili in most situations .
All you have to do is add 2 to 3 tbsp of cornmeal directly into the chili and mix them thoroughly .
After doing so , you may have to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes .
Cornmeal is a great ingredient to use to thicken chili , however , it can definitely alter the overall flavor .
You may need to add more cornmeal if your chili isn ’ t the thickness you want .
Cornmeal is not the same as corn starch .
It is more coarsely ground flour that ’ s also made from corn kernels .
Cornmeal has a more distinct corn taste compared with cornflour .
If you don ’ t want to use cornmeal or cornstarch , all-purpose flour works really well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process is a little more involved if you choose this type of flour .
You may need to repeat this process if your chili isn ’ t to your thickness standards .
First , mix 1/4 cup ( 60 ml ) of water and 2 tbsp of flour .
Be sure that the mixture is smooth and doesn ’ t have any lumps .
Second , stir your chili as you add the mixture into the pot until it boils .
Additionally , you should be on a medium-high heat setting .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cook .
Finally , stir your chili and inspect its thickness for any lumps or remaining flour .
Again , if your chili isn ’ t thick enough , you may have to repeat these steps to achieve what you ’ re looking for .
If you aren ’ t a fan of cornmeal , corn starch , or all-purpose flour , arrowroot is a great alternative .
This flour naturally gluten-free and produced from rootstocks of several tropical plants .
You also don ’ t need to worry about this flour altering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is pretty tasteless .
Furthermore , you don ’ t need to use a lot to achieve thick chili and it ’ s a healthier ingredient for you .
You start by mixing 1 tsp of arrowroot with 1 tsp of cold water .
Then you add the mixture into your chili and stir until properly thickened .
You will find that it doesn ’ t take long for arrowroot to thicken the chili .
In addition , your chili might have a gloss to it after you ’ re done stirring .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ chili , vegetables are the way to go .
Just by adding in tomatoes , potatoes , onions , corn , peppers , and your favorite kind of beans .
Most people prefer to use black beans as they are healthier and full of flavor .
Some cooks like to use tomato paste and even red sauce to thicken their chili .
This is also a healthier way to thicken your chili .
All you have to do is dice up your selected vegetables and add them to the pot .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want , it ’ s entirely up to you and your preferences .
Be sure to taste your chili as you ’ re adding to it as well .
You will have a better understanding of the flavor and thickness as you continue to perfect it .
When you ’ re done adding ingredients , leave the pot uncovered as it simmers and thickens .
Of course , adding vegetables will definitely alter the flavor of your chili but in the best ways possible .
Advertisement Now that you ’ re a chili @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends and family with your new recipe !
Just don ’ t tell them where you got your secrets from .
Keep reading : Eating chilies cuts risk of death from heart attack and stroke , study says

The chilly and chili season is upon us! The cold weather is the perfect excuse to start making your famous chili. Chili is probably one of the best meals you could make for winter time. The thick, savory, deliciousness that warms our insides and brightens our moods with every bite. If you’re a big fan of chili, you’re definitely going to want to learn how to thicken your chili this year. You’ll be the talk of Thanksgiving and have them begging for more in December.
1. Thicken Chili With Corn Starch
There are a variety of flours that you can choose from. However, people often like to use corn starch to thicken their chili. You can also use maize starch too if that’s all you can find. The reason why people like to use corn starch is that it’s the perfect ingredient to thicken meals with. You can also use corn starch to thicken sauces and soups.
The process is very simple. First, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch and 1 tbsp of cold water together. Then, as your chili is boiling, add this mixture into the pot. Finally, let your pot of chili simmer for a few minutes as the corn starch dissolves completely.
Luckily, corn starch doesn’t alter the flavor of the chili too much but can dilute it if you use a lot. However, if you’re making a large amount of chili it should be okay to add more. You’ll find that this technique is very fast-acting as your chili thickens and becomes glossy. Incase you’re wondering, corn starch and corn flour are the same thing.
2. Using Cornmeal
Cornmeal essentially has the same thickening effect on chili as corn starch does. Cornmeal is typically used to make cornbread, johnnycakes, and spoonbread. If you’re familiar with these breads, you already know just how thick they come. You might even find cornbread being paired with chili in most situations.
All you have to do is add 2 to 3 tbsp of cornmeal directly into the chili and mix them thoroughly. After doing so, you may have to let your chili simmer for 10 to 50 minutes. Cornmeal is a great ingredient to use to thicken chili, however, it can definitely alter the overall flavor. You may need to add more cornmeal if your chili isn’t the thickness you want. Cornmeal is not the same as corn starch. It is more coarsely ground flour that’s also made from corn kernels. Cornmeal has a more distinct corn taste compared with cornflour.
3. All-Purpose Flour Thickens Chili
If you don’t want to use cornmeal or cornstarch, all-purpose flour works really well to thicken chili. However, the process is a little more involved if you choose this type of flour. You may need to repeat this process if your chili isn’t to your thickness standards.
First, mix 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water and 2 tbsp of flour. Be sure that the mixture is smooth and doesn’t have any lumps. Second, stir your chili as you add the mixture into the pot until it boils. Additionally, you should be on a medium-high heat setting. This should only take a few minutes to cook. Finally, stir your chili and inspect its thickness for any lumps or remaining flour. Again, if your chili isn’t thick enough, you may have to repeat these steps to achieve what you’re looking for.
4. Arrowroot Flour
If you aren’t a fan of cornmeal, corn starch, or all-purpose flour, arrowroot is a great alternative. This flour naturally gluten-free and produced from rootstocks of several tropical plants. You also don’t need to worry about this flour altering the flavor of your chili as it is pretty tasteless. Furthermore, you don’t need to use a lot to achieve thick chili and it’s a healthier ingredient for you.
You start by mixing 1 tsp of arrowroot with 1 tsp of cold water. Then you add the mixture into your chili and stir until properly thickened. You will find that it doesn’t take long for arrowroot to thicken the chili. In addition, your chili might have a gloss to it after you’re done stirring.
5. Can’t Get Enough Veggies
If you really want to thicken your chili, vegetables are the way to go. Just by adding in tomatoes, potatoes, onions, corn, peppers, and your favorite kind of beans. Most people prefer to use black beans as they are healthier and full of flavor. Some cooks like to use tomato paste and even red sauce to thicken their chili. This is also a healthier way to thicken your chili.
All you have to do is dice up your selected vegetables and add them to the pot. You can honestly add as many veggies as you want, it’s entirely up to you and your preferences. Be sure to taste your chili as you’re adding to it as well. You will have a better understanding of the flavor and thickness as you continue to perfect it. When you’re done adding ingredients, leave the pot uncovered as it simmers and thickens. Of course, adding vegetables will definitely alter the flavor of your chili but in the best ways possible.
Now that you’re a chili expert, get ready to impress your friends and family with your new recipe! Just don’t tell them where you got your secrets from.


