NY Met to let French make 3D copies of two 16th-century sculptures

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is home to two jewels of 16th-century French Renaissance sculpture that have been on display since 1908. These sculptures, both crafted by the same artist, represent some of the most renowned art of the time and are a testament to the skill of the artist and the beauty of the Renaissance era in France. The artist responsible for these sculptures was a prolific French sculptor born in 1569 named Jean Goujon. His works span both the Italian Mannerist and French Renaissance style, and his sculptures are recognized for their lifelike movement and remarkable attention to detail. He was a student of the Italian sculptor Jean Boulogne and worked extensively in the court of Henry II of France. The two sculptures at the Metropolitan Museum of Art are examples of some of his best work. The first is a 16th-century marble bust of a boy known as the Young Cupid. The sculpture is realistic in its depiction of a young boy, with a smooth, lifelike face and curls falling about the shoulders. The second sculpture is a 16th-century terracotta Mythical Animal. It is a two-piece sculpture of a lion and a horse that were once thought to be separate figures. However, it has been recently suggested that the two were meant to be seen together and are a representation of the Greek god Hercules. The figures are in a state of intense movement, as if they are in the process of battle. These sculptures are major works of art from the French Renaissance period. They represent the skill and beauty of the Renaissance, and the skill of the artist himself. They are a testament to the skill of Jean Goujon, and a reminder of the importance of this era in French history. The Renaissance period, which began in Italy in the 14th century and spread to France in the 16th century, was a time of great artistic achievement. The period saw new styles of art emerging, including the birth of the Italian Renaissance and the rise of the French Baroque, both of which Jean Goujon helped to shape. French Renaissance art is renowned for its emphasis on realism and its focus on intricate detail, and these two sculptures are perfect examples of this style. The two works of art have been on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art since 1908, when they were donated to the museum by a collector. Since then, they have been admired by art lovers from all over the world who flock to the museum to see them and to get a glimpse of the beauty of the French Renaissance period. The sculptures of Jean Goujon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art are a reminder of the beauty of the French Renaissance and the skill of its artist. These works of art represent the skill of the artist and the beauty of the period, and they will continue to be admired and appreciated for years to come. They are a wonderful example of the beauty of French Renaissance sculpture and of the skill of Jean Goujon.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/ny-met-to-let-french-make-3d-copies-of-two-16th-century-sculptures

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UN ocean treaty talks resume with goal to save biodiversity

The United Nations continued their long-awaited and elusive efforts to craft a treaty to safeguard the world's marine biodiversity at a meeting held Monday in New York. An agreement that protects the world’s oceans and the staggering diversity of life within them is high priority, as some estimates show that over a quarter of marine species will face extinction if current trends continue. The high-level meeting was attended by representatives from over 80 countries as well as members of marine conservation and human rights organizations. In attendance were members of the High Seas Alliance, a global partnership of over 60 civil society organizations that has led the charge in advocating for a global, legally binding agreement to secure the protection of the ocean’s most vulnerable areas. The meeting aimed to build on a previous gathering in March, where delegates agreed to establish two negotiating groups to work on two key components of the treaty: potential regulations and new marine protected areas to conserve marine life. The necessity for a legally binding treaty was brought to light during the meeting. Many legal experts contend that the current patchwork of treaties and international agreements is inadequate for protecting biodiversity in the high seas and that a comprehensive, legally binding agreement is necessary. The official document detailing the negotiations, known as the “zero draft”, outlines the major goals and objectives of the treaty, including the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework to protect marine life and enforce regulations. The zero draft also calls for the adoption of mechanisms to ensure compliance with the treaty and provide for adequate financing for its implementation. It further calls for the designation of Marine Protected Areas and the adoption of regulations for activities such as fishing, shipping, and oil exploration. Although the treaty draft is far from complete, delegates at the meeting expressed optimism that a final agreement could be reached in the near future. Experts also noted that the treaty could serve as a template for similar agreements that protect land-based biodiversity, as well as a guide for other countries as they develop their own domestic policies for ocean protection. The adoption of a treaty would also accelerate international efforts to boost the resilience of marine ecosystems and ensure their continued productivity. Such an agreement would be an essential step in achieving the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Ultimately, the treaty is intended to be a milestone in global efforts to maintain and restore the health of the world’s oceans, both now and in the future. Only with a unified global approach can we ensure the future of marine life and the services they provide to humanity. The United Nations meeting was just the latest step in a long and arduous journey to protect the world's oceans and its incredible biodiversity. Although the final agreement is still far off, there is reason to hope that the treaty might eventually become a reality. With the support of the High Seas Alliance and similar organizations, the United Nations can continue their efforts in crafting a legally binding agreement that can help save our oceans and their inhabitants for future generations.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/un-ocean-treaty-talks-resume-with-goal-to-save-biodiversity

