Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency (ESA) features the distant galaxy LEDA 22057, which is located about 650 million light-years away in the constellation Gemini. 



Within the galaxy lies a pale blue dot - SN 2024PI, a supernova explosion that was discovered by an automated survey in January 2024.



“The survey covers the entire northern half of the night sky every two days and has cataloged more than 10,000 supernovae,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Pale_blue_supernova_dot" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The supernova is visible in this image: located just down and to the right of the galactic nucleus, the pale blue dot of SN 2024PI stands out against the galaxy’s ghostly spiral arms.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-remnants-of-a-supernova-nbsp">The remnants of a supernova&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that the image was taken about a month and a half after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shockingly-bright-carbon-monoxide-detected-in-supernova-remnant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> was discovered, so it appears many times fainter than its maximum brilliance.



“SN 2024PI is classified as a Type Ia supernova. This type of supernova requires a remarkable object called a white dwarf, the crystallized core of a star with a mass less than about eight times the mass of the Sun,” explained ESA.



“When a star of this size uses up the supply of hydrogen in its core, it balloons into a red giant, becoming cool, puffy and luminous. Over time, pulsations and stellar winds cause the star to shed its outer layers, leaving behind a white dwarf and a colorful planetary nebula.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fate-of-white-dwarfs">The fate of white dwarfs</h2>



Most stars in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> will eventually end their lives as white dwarfs. Whether a star becomes a white dwarf depends on its mass.&nbsp;



Stars that are significantly more massive will end their lives differently. Massive stars - which exceed the critical mass threshold of eight times the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/">Sun</a> - undergo more violent deaths.&nbsp;



After exhausting their nuclear fuel, they can collapse under their immense gravity and trigger a supernova explosion. Depending on the remaining core mass, they may leave behind either a neutron star or a black hole, rather than a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hungry-white-dwarf-stars-eat-heavy-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>.&nbsp;



These remnants represent extreme outcomes of stellar evolution and are fundamentally different from white dwarfs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-gemini-nbsp">The constellation Gemini&nbsp;</h2>



Gemini is one of the twelve zodiac constellations located in the northern celestial hemisphere.&nbsp;



Its name means "twins" in Latin, reflecting its representation of the mythological twins Castor and Pollux from Greek and Roman mythology.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-of-gemini">Stars of Gemini</h3>



The stars Castor and Pollux, which form the heads of the twins, are the brightest stars in Gemini and are key to its identification.&nbsp;



Pollux is a bright orange giant star, while Castor is a multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-found-in-the-habitable-zone-of-a-binary-star-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star system</a> made up of six stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neighboring-constellations">Neighboring constellations</h3>



Gemini lies between Taurus to the west and Cancer to the east, and it is bordered by several other constellations, including Orion to the south.



It is most visible in the night sky during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in January and February.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-gemini">Significance of Gemini</h3>



The constellation is part of the ecliptic, the path that the Sun appears to take through the sky, making it significant in both astronomy and astrology.



Astronomically, Gemini is home to several interesting deep-sky objects, including the open star cluster M35, which is easily visible with binoculars or a small telescope.&nbsp;



The constellation also contains several stars and stellar systems of interest, such as variable stars and binary systems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greek-mythology-nbsp">Greek mythology&nbsp;</h3>



In Greek mythology, Castor and Pollux were the sons of Leda, but they had different fathers - Castor was mortal, while Pollux was divine, being the son of Zeus.&nbsp;



Their story is one of loyalty and brotherhood, as Pollux begged Zeus to share his immortality with Castor after his brother's death. As a result, Zeus placed them in the sky as the constellation Gemini, symbolizing their eternal bond.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-culture">Modern culture</h3>



In modern culture, Gemini continues to be associated with duality, adaptability, and communication in astrology.&nbsp;



The constellation also holds significance in space science, lending its name to NASA's Gemini program in the 1960s. This program conducted critical missions that paved the way for the Apollo moon landings.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Supernova explosion captured in the constellation Gemini 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132.



The nebula is located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).



The Southern Ring Nebula is one of the more famous examples of planetary nebulae. It is often studied for its beauty and valuable insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-power-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Stars power the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star is actually a less massive companion. The fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. 



The dimmer star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.



“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years.” 



“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence." 



ESA explained that the pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Key characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Southern Ring Nebula displays a complex structure with multiple layers of gas and dust. 



The outer shells of the nebula consist of hydrogen and other elements that were ejected from the dying star in previous stages of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>. These layers are illuminated by ultraviolet radiation from the central white dwarf.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coloration">Coloration</h3>



The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. 



These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-shape">Size and shape</h3>



The nebula spans about half a light-year in diameter. Its intricate, symmetrical structure provides valuable insights into the late stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>, especially the processes involved in the shedding of outer layers by dying stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotlights-from-the-bright-star">Spotlights from the bright star</h2>



ESA noted that hundreds of straight, brightly-lit lines pierce through the rings of gas and dust. “These ‘spotlights’ emanate from the bright star and stream through holes in the nebula like sunlight through gaps in a cloud."



“But not all of the starlight can escape. The density of the central region, set off in teal, is reflected by how transparent or opaque it is. Areas that are a deeper teal indicate that the gas and dust are denser - and light is unable to break free.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-image">More about the image</h2>



According to ESA, this is not only a crisp image of a planetary nebula - it also shows us objects in the vast distances of space behind it. The transparent red sections of the nebula are filled with distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-have-hearts-and-lungs-that-help-them-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.



“Look for the bright angled line at the upper left. It is not starlight - it is a faraway galaxy seen edge-on. Distant spirals, of many shapes and colors, also dot the scene. Those that are farthest away - or very dusty - are small and red,” said ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-vela-nbsp">The constellation Vela&nbsp;</h2>



Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. 



In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).



Vela is notable for containing several interesting astronomical features. One of its most prominent stars is Gamma Velorum, also known as Suhail or Regor, which is a bright, massive star system consisting of multiple stars.&nbsp;



The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. 



This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star that formed during the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.



Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy NGC 2090, located approximately 40 million light-years away in the constellation Columba.



NGC 2090 is a stunning spiral galaxy that is notable for its well-defined structure, featuring a bright central core surrounded by tightly wound spiral arms.&nbsp;



These arms are filled with young, hot stars and interstellar gas, indicating active star formation.&nbsp;



Captured by the Webb Telescope’s MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the image reveals the galaxy's winding spiral arms and the swirling gas and dust of its disc in magnificent and unique detail, noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-ngc-2090">Observations of NGC 2090</h2>



The galaxy’s spiral pattern is relatively symmetrical, making it a fascinating object of study for astronomers interested in galactic evolution and dynamics.&nbsp;



Observations of NGC 2090, including those conducted by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-helps-solve-the-mystery-of-a-young-eruptive-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope, have provided valuable insights into the properties of its stellar populations, gas content, and the nature of its spiral structure.