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--Mushrooms Can Eat Plastic, Petroleum and CO2

In a 2008 Ted Talk , mycologist Paul Stamets declared that mushrooms may be the solution to a number of environmental issues facing our planet today .
It turns out , mushrooms can eat plastic , clean up oil spills , and re-build our forests , among many other incredible abilities .
How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World Mushrooms are some of the most incredible organisms on our planet , and we are still learning how we benefit from them .
We already know that eating them can cut your risk for cognitive decline , and some types of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In his book , Mycelium Running : How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World , Stamets explains how mushrooms have survived every mass extinction throughout our planet ’ s history .
This includes the most recent mass extinction .
While not all scientists agree that an asteroid was the cause of the fifth mass extinction , one thing is certain : The earth was covered in dust , sunlight could not get through , and the majority of plants and animals died .
That is , except for the mushrooms .
Because mycelium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mushrooms proliferated .
Any organisms , then , that paired with mushrooms had a better chance at survival [ 1 ] .Advertisement These mushrooms created the soil and environmental conditions upon which other plants and organisms could re-establish themselves .
In his talk , Stamets explains how mushrooms facilitate communication and the multi-directional transfer of nutrients between plants .
“ Mushrooms Can Eat Plastic ” and Has Other Amazing Abilities Mushrooms ’ ability to survive mass extinctions and then rebuild over and over again is the basis for its usefulness .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to problems like global warming , global desertification , deoxygenating oceans , and our sixth mass extinction crisis .
One of the reasons mushrooms have survived so well over billions of years is their ability to “ eat ” matter than other organisms can ’ t .
This includes things like rocks , and as scientists know now , plastic .
Researchers from Yale screened several types of endophytic fungi and found that several of them can degrade polyester polyurethane , aka , plastic [ 3 ] .
Endophytic organisms are organisms that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of their life cycle [ 4 ] .
This process is an example of bioremediation , which relies on biological processes to break down a variety of pollutants .
The researchers describe this as an important approach to waste reduction .
Plastic pollution has become a significant threat to our environment , and this research shows that mushrooms may play an important role in the solution to that problem .
One 2005 review found that mushrooms are potentially an excellent source of bioactive metabolites , and thus could be an important resource @ @ @ @ @ @ @ produce mushrooms year-round of standardized quality , which is an important prerequisite for any drug or nutraceutical [ 5 ] .
Another more recent review from 2018 also concluded that mushrooms are a vast source of bioactive molecules .
This makes them useful as antivirals .
Since viral infections are among the most common diseases affecting people worldwide , this could have a profound impact on modern medicine [ 6 ] .
Stamets refers to mushrooms as the “ soil magicians ” .
This is because they have a remarkable ability to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helps plants and trees thrive.Advertisement Mushrooms create a thread-like network below them called hyphae .
When these fungal hyphae work together with plant roots , this is called mycorrhizae .
Just one thimbleful of soil can contain miles of mycorrhizal filaments .
This network provides a number of benefits to soil and plants .
It produces organic compounds that glue soils together .
This improves its structure and porosity , which enhances root growth .
It can also protect against soil-borne pathogens and help prevent root diseases .
Susie Dunham is a mycologist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Information Center at Oregon State University .
She says that this adds up to a mutualistic relationship between fungi and green plants that has been evolving for millions of years .
Read : World ’ s first living coffin made of mushroom mycelium gives human nutrients back to nature This thread-like network also absorbs massive amounts of carbon dioxide from our atmosphere .
In fact , a 2013 study found that in northern boreal forests , it is not the plant matter that is responsible for the majority of carbon sequestering .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on and in tree roots that do most of the work .
The researchers found that the trees , which pull in carbon dioxide , were carrying much of that carbon in their roots via sugars .
There , mycorrhizal fungi were eating it and expelling it into the soil [ 8 ] .
This has important implications for climate change since one of the main contributors to the warming of our planet is carbon dioxide .
The more CO2 we can remove from our atmosphere , the more we can slow down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but they can also eat oil .
In his talk , Stamets describes how he worked with Patel Laboratories to use mycelium to clean up diesel and other petroleum waste .
They treated one pile with enzymes , one with bacteria , and one with mycelium .
The mycelium produces enzymes called peroxidases that break carbon-hydrogen bonds .
This allows the mycelium to become saturated with oil and grow mushrooms .
After six weeks , the other two piles were “ dead , dark , and stinky ” .
The third pile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the growing mushrooms attracted insects , which in turn attracted birds .
Eventually , other plant life began to grow on the pile .
Stamets has also harnessed the power of mushrooms as an all-natural insecticide and has now patented two insecticides .
One works for carpenter ants , fire ants , and termites , and the other works for more than two hundred thousand other insects .
He did this by creating a non-sporulating mushroom .
Normally , the spores on mushrooms deter insects .
Stamets ’ mushroom , however , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bug eats the mushroom , it mummifies the insect and then sporulates .
The spore sprouts right through the insect ’ s body , which kills it .
Stamets says that this could totally revamp the pesticide industry throughout the world [ 2 ] .
Stamets is not the only singing the praises of the mighty mushroom .
Scientists around the world are looking to the remarkable organism to solve some of our biggest environmental issues .
Mushrooms can eat plastic , yes , but that is only the beginning .
Their ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ecosystems could have a profound impact on the health of our planet .
Keep Reading : Canada Will Let Terminally Ill Patients Use Psychedelic Mushrooms For End-Of-Life Care