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Brazil flooding, landslides kill at least 36

Flooding and landslides triggered by torrential rains in Sao Paulo state, Brazil, over the traditional Carnival weekend have left at least 36 people dead, local authorities reported Sunday. The worst affected areas are Vaz de Melo, São José do Barreiro and São Simão in the southeast region of the state. The torrential rains began late on Friday, causing rivers to swell and leading to large-scale flooding. The floods affected hundreds of families, some of whom were forced to flee while others were trapped in their homes. Videos posted on social media showed cars being swept away and houses collapsing under the strain of the floods. According to the Sao Paulo fire brigade, at least 36 people were killed, including eight members of two families who were swept away when their car was engulfed by the waters in Vaz de Melo. The Sao Paulo Civil Defense Office has put in place an emergency plan to address the situation and has deployed teams to the affected areas to provide assistance. The Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff expressed her condolences to the families of the victims on Twitter and said that the "huge" tragedy required an "exceptional response". She added that the Brazilian National Force (FNB) had been dispatched to assist in the rescue and aid efforts. The Brazilian government has declared a state of emergency in five municipalities in the Southeast region, releasing funds for the recovery effort. The government has also allocated funds for the families of the victims in order to provide financial assistance for funeral expenses and for rebuilding their homes. The meteorological institute, Inmet, has warned of further heavy rains over the coming days, which could cause more flooding in the affected areas. The National Institute of Meteorology has warned the population to take all necessary precautions, while the Civil Defense Office has urged people to not enter flooded areas. The flooding and landslides that have occurred in Sao Paulo over the weekend have been described as the worst in the state’s history. The region has experienced extreme weather conditions in the past two years, with heavy storms and flash flooding, but this weekend’s disaster has been particularly devastating. The Sao Paulo fire brigade has put in place an extensive rescue and aid effort, while the national Civil Defense office has deployed teams to the affected areas. The Brazilian government has declared a state of emergency in five municipalities and allocated funds for the victims and their families. Inmet has warned of more heavy rains and urged the population to take all necessary precautions to avoid another major disaster. The floods have caused significant destruction and loss of life, with the government and local authorities doing all they can to address the situation. It is unclear when the affected areas will recover, however, local authorities are working hard to provide relief to those affected by the floods, as well as ensuring that further destruction is avoided. In the meantime, the Brazilian government and the international community stand ready to provide assistance to the affected communities and their families. The events of this weekend in Brazil have been tragic, with heavy rains and flooding resulting in devastation and the loss of life across Sao Paulo state. The Brazilian government has declared a state of emergency and has allocated funds for the victims and their families, while teams have been deployed to the affected areas to provide assistance. The Civil Defense Office has warned people to take all necessary precautions when facing floods, while the federal government has sought support from the international community. As the rain continues and more floods become possible, local authorities and the population must be prepared and proactive in order to minimize destruction and loss of life. This catastrophe has been described as the worst in Sao Paulo history and the Brazilian government, local authorities and the international community must all work together to ensure that the affected communities receive the support they need and that the situation does not worsen. The events of the weekend are a reminder of the need for us all to be aware of the potential dangers of extreme weather and to take all necessary precautions.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/brazil-flooding-landslides-kill-at-least-36

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Flaco the escaped zoo owl can remain in the wilds of NYC