“NGC 2090 was one of many galaxies studied by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to refine the measurement of the Universe’s expansion rate, or ‘Hubble constant,’” said ESA.&nbsp;



“This can be done by observing a special type of variable stars named ‘Cepheids’ in relatively nearby galaxies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-ngc-2090">New insights into NGC 2090</h2>



A Cepheid-based measurement from 1998 indicated that NGC 2090 is 37 million light-years away from Earth. However, the latest measurements suggest that the galaxy is 40 million light-years away.



“Already before that Hubble project in 1998, NGC 2090 had been well studied as a very prominent nearby example of star formation,” noted ESA.&nbsp;



“Described as a ‘flocculent’ spiral, this galaxy has a patchy, dusty disc and arms that are flaky or not visible at all. We can see those patterns well in Hubble's visible-light images. However, Webb’s NIRCam near-infrared data reveal the spiral arms with remarkable clarity.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-spiral-galaxies">What are spiral galaxies?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are among the most common and visually striking types of galaxies in the universe.&nbsp;



They are characterized by their flat, disk-like shape with a bright central bulge surrounded by sweeping spiral arms.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-arms-and-central-bulge-nbsp">Spiral arms and central bulge&nbsp;</h3>



The arms of a spiral galaxy are regions where stars, gas, and dust are concentrated, often glowing brightly with the light of young, hot stars that form within them.&nbsp;



The central bulge typically contains older stars and can host a supermassive black hole at its core.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Types of spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on how tightly their arms are wound and the size of their central bulge, ranging from tightly wound "Sa" galaxies to loosely wound "Sc" types.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-nbsp">Star formation&nbsp;</h3>



The structure of spiral galaxies is maintained by the interplay of gravity and angular momentum, with a rotating disk of stars and gas giving rise to their iconic shape.&nbsp;



They are active sites of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> due to the abundance of gas in their arms.&nbsp;



Spiral galaxies often have a halo of older stars and globular clusters surrounding their disks, which provides clues about their formation and evolution.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxy">Barred spiral galaxy</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, the galaxy that contains our Solar System, is a prime example of a barred spiral galaxy, a subtype where a bar-shaped structure of stars extends from the central bulge.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-columba-nbsp">The constellation Columba&nbsp;</h2>



Columba is a small and relatively faint constellation in the southern sky, whose name means "dove" in Latin. It was introduced in the late 16th century by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius and first appeared in a celestial atlas by Johann Bayer in 1603.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-jupiter-discovered-in-the-great-bear-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constellation</a> is said to represent the dove sent out by Noah during the biblical flood, tying it to themes of hope and peace.



Columba lies near the larger constellation Canis Major and is bordered by others such as Lepus and Puppis.&nbsp;



Although it lacks particularly bright stars, its most notable star, Alpha Columbae (also called Phact), shines at a magnitude of approximately 2.6 and is a hot blue-white star. Beta Columbae, another prominent star in the constellation, is a slightly cooler, yellow-white star.



The constellation is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere during the summer months, though it can also be seen from lower latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope&nbsp;



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Webb unveils spiral galaxy NGC 2090 in magnificent detail

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."



According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means that NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;



NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.



“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.



"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-star-formation">More about star formation </h2>



Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.



The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. 



The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. 



Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a brilliant stellar nursery located about 163,000 light-years away.



According to ESA, the image is one of the most photogenic examples of the many stellar nurseries observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope during its 30-year lifetime. 



“The portrait features the giant nebula NGC 2014 and its neighbor NGC 2020 which together form part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-stellar-nursery">What is a stellar nursery?</h2>



Stellar nurseries are regions in space where new stars are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">born</a> - often within vast clouds of gas and dust called molecular clouds.&nbsp;



These areas are fascinating because they are cradles of stellar evolution, where gravity causes clumps of gas to collapse, eventually forming protostars.&nbsp;



Over time, the protostars will heat up and start the nuclear fusion process that powers a star.



One of the most well-known stellar nurseries is the Orion Nebula, which is visible to the naked eye and located about 1,350 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-a-stellar-nursery-nbsp">Dynamic nature of a stellar nursery&nbsp;</h2>



Within these nurseries, the balance between gravity and pressure determines the types of stars that form, from massive, luminous stars to smaller, cooler ones like our Sun.&nbsp;



The environment is incredibly dynamic, with powerful winds from young stars shaping the clouds and triggering the birth of even more stars.



These regions are often illuminated by the light from massive newborn stars - creating stunning, colorful displays. The light reveals the intricate structure of the dust and gas, sculpted by the energy of young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-stellar-nurseries-nbsp">Significance of stellar nurseries&nbsp;</h2>



Stellar nurseries are essential for understanding the early stages of planetary formation, as protoplanetary disks (the material from which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets form</a>) are often found around young stars in these regions.



Stellar nurseries play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. They are responsible for the continuous birth of new stars that enrich the interstellar medium with heavier elements. This constant recycling of material is key to the development of future generations of stars and planets.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the study of these regions helps astronomers understand the fundamental processes that govern the life cycles of stars and the overall dynamics of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-local-group">The Local Group</h2>



The Local Group is a collection of over 80 galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Triangulum Galaxy, along with numerous smaller dwarf galaxies. These galaxies are bound together by gravity and span a region roughly 10 million light-years across.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-thin-disk-is-billions-of-years-older-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and Andromeda are the dominant members, with their respective satellite galaxies orbiting them.&nbsp;



The Local Group is part of a larger structure known as the Virgo Supercluster, and its galaxies are moving toward the gravitational center of the Local Group, contributing to its dynamic nature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-magellanic-cloud">Large Magellanic Cloud</h2>



The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fourth largest galaxy in the Local Group and can be seen with the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



This irregular dwarf galaxy is home to the Tarantula Nebula, one of the most active star-forming regions in our cosmic neighborhood.&nbsp;



The Large Magellanic Cloud played a key role in astronomical history, particularly when the supernova SN 1987A was observed, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution.&nbsp;



The LMC's interaction with the Milky Way, along with its own companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud, is believed to influence its shape and star formation activity. Its proximity and unique properties make it a crucial object of study for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>, star formation, and the dynamics of interacting galaxies.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a satellite view of the fires burning in Southern California.



“Five wildfires - the biggest of which are the Palisades and the Eaton fires - are still currently burning (as of January 10, 2025) in areas of north Los Angeles. At least 10 people are known to have lost their lives and many more properties have been burnt to the ground,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_struggles_to_contain_wildfires" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“This image, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission on January 9, 2025, shows the Palisades fire at lower left and the Eaton fire at upper right, with smoke seen reaching Catalina Island and the Santa Barbara reserve to the south of the fire.”&nbsp;



The fires have now burned more than 37,000 acres - an area bigger than San Francisco - according to Cal Fire. More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tens-of-thousands-of-residents-displaced-by-fires">Tens of thousands of residents displaced by fires</h2>



The Palisades Fire is the largest at more than 21,000 acres, while the Eaton Fire has burned more than 14,000 acres. Those blazes are 11 percent and 15 percent contained, respectively.



Evacuation orders have displaced over 150,000 residents, with an additional 166,000 on alert. Temporary shelters are operating at full capacity, and widespread power outages have affected nearly 1.6 million homes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-winds-and-a-lack-of-resources-nbsp">Strong winds and a lack of resources&nbsp;</h2>



Firefighting efforts are being hampered by strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-more-toxic-than-other-sources-of-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winds</a>, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour, and a lack of resources. Some fire hydrants have run dry, complicating containment efforts.&nbsp;



In response to the crisis, President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance, and additional firefighters from neighboring states are joining the efforts.&nbsp;



The California National Guard has been deployed, and the Department of Defense is providing personnel and equipment. Despite these measures, the fires continue to pose a significant threat to the region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-threats-from-the-palisades-fire-nbsp">New threats from the Palisades Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The Palisades Fire, which began near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, has rapidly expanded, prompting new evacuation orders for areas including Tarzana and Encino in the San Fernando Valley.&nbsp;



The fire's swift progression has been exacerbated by strong winds, causing it to grow by "three football fields of land per minute." This rapid expansion has led to mandatory evacuations along sections of the Pacific Coast Highway and surrounding areas.&nbsp;



The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that more than 10,000 houses and 13,000 buildings are under threat.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-fires">Unpredictable behavior of the fires</h2>



In response to the advancing flames, evacuation orders were extended into Tarzana and Encino on January 10. Residents in these areas have been advised to evacuate promptly due to the fire's unpredictable behavior and the potential for further spread.&nbsp;



The situation remains critical, with firefighting efforts ongoing to contain the blaze and protect threatened communities.&nbsp;



Authorities continue to monitor the fire's progression and are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders for their safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-in-southern-california-nbsp">Wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dry-lightning-sparks-the-most-destructive-california-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildfires</a> in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;



Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flames</a> rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area’s diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;



Furthermore, Southern California’s growing urban footprint increases the risk of fires igniting due to human activity, while also placing more people and infrastructure in harm’s way.&nbsp;



Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-forests-are-losing-their-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destructive</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-california-fires">Impacts of the California fires</h2>



The Palisades and Eaton Fires are among the most destructive wildfires in California's history, both in terms of structures destroyed and economic impact. Fortunately, however, they have not surpassed the Camp Fire in terms of human fatalities.



The Camp Fire of 2018 remains the deadliest wildfire in the state of California, with 85 fatalities. 



The financial impact of the current fires is unprecedented. Estimates suggest that the damages could reach between $135 billion and $150 billion, potentially making these wildfires the costliest in U.S. history.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Satellite captures devastating fires in Southern California

Parasitic crickets, no larger than a grain of rice, have perfected a way of surviving within the heart of ant colonies. These master infiltrators don't just survive - they thrive in what should be a certain death situation for any unwanted visitor.



Researchers at Nagoya University, led by Ryoya Tanaka, have unveiled the fascinating strategies used by parasitic crickets within ant colonies.



The study, published in the journal Communications Biology, explores the behavioral toolkit of these "ant guests" as they navigate life among potential predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crickets-the-unwanted-ant-guests">Crickets: The unwanted ant guests</h2>



Some animals, known as "ant guests," live inside <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/larger-ant-colonies-drove-the-evolution-of-worker-castes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ant colonies</a> to take advantage of the resources there, such as food and shelter. These animals are not part of the ant colony but find ways to survive alongside the ants.



However, this lifestyle is extremely risky. Ants are highly territorial and will aggressively attack and eliminate any intruders they see as a threat to their colony. Living among ants means constantly avoiding their attention in order to survive.



One fascinating example of an ant guest is the&nbsp;Myrmecophilus&nbsp;ant cricket. These guests live within ant colonies and face the constant threat of being attacked or killed by their hosts.



Despite this danger, they have evolved specialized behaviors that help them escape attacks and avoid detection. These survival strategies enable them to coexist with their potentially lethal hosts, making them remarkable examples of adaptation in nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crickets-strategies-inside-ant-colonies">Crickets strategies inside ant colonies</h2>



Tanaka and his team conducted a detailed study on the behavior of&nbsp;Myrmecophilus tetramorii, a type of parasitic cricket that lives inside ant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-work-in-groups-more-successfully-than-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colonies</a>. 



This cricket is classified as a "brood parasite" because it survives by feeding on resources within the colony, such as dead insects and ant larvae. While these crickets benefit from the ants' environment, they must also avoid detection and attacks from their hosts.



The researchers identified two specific escape strategies that these crickets use when threatened by ants.



Using the distancing method, the cricket moves directly away from the approaching ant in a straight line. This strategy allows the cricket to quickly create space between itself and the ant, effectively evading an immediate threat.



The dodging strategy is more complex. The cricket moves in a circular path that positions it behind the ant. By doing so, the cricket avoids the ant's mandibles, which are the primary means of attack.



Dodging is slower and more calculated than distancing, but it allows the cricket to evade the threat without attracting attention from other ants in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sex-of-an-entire-ant-colony-is-determined-by-the-queen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colony</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-tactics-for-parasitic-crickets">Survival tactics for parasitic crickets</h2>



These two escape tactics are critical for the cricket’s survival as it navigates the hostile environment of an ant colony. Each strategy serves a specific purpose and is deployed depending on the level of threat experienced by the cricket.



“While distancing behavior can quickly get crickets away from the approaching ant, such quick movements may alert surrounding potential enemies to the crickets’ presence, triggering an aggressive chase by another ant," noted Tanaka. 



"Ant crickets benefit from a slow and precise reaction to dodging, which reduces the probability of being attacked by ants."



Interestingly, the team noted that crickets used dodging more frequently, and tended to reserve distancing for high-risk situations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-crickets-avoid-ant-detection">How crickets avoid ant detection</h2>



In addition to their escape tactics, the crickets exhibited strategic positioning within the colony. 



They tended to stay in specific areas, such as corners, debris-filled zones, and locations with wet paper. These spots offered safety and reduced ant encounters.



“Dodging behavior is advantageous for staying in attractive areas while avoiding ants,” Tanaka explained.



“The unique trait of dodging behavior might be a way of effectively staying in a safe location while avoiding a succession of incoming ants, allowing them to reduce the risk of being attacked.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cricket-adaptations-and-nature-s-ingenuity">Cricket adaptations and nature’s ingenuity</h2>



This research sheds light on the incredible adaptability of parasitic crickets. By using precise evasion techniques and choosing their locations carefully, these insects have carved out a niche in a hostile environment.



For Tanaka, the journey into this fascinating behavior began with a single observation. 



“I often stroll around the <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> campus to see insects. I still remember when I saw an ant cricket skillfully evading ants despite being surrounded by them,” he recalled. “From that moment on, I was utterly enthralled by this behavior.”



Through their detailed research, Tanaka and his team have revealed the subtle yet remarkable strategies these tiny creatures use to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-destabilizing-ant-plant-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survive</a>. 



The findings not only deepen our understanding of insect behavior but also highlight the extraordinary ways life adapts to thrive against all odds.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-07368-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.



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Parasitic crickets hide in ant colonies without being caught

Parasitic crickets, no larger than a grain of rice, have...

Blood does more than just carry oxygen and nutrients. Its many “markers,” known as antigens, can trigger unexpected responses. Most folks have heard about the blood groups A, B, and O, and the Rh factor categories, which are crucial for safe blood transfusions.&nbsp;



Yet there are others with unique properties that affect certain patients. On September 16, 2024, researchers revealed a <a href="https://ashpublications.org/blood/article-abstract/144/26/2735/517404/Deletions-in-the-MAL-gene-result-in-loss-of-Mal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new blood group system</a> called MAL. This news has medical experts paying close attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-system-solves-old-puzzles">New system solves old puzzles</h2>



This recent work addresses an antigen once labeled AnWj. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22233405/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earlier findings</a> had hinted at its importance in certain patients, but its genetic basis was unclear.&nbsp;



“The genetic background of AnWj has been a mystery for more than 50 years, and one which I personally have been trying to resolve for almost 20 years of my career,” explained Dr. Louise Tilley, Senior Research Scientist, IBGRL Red Cell Reference at NHS Blood and Transplant, at the end of a statement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deeper-look-at-how-it-works">A deeper look at how it works</h2>



Scientists discovered that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protein-that-halts-dna-damage-may-lead-to-cancer-vaccines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">key protein</a>, referred to as Mal, plays a major role in whether a person’s blood cells show AnWj. 



People lacking this protein are said to be AnWj-negative. If they need blood, receiving units from someone with AnWj-positive cells may cause a bad transfusion reaction. 



This risk highlights why researchers across the United Kingdom have been keen to confirm the exact genetic changes that remove the Mal protein from red blood cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-players-in-the-discovery">Key players in the discovery</h2>



“It’s really exciting we were able use our ability to manipulate gene expression in the developing blood cells to help confirm the identity of the AnWj blood group, which has been an outstanding puzzle for half a century,” remarked Professor <a href="https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/en/persons/ash-m-toye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashley Toye</a> from the University of Bristol, who leads research in developing blood products. 



Gene manipulation studies have made all the difference. These lab methods helped the team locate the exact spot on the MAL gene that caused some folks’ cells to skip making that protein.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mal-blood-group-is-number-47">MAL blood group is number 47</h2>



This discovery adds MAL to a growing list of recognized blood group systems. Experts have <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2267/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classified</a> it as the 47th system, which shows just how many different markers exist beyond ABO and Rh.



Each new system reveals a hidden detail about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-human-genetics-could-optimize-medical-care/">human genetics</a>. That extra piece of knowledge can guide blood banks when they test donations, ensuring that rare donors and patients are matched more precisely.



“Now genotyping tests can be designed to identify genetically AnWj-negative patients and donors,” said <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nicole-Thornton-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicole Thornton</a> at <a href="https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHS Blood and Transplant</a>.



Such tests allow hospitals to plan for patients with uncommon blood needs. Quick detection might save lives by avoiding adverse reactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exome-sequencing-turns-the-tide">Exome sequencing turns the tide</h2>



The break in this 50-year riddle emerged from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-genetics-shape-modern-eelgrass-populations/">modern genetic</a> tool called exome sequencing. This approach focuses on the parts of the DNA that build proteins. 



With it, scientists rapidly narrowed down the small area of DNA that carried the faulty code.



Once they homed in on the MAL gene, the missing snippet explained why the Mal protein wasn’t produced. 



The wide availability of exome sequencing in research labs has sped up efforts to sort out other rare blood issues as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-mal-blood-group">Discovering the MAL blood group</h2>



The discovery didn’t come easy. Dr. Tim Satchwell at UWE Bristol mentioned how tricky it was to be certain about Mal’s involvement.&nbsp;



“Mal is a very <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-too-much-protein-greatly-increases-heart-disease-risk/">small protein</a> with some interesting properties which made it difficult to identify and meant we needed to pursue multiple lines of investigation to accumulate the proof we needed to establish this blood group system,” said Dr. Satchwell. That perseverance paid off in ways that will aid clinicians and lab workers everywhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



People who lack AnWj are extremely rare, but they require special attention. Simple awareness of MAL alerts medical staff to take extra steps if these patients need blood.&nbsp;



It also means donors with a similar blood type will be more easily found, which reduces the chance of harmful interactions during transfusions.



“It represents a huge achievement, and the culmination of a long team effort, to finally establish this new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-blood-type-determine-your-stroke-risk/">blood group system</a> and be able to offer the best care to rare, but important, patients,” summarized Dr. Tilley.&nbsp;



Hearing that kind of relief underscores the personal stakes. Behind every lab test is someone who depends on correct identification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mal-blood-group-system-and-human-health">MAL blood group system and human health</h2>



Experts believe that each refined test will empower hospitals and blood services to expand their screenings. 



With advanced methods, the medical community aims to catch all sorts of unusual markers that affect patient care. 



Though the MAL system is new to many, it serves as a sign that diligent research can simplify once-mysterious conditions. The study is published in <a href="https://ashpublications.org/blood/article-abstract/144/26/2735/517404/Deletions-in-the-MAL-gene-result-in-loss-of-Mal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ash Publications</a>.



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Rare genetic mutation has given rise to a new human blood group, identified after 50 years

Blood does more than just carry oxygen and nutrients. Its...

Underwater,Photo,Of,Octopus,Swimming,In,Tropical,Exotic,Sandy,Bay

Octopus arms display incredible dexterity, bending and twisting with near-infinite freedom. These movements help octopuses explore their environments, manipulate objects, and catch prey. 



Recent research reveals a fascinating secret behind this flexibility: segmented nervous system circuitry.



“If you're going to have a nervous system that's controlling such dynamic movement, that's a good way to set it up,” said Dr. Clifton Ragsdale, professor of neurobiology at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a>.



This segmentation appears to be an evolutionary adaptation specific to soft-bodied cephalopods like octopuses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-neural-architecture">Unique neural architecture</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-could-dominate-earth-if-humans-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Octopus</a> arms are equipped with a remarkably complex nervous system, containing more neurons collectively in their eight arms than in their brain. 



This extensive network of neurons is concentrated in a structure called the axial nerve cord (ANC), which runs along the length of each arm.



The ANC is segmented, with each segment corresponding to one of the suckers on the arm. These segments act like local control hubs, with nerves branching out to nearby muscles and sensory structures associated with each sucker. 



The segmented organization of the ANC allows the octopus to manage the movement and sensory functions of each sucker independently, enabling precise control over their arms. 



This unique design supports the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-octopus-has-mastered-the-art-of-multispecies-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopus's extraordinary ability to explore</a>, manipulate, and interact with its environment with unparalleled dexterity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structures-in-octopus-arms">Structures in octopus arms</h2>



Graduate students Cassady Olson and Grace Schulz made this discovery while studying the arms of the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides). 



Using imaging tools, they found that the ANC features columns of neuronal cell bodies separated by gaps, or septa. These septa allow nerves and blood vessels to connect to the muscles and suckers. 



“The best way to set up a control system for this very long, flexible arm would be to divide it into segments,” Olson noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-sucker-control">Complex sucker control</h2>



The study revealed that octopus arms have a "sucker map" in their nervous system - a layout that helps control each sucker with great precision.



This map organizes nerves in a way that allows the octopus to coordinate the movement and sensory input of every sucker individually. Each sucker can move on its own, changing its shape and even functioning as a sensory tool. 



When an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-octopus-day-the-intelligent-creatures-of-the-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopus</a> touches something, it can "taste" and "smell" through receptors in the suckers, much like combining a hand, tongue, and nose into one. 



This specialized nervous system design is what enables octopuses to perform complex tasks like manipulating objects, exploring their surroundings, and capturing prey with exceptional dexterity and precision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-octopus-and-squid-arms">Octopus and squid arms</h2>



The researchers also studied the longfin inshore squid (Doryteuthis pealeii), another type of soft-bodied cephalopod, to compare its nervous system to that of octopuses.



While squid and octopuses share some structural similarities, the study revealed key differences reflecting their unique evolutionary paths. 



In squid, the long stalks of their tentacles - used to shoot out and grab prey - do not have segmented nerve structures.



However, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-suckers-the-future-of-underwater-adhesives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sucker-equipped clubs</a> at the end of these tentacles do show segmentation in their axial nerve cord (ANC), similar to octopus arms. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specific-evolutionary-adaptations">Specific evolutionary adaptations</h2>



This suggests that segmentation in the nervous system is specifically adapted to control precise, dexterous movements in appendages with suckers.



The lifestyles of these animals explain the differences. Squid primarily hunt in open water, relying heavily on their vision to locate prey and using their streamlined tentacles to grab it. 



In contrast, octopuses explore the ocean floor, using their highly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-arms-inspire-more-human-like-robots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensitive arms</a> to touch, taste, and manipulate their environment. 



These differences highlight how evolution modifies neural designs to meet the unique demands of an animal’s habitat and hunting style.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-octopus-arms-use-their-eight-brains">How octopus arms use their eight brains</h2>



Each of their eight arms operates almost like a separate brain, packed with its own set of neurons that allow them to perform complex tasks independently. 



This means an octopus can explore a crevice with one arm while another is unscrewing a jar or playing with a toy. 



Their arms are incredibly flexible and strong, covered in suction cups that can taste, touch, and grip objects with amazing precision.



What’s even more mind-blowing is how octopuses use their arms to solve problems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-garden-thermal-springs-accelerate-octopus-egg-hatching-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interact with their environment</a>. 



They can manipulate objects, open containers, and even escape from tight spots, showcasing their problem-solving skills and adaptability. 



Scientists believe this arm intelligence is one of the reasons octopuses are such skilled hunters and escape artists. 



Additionally, their ability to coordinate their arms seamlessly allows them to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-ringed-octopus-a-master-of-deception-inspires-new-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">camouflage themselves</a> by changing color and texture, blending perfectly into their surroundings to avoid predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-s-ingenious-solutions">Evolution's ingenious solutions</h2>



“Organisms with these sucker-laden appendages that have worm-like movements need the right kind of nervous system,” Ragsdale explained. 



The segmented ANC in octopuses and squid highlights how evolution optimizes neural designs to meet unique demands. 



Despite diverging over 270 million years ago, these cephalopods developed similar neural architectures to control their sucker-laden appendages effectively.



This UChicago research sheds light on how octopuses achieve their unparalleled flexibility and dexterity, offering insights into the intricate relationship between structure, function, and evolution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55475-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Every arm on an octopus has its own massive nervous system

Octopus arms display incredible dexterity, bending and twisting with near-infinite...

A study led by Tel Aviv University has revealed alarming insights into how microplastic particles are transformed within marine ecosystems, posing new challenges to the health of the ocean’s food web.&nbsp;



The research highlights how filter-feeding marine organisms alter the behavior and composition of microplastics, creating unforeseen risks for marine environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-microplastic-pollution">Investigating microplastic pollution</h2>



While previous research has documented the dangers of marine animals ingesting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-steadily-increasing-in-freshwater-environments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, this study goes a step further, exploring how these particles change after passing through the digestive systems of filter feeders.&nbsp;



Conducted by PhD student Eden Harel, Professor Noa Shenkar, and Professor Ines Zucker from <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>, the study focused on ascidians - marine animals that efficiently filter tiny particles from water.&nbsp;



The findings reveal how the interaction between filter feeders and microplastics contributes to the spread and transformation of these particles.



“We aimed to examine whether and how plastic changes after passing through the digestive system of a marine organism and how this process affects the presence of plastic and its availability to other organisms,” Shenkar explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-filter-feeders-transform-microplastics">How filter feeders transform microplastics</h2>



Using a controlled laboratory experiment, the researchers simulated seawater environments containing ascidians and introduced two types of microplastic particles.



These particles included polystyrene (PS), a common conventional plastic, and polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable bioplastic marketed as environmentally friendly. The team monitored the filtration, digestion, and excretion processes over 48 hours.



The results showed stark differences between the two types of plastic. Ascidians removed 90% of polystyrene particles from the water within two hours, but these particles were reintroduced to the water after 48 hours following digestion.



Polylactic acid particles, on the other hand, decreased significantly in concentration and remained at low levels. Larger PLA particles appeared to break down during digestion - likely returning to the water as smaller, undetectable nanoparticles.



These findings reveal that while some microplastics persist in their original form, others may fragment into smaller particles, potentially amplifying their environmental impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-disguised-as-organic-matter">Plastic disguised as organic matter</h2>



To understand the changes microplastics undergo during digestion, the team used Raman spectroscopy to analyze particles excreted by the ascidians.&nbsp;



The analysis revealed a surprising transformation: the plastic particles were no longer identifiable as plastics. Instead, they appeared to be organic matter due to a fecal coating acquired in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-humans-have-shockingly-different-digestive-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive system</a>.



“Our findings revealed that microplastic particles are excreted from the ascidian’s digestive system coated with a fecal layer, and it is likely that the marine environment also identifies these particles as this organic material,” Harel said.



This transformation increases the likelihood of these particles being ingested by other marine animals that feed on feces, further embedding microplastics into the food web.&nbsp;



The fecal coating also facilitates bacterial colonization and the adhesion of pollutants like heavy metals and residual organic compounds, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-could-cause-a-health-crisis-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a>, making these particles even more hazardous.



According to Zucker, plastic particles undergo many transformations in the environment, from weathering to digestive processes, turning them into carriers of pollutants and diseases within the food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-microplastics-on-feces">Impacts of microplastics on feces</h2>



In addition to examining how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-jawless-fish-rhinopteraspis-dunensis-filter-feeders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">filter feeders</a> transform microplastics, the study explored how these particles affect the physical properties of feces - a vital nutrient source for many marine organisms. Feces containing microplastics displayed significant changes in behavior.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-sinking">Rapid sinking</h3>



Unlike normal feces, which sink slowly and provide sustenance to organisms along their descent, feces containing microplastics sank rapidly to the seafloor. This deprives marine organisms in the water column of a crucial food source.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-localized-accumulation">Localized accumulation</h3>



The faster sinking caused feces and microplastics to accumulate on the seafloor near the filter feeders, instead of dispersing evenly. This buildup can lead to increased carbon and nitrogen levels, fostering algal blooms that disrupt marine ecosystems.



“This accumulation can increase carbon and nitrogen levels on the seafloor and trigger algal blooms, representing another critical impact of microplastics on the balance of the marine food web,” Harel explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-microplastic-pollution-nbsp">Complexity of microplastic pollution&nbsp;</h2>



The study highlights the complexity of microplastic pollution, showing that the problem goes far beyond the particles themselves. Their transformation through biological processes and environmental exposure creates unexpected and far-reaching consequences.



“The most alarming conclusion is that the microplastic problem is far more complex than initially thought,” said the researchers.&nbsp;



“Plastic pollution in the marine environment has many unexpected dimensions, and its complexities continue to grow. Sometimes, neither we nor the environment can even recognize it as plastic.”



The findings emphasize the urgent need for better technologies and strategies to mitigate the spread and impact of microplastics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-microplastics-crisis">Addressing the microplastics crisis</h2>



As microplastic pollution continues to infiltrate marine ecosystems in unpredictable ways, this study reveals just how urgent the issue has become. With microplastics transforming into carriers of pollutants, altering the balance of marine food webs, and contributing to environmental degradation, addressing this crisis is essential.



“As time goes on, plastic continues to harm more and more marine ecosystems,” the researchers concluded. “It is our duty to develop new technologies to mitigate this dangerous phenomenon.”



This research provides a crucial step toward understanding the hidden dimensions of microplastic pollution and calls for global action to protect marine life and the delicate ecosystems that sustain it.



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Filter feeders transform microplastics into a bigger threat 

A study led by Tel Aviv University has revealed alarming...

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia), an apex predator native to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is a symbol of ecological resilience and a critical component of its high-altitude environment.&nbsp;



Despite its importance, little is known about the evolutionary history of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-leopards-the-carnivores-that-eat-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elusive species</a> due to the scarcity of fossil records, particularly from the Quaternary period.



A recent study sheds light on the evolutionary adaptations that have allowed snow leopards to thrive in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.&nbsp;



The research was led by an international team of researchers from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> (CAS) and European institutions.



By analyzing rare fossils and employing advanced modeling techniques, the study reveals the intricate evolutionary journey of the snow leopard and its specialized adaptations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-evolution-of-snow-leopards">Unique evolution of snow leopards</h2>



Until now, our understanding of snow leopards' evolutionary path relied heavily on molecular biology, which links the species closely to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-captive-tigers-help-restore-wild-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tigers</a>. However, the vast ecological and morphological differences between the two suggest that snow leopards followed a unique evolutionary trajectory.



To address this, the research team identified five significant fossil sites across Eurasia: Longdan (Gansu, China), Arago (France), Zhoukoudian Locality 3 (Beijing, China), Manga Larga (Portugal) and Niuyan Cave (Mentougou, Beijing, China).



These fossils provided critical insights into snow leopard lineage. While the specimen from Niuyan Cave closely resembled modern snow leopards, the others displayed unique traits, suggesting they were earlier offshoots from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.&nbsp;



The study concluded that these offshoots likely represent multiple dispersal events out of Tibet over time, providing a timeline for the development of the species’ specialized traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specialized-adaptations-for-survival">Specialized adaptations for survival</h2>



Using cutting-edge techniques like geometric morphometrics, finite element analysis, and anatomy studies, the researchers analyzed how snow leopards evolved to survive in their mountainous habitat. Their findings highlighted several key adaptations:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exceptional-vision">Exceptional vision</h3>



Large eye sockets and highly developed binocular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-camera-technology-lets-us-see-colors-of-the-world-through-the-eyes-of-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision</a> allow snow leopards to focus on prey with precision in complex, rugged terrain.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-jaws-and-teeth">Powerful jaws and teeth</h3>



Snow leopards have steeply angled jaws and robust canines, enabling them to subdue large prey like mountain goats and sheep. 



Their large premolars and molars help them efficiently consume frozen carcasses before they spoil in cold environments.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-respiratory-efficiency">Enhanced respiratory efficiency</h3>



A well-developed frontal sinus system warms inhaled air, helping snow leopards cope with low temperatures and oxygen levels at high altitudes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heightened-hearing">Heightened hearing</h3>



Their pronounced tympanic bulla enhances sensitivity to low-frequency sounds, allowing them to detect prey over long distances in open terrain.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agile-limbs-for-mountainous-terrain">Agile limbs for mountainous terrain</h3>



With elongated distal limb bones and a smaller scapula, snow leopards are built for agility, enabling them to navigate rocky slopes and leap across large gaps with ease.



These traits not only reflect their adaptation to cold, high-altitude environments but also their reliance on Caprinae prey, which are slow-moving yet highly robust with powerful horns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milestones-of-snow-leopard-evolution">Milestones of snow leopard evolution</h2>



The researchers discovered that early snow leopard fossils, such as Panthera aff. pyrenaica from Longdan and Arago, displayed some adaptations for mountainous prey but lacked traits seen in modern snow leopards.&nbsp;



For instance, while their mandibles were steeply angled, their cheek teeth were smaller, and there was no evidence of advanced respiratory adaptations.



Later fossils, such as those from Zhoukoudian and Portugal, exhibited traits closely resembling modern snow leopards, including larger cheek teeth and advanced sinus systems. 



However, some features, such as forehead expansion and ectotympanic chamber development, were less pronounced compared to their modern counterparts.



These findings suggest a gradual evolution of snow leopards’ traits, driven by changes in climate and prey availability, particularly during the Middle Pleistocene when ice sheets expanded on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-s-role-in-snow-leopard-distribution">Climate’s role in snow leopard distribution</h2>



The study also explored the ecological adaptations of fossil snow leopards by analyzing the species’ distribution in relation to climate data. Using species distribution modeling (SDM), the researchers examined how snow leopards might have adapted to the Last Glacial Maximum.



The findings revealed that the suitable habitat for snow leopards during this period was far larger than it is today. 



However, areas such as Europe and Beijing were excluded from this range, suggesting that fossil snow leopards in these regions had ecological adaptations distinct from modern populations. 



Most fossil sites were located in mountainous regions, reinforcing the idea that rugged terrain and prey availability played a more critical role in their survival than altitude or oxygen levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-of-leopards-and-snow-leopards-nbsp">Interactions of leopards and snow leopards&nbsp;</h2>



Niuyan Cave is the only known site containing both snow leopard and leopard fossils, offering rare insights into the interactions of these predators.&nbsp;



The overlapping habitats suggest that snow leopards occasionally shared transitional zones near forest edges with leopards, similar to behaviors observed in modern populations.&nbsp;



This discovery provides a glimpse into the complex environmental dynamics of the region during ancient times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-snow-leopard-conservation">Implications for snow leopard conservation</h2>



The study’s findings hold significant implications for conservation efforts. By understanding the evolutionary history and ecological needs of snow leopards, conservationists can better protect their habitats in the face of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-species-are-pre-adapted-to-tolerate-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and human activity.&nbsp;



The research also highlights the importance of preserving mountainous ecosystems that serve as critical habitats for this species.



This study not only deepens our understanding of snow leopards’ past but also highlights the importance of integrating paleontology, biology, and modern technology to inform the conservation of one of the world’s most iconic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saber-toothed-predators-evolved-the-perfect-fangs-for-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adp5243" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Snow leopards: Tracing the evolution of an apex predator

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia), an apex predator native to...

Ever since scientists discovered DNA's crucial role in life, they've known our cells have built-in repair systems to fix damaged genetic material. But recent research has revealed something unexpected - some types of DNA damage can dodge these repair mechanisms and lurk in our cells for years, creating multiple opportunities for cancer-causing mutations.



The research team, led by Dr. Michael Spencer Chapman from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the Barts Cancer Institute, made this discovery by studying an impressive collection of cellular family trees. 



The findings, published in the journal Nature, challenge long-held beliefs about how DNA damage works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-dna-damage-lingers-for-years">Some DNA damage lingers for years</h2>



The scientists analyzed family trees of hundreds of single cells from individuals. These trees, pieced together from shared mutation patterns, provide insights into the ancestry of cells.



By examining blood stem cells, bronchial epithelial cells, and liver cells, researchers uncovered unexpected patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-of-microrna-may-change-the-fight-against-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutation</a> inheritance.



In blood stem cells, up to 20% of mutations arise from specific DNA damage that remains unrepaired for two to three years or longer. 



“With these family trees, we can link the relationships of hundreds of cells... meaning we can track back through the divisions each cell has gone through,” explained Dr. Chapman.



This persistence means damaged DNA can repeatedly introduce mutations during cell division. Each attempt to replicate the damaged DNA risks generating new errors, creating multiple chances for cancer-causing mutations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-mutations-and-structural-alterations">DNA mutations and structural alterations </h2>



DNA damage and mutations are related but distinct concepts. A mutation occurs when one of the DNA bases (A, T, C, or G), which are the "letters" of the genetic code, is in the wrong position. 



This is similar to a typo in a written sentence. For example, replacing a "C" with a "T" changes the meaning of the genetic instruction.



DNA damage, on the other hand, refers to chemical alterations to the DNA's structure itself. Instead of a "wrong letter," it's like a letter being smudged or distorted, making it unreadable. This type of damage can prevent the DNA from being properly copied or understood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-damage-and-cancer-risk">DNA damage and cancer risk</h2>



If the cell’s repair mechanisms fail to fix the damage, it can create permanent mutations during cell division. 



When the cell replicates its DNA, it may misinterpret or incorrectly copy the damaged section, introducing errors into the genetic code. These errors can accumulate and, over time, contribute to diseases like cancer.



“When exploring family trees of blood stem cells, we found a type of DNA damage that results in around 15 to 20 percent of the mutations and can last for several years,” noted study co-author Emily Mitchell.



This finding raises critical questions: Why does this persistent damage occur in blood stem cells but not other tissues? What is the exact nature of this damage?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-cancer-research">Implications for cancer research</h2>



Persistent DNA damage presents a challenge to what scientists previously believed about how cancer mutations form. Until now, the assumption was that most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecular-fingerprints-could-be-key-to-early-cancer-detection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> damage is either repaired quickly or eliminated, preventing long-term effects. 



However, this study reveals that some types of DNA damage can persist for years without repair, causing mutations each time cells divide. These findings reshape our understanding of how mutations accumulate over time and their role in diseases like cancer.



“These findings don’t fit with what scientists have previously thought. This paradigm shift brings a new dimension to the way we think about mutations,” noted co-author Dr. Peter Campbell.



Understanding why some DNA damage escapes repair and persists for years offers new avenues for cancer prevention and treatment. Intervening to repair or eliminate such damage could significantly reduce mutation rates.



The research also highlights the importance of curiosity in science. “This study is a prime example of exploratory science – you don’t always know what you’re going to find until you look,” Dr. Chapman noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeting-dna-damage-to-combat-cancer">Targeting DNA damage to combat cancer</h2>



This study from Wellcome Sanger Institute and <a href="https://www.bci.qmul.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barts Cancer Institute</a> changes our understanding of how DNA damage contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-is-the-next-frontier-in-cancer-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>. Previously, scientists believed most DNA damage was quickly repaired by the body’s natural mechanisms.



However, the research shows that certain types of damage can persist for years without being fixed. These long-lasting forms of damage can repeatedly introduce mutations every time cells divide, increasing the risk of harmful changes that lead to cancer.



By uncovering this process, scientists have created new opportunities to study and combat cancer. For example, understanding why some DNA damage evades repair may lead to treatments that target and fix these persistent issues, reducing mutation rates and preventing cancer development.



As we learn more about our genome - the complete set of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gene-regulation-controlling-cells-to-improve-medical-treatments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> in our bodies - this study highlights how even tiny, hard-to-detect changes in DNA can have significant impacts on our health. It serves as a reminder that understanding these small changes is key to tackling major diseases like cancer.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08423-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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DNA damage can persist for years, increasing cancer risks

Ever since scientists discovered DNA's crucial role in life, they've...

The humble bumble bee, already battling habitat loss and climate change, faces another invisible enemy that attacks its body from multiple angles. 



A new study reveals that a widely-used agricultural pesticide doesn't just harm bees in one way - it disrupts different body tissues in distinct and concerning patterns, much like a multi-pronged assault on their health.



The research team, led by Professor Yannick Wurm at Queen Mary University of London, used cutting-edge molecular techniques to expose how the neonicotinoid pesticide clothianidin impacts various bee body parts differently.



Their findings paint a troubling picture of widespread disruption throughout the insects' bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-pesticides-harm-bumble-bees">How pesticides harm bumble bees</h2>



By exposing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-protecting-our-vital-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumble bees</a> to field-realistic doses of clothianidin, the researchers discovered that pesticide exposure doesn’t affect all body parts uniformly.



The study showed that&nbsp;82% of gene activity changes caused by pesticides are specific to individual tissues. This specificity disrupts critical functions in the brain, legs, and kidney-like Malpighian tubules.



“Each tissue we examined was severely affected by the pesticide,” said Professor Wurm. “Seeing impacts of pesticide exposure across the body helps to explain the multi-faceted problems that exposed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bee-day-2024-bee-engaged-with-youth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> have, from impaired movement to reduced learning ability and compromised immunity.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-damage-in-different-tissues">Distinct damage in different tissues</h2>



The study from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a> found that neonicotinoid pesticides like clothianidin cause distinct damage to different tissues in bumble bees, each critical for the insect's survival. 



In the brain, genes related to ion transport - essential for learning and memory - were disrupted, potentially impairing cognitive functions needed for navigation and problem-solving.



The hind femurs, vital for movement, showed changes in muscle-specific genes, which could weaken the bees’ ability to forage effectively or escape predators. 



Additionally, the Malpighian tubules, which function similarly to kidneys, experienced reduced activity in detoxification genes. This decline compromises the bees' ability to process and eliminate toxins, further endangering their health.



These molecular disruptions are particularly alarming because they resemble patterns typically associated with aging and even cancer in other organisms. 



This suggests that pesticide exposure could have severe long-term impacts on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-nutrition-is-key-to-honey-bee-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinator populations</a>, threatening their ability to sustain themselves and perform their crucial ecological roles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safety-tests-miss-tissue-specific-damage">Safety tests miss tissue-specific damage</h2>



Neonicotinoid pesticides like clothianidin are widely used in agriculture to protect crops, but their effects on non-target species like pollinators are often underestimated. 



Current pesticide safety assessments rarely account for tissue-specific damage, focusing instead on generalized outcomes. This oversight means they fail to capture the full scope of sub-lethal impacts on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-danger-bees-cant-taste-lethal-pesticides-in-nectar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital pollinators</a>.



“The findings suggest that traditional pesticide risk assessments, which often overlook tissue-specific damage, do not fully capture the sub-lethal impacts on pollinators,” explained Dr. Federico López-Osorio, co-author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-bees-form-pesticides">Protecting bees form pesticides</h2>



The research highlights the urgent need to reassess how we test, regulate, and use pesticides. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops and maintaining ecosystems, yet the multi-tissue effects of pesticides jeopardize their survival and the biodiversity they support.



“We apply pesticides without fully understanding their effects on beneficial insect pollinators,” said study lead author Dr. Alicja Witwicka.



“Our findings show that every tissue is compromised in ways that undermine its vital role, which is why the effects are so devastating and widespread. This research is a call to action to rethink how we assess, regulate and apply pesticides, not only to protect pollinators but the ecosystems that depend on them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-a-growing-crisis">Biodiversity loss: A growing crisis</h2>



Pollinators, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-face-a-multitude-of-complex-stressors-in-the-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumble bees</a>, play a vital role in global agriculture by enabling the production of many fruits, nuts, and vegetables that make up a substantial portion of the human diet. Their work as pollinators is essential for the reproduction of plants that provide food for people and animals alike.



Beyond agriculture, bumble bees are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting ecosystems. They help pollinate wild plants, which in turn sustain various animal species and preserve the balance of natural habitats. 



However, the increasing loss of biodiversity has become a growing concern worldwide. Governments and citizens are striving to set ambitious goals to reverse these declines and restore ecosystems to health.



This research on bumble bees provides a compelling reason to rethink how we use pesticides. The health of pollinators - and the ecosystems they sustain - depends on it.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724084201?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Pesticides attack bees in multiple ways throughout the body

The humble bumble bee, already battling habitat loss and climate...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

Tommy had made it clear to the pastor that he needed something from him. When he got close enough, Tommy stood up and turned around. He took a step back and looked behind him to see whether the pastor was behind him. The pastor gave him a quizzical look. He knew Tommy wanted him to follow him, and he happily obliged. Little did Pastor Malroy know that his whole life was about to change.

Following Him Blindly