In a 2008 Ted Talk, mycologist Paul Stamets declared that mushrooms may be the solution to a number of environmental issues facing our planet today. It turns out, mushrooms can eat plastic, clean up oil spills, and re-build our forests, among many other incredible abilities.
How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World
Mushrooms are some of the most incredible organisms on our planet, and we are still learning how we benefit from them. We already know that eating them can cut your risk for cognitive decline, and some types of mushrooms may even help treat depression.
In his book, Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World, Stamets explains how mushrooms have survived every mass extinction throughout our planet’s history. This includes the most recent mass extinction. While not all scientists agree that an asteroid was the cause of the fifth mass extinction, one thing is certain: The earth was covered in dust, sunlight could not get through, and the majority of plants and animals died.
That is, except for the mushrooms. Because mycelium does not require sunlight to grow, mushrooms proliferated. Any organisms, then, that paired with mushrooms had a better chance at survival [1].
These mushrooms created the soil and environmental conditions upon which other plants and organisms could re-establish themselves. In his talk, Stamets explains how mushrooms facilitate communication and the multi-directional transfer of nutrients between plants.
He describes mushrooms as “earth’s natural internet”.
“If one branch is broken, there are alternative pathways for channeling nutrients and information,” he explains. “The mycelium is sentient, it knows you are there” [2].
“Mushrooms Can Eat Plastic” and Has Other Amazing Abilities
Mushrooms’ ability to survive mass extinctions and then rebuild over and over again is the basis for its usefulness. It is this quality that makes them the solution to problems like global warming, global desertification, deoxygenating oceans, and our sixth mass extinction crisis.
Mushrooms Can Eat Plastic
One of the reasons mushrooms have survived so well over billions of years is their ability to “eat” matter than other organisms can’t. This includes things like rocks, and as scientists know now, plastic.
Researchers from Yale screened several types of endophytic fungi and found that several of them can degrade polyester polyurethane, aka, plastic [3]. Endophytic organisms are organisms that live within another plant for at least part of their life cycle [4].
This process is an example of bioremediation, which relies on biological processes to break down a variety of pollutants. The researchers describe this as an important approach to waste reduction.
Plastic pollution has become a significant threat to our environment, and this research shows that mushrooms may play an important role in the solution to that problem.
Mushrooms are an Important Antibacterial/Antiviral
“Fungi don’t like to rot from bacteria, so our best antibiotics come from fungi,” Stamets explains in his Ted Talk [2].
One 2005 review found that mushrooms are potentially an excellent source of bioactive metabolites, and thus could be an important resource for drugs. We can also easily produce mushrooms year-round of standardized quality, which is an important prerequisite for any drug or nutraceutical [5].
Another more recent review from 2018 also concluded that mushrooms are a vast source of bioactive molecules. This makes them useful as antivirals. Since viral infections are among the most common diseases affecting people worldwide, this could have a profound impact on modern medicine [6].
Mushrooms Support Reforestation
Stamets refers to mushrooms as the “soil magicians”. This is because they have a remarkable ability to build soil and protect against erosion, which helps plants and trees thrive.
Mushrooms create a thread-like network below them called hyphae. When these fungal hyphae work together with plant roots, this is called mycorrhizae. Just one thimbleful of soil can contain miles of mycorrhizal filaments.
This network provides a number of benefits to soil and plants. It produces organic compounds that glue soils together. This improves its structure and porosity, which enhances root growth. It can also protect against soil-borne pathogens and help prevent root diseases.
Susie Dunham is a mycologist and pesticide specialist with the National Pesticide Information Center at Oregon State University. She says that this adds up to a mutualistic relationship between fungi and green plants that has been evolving for millions of years.
“Most plants – from orchids, rhododendrons, and madrone trees to most fruit and nut trees, turf grasses, annuals, and perennials – depend on some type of fungal activity,” she explains [7].
Mushrooms Sequester Carbon Dioxide
This thread-like network also absorbs massive amounts of carbon dioxide from our atmosphere.
In fact, a 2013 study found that in northern boreal forests, it is not the plant matter that is responsible for the majority of carbon sequestering. Instead, it is the fungi that live on and in tree roots that do most of the work.
The researchers found that the trees, which pull in carbon dioxide, were carrying much of that carbon in their roots via sugars. There, mycorrhizal fungi were eating it and expelling it into the soil [8].
This has important implications for climate change since one of the main contributors to the warming of our planet is carbon dioxide. The more CO2 we can remove from our atmosphere, the more we can slow down global warming.
Mushrooms Clean Up Oil Spills
Mushrooms can eat plastic, but they can also eat oil.
In his talk, Stamets describes how he worked with Patel Laboratories to use mycelium to clean up diesel and other petroleum waste. They treated one pile with enzymes, one with bacteria, and one with mycelium.
The mycelium produces enzymes called peroxidases that break carbon-hydrogen bonds. This allows the mycelium to become saturated with oil and grow mushrooms. After six weeks, the other two piles were “dead, dark, and stinky”. The third pile was covered in oyster mushrooms.
Additionally, the growing mushrooms attracted insects, which in turn attracted birds. Eventually, other plant life began to grow on the pile.
“These are gateway species that open the door for other biological communities,” Stamets said [2].
Mushrooms Can Act as a Non-Toxic Insecticide
Stamets has also harnessed the power of mushrooms as an all-natural insecticide and has now patented two insecticides. One works for carpenter ants, fire ants, and termites, and the other works for more than two hundred thousand other insects.
He did this by creating a non-sporulating mushroom. Normally, the spores on mushrooms deter insects. Stamets’ mushroom, however, attracts the bugs before sporulating. The bug eats the mushroom, it mummifies the insect and then sporulates. The spore sprouts right through the insect’s body, which kills it.
Stamets says that this could totally revamp the pesticide industry throughout the world [2].
Can Mushrooms Save the Planet?
Stamets is not the only singing the praises of the mighty mushroom. Scientists around the world are looking to the remarkable organism to solve some of our biggest environmental issues.
Mushrooms can eat plastic, yes, but that is only the beginning. Their ability to rebuild environments and create brand new ecosystems could have a profound impact on the health of our planet.


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--“Liquid Window” Significantly Reduces Energy Consumption in Buildings

Windows and sustainability haven ’ t always gone hand-in-hand .
Scientists at the Nanyang Technological University , Singapore ( NTU Singapore ) have set out to change that .
Their newly-developed liquid window reduces both sun exposure and energy consumption in buildings .
( 1 ) According to a 2009 report by the United Nations , 40 % of energy usage comes from buildings , and windows are account for half of that energy consumption .
( 2 ) Heat transfer occurs easily through traditional glass windows .
This can both cause a building to warm up significantly when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause buildings to lose heat in the colder months .
( 1 ) The NTU Singapore liquid window reduces both infrared and visible light , something that no other conventional energy-saving low-emissivity windows do .
This is a liquid-filled glass window that responds to temperature automatically to regulate how much light can pass through .
( 1 ) Advertisement The liquid window also has the ability to store heat so it can be released at night time .
This as a whole keeps the temperature of the building more constant and requires less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system .
The liquid window can decrease up to 45 % of heating , ventilation , and air-conditioning usage and cost in buildings .
( 3 ) Read : Scientists Create Transparent Wood Nearly As Clear as Glass To Make Stronger , Better Insulating Windows The scientists used a mixture of micro-hydrogel , a stabilizer , and water to tp produce the window ( 2 ) : Water has what ’ s called a high specific heat capacity , meaning that it can absorb a large amount of heat before it gets hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those three turns opaque when heated so that it blocks out sunlight , then returns to a clear state in cooler temperatures .
Not only does it allow for more light and heat to pass through in cooler and less sunny conditions , but it also releases stored heat into the building .
( 2 ) This allows the window to shift the timing of when a building uses the most energy to an off-peak time , like a vacant office building at night time .
( 2 ) To prove that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducted outdoor tests in various climates ( 2 ) .
These included Singapore ( hot climate ) , Guangzhou ( hot climate ) , and Beijing ( cold climate ) .
The window in Singapore had a temperature of 34 degrees celsius lower than a traditional window during the hottest point of the day .
The Beijing window used 11 % less energy to maintain the same room temperature .
The window fully shifted the “ peak ” usage of energy for temperature control , which ultimately saves businesses money .
( 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ window ?
It reduces noise pollution by 15 % more than a traditional noise-blocking window .
( 2 ) The research team is currently looking to collaborate with industry partners to commercialize the liquid window .
( 2 ) If they are able to do so , this could completely change the game for sustainable , energy , and cost-saving window technology.Advertisement

Windows and sustainability haven’t always gone hand-in-hand. Scientists at the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have set out to change that. Their newly-developed liquid window reduces both sun exposure and energy consumption in buildings. (1)
The Liquid Window That Reduces Energy Consumption
According to a 2009 report by the United Nations, 40% of energy usage comes from buildings, and windows are account for half of that energy consumption. (2)
Heat transfer occurs easily through traditional glass windows. This can both cause a building to warm up significantly when the sun is strong, but can also cause buildings to lose heat in the colder months. (1)
The NTU Singapore liquid window reduces both infrared and visible light, something that no other conventional energy-saving low-emissivity windows do. This is a liquid-filled glass window that responds to temperature automatically to regulate how much light can pass through. (1)
The liquid window also has the ability to store heat so it can be released at night time. This as a whole keeps the temperature of the building more constant and requires less work done by a heating and cooling system. The liquid window can decrease up to 45% of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning usage and cost in buildings. (3)
Read: Scientists Create Transparent Wood Nearly As Clear as Glass To Make Stronger, Better Insulating Windows
How the Liquid Window Works
The scientists used a mixture of micro-hydrogel, a stabilizer, and water to tp produce the window (2):
Water has what’s called a high specific heat capacity, meaning that it can absorb a large amount of heat before it gets hot itself. (2)
The mixture of those three turns opaque when heated so that it blocks out sunlight, then returns to a clear state in cooler temperatures. Not only does it allow for more light and heat to pass through in cooler and less sunny conditions, but it also releases stored heat into the building. (2)
This allows the window to shift the timing of when a building uses the most energy to an off-peak time, like a vacant office building at night time. (2)
“Our innovation combines the unique properties of both types of materials – hydrogel and water. By using a hydrogel-based liquid we simplify the fabrication process to pouring the mixture between two glass panels. This gives the window a unique advantage of high uniformity, which means the window can be created in any shape and size.” said the lead author of the study Dr. Long Yi. (2)
Tried and Tested
To prove that the concept works, the research team conducted outdoor tests in various climates (2). These included Singapore (hot climate), Guangzhou (hot climate), and Beijing (cold climate).
The window in Singapore had a temperature of 34 degrees celsius lower than a traditional window during the hottest point of the day. The Beijing window used 11% less energy to maintain the same room temperature. The window fully shifted the “peak” usage of energy for temperature control, which ultimately saves businesses money. (2)
One more benefit of the liquid window? It reduces noise pollution by 15% more than a traditional noise-blocking window. (2)
“Sound-blocking double glazed windows are made with two pieces of glass which are separated by an air gap. Our window is designed similarly, but in place of air, we fill the gap with the hydrogel-based liquid, which increases the sound insulation between the glass panels, thereby offering additional benefit not commonly found in current energy-saving windows.” said study author Wang Shancheng. (2)
Next Steps
The research team is currently looking to collaborate with industry partners to commercialize the liquid window. (2) If they are able to do so, this could completely change the game for sustainable, energy, and cost-saving window technology.
Keep Reading: Student Invented Solar Windows Made from Rotten Vegetables


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--Stray Cat Brings All Her Babies To Meet The Woman Who Helped Her

A woman in Quebec , Canada got more than she bargained for when she began feeding a hungry stray cat in her garden over the summer .
The feline was pregnant , and soon after birthing her kittens came again to the woman for help .
This is their story .
While out in her yard one day , Lisanne found a beautiful , long-haired black cat wandering around in her garden .
It was a stray cat , so Lisanne decided to set out some food and water for her .
The cat returned the next day , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pair .
As the days went on , the cat , who she named Usagi , began to trust Lisanne more .
Quickly she realized that Usagi was pregnant .
Her belly grew and it wasn ’ t long until the feline gave birth outside .
Even after having her kittens , Usagi continued to visit Lisanne for food and water .
One day , however , when Lisanne went out to meet the stray cat , she was greeted by six other fluffy little faces .
Advertisement Usagi brought her kittens to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitten was sick and the stray cat knew that she could not save them alone .
Lisanne coaxed the Usagi and her six-week-old kittens into the house .
Next , she called Chatons Orphelins Montréal , a cat rescue organization .
It is a good thing she did , too : The kittens were all suffering from conjunctivitis and were unable to breathe properly .
Each kitten was taken to the vet and soon their condition improved .
Slowly , they grew more accustomed to and trusting of humans , and soon their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Usagi after also having her treated and spayed by the vet .
One of Lisanne ’ s friends took one of the kittens .
The remaining five are up for adoption .
The five little kittens , all of who are exact black , fluffy replicas of their mother , have really come out of their shells and are full of energy .
Read : This Cat Sanctuary Has a Caretaker Who Lives On a Greek Island With 55 Cats The shelter describes Tyana as the most mature of the five .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cuddly .
She prefers to watch and observe her siblings or humans first before participating in any activities .
She enjoys sitting near you while you are on the couch , and though she is a bit timid at first she warms up well with lots of pets and snuggles .
The smallest of the three girls , Tynie is a brave , curious , and highly adventurous little kitten .
She is playful with her siblings and with toys , and she absolutely loves belly rubs .
Advertisement The final sister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use her voice and loves to play with the other cats .
Though she is very curious , she loves routine and is a peaceful little kitten .
She gets along well with and is very close to her brother Tales .
Tales is the most playful of all the siblings .
He has lots of energy but is also super affectionate .
Tito will follow you around all morning in hopes of securing a little treat .
He loves playing with other cats , adult ones especially .
Little Tito has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t let it stop him .
He is super snuggly , loves cuddles , and enjoys being held .
He loves to play and follow around his siblings , however , he is a bit less active due to his disability .
Usagi and her kittens are very lucky that they ended up in the backyard of someone as caring as Lisanne .
Thanks to her kindness , they will all now live much happier , easier lives .
To learn how to adopt one of Usagi ’ s kittens , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Montréal ’ s Facebook page .
Keep Reading : People in Quarantine Are Using Their Free Time to Crochet Tiny Couches for Their Cats

Stray Cat Brings All Her Babies To Meet The Woman Who Helped Her
A woman in Quebec, Canada got more than she bargained for when she began feeding a hungry stray cat in her garden over the summer. The feline was pregnant, and soon after birthing her kittens came again to the woman for help. This is their story.
Woman Unintentionally Rescues Stray Cat and Her Kittens
While out in her yard one day, Lisanne found a beautiful, long-haired black cat wandering around in her garden. It was a stray cat, so Lisanne decided to set out some food and water for her. The cat returned the next day, and quickly this became a routine for the pair.
Image Credit: CHATONS ORPHELINS MONTRÉAL
As the days went on, the cat, who she named Usagi, began to trust Lisanne more. Quickly she realized that Usagi was pregnant. Her belly grew and it wasn’t long until the feline gave birth outside.
Even after having her kittens, Usagi continued to visit Lisanne for food and water. One day, however, when Lisanne went out to meet the stray cat, she was greeted by six other fluffy little faces.
Babies In Need
Usagi brought her kittens to Lisanne because they needed help. Each kitten was sick and the stray cat knew that she could not save them alone.
Image Credit: CHATONS ORPHELINS MONTRÉAL
Lisanne coaxed the Usagi and her six-week-old kittens into the house. Next, she called Chatons Orphelins Montréal, a cat rescue organization. It is a good thing she did, too: The kittens were all suffering from conjunctivitis and were unable to breathe properly.
Each kitten was taken to the vet and soon their condition improved. Slowly, they grew more accustomed to and trusting of humans, and soon their individual personalities shone through.
Lisanne adopted Usagi after also having her treated and spayed by the vet. One of Lisanne’s friends took one of the kittens.
The remaining five are up for adoption.
The Five Kittens
The five little kittens, all of who are exact black, fluffy replicas of their mother, have really come out of their shells and are full of energy.
Image Credit: CHATONS ORPHELINS MONTRÉAL – Facebook
Read: This Cat Sanctuary Has a Caretaker Who Lives On a Greek Island With 55 Cats
Tyana
The shelter describes Tyana as the most mature of the five. She is a little shy but very sweet and cuddly. She prefers to watch and observe her siblings or humans first before participating in any activities.
She enjoys sitting near you while you are on the couch, and though she is a bit timid at first she warms up well with lots of pets and snuggles.
Tynie
The smallest of the three girls, Tynie is a brave, curious, and highly adventurous little kitten. She is playful with her siblings and with toys, and she absolutely loves belly rubs.
Taylor
The final sister of the three, Taylor loves to use her voice and loves to play with the other cats. Though she is very curious, she loves routine and is a peaceful little kitten. She gets along well with and is very close to her brother Tales.
Tales
Tales is the most playful of all the siblings. He has lots of energy but is also super affectionate. Tito will follow you around all morning in hopes of securing a little treat. He loves playing with other cats, adult ones especially.
Tito
Little Tito has a malformed paw and a little strabismus but doesn’t let it stop him. He is super snuggly, loves cuddles, and enjoys being held. He loves to play and follow around his siblings, however, he is a bit less active due to his disability.
Stray Cats With A Happy Tale
Usagi and her kittens are very lucky that they ended up in the backyard of someone as caring as Lisanne. Thanks to her kindness, they will all now live much happier, easier lives.
To learn how to adopt one of Usagi’s kittens, you can read more on Chatons Orphelins Montréal’s Facebook page.
Keep Reading: People in Quarantine Are Using Their Free Time to Crochet Tiny Couches for Their Cats


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--How to Open Any Can of Food with a Spoon

Have you ever needed to open a can but couldn ’ t find the can opener anywhere ?
Or perhaps it broke the second you tried to use it .
Either way , you have a can that needs to be open and nothing to open it with .
That , however , is where you are wrong : You can open a can with a spoon .
Here ’ s how .
How to Open A Can With A Spoon Though not as to use as a can opener ( well… depending on the can opener ! )
it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a can with a spoon .
It just takes a little more muscle .
This is a step-by-step plus a video that will teach you how to open a can with a spoon : • Step 1 : Grip the spoon at the base , where the round part meets the handle .
• Step 2 : Place the tip of the spoon on the inner part of the can ’ s rim .
• Step 3 : Rub the spoon back and forth to weaken the metal until you ’ ve poked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 : Carefully continue to rub the spoon around the perimeter/cut the lid up with the spoon , until you ’ ve gone far enough around that you can lift the lid up .
Read : Easy Hack to Keep Strawberries Fresh in the Fridge for Weeks Some Things to Consider When opening a can with a spoon , be very careful .
The edges of the can will be sharp and jagged .
You may wish to wear a pair of safety gloves if you have them , just in case .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ prized or expensive silverware .
There ’ s a really good chance the spoon could bend or get a bit scratched .
Other Ways to Open a Can Without a Can Opener A spoon isn ’ t the only way to open a can when your can opener has gone MIA .
Place the fork with one prong on the inner edge and the other three on the outer .
Tap down hard with the other hand until the prone pierces the can .
Keep the prong inside and work your way around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can .
( 1 ) At first , you want to keep the scissors closed so that you can pierce through the can .
Hold the scissors with the handle and place the point against the inner rim .
Tap down firmly with the opposite hand onto the scissors until you ’ ve punctured the can .
( 1 ) AdvertisementFrom there , you can use the scissors to further cut through the lid and then pry open the can .
( 1 ) Using a large knife like a chef ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bottom part of the blade next to the handle .
Using a rocking motion , trace the rim to cut open the can .
You ’ ll want to ( very carefully ) hold onto the can with the other hand while you do this .
( 1 ) You can use a small knife as well in a similar fashion to the scissors , spoon , or fork .
Always keep the blade pointed away from your body in case it slips .
( 1 ) Really , any pointy tool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are prepared for that tool to be ruined by the end .
( 1 ) If you continuously rub the softest part of the can on a rock concrete edge , you will eventually wear the can down enough until the metal breaks .
When that happens you can use some other utensil on-hand to pry open the lid .
( 1 ) As you can see , you can open a can with almost anything sharp – you can even open a can with a spoon which really isn ’ t sharp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that whichever method you choose you are extremely careful .
The can ’ s edges will be sharp , and if your utensil slips you don ’ t want to lose a finger ( or worse ! )
.
Keep Reading : Say Goodbye to That Pesky Toilet Bowl Ring With This Hack

Have you ever needed to open a can but couldn’t find the can opener anywhere? Or perhaps it broke the second you tried to use it. Either way, you have a can that needs to be open and nothing to open it with. That, however, is where you are wrong: You can open a can with a spoon. Here’s how.
How to Open A Can With A Spoon
Though not as to use as a can opener (well… depending on the can opener!) it’s not too hard to open a can with a spoon. It just takes a little more muscle.
This is a step-by-step plus a video that will teach you how to open a can with a spoon:
Step 1: Grip the spoon at the base, where the round part meets the handle.
Grip the spoon at the base, where the round part meets the handle. Step 2: Place the tip of the spoon on the inner part of the can’s rim.
Place the tip of the spoon on the inner part of the can’s rim. Step 3: Rub the spoon back and forth to weaken the metal until you’ve poked a hole through it.
Rub the spoon back and forth to weaken the metal until you’ve poked a hole through it. Step 4: Carefully continue to rub the spoon around the perimeter/cut the lid up with the spoon, until you’ve gone far enough around that you can lift the lid up.
Read: Easy Hack to Keep Strawberries Fresh in the Fridge for Weeks
Some Things to Consider
When opening a can with a spoon, be very careful. The edges of the can will be sharp and jagged. You may wish to wear a pair of safety gloves if you have them, just in case.
Secondly, don’t use your prized or expensive silverware. There’s a really good chance the spoon could bend or get a bit scratched.
Other Ways to Open a Can Without a Can Opener
A spoon isn’t the only way to open a can when your can opener has gone MIA.
The Fork
Place the fork with one prong on the inner edge and the other three on the outer. Tap down hard with the other hand until the prone pierces the can. Keep the prong inside and work your way around the rim until you can open the can. (1)
The Scissors
At first, you want to keep the scissors closed so that you can pierce through the can. Hold the scissors with the handle and place the point against the inner rim. Tap down firmly with the opposite hand onto the scissors until you’ve punctured the can. (1)
From there, you can use the scissors to further cut through the lid and then pry open the can. (1)
A Big Knife
Using a large knife like a chef’s knife, puncture the inner rim with the bottom part of the blade next to the handle. Using a rocking motion, trace the rim to cut open the can. You’ll want to (very carefully) hold onto the can with the other hand while you do this. (1)
You can use a small knife as well in a similar fashion to the scissors, spoon, or fork. Always keep the blade pointed away from your body in case it slips. (1)
Really, any pointy tool will work, as long as you are prepared for that tool to be ruined by the end. (1)
A Rock or Concrete
If you continuously rub the softest part of the can on a rock concrete edge, you will eventually wear the can down enough until the metal breaks. When that happens you can use some other utensil on-hand to pry open the lid. (1)
Top Tip: Be Careful
As you can see, you can open a can with almost anything sharp – you can even open a can with a spoon which really isn’t sharp at all. The most important thing is that whichever method you choose you are extremely careful. The can’s edges will be sharp, and if your utensil slips you don’t want to lose a finger (or worse!).
Keep Reading: Say Goodbye to That Pesky Toilet Bowl Ring With This Hack


theheartysoul--2020-11-19--Japan Is Giving Away Abandoned Houses for Free, but there’s a Catch

Like many countries , Japan is facing a housing crisis .
Unlike those countries , Japan ’ s is for the opposite reason : They have more homes than they have people .
For this reason , they started giving away abandoned houses – but are they really free ?
Here ’ s what you should know .
Why is Japan Giving Away Abandoned Houses Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world .
According to the National Institute of Population and Social Security , Japan ’ s population , which was 127 million in 2015 , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several decades .
( 3 ) By 2040 , they expect a population of 110.92 million , then 99.24 million by 2053 , and then 88 million by 2065 .
( 3 ) Not only are fewer and fewer people needing homes , but young people are leaving small towns for opportunities in the cities .
These towns are known as akiya towns , akiya meaning “ vacant homes ” .
( 1 ) According to a local report done in 2014 , approximately 896 Japanese towns could essentially go extinct by 2040 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several reasons ( 1 ) : • As the towns ’ populations decrease , so does opportunity .
• Residents have to drive hours into the nearest city for their job unless they can work from home or start a new enterprise in the town .
• Younger generations abandon them because they don ’ t want to pay the high property taxes .
Essentially , the actual akiya owner doesn ’ t want to admit that they own the house , because then they are liable to pay the taxes on it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the owner , so purchasing it and transferring it into another person ’ s name is difficult .
( 1 ) Read : Families Buy 97 Acres of Land in Georgia to Build Freedom Town To attract people and families to these towns , the government has created “ akiya banks ” that provide incentives for younger people to come renovate and live in these homes .
Not Just Giving Away Abandoned Houses These are websites that list properties for sale at very low rates .
Homes are listed for little to ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) This doesn ’ t include ( 1 ) : These will vary but estimate in the ballpark of $ 4000 US .
( 1 ) You also have to come to see the akiya in-person , to assess the state of the property .
Some can be quite run-down after a decade or more of abandonment .
You will need to be prepared to put quite a bit of money into renovating the home and property .
( 1 ) Each akiya will have their own clauses and restrictions .
For example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the house for 15 years or more in order to own the home .
If you are a foreigner thinking of purchasing one , this may not be possible due to visa restrictions .
( 1 ) Others require you to rent the property for 20 years or more before the home and land can be transferred into your name .
( 1 ) Keep in mind , after all , their goal isn ’ t to sell homes , their goal is to save these towns from extinction .
( 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you may need to ( 1 ) : • Have children under middle or junior high age If the akiya comes with farmland , there are even more restrictions , mostly that you are basically required to become a farmer .
( 1 ) Advertisement Those who do move to akiya towns are expected to help improve the economy of the town , perhaps by opening a business such as a cafe .
Either way , to say that these homes are “ free ” is more of a way to catch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Japan has been traditionally an anti-immigration country .
Combine that with a lower birth rate and an aging population , and you have a recipe for a rapidly declining population .
( 2 ) This is not just happening in Japan : The population in most countries around the world is also declining .
More elderly people without the workforce to support them can cause numerous problems for a country .
So far the akiya incentive program has helped bolster some of these town ’ s populations , but how much will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last ?
Time will tell .
Keep Reading : Happy ever after : 25 ways to live well into old age

Like many countries, Japan is facing a housing crisis. Unlike those countries, Japan’s is for the opposite reason: They have more homes than they have people. For this reason, they started giving away abandoned houses – but are they really free? Here’s what you should know.
Why is Japan Giving Away Abandoned Houses
Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world. According to the National Institute of Population and Social Security, Japan’s population, which was 127 million in 2015, is expected to drop dramatically over the next several decades.
By 2040, they expect a population of 110.92 million, then 99.24 million by 2053, and then 88 million by 2065. Not only are fewer and fewer people needing homes, but young people are leaving small towns for opportunities in the cities. These towns are known as akiya towns, akiya meaning “vacant homes”.
According to a local report done in 2014, approximately 896 Japanese towns could essentially go extinct by 2040.
Why Aren’t People Buying These Homes?
There are several reasons:
As the towns’ populations decrease, so does opportunity.
Residents have to drive hours into the nearest city for their job unless they can work from home or start a new enterprise in the town.
Younger generations abandon them because they don’t want to pay the high property taxes.
Essentially, the actual akiya owner doesn’t want to admit that they own the house, because then they are liable to pay the taxes on it. This makes it hard to find the owner, so purchasing it and transferring it into another person’s name is difficult.
Read: Families Buy 97 Acres of Land in Georgia to Build Freedom Town
What Are “Akiya Banks”?
To attract people and families to these towns, the government has created “akiya banks” that provide incentives for younger people to come renovate and live in these homes.
Not Just Giving Away Abandoned Houses
These are websites that list properties for sale at very low rates. Homes are listed for little to (actually) zero yen. This doesn’t include:
Administrative and management fees
Registration and license tax
Agent commission
Acquisition and property tax
These will vary but estimate in the ballpark of $4000 US. (1) You also have to come to see the akiya in-person, to assess the state of the property. Some can be quite run-down after a decade or more of abandonment. You will need to be prepared to put quite a bit of money into renovating the home and property.
Other Restrictions
Each akiya will have their own clauses and restrictions. For example, some may require you to live in the house for 15 years or more in order to own the home. If you are a foreigner thinking of purchasing one, this may not be possible due to visa restrictions.
Others require you to rent the property for 20 years or more before the home and land can be transferred into your name. (1) Keep in mind, after all, their goal isn’t to sell homes, their goal is to save these towns from extinction.
In order to purchase an akiya, you may need to:
Be 43-years-old or younger
Be a younger, married couple
Have children under middle or junior high age
If the akiya comes with farmland, there are even more restrictions, mostly that you are basically required to become a farmer.
Those who do move to akiya towns are expected to help improve the economy of the town, perhaps by opening a business such as a cafe. Either way, to say that these homes are “free” is more of a way to catch people’s interest.
Not Just a Japanese Problem
Japan has been traditionally an anti-immigration country. Combine that with a lower birth rate and an aging population, and you have a recipe for a rapidly declining population.
This is not just happening in Japan: The population in most countries around the world is also declining. More elderly people without the workforce to support them can cause numerous problems for a country.
So far the akiya incentive program has helped bolster some of these town’s populations, but how much will it help and how long will that last? Time will tell.


theheartysoul--2020-11-20--Sacred white ‘spirit moose’ is killed by hunters in Canada

Most of us are aware of what poaching is and the impact that it has on the environment .
In fact , that is the reason why these animals are considered to be rare – they ’ re endangered .
Additionally , poaching is one of the primary reasons for the extinction of rare animals .
In some places of the world , if not most , poaching is illegal for a variety of reasons .
However , that didn ’ t stop these hunters from poaching a ‘ spirit moose ’ that ’ s considered sacred by the local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but are white due to a recessive gene they ’ re born with .
It ’ s considered extremely rare for a person to encounter a white moose in the wild .
In fact , these moose have indigenous lore behind them in that they are thought to bring good luck .
Although , the law to kill spirit moose was made illegal within the last decade .
It ’ s been widely known for years that hunters should spare these animals whenever spotted in the wild .
( 1 ) To give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is to poach a spirit moose , take this into consideration .
In 2013 , poachers had killed one close to the Mi ’ kmaq people in Nova Scotia and were rightfully charged for the crime .
Forced to give the pelt back to the tribe while they kept the head as a trophy .
The Mi ’ kmaq people used the pelt as a center-piece as they mourned the loss of the spirit moose for days in ceremony .
( 2 ) Read : Endangered rhino population up 1000 % in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With The Spirit Moose Even though hunting with a license is legal in Canada , it ’ s illegal to kill these moose .
However , that didn ’ t stop these poachers from killing this rare spirit moose .
Nobody knows who poached these unsuspecting creatures , but they aim to find out .
“ It saddens me that somebody would take such a beautiful animal , ” Explains Troy Woodhouse , a Flying Post member .
“ Nobody knows exactly how many are in the area , so the loss of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many.
” ( 1 , 2 ) AdvertisementUnfortunately , the heads of two cow moose were found discarded on the side of the road earlier this week .
One of which was a spirit moose and it ’ s causing quite the outrage from locals .
The northern Ontario community of Timmins in Canada is currently offering an $ 8,000 reward for the outing of these poachers .
As a collaboration effort between Woodhouse , a drilling company , and an animal welfare group .
“ Everybody is outraged and sad .
Why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs one that bad , ” Claims Chief Murray Ray , from the Flying Post First Nation .
“ If you have a license to shoot a cow moose , you could shoot another one .
Just leave the white ones alone.
” ( 1 , 2 ) Just because the spirit moose of Canada aren ’ t albino doesn ’ t give people the right to hunt them .
Although , there are a variety of other albino animals that are considered endangered in Canada .
To the Mi ’ kmaq people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and bison are some of the most sacred animals of the land .
Killing any of these rare animals could result in dire consequences if one were to poach them .
It ’ s the hunters responsibility to respect nature and the people that work hard to preserve it .
It takes a lot of effort to spread awareness about the effects that poaching has on the environment .
Advertisement “ Maybe hunters tried to get one moose and got the other by accident .
If a person does come forward and admit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my portion towards any of their legal fees , ” Woodhouse explains .
“ There ’ s so much negativity in the world today .
It ’ s nice to just see some people banding together and trying to turn this into something positive.
” ( 1 , 2 ) A lot of people feel similarly to Woodhouse and are demanding justice for this untimely death .
Mark Clement , a photographer within the area , says that he ’ s been able to spot multiple spirit moose over the years .
Claiming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be and approximates that there are at least 30 spread out over the region .
Although the term ‘ spirit moose ’ is a distinct species , Canada has warning signs that advise against hunting them .
Read : Canines to the Rescue : Dogs Trained To Protect Wildlife Have Saved 45 Rhinos from Poachers in South Africa Poaching All Over The World Unfortunately , Canada is not the only country that experiences poaching .
In fact , you will find poaching to be illegal in virtually all countries .
Poaching not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a whole .
It tampers with the natural order of ecosystems and wildlife communities as they develop .
To give an example , overfishing in certain areas of the world has been known to alter marine life as a whole .
( 3 ) You have to look at the entire picture and not just the trophy you ’ d get in that moment .
Some people obviously poach for the money , but even then the criminal charges will make it so you never see daylight again .
These animals play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day lives without us even realizing it .
This isn ’ t necessarily to say that hunting is a bad thing to do .
However , it ’ s important to know when you ’ re hunting versus when you ’ re poaching .
Regardless , we must all be mindful of the natural web we all coexist on .
( 3 ) Advertisement Keep reading : When Animals Fight Back , The Hunters Become The Hunted .

Most of us are aware of what poaching is and the impact that it has on the environment. In fact, that is the reason why these animals are considered to be rare – they’re endangered. Additionally, poaching is one of the primary reasons for the extinction of rare animals. In some places of the world, if not most, poaching is illegal for a variety of reasons. However, that didn’t stop these hunters from poaching a ‘spirit moose’ that’s considered sacred by the local community.
The Sacred Spirit Moose
These moose are not albino but are white due to a recessive gene they’re born with. It’s considered extremely rare for a person to encounter a white moose in the wild. In fact, these moose have indigenous lore behind them in that they are thought to bring good luck. Although, the law to kill spirit moose was made illegal within the last decade. It’s been widely known for years that hunters should spare these animals whenever spotted in the wild. (1)
To give you an idea as to how serious it is to poach a spirit moose, take this into consideration. In 2013, poachers had killed one close to the Mi’kmaq people in Nova Scotia and were rightfully charged for the crime. Forced to give the pelt back to the tribe while they kept the head as a trophy. The Mi’kmaq people used the pelt as a center-piece as they mourned the loss of the spirit moose for days in ceremony. (2)
The Community Stands With The Spirit Moose
Even though hunting with a license is legal in Canada, it’s illegal to kill these moose. However, that didn’t stop these poachers from killing this rare spirit moose. Nobody knows who poached these unsuspecting creatures, but they aim to find out.
“It saddens me that somebody would take such a beautiful animal,” Explains Troy Woodhouse, a Flying Post member. “Nobody knows exactly how many are in the area, so the loss of a single spirit moose is one too many.” (1, 2)
Unfortunately, the heads of two cow moose were found discarded on the side of the road earlier this week. One of which was a spirit moose and it’s causing quite the outrage from locals. The northern Ontario community of Timmins in Canada is currently offering an $8,000 reward for the outing of these poachers. As a collaboration effort between Woodhouse, a drilling company, and an animal welfare group.
“Everybody is outraged and sad. Why would you shoot it? No one needs one that bad,” Claims Chief Murray Ray, from the Flying Post First Nation. “If you have a license to shoot a cow moose, you could shoot another one. Just leave the white ones alone.” (1, 2)
Why Albino Animals Are Endangered
Just because the spirit moose of Canada aren’t albino doesn’t give people the right to hunt them. Although, there are a variety of other albino animals that are considered endangered in Canada. To the Mi’kmaq people, albino ravens, grizzly bears, and bison are some of the most sacred animals of the land. Killing any of these rare animals could result in dire consequences if one were to poach them. It’s the hunters responsibility to respect nature and the people that work hard to preserve it. It takes a lot of effort to spread awareness about the effects that poaching has on the environment.
“Maybe hunters tried to get one moose and got the other by accident. If a person does come forward and admit what they did, I would put my portion towards any of their legal fees,” Woodhouse explains. “There’s so much negativity in the world today. It’s nice to just see some people banding together and trying to turn this into something positive.” (1, 2)
A lot of people feel similarly to Woodhouse and are demanding justice for this untimely death. Mark Clement, a photographer within the area, says that he’s been able to spot multiple spirit moose over the years. Claiming that he knows where four white bulls may be and approximates that there are at least 30 spread out over the region. Although the term ‘spirit moose’ is a distinct species, Canada has warning signs that advise against hunting them.
Read: Canines to the Rescue: Dogs Trained To Protect Wildlife Have Saved 45 Rhinos from Poachers in South Africa
Poaching All Over The World
Unfortunately, Canada is not the only country that experiences poaching. In fact, you will find poaching to be illegal in virtually all countries. Poaching not only affects the animals but the environment as a whole. It tampers with the natural order of ecosystems and wildlife communities as they develop. To give an example, overfishing in certain areas of the world has been known to alter marine life as a whole. (3)
You have to look at the entire picture and not just the trophy you’d get in that moment. Some people obviously poach for the money, but even then the criminal charges will make it so you never see daylight again. These animals play a huge part in our day to day lives without us even realizing it. This isn’t necessarily to say that hunting is a bad thing to do. However, it’s important to know when you’re hunting versus when you’re poaching. Regardless, we must all be mindful of the natural web we all coexist on. (3)
Keep reading: When Animals Fight Back, The Hunters Become The Hunted.