For two weeks, an elusive owl has been soaring through the sky like a majestic creature of great resiliency in the midst of New York City. First spotted in Central Park, the owl captured the attention of the world after escaping from the Central Park Zoo. Since then, it has flown from treetop to treetop, taking on the urban skyline and managing to survive on its own in the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle. The owl has almost become an overnight celebrity in the city and has gained an impressive legion of fans along the way. Everyone from the everyday park-goer to the most experienced wildlife experts have been captivated by this feathered creature’s ability to live and thrive in one of the busiest cities in the world. The Central Park Zoo staff are also concerned, however, that the owl will not be able to survive on its own indefinitely. The bird is believed to have originated from the aviary in the zoo and experts are worried that it may have a hard time finding shelter and food, as well as defending itself against predators. Efforts have been made to capture the owl and have it returned to its home in the zoo, but it has remained elusive. To attempt to track the owl, the Central Park Conservancy set up a website, inviting the public to send in their sightings and observations of the bird. Since then, all kinds of people from birdwatchers to urban hikers have reported sightings of the owl, sending in photos and detailed accounts of its whereabouts. From the Upper East Side to Flushing Meadows, the owl has been observed all over the city. In an effort to ensure the owl’s safety, the Central Park Conservancy has suspended the issuing of any permits for falconry or other hunting activities. They have requested that the public keep a respectful distance from the owl and give it enough space to hunt and roost. The Conservancy is also exploring options for a more permanent solution, such as a nesting box or platform that would give the owl a safe and comfortable place to live. The Central Park Zoo staff have said they are open to the possibility of the owl being able to survive on its own in the urban jungle, but have highlighted the fact that there are dangers involved which could severely impact its chances of thriving. The zoo staff understand that the owl may have to remain on its own and they will continue to monitor its progress and support its well-being. In the meantime, the owl continues to soar through the city and capture the hearts of its many followers. With its resilience and determination, the owl has proven to be an incredible urban ambassador for the wildlife that can be found in New York City. It has become an inspiration for the many people who have found joy in watching and learning from it, and has certainly earned its place on the city’s avian stage. Despite its own challenges and dangers, the owl has managed to stay safe and elude capture for over two weeks now. Experts are hopeful that the owl will continue to survive in the city and will eventually make a permanent home for itself, giving everyone a chance to admire its beauty and grace for years to come.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/flaco-the-escaped-zoo-owl-can-remain-in-the-wilds-of-nyc

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Cyclone recovery expected to cost New Zealand billions

New Zealand is facing a hefty bill following the devastating effects of Cyclone Gabrielle. The Cyclone, which struck the nation last week, has caused an incredible amount of destruction and loss of life throughout the country. The national state of emergency was thus extended by a week on Monday. Billions of dollars are likely to be required to recover from the disaster and repair the damages caused by the typhoon. The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, has declared her commitment to helping the affected individuals and restoring their livelihoods. She has overseen the national efforts to cope with the aftermath of the disaster, commanding personnel, resources and strategies to restore order. Aid has been allocated and is being disbursed to the most affected areas. The country is already making efforts to reactivate infrastructure as fast as possible and restore services. Teams of engineers have been sent to effected regions to assess and repair the damages to roads and bridges, as well as restoring telecommunications and electricity services. Meanwhile, health personnel has been hard at work providing medical assistance to those in need. The effects of this natural disaster are likely to be felt long after the cyclone has passed. The magnitude of the damages is likely to run into the billions of dollars, devastating to the economy. The government has made clear that it will work closely with the insurance industry to ensure compensation for the affected persons and businesses. This natural disaster stands to be one of the most costly in recent memory. The damage to infrastructure alone is likely to be huge, but this is only one of the many areas that will require attention. Resources like housing, transportation systems and agricultural sectors have also been affected. Agricultural output is likely to take a hit, and this will be felt in the coming months. The human and social costs of Cyclone Gabrielle have been immense. People have been left homeless, with the government setting up temporary shelters to accommodate them. Countless businesses have also been affected and there is an increasing sense of despair among the affected communities. Considering the magnitude of this event, the rest of the world has stepped up to offer aid and support. Nations from across the globe, including the United States, France, Australia and Japan have sent aid and supplies, as well as volunteers to help with the aftermath. The government has announced a strategy to rebuild the nation following the cyclone. This strategy is likely to be expensive and take many years to fully implement. Resources will be diverted to help those in need, and their losses will be compensated for. Reconstruction efforts are underway, and teams are working tirelessly to repair the damages. Although it is too soon to know for sure, it is likely that the total bill for repairs and reconstruction will run into multiple billions of dollars. This presents a challenge to the government, who will need to find innovative ways to raise funds and sustain the economy during this time of rebuilding and recovery. The length and scale of this disaster have been immense, and Cyclone Gabrielle will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most catastrophic events that New Zealand has ever witnessed. The nation is united in its resolve to overcome the tragedy and rebuild what has been lost. With the determination of the people and the support of the global community, Cyclone Gabrielle can be overcome, allowing life to return to normal and the people of New Zealand to move forward.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/cyclone-recovery-expected-to-cost-new-zealand-billions

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