Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Little Dumbbell Nebula, also known as Messier 76, located in the constellation Perseus 3,400 light-years away from Earth.



Astronomers captured this image of the Little Dumbbell Nebula to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope, a joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).



The snapshot provides not only a breathtaking view, but also deep insights into the life cycle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> and the dynamic processes within nebulae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-messier-76">Understanding Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 is categorized as a planetary nebula - a term which refers to its round, planet-like appearance when viewed through early, low-power telescopes. 



However, the term is somewhat misleading as planetary nebulae have no connection to actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a>.&nbsp;



Instead, they represent an expansive shell of luminous gases expelled by a dying red giant star, which subsequently collapses into a dense, hot white dwarf. 



This transformation marks the late stages of stellar evolution for medium to low-mass stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure-of-messier-76">Structure of Messier 76</h2>



The structure of Messier 76 is particularly notable. It includes a central ring, giving the appearance of a bar-like feature, with two distinct lobes emanating from either side. 



This formation is believed to be the result of materials ejected by the star during its red giant phase, possibly sculpted by interactions with a companion star.&nbsp;



Although this binary companion is not visible in current Hubble images, its presence is inferred from the thick disk of dust and gas aligned with its orbital plane. 



The phenomenon of the companion star potentially being absorbed by the primary star, a process akin to stellar cannibalism, is a captivating aspect of the nebula's history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dynamic-environment-of-the-nebula">The dynamic environment of the nebula</h2>



At the core of the nebula, the primary star, now collapsing into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>, reaches extreme temperatures. This heat is estimated to be 120,000 degrees Celsius - about 24 times hotter than the surface of our Sun.&nbsp;



This intensely hot remnant is visible as a small, bright point at the center of the nebula. Directly below this, another star can be seen; however, it is merely aligned with the nebula by chance and is not a part of it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-glow-of-messier-76">Powerful glow of Messier 76</h2>



The dynamics within Messier 76 are driven by powerful forces. The central disk seems to constrict the material, creating two lobes of gas escaping along the rotational axis of the star, perpendicular to the disk.&nbsp;



The lobes are propelled outward by a potent stellar wind, moving at a staggering two million miles per hour. This rapid movement is sufficient to travel the distance from Earth to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeless-mystery-solved-scientists-uncover-what-is-inside-the-moons-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> in just over seven minutes.&nbsp;



The collision of the fast-moving gas with older, slower-moving material ejected during the star’s red giant phase results in the stunning glowing effect seen in the nebula. 



The glow, ignited by the ultraviolet radiation from the white dwarf, is a spectacle of colors with red emanating from nitrogen and blue from oxygen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cosmic-moment-in-time">A cosmic moment in time</h2>



Despite its current brilliance, the existence of the Little Dumbbell Nebula is fleeting on a cosmological scale. It is expected to last only about 15,000 years - a mere moment in the lifespan of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-is-ripping-the-universe-apart-but-we-arent-sure-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.&nbsp;



This brief period highlights the transient nature of such cosmic phenomena, which, while short-lived, provide crucial insights into the mechanics of stellar evolution and the complex interactions within these celestial sculptures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-messier-76">More about Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 was discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1780. It was later cataloged by Charles Messier, who included it in his famous list of nebulous objects.



The nebula's faintness and small size require a good telescope to be observed effectively, with larger telescopes able to reveal more of its fine details and structure.



Studying Messier 76 helps astronomers understand the life cycle of stars and the processes that occur during the late stages of stellar evolution. 



The materials expelled by planetary nebulae like Messier 76 eventually contribute to the interstellar medium, from which new stars and planetary systems may form.



Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Westerlund 1 - a young star cluster located in the Milky Way galaxy.&nbsp;



Discovered by Swedish astronomer Bengt Westerlund in 1961, the cluster is composed of thousands of stars - many of which are supergiants - and contains some of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-stars-shape-planetary-systems-like-ours-with-ultraviolet-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive stars</a> ever observed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-image-of-westerlund-1">Webb image of Westerlund 1</h2>



“The open cluster Westerlund 1, showcased in this new Webb Picture of the Month, is located roughly 12,000 light-years away in the southern constellation Ara (the Altar) where it resides behind a huge interstellar cloud of gas and dust,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“Westerlund 1 is an incomparable natural laboratory for the study of extreme stellar physics, helping astronomers to find out how the most massive stars in our galaxy live and die.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-special-about-westerlund-1">What is special about Westerlund 1?</h2>



According to ESA, the unique draw of Westerlund 1 is its large, dense, and diverse population of massive stars. The star cluster is unparalleled in the known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> galaxy in terms of the number of stars and the richness of spectral types and evolutionary phases.&nbsp;



“All stars identified in this cluster are evolved and very massive, spanning the full range of stellar classifications including Wolf-Rayet stars, OB supergiants, yellow hypergiants (nearly as bright as a million Suns) and luminous blue variables. Because such stars have a rather short life, Westerlund 1 is very young, astronomically speaking,” said ESA.



“Astronomers estimate the cluster’s age to be somewhere between 3.5 and 5 million years (its exact age is still a matter of debate), making it a newborn cluster in our galaxy.”



Westerlund 1 is expected to gradually evolve from an open cluster to a globular cluster - a spherical collection of stars that are tightly bound together by gravity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-the-milky-way-galaxy-nbsp">Star formation in the Milky Way galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



The Milky Way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> forms roughly 1 to 2 stars per year on average. This star formation rate is relatively moderate compared to more active galaxies, which can produce dozens or even hundreds of stars annually.



The Milky Way galaxy used to produce many more stars, likely hitting its peak about 10 billion years ago. At that time, dozens (or possibly even hundreds) of stars were created in the Milky Way each year.&nbsp;



“Astronomers think that most of this star formation took place in massive clusters of stars, known as ‘super star clusters.’ These are young clusters of stars that contain more than 10,000 times the mass of the Sun, packed into an unbelievably small volume. They represent the most extreme environments in which stars and planets can form,” said ESA.&nbsp;



“Only a few super star clusters still exist in our galaxy - of which Westerlund 1 is one - but they offer important clues about this earlier era when most of our galaxy’s stars formed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impressive-example-of-a-star-cluster-nbsp">Impressive example of a star cluster&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that Westerlund 1 is an impressive example of a super star cluster because it contains hundreds of very massive stars. Some of these stars shine with the brilliance of almost a million suns, while others are two thousand times larger than the sun. 



“Indeed, if the Solar System was located at the heart of this remarkable cluster, our sky would be full of hundreds of stars as bright as the full Moon."



The large population of massive stars in Westerlund 1 indicates that it will greatly influence its surroundings, noted ESA. With such a high concentration of these stars, the cluster is expected to host over 1,500 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a> within the next 40 million years. 



This "super" star cluster offers astronomers a rare glimpse into one of the most extreme environments in the Universe. 



Westerlund 1 is set to play a key role in advancing our understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>, particularly massive ones, are formed.



The image was captured as part of The Extended Westerlund 1 and 2 Open Clusters Survey (EWOCS) with Webb’s Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam). 



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Westerlund 1: Stars with the brilliance of a million suns

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 pair of interacting spiral galaxies known as the Antennae Galaxies. They are located approximately 45 million light-years away in the constellation Corvus.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antennae-galaxies-in-a-deadly-embrace">Antennae Galaxies in a deadly embrace </h2>



“The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has snapped the best ever image of the Antennae Galaxies. Hubble has released images of these stunning galaxies twice before, once using observations from its Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2) in 1997, and again in 2006 from the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS),” noted <a href="https://esahubble.org/images/potw1345a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The galaxies - also known as NGC 4038 and NGC 4039 - are locked in a deadly embrace. Once normal, sedate spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, the pair have spent the past few hundred million years sparring with one another.”



According to ESA, the clash of the Antennae Galaxies is so violent that stars have been ripped from their host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collision-2-million-mph-stephans-quintet-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> to form a streaming arc between the two.&nbsp;



The name "Antennae" comes from this long stream of stars and gas, which resembles insect antennae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-bursts-of-star-formation-nbsp">Intense bursts of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



The collision has triggered intense bursts of star formation, making the Antennae Galaxies one of the nearest and most dramatic examples of a starburst galaxy.&nbsp;



Many of the newly formed stars are concentrated in massive star clusters, some of which are expected to evolve into globular clusters over millions of years.



“This new image of the Antennae Galaxies shows obvious signs of chaos. Clouds of gas are seen in bright pink and red, surrounding the bright flashes of blue star-forming regions - some of which are partially obscured by dark patches of dust,” explained ESA.



“The rate of star formation is so high that the Antennae Galaxies are said to be in a state of starburst, a period in which all of the gas within the galaxies is being used to form stars.”&nbsp;



“This cannot last forever and neither can the separate galaxies; eventually the nuclei will coalesce, and the galaxies will begin their retirement together as one large elliptical galaxy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-antennae-galaxies">Significance of the Antennae Galaxies</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies are one of the most well-studied examples of galaxy collisions, offering insight into the processes that shape galaxies over time.



Astronomers study the Antennae Galaxies using a range of telescopes across different wavelengths, including visible light, infrared, and X-rays.&nbsp;



Observations in X-rays have revealed evidence of supernovae and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-may-talk-to-galaxies-through-energetic-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, while infrared studies highlight regions of dust and star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-milky-way-s-collision-course-nbsp">The Milky Way's collision course&nbsp;</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies provide a glimpse into the future of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is expected to eventually merge with the Andromeda Galaxy - our closest spiral galaxy neighbor.



The cosmic collision course of the Milky Way and Andromeda will reshape both galaxies over billions of years. 



This event is expected to occur in about 4.5 billion years. Both galaxies are part of the Local Group, a cluster of galaxies bound together by gravity. Their mutual gravitational pull is drawing them closer at a speed of approximately 110 kilometers per second.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-an-elliptical-galaxy-nbsp">The birth of an elliptical galaxy&nbsp;</h3>



When the two galaxies collide, their individual stars will largely avoid direct collisions due to the vast distances between them. However, the gravitational forces involved will create dramatic effects.&nbsp;



These forces will distort the galaxies' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shapes</a>, triggering intense bursts of star formation as gas clouds collide and compress. Over time, the galaxies will settle into a new, larger elliptical galaxy often referred to as "Milkomeda" or "Milkdromeda" by astronomers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-merger-and-the-solar-system">Galaxy merger and the solar system</h3>



Despite the seemingly destructive nature of the collision, the solar system is unlikely to face direct harm. Our Sun may find itself flung into a new orbit within the merged galaxy or even cast into intergalactic space.&nbsp;



The merger will also significantly alter the night sky, with the Andromeda Galaxy becoming increasingly prominent before blending into the unified structure.



This event is part of the natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-are-much-bigger-than-we-originally-believed-gas-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> and serves as a fascinating reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the universe. 



While the collision is still billions of years away, studying it helps astronomers understand galactic interactions and the long-term future of our cosmic neighborhood.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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The violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Messier 78 (M78), a reflection nebula located in the constellation Orion about 1,350 light-years away from Earth. 



This image was released as part of the initial series of observations from ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a>.&nbsp;



All data collected during these early observations, including a series of incredible <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid/Euclid_s_first_images_the_dazzling_edge_of_darkness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new views</a> of the nearby universe, is available to the public. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-messier-78">Image of Messier 78</h2>



Featured here is a high-resolution, detailed segment of a larger image showcasing Messier 78, a dynamic region of star formation obscured by cosmic dust.&nbsp;



This specific view highlights how young stars generate winds of charged particles, carving out “cavities” in the molecular clouds around them.&nbsp;



The blue hues in the image represent ionized atomic hydrogen, which is a primary component of the cloud, while the red indicates the absorption and scattering of light by dust particles.



The image captures hundreds of stars varying in brightness, illuminating their nebulous, purple surroundings. A dark, arch-like structure stretches from the upper left to the bottom right of the frame, merging into the densest, darkest clouds at the image’s base.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-site-of-star-formation-nbsp">Active site of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is not just a single nebula but part of a larger complex of stars and nebulous regions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a>, which includes various other objects like dark nebulae that are visible as patches blocking light from behind.



This region is an active site of star formation, featuring many young stars and protostars, which are stars in the early stages of formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-messier-78">Viewing Messier 78</h2>



M78 is easily observable with small telescopes, and it appears as a hazy patch of light with two prominent stars near its center, which illuminate the surrounding dust.&nbsp;



The nebula is also a favorite among amateur astronomers for its beauty and relatively bright appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subject-of-scientific-interest-nbsp">Subject of scientific interest&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;



The nebula consists of dense, cold gas and dust, which are essential ingredients for the birth of new stars.&nbsp;



The intense blue light that characterizes M78 is due to the reflection of starlight off these dust particles, a process known as scattering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-region-surrounding-messier-78-nbsp">Region surrounding Messier 78&nbsp;</h2>



The region surrounding M78 includes several other interesting features. For instance, there are Herbig-Haro objects within it, which are small patches of nebulosity associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly born stars</a>.&nbsp;



These objects are formed when gas ejected by young stars collides with clouds of gas and dust at high speeds, creating shock waves that glow brightly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earliest-stages-of-star-development-nbsp">Earliest stages of star development&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, infrared observations of M78 have revealed much about the dust and colder objects in the area, which are not visible in optical light.&nbsp;



The observations have helped astronomers identify numerous young stars and brown dwarfs (objects that are too large to be planets and too small to be stars) within the nebula. 



This makes M78 a critical area for studying the earliest stages of star development and the properties of the interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp-0">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-batch-of-brilliant-images-from-the-euclid-mission-live-up-to-the-hype/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a> is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission designed to study the dark universe, particularly focusing on dark energy and dark matter, which are fundamental components that are believed to drive the accelerating expansion of the universe and shape its large-scale structure.&nbsp;



The mission aims to map the geometry of the dark universe and better understand the physics of the cosmos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-billions-of-galaxies-nbsp">Observing billions of galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Euclid uses two primary scientific instruments: a visible light camera (VIS) and a near-infrared spectrometer and photometer (NISP).&nbsp;



These instruments will allow Euclid to measure the shapes and redshifts of galaxies at distances of up to 10 billion light-years. By surveying more than a third of the sky, the mission is expected to observe several billion galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-dark-universe-nbsp">Studying the dark universe&nbsp;</h3>



The data collected will help astronomers in studying the effects of dark matter and dark energy in depth, testing cosmological models, and exploring new theories about the nature of the universe.&nbsp;



The mission, named after the ancient Greek mathematician Euclid, seeks to address key questions related to the structure of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics governing its evolution and expansion.



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco.&nbsp;



The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae-nbsp">Planetary nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.



“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form 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>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.



“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the Cat’s Eye</h2>



“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”



According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”



Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;



Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;



In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.



Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;



One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;



Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;



The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;



The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



The Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study. 



These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

Due to the Nodosaur's pristine condition, scientists were able to use modern X-ray scans to see what was inside the dinosaur's tough exoskeleton. They were able to see its bone structure and even inside the inner chambers of the beast's stomach - that’s just how well preserved this find was. Nobody could believe it - least of all the man who found it.

Unique Glimpse Inside

Periods of sudden melting across the Antarctic ice sheet have been discovered in a new climate record dating back over 20 million years.



This research, led by geoscientists from the University of Leicester and the University of Southampton, sheds light on the sensitivity of Earth’s early ice ages to changes in the planet’s orbit.



The study highlights the implications for the Antarctic ice sheet’s stability in today’s warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-ice-sheet-s-past">Antarctic ice sheet’s past</h2>



The Antarctic ice sheet has <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fluctuated in size</a> throughout its history, akin to a heartbeat. However, records from different ocean locations have revealed variations in these "heartbeats" - an anomaly that has puzzled scientists.



This shouldn’t happen because Antarctic ice changes should leave the same mark across the ocean.



These variations are linked to the Earth’s eccentric orbit, which changes over hundreds of thousands to millions of years. During more eccentric orbits, Earth’s distance from the Sun fluctuates significantly, leading to periods of higher heat exposure when the planet is closer. 



This increased heat disrupts the climate system, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">triggering rapid ice melting</a>. Conversely, during more circular orbits, the ice sheet remains more stable and shows less melting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unstable-antarctic-ice-sheets">Unstable Antarctic ice sheets </h2>



The researchers examined the period between 28 and 20 million years ago, a time when Earth was warmer.



The team utilized geological cores from an Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) expedition to reconstruct past climate changes.



These cores, recovered from the northwest Atlantic Ocean, contain oxygen isotope records that help scientists determine whether the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a> expanded or contracted at different times.



"From our research, we can see that the Antarctic ice sheet is more unstable than previously thought. We demonstrate how sensitive the geologically early Antarctic ice sheet was to changes in Earth’s orbit and axis," explained Dr. Tim van Peer from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a>.



"We cannot assume that the modern-day Antarctic ice sheet is stable. If climate emissions continue unabated, we are on course to melt a large amount of the Antarctic ice sheet."



"We need to mitigate climate change by reducing our emissions. This is the only way to not cross tipping points in the stability of the Antarctic ice sheet."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-microorganisms-and-fossils">Insights from microorganisms and fossils</h2>



The research team analyzed samples containing microorganisms from the geological cores. These microorganisms preserve ocean chemistry in their shells, which record the oxygen isotope ratio. By measuring these ratios, the scientists established a timeline of ice sheet growth and melting events.



"It may be a surprising thing to learn that we take the pulse of the Antarctic ice sheet by doing some simple chemistry on pinhead-sized fossil shells from the deep seafloor on the other side of the world," noted Professor Paul Wilson from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>.



"But the really beautiful thing is that we can do it back through the geological record over tens of millions of years. Earth science is about time travel into the past and we are always learning lessons to help us understand our future."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-effort-to-understand-earth-s-history">Collaborative effort to understand Earth's history </h2>



This research represents a multinational partnership, primarily involving scientists from the U.K. and Germany. It was supported by the U.K. Research and Innovation/Natural Environment Research Council and the German Science Foundation.



The IODP, a publicly funded international marine research program involving 21 countries, facilitated this work. IODP explores Earth’s history and dynamics by analyzing seafloor sediments and rocks. Samples for this study were collected during Expedition 342 and built upon years of collaborative effort.



The University of Leicester has a long-standing involvement in IODP, dating back to the 1980s. Recent expeditions include "Hawai’ian Drowned Reefs" and "Tracking Tsunamigenic Slip Across the Japan Trench (JTRACK)." 



These expeditions continue to deepen our understanding of Earth’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate history</a> and inform predictions about the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-future-of-antarctic-ice-sheets">Predicting the future of Antarctic ice sheets</h2>



The study’s findings provide a critical benchmark for improving climate models. By understanding past climate dynamics, scientists can better predict the future impacts of Antarctic ice <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ice-loss-may-have-reached-an-irreversible-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sheet</a> melting. 



As the research highlights, reducing emissions remains the key to preventing irreversible changes to Earth’s climate system.



This glimpse into Earth’s ancient climate highlights the delicate balance of the Antarctic ice sheet and its profound implications for our planet’s future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-54186-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Antarctic ice sheet patterns point to rapid melting risks

Periods of sudden melting across the Antarctic ice sheet have...

Researchers have recently concluded that the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels is now almost certainly out of reach.&nbsp;



This stark finding suggests that the years ahead will almost inevitably break existing heat records - no matter how quickly greenhouse gas emissions decline.



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1029/%202024GL111832" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>, indicates a 50% chance that even if humanity achieves current targets for rapidly reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> to net-zero by the 2050s, global warming could breach two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limiting-global-warming-with-decarbonization">Limiting global warming with decarbonization </h2>



Previous research, including assessments by the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a>, had concluded that such decarbonization would likely keep warming below two degrees.



Noah Diffenbaugh, a climate scientist at the <a href="https://sustainability.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability</a>, co-authored the study with <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> climate scientist Elizabeth Barnes.



“We’ve been seeing accelerating impacts around the world in recent years, from heatwaves and heavy rainfall and other extremes,” said Diffenbaugh.



“This study suggests that, even in the best case scenario, we are very likely to experience conditions that are more severe than what we’ve been dealing with recently.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-beyond-the-1-5-degree-threshold">Global warming beyond the 1.5-degree threshold</h2>



The new findings emphasize the speed at which the world is moving past critical warming goals. This year stands poised to surpass 2023 as Earth’s hottest year on record, with global average temperatures set to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius (nearly 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;



According to the study, there is a nine-in-ten chance that the hottest year this century will be at least half a degree Celsius hotter - even if the world manages rapid decarbonization.



These alarming projections underscore that surpassing the 1.5-degree threshold is no longer a question of “if” but “when.”&nbsp;



The significance is profound, given that this limit was a central target of the 2015 Paris Agreement, where nearly 200 nations pledged to keep warming “well below” two degrees while striving for 1.5 degrees.&nbsp;



The study aligns with a growing body of evidence indicating that the 1.5-degree benchmark will be crossed, shifting the conversation toward how much hotter the planet will become.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-ai-to-fine-tune-projections">Harnessing AI to fine-tune projections</h2>



For this research, Diffenbaugh and Barnes employed an innovative approach: they trained an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-reveals-hidden-climate-extremes-in-europe/">AI </a>system to forecast global temperatures under various emissions scenarios.&nbsp;



The AI integrated temperature and greenhouse gas data from extensive climate model simulations and real historical temperatures. Armed with these inputs, it provided more refined projections than previously possible.



“AI is emerging as an incredibly powerful tool for reducing uncertainty in future projections. It learns from the many climate model simulations that already exist, but its predictions are then further refined by real-world observations,” said Barnes, a professor of atmospheric science at Colorado State.



This technique reduces uncertainty and hones in on more precise outcomes. By improving accuracy, policymakers gain a clearer understanding of the future they face, potentially guiding more informed decisions about mitigation and adaptation strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surpassing-three-degrees-of-warming-nbsp">Surpassing three degrees of warming&nbsp;</h2>



A second paper by Barnes, Diffenbaugh, and co-author Sonia Seneviratne from ETH-Zurich suggests that many regions - including South Asia, the Mediterranean, Central Europe, and parts of sub-Saharan Africa - will surpass three degrees Celsius of warming by 2060 under scenarios of increasing emissions.&nbsp;



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/ad91ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>, notes that this warming may come sooner than previous models anticipated, indicating that some parts of the world face rapidly intensifying climate conditions.



The significance of surpassing such thresholds is immense. The consequences of even minor increases in temperature can cascade into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>, crop failures, water shortages, and heightened risks to human health and infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-climate-extremes">Preparing for climate extremes</h2>



Both new studies build on earlier research by Diffenbaugh and Barnes that anticipated the timeline until warming goals are breached. However, rather than focusing solely on multi-year averages, the team shifted attention to the most extreme years and conditions.&nbsp;



This perspective offers a glimpse into a future where temperatures and weather events are more volatile and challenging than the current average conditions can convey.



“As we watched these severe impacts year after year, we became more and more interested in predicting how extreme the climate could get even if the world is fully successful at rapidly reducing emissions,” said Diffenbaugh.&nbsp;



This approach acknowledges that even meeting emissions targets may fail to shield humanity from extremes surpassing what we now experience.



For a scenario in which emissions are cut rapidly and reach net-zero in the 2050s - the most optimistic widely modeled scenario - there is a nine-in-ten chance that the hottest year this century will be at least 1.8 degrees Celsius hotter than pre-industrial times.&nbsp;



Moreover, there is a two-in-three chance it will be at least 2.1 degrees hotter. If emissions remain too high to reach net-zero by 2100, a nine-in-ten chance emerges that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hottest year</a> will be three degrees Celsius hotter. Under such circumstances, many regions could experience anomalies at least triple what occurred in 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-a-new-normal">Adapting to a new normal</h2>



The projections highlight that even with robust decarbonization, the world must brace for greater extremes. Historically, climate policy and investment have prioritized mitigation - reducing carbon emissions - over adaptation, which focuses on reducing vulnerability to climate impacts.&nbsp;



Decarbonization spending outpaces adaptation investments worldwide, as seen in policies like the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act in the United States.



“Our results suggest that even if all the effort and investment in decarbonization is as successful as possible, there is a real risk that, without commensurate investments in adaptation, people and ecosystems will be exposed to climate conditions that are much more extreme than what they are currently prepared for,” Diffenbaugh warned.



Adapting to these changed conditions will be essential. Without measures to increase resilience - such as improved infrastructure, healthcare systems prepared for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recognizing-symptoms-heat-related-illness-as-global-temperatures-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat-related illnesses</a>, agriculture tailored to new climate realities, and water resources managed to handle drought or flood - societies risk severe disruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-thresholds-into-severe-climate-extremes-nbsp">Beyond thresholds into severe climate extremes&nbsp;</h2>



As the planet warms and thresholds are surpassed, scientists and policymakers alike must grapple with uncertainty.&nbsp;



The research reveals a persistent gap between decarbonization goals and the severity of future extremes.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, the AI-driven approach to refine climate projections may become a cornerstone of climate modeling, offering a more accurate and immediate window into what lies ahead.



The new knowledge that even optimistic emission scenarios may not prevent severe climate extremes underscores the importance of immediate and comprehensive action.&nbsp;



Ensuring that investments in both mitigation and adaptation proceed in tandem could help protect human communities, ecosystems, and the global economy from the worst consequences of an increasingly warming world.



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AI prediction: Limiting global warming to 1.5°C is "almost certainly" already out of reach 

Researchers have recently concluded that the global goal of limiting...

Gut-brain,Connection,Or,Gut,Brain,Axis.,Concept,Art,Showing,A

Many people have felt a twist in their stomach when emotions run high. It can happen during tense or stressful moments, and when sadness or depression makes a person lose interest in eating. 



This everyday experience points to connections inside the body, between the mind and the gut, that aren't always obvious and are often overlooked.



For years, treatments that affect the brain have been used to lift spirits. Yet new research suggests a different path -- focusing on that "gut feeling."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-treatment-not-brain-treatment">Gut treatment, not brain treatment</h2>



A recent animal study explored the idea of focusing treatments for depression and anxiety to cells inside the gut rather than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cells</a>.



This shift may help people feel better without the unwelcome side effects that can come with drugs affecting the entire body.



These findings were led by Mark Ansorge, associate professor of clinical neurobiology at Columbia University <a href="https://www.vagelos.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vagelos College</a> of Physicians and Surgeons, and Kara Margolis, Director of the <a href="https://dental.nyu.edu/research/pain-research-center.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Pain Research Center</a> and an associate professor of molecular pathobiology in the <a href="https://dental.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU College of Dentistry</a>. 



They looked closely at how treatments often used for depression and anxiety might work differently when kept mostly in the intestines.



“Antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raise serotonin levels</a> are important first-line treatments and help many patients but can sometimes cause side effects that patients can’t tolerate," Ansorge explains.



"Our study suggests that restricting the drugs to interact only with intestinal cells could avoid these issues."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ssri-treatment-in-the-gut">SSRI treatment in the gut</h2>



The standard approach to dealing with persistent sadness or worry has long involved drugs called SSRIs. They affect serotonin, a chemical known to help messages <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mitochondria-fling-dna-into-our-brain-cells-making-us-age-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">move around in the brain</a>. 



The problem is that these treatments spread everywhere, not just in the head. Changing that could make a big difference.



“But not treating a pregnant person’s depression also comes with risks to their children,” Ansorge says. “An SSRI that selectively raises serotonin in the intestine could be a better alternative.”



For decades, no one gave much thought to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dopamine-and-serotonin-shape-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serotonin outside the brain</a>. Yet there is a lot of it sitting right in the intestines. 



“In fact, 90% of our bodies’ serotonin is in the gut”, says Margolis, who is also an associate professor of pediatrics and cell biology at <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/our-community/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Grossman School of Medicine</a>.



This inside story may explain why some people experience stomach upset along with mood issues. 



If balancing serotonin only in the intestines can influence a person’s feelings, then future treatments might avoid the usual problems linked to current medications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



To explore this, researchers worked with mice. They used genetic engineering, surgery, and drugs to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swallowing-food-triggers-feel-good-hormones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase serotonin signaling</a> in the gut but not in other parts of the body. 



The question was simple: Would these changes help the mice behave in ways that suggest relief from anxiety or low mood?



“These results suggest that SSRIs produce therapeutic effects by working directly in the gut,” Ansorge says.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-they-learn">What did they learn?</h2>



The results were surprising. The mice acted calmer and less down, yet they did not show the usual side effects often tied to SSRIs that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-cause-high-anxiety-through-changes-in-gut-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affect the entire body</a>. 



“Based on what we know about interactions between the brain and gut, we expected to see some effect. But to see enhanced serotonin signaling in the gut epithelium produce such robust antidepressant and anxiety-relieving effects without noticeable side effects was surprising even to us,” Ansorge enthused.



“There may be an advantage to targeting antidepressants selectively to the gut epithelium,” adds Margolis. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Systemic treatment</a> may not be necessary for eliciting the drugs’ benefits.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-brain-connection">Gut-brain connection</h2>



This approach did not just help the mood of the mice. It also revealed something new about how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-some-foods-seem-irresistible-the-answer-is-in-your-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body’s internal wiring</a> works. 



Signals going from the gut up to the head seem to matter. The vagus nerve, known for carrying messages between these regions, was key.



Instead of the brain telling the belly what to do, the gut’s signals played a role in shaping mood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-vagus-nerve-the-basics">Understanding the vagus nerve -- the basics</h2>



The vagus nerve is like your body’s superhighway for communication between your brain and various organs. It’s one of the longest nerves in your body, stretching from your brainstem all the way down to your abdomen. 



Think of it as a major player in your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-has-its-own-mini-brain-that-controls-its-beat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autonomic nervous system</a>, which controls things you don’t have to think about, like your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart rate</a>, digestion, and breathing. 



When you take a deep breath, feel your heart beat, or even swallow your food, that’s the vagus nerve doing its job. 



It helps keep everything running smoothly by sending signals back and forth, ensuring your body responds appropriately to different situations.



But the vagus nerve does more than just manage basic functions -- it also plays a role in your mood and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-has-the-power-to-change-the-mood-of-our-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overall sense of well-being</a>. 



Stimulating the vagus nerve, whether through activities like deep breathing, meditation, or even certain medical treatments, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. 



This nerve is involved in the “rest and digest” response, helping to calm your body after you’ve been stressed or active.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-concerns">Pregnancy concerns</h2>



Problems can arise when certain drugs cross the placenta. Past work has linked these exposures with issues in children. 



The researchers studied more than 400 mothers and babies and found that children exposed to these antidepressants were 3 times more likely to develop constipation in their first year of life.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pregnancy-changes-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maternal depression</a> and anxiety can have many unwanted effects on fetal and child development and must thus be treated and monitored adequately to the benefit of both mother and child,” says Ansorge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drugs-guts-brains-and-the-future">Drugs, guts, brains, and the future</h2>



The team is now working to create an SSRI that stays in the gut. If they succeed, it might change how doctors help people dealing with serious sadness and worry.



This approach could matter especially for those expecting a child, since it would mean addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/link-between-sleep-and-mood-explains-the-wrong-side-of-the-bed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood concerns</a> without running the risks that come with the usual treatments.



Keeping these treatments focused on the intestines might give people a better shot at feeling like themselves again. 



For many, this line of thinking stands as a reminder that what happens inside the body often comes down to more than what goes on in the head. 



It suggests a future where relief could come without the troubles that keep so many from getting the help they need.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0016508524057512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gastroenterology</a>.



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Drugs targeting gut cells, not brain cells, are better at treating depression and anxiety

Many people have felt a twist in their stomach when...

Dried,Marjoram,Or,Oregano,On,A,Black,Background,,Fresh,Marjoram

Many people experience everyday struggles when they cannot move as easily as they once did. They feel frustrated when their joints start aching and stiffening, and they find that doing even simple daily chores feels like pulling teeth.



They try various options -- exercises, pain relievers, and different foods -- hoping that something will help them feel more like themselves again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-way-to-think-about-aching-joints">Different way to think about aching joints</h2>



Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of movement. 



It occurs when the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones wears down over time, causing the bones to rub directly against each other. This issue can arise due to aging, previous injuries, or other factors.



According to the <a href="https://rheumatology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American College of Rheumatology</a>, more than 58.5 million American adults have been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-everyday-choices-with-comfort">Connecting everyday choices with comfort</h2>



For those who suffer from osteoarthritis, diet is a potentially important aspect of the treatment. 



Certain foods can relieve pain; for example, oregano is a herb with anti-inflammatory benefits that can be effective in pain relief.



While many folks already have oregano in the kitchen, they might not realize what this herb brings to the table. It is often used in cooking, but some may never have thought much about its effects on the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-layers-behind-a-familiar-flavor">Hidden layers behind a familiar flavor</h2>



And the truth is that oregano has a multitude of useful properties and health benefits.



A few years ago, a team of scientists even found that carvacrol, the substance in oregano oil that gives this herb its distinctive warm, aromatic smell and flavor, is effective against norovirus. 



The substance breaks down the virus’s tough outer layer, according to research published in the <a href="https://enviromicro-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jam.12453">Journal of Applied Microbiology.</a>



This kind of information may give people a pause. It shows that something as unassuming as a kitchen spice can have unexpected effects that go beyond adding flavor. 



If a small herb can show such potential in one area, there might be more layers yet to uncover.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-research-from-europe-suggests">What research from Europe suggests</h2>



Among the health benefits of oregano, there is one that has been highlighted by the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bonn</a> in Germany and the <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Federal Institute of Technology</a> in Zurich in Switzerland. 



Oregano provides an active ingredient known as beta-caryophyllene (E-BCP) that has a positive impact on reducing joint pain and inflammation, which is why it is highly recommended as a preventative treatment for osteoarthritis.



People who are looking for simple ways to support their joints might want to remember this detail. It suggests that there are options outside of well-known treatments. 



Although oregano alone might not solve everything, knowing it can play a role and may encourage people to see their dietary habits differently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-details-that-matter">Small details that matter</h2>



It also turns out that oregano oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties for toothaches. 



The oil, which can be used inside the mouth, can relieve the symptoms of infections with a few drops on the teeth.



This small detail might not be the first thing someone thinks about when they think of oregano, but it shows how everyday plants may hold surprising benefits. 



The world of natural foods is full of complexity and many layers that modern research is slowly beginning to understand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture-beyond-one-spice">Bigger picture beyond one spice</h2>



Many people might think that dealing with osteoarthritis means only focusing on medical interventions. While there are times when more traditional approaches are necessary, everyday foods matter. 



Something as common as oregano might add some comfort, alongside other known strategies. Small changes in daily meals, along with guidance from health professionals, might offer a sense of relief. 



The point here is not to claim oregano is a miracle fix but to remember that many details in what people eat can add up. 



They might consider talking with their doctors, doing their own research, and trying simple steps before giving up hope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-considering-a-gentle-steady-approach">Considering a gentle, steady approach</h2>



The idea that an herb that many people sprinkle on their pizza or pasta could have additional benefits may sound surprising. It might make some rethink their kitchen shelves.



Adjusting habits, paying attention to what is on the plate, and being open to new information might encourage people to view their health through a slightly different lens. 



No one should expect dramatic changes overnight. Instead, they might view healing as a process of learning.



Foods like oregano may bring subtle shifts and, over time, these shifts can matter more than many realize. Even small amounts can play a role, especially when combined with other lifestyle adjustments.



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This herb helps reduce and prevent joint pain from arthritis

Many people experience everyday struggles when they cannot move as...

Breakthrough research from the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona has revealed that different types of cancer leave distinct molecular “fingerprints” detectable in their early stages.&nbsp;



These fingerprints, embedded in the ribosomes of cells, can now be identified with near-perfect accuracy using small, portable devices in just a few hours.&nbsp;



Published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1097276524009195" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Molecular Cell</a>, this discovery paves the way for creating revolutionary non-invasive diagnostic tests capable of detecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-thrives-on-human-stress-as-it-spreads-throughout-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> faster and earlier than ever before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ribosomes-and-their-hidden-complexity">Ribosomes and their hidden complexity</h2>



The study focuses on ribosomes, the cellular machinery responsible for protein production. Long believed to share a uniform structure across the human body, ribosomes have now been shown to possess a hidden layer of complexity.&nbsp;



The researchers discovered tiny chemical modifications on ribosomal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA</a> (rRNA) molecules that vary by tissue type, developmental stage, and disease state.



“Our ribosomes are not all the same. They are specialized in different tissues and carry unique signatures that reflect what's happening inside our bodies,” explained study senior author Eva Novoa, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.crg.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Genomic Regulation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-fingerprints-cellular-health-and-disease">Molecular fingerprints, cellular health, and disease</h2>



Ribosomes consist of proteins and rRNA, with rRNA accounting for a staggering 95% of the total RNA in human cells.&nbsp;



These molecules undergo chemical modifications that influence ribosomal function, creating unique “epitranscriptomic fingerprints” specific to different tissues.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed rRNA from human and mouse samples taken from organs such as the brain, heart, liver, and testis. They found that these fingerprints could provide a wealth of information about cellular health and disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-molecular-signature-of-cancer">The molecular signature of cancer</h2>



The study demonstrated that cancer cells have distinct rRNA fingerprints, particularly in cases of lung and testicular cancers.&nbsp;



“The cancer cells are ‘hypomodified,’ meaning they constantly lose some of these chemical marks,” said lead author Ivan Milenkovic, a postdoctoral fellow at CGR. “We thought this could be a powerful biomarker.”



To test this hypothesis, the team examined tissue samples from 20 patients with early-stage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-can-sniff-out-lung-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lung cancer</a>. They confirmed that rRNA in cancerous cells consistently exhibited hypomodifications.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fingerprints-for-early-cancer-detection-nbsp">Fingerprints for early cancer detection&nbsp;</h2>



Using these unique signatures, the researchers developed an algorithm capable of distinguishing cancerous from healthy tissue. This model achieved near-perfect accuracy, marking a significant advance in the quest for early cancer detection.



“Most lung cancers aren’t diagnosed until late stages of development. Here we could detect it much earlier than usual, which could one day help buy patients valuable time,” Milenkovic explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-technology-nanopore-sequencing">Breakthrough technology: Nanopore sequencing</h2>



The research was made possible by nanopore direct RNA sequencing, a cutting-edge technology that allows for the direct analysis of rRNA molecules, complete with all their chemical modifications.&nbsp;



This method provides a significant advantage over traditional sequencing techniques, which often strip away these modifications during processing.&nbsp;



“It allows us to see the modifications as they are, in their natural context,” Novoa noted.



Nanopore sequencing devices are small enough to fit in the palm of a hand and can process RNA samples in real time. This portability and efficiency mean that researchers can analyze minimal amounts of tissue.&nbsp;



The study demonstrated that scanning as few as 250 RNA molecules was sufficient to differentiate between healthy and cancerous cells.&nbsp;



“It is feasible to develop a rapid, highly accurate test that looks for cancer’s ribosomal fingerprint using minimal amounts of tissue,” Novoa added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-cellular-junk-into-a-gold-mine">Turning cellular junk into a gold mine</h2>



Before the advent of nanopore sequencing, ribosomal RNA was often discarded as redundant information during research experiments. However, this study has transformed what was once overlooked into a treasure trove of diagnostic potential.&nbsp;



“Scientists typically got rid of ribosomal RNAs because they saw it as redundant information that would get in the way of our experiments. Fast forward a few years, we’ve taken this data out of the junkyard and turned it into a gold mine,” Novoa explained.



The ability to analyze rRNA modifications in their natural state opens up new possibilities for understanding cellular processes and detecting disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-non-invasive-cancer-detection">The future of non-invasive cancer detection</h2>



In the long term, the researchers aim to develop diagnostic methods capable of detecting cancer's ribosomal fingerprints through circulating RNA in blood samples.&nbsp;



This approach would eliminate the need for invasive tissue biopsies, making the process more accessible and less painful for patients.



The researchers caution, however, that more work is needed before the technology can be applied in clinical settings. “We're just scratching the surface,” Milenkovic says. “We need larger studies to validate these biomarkers across diverse populations and cancer types.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions-in-cancer-research">Future directions in cancer research</h2>



One of the most intriguing questions raised by the study is why rRNA modifications change in cancer cells. Understanding whether these changes drive cancer progression could lead to innovative therapies aimed at reversing harmful modifications.&nbsp;



By identifying the mechanisms responsible for adding or removing these chemical marks, researchers hope to uncover <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trained-dogs-can-detect-bladder-cancer-in-other-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new ways</a> to combat cancer at its molecular roots.



“We are slowly but surely unravelling this complexity,” Novoa said. “It’s only a matter of time before we can start understanding the language of the cell.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-horizon-for-early-cancer-detection">A new horizon for early cancer detection</h2>



This pioneering work lays the foundation for transformative diagnostic tools that could revolutionize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ketogenic-diet-may-help-the-body-kill-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> detection and treatment. 



By leveraging ribosomal fingerprints and the power of nanopore sequencing, researchers are opening new doors to earlier, faster, and more accurate cancer diagnoses.&nbsp;



The potential to save lives through timely intervention underscores the importance of this breakthrough in the fight against cancer.



Image Credit: Queralt Tolosa/Centro de Regulación Genómica



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Molecular ‘fingerprints’ could be key to early cancer detection

Breakthrough research from the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in...

A recent study has revealed that hedgehogs living in the same semi-rural area show remarkable variation in their hibernation timing and patterns.&nbsp;



Some individuals begin hibernating up to three months later than others - a flexibility that researchers believe could help them adapt to climate change and urbanization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hibernation-habits-of-wild-hedgehogs-nbsp">Hibernation habits of wild hedgehogs&nbsp;</h2>



The study, carried out by researchers at <a href="https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Liverpool John Moores University</a>, tracked the hibernation behaviors of wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hedgehogs-face-extinction-as-their-habitats-vanish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hedgehogs</a> on an unused golf course in the Wirral.&nbsp;



Using radio trackers to monitor their locations and skin temperatures, alongside nighttime observations with torches, the researchers uncovered unexpected diversity in hibernation habits.



“It was a surprise to see wild hedgehogs living in the same environment have so much variation in their hibernation pattern,” said Katie Crawford, a PhD student at John Moores University who will present the research at the <a href="https://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/events/bes-annual-meeting-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Ecological Society (BES) Annual Meeting</a> in Liverpool.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wide-variability-in-hibernation-timing">Wide variability in hibernation timing</h2>



All five hedgehogs in the study entered hibernation, but with significant differences in timing. 



The first hedgehog began hibernating in mid-September, when temperatures were as high as 19°C, while another didn’t hibernate until mid-December, despite temperatures dropping to -6°C.&nbsp;



The hibernation periods also varied, with differences of up to 47 days in when they ended.



“When hedgehogs hibernate, they go through cycles of torpor in which they decrease their metabolic rate and body temperature. Torpor bouts, typically lasting a few days to weeks, are interspersed with bursts of arousal for a few hours up to a couple of days,” Crawford explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hibernation-strategies-of-hedgehogs">Hibernation strategies of hedgehogs</h2>



The study revealed that some hedgehogs used shorter torpor phases followed by extended periods of activity, possibly for foraging, particularly at the start and end of their hibernation periods. This adaptability could prove advantageous in the face of unpredictable environmental changes.



“Hibernators are at significant risk from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> because they're very reliant on ambient temperatures. When temperatures are higher, they can't save as much energy because they're not reducing their body temperature as low,” Crawford said.&nbsp;



Since hibernating hedgehogs rely on stored fat for survival, this could present challenges.&nbsp;



However, their flexible hibernation strategies may allow them to secure additional food, which could be a valuable adaptation as winters in the UK grow milder and more unpredictable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hedgehog-conservation-status-and-challenges">Hedgehog conservation status and challenges</h2>



European hedgehogs are now listed as near-threatened on the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN Red List</a>. In the UK, rural populations are declining due to threats such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-ai-system-detects-animals-on-roads-to-prevent-accidents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">road collisions</a>, while urban populations remain stable or are increasing in some areas.



The study, conducted from Spring 2023 to Spring 2024, recorded around 26 hedgehogs on the golf course during the summer, indicating a high local population.&nbsp;



“At the start of the experiment, we would go out to the golf course at night with big torches to find hedgehogs,” Crawford said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-into-hedgehog-behavior-nbsp">Valuable insights into hedgehog behavior&nbsp;</h2>



With the assistance of her supervisor, Dr. Julia Nowack, the team tagged five individuals with radio trackers and monitored them daily throughout their hibernation period.



Although the sample size was small due to the intensive nature of the research, the findings provide valuable insights into hedgehog behavior.&nbsp;



The researchers are now expanding their study to include 11 hedgehogs across different habitats in Merseyside to determine if urban hedgehogs show even greater variability.&nbsp;



“We’re already seeing a lot of flexibility in the hibernation patterns of this year’s cohort,” Crawford added.



This ongoing work underscores the resilience of hedgehogs and their potential to adapt to environmental changes.&nbsp;



By understanding their hibernation patterns in greater detail, researchers hope to contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a> and shed light on how these animals can survive in a rapidly changing world.&nbsp;



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



Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals known for their unique defense mechanism of rolling into a tight ball, which protects their vulnerable underbellies with a coat of sharp spines. 



Found across Europe, Asia, and Africa, they thrive in diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, and even suburban gardens. These nocturnal creatures are primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, worms, and small invertebrates - though they are opportunistic eaters and will consume fruits and vegetables when available. 



Hedgehogs have poor eyesight but compensate with excellent hearing and a keen sense of smell, which they use to forage for food.



In many cultures, hedgehogs are symbols of good luck and have become popular pets due to their endearing behavior and manageable size. Despite this, they require specific care - including warm, quiet environments and specialized diets - to thrive in captivity.



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Hedgehogs have flexible hibernation habits that help them survive

A recent study has revealed that hedgehogs living in the...

Exercise is known to boost both physical and mental well-being, but have you ever wondered why you feel "sharper" after a hard workout or a brisk walk?



This sensation isn't just in your head - there’s solid scientific evidence supporting the positive impact of exercise on brain function. A recent study has explored this connection and revealed that the cognitive boost we get from exercise can last well into the next day.



The study was led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> (UCL) and was published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.



The interesting part? These brain benefits were discovered among older adults, specifically people aged between 50 and 83.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-memory-benefits-of-exercise">Memory benefits of exercise </h2>



“Our findings suggest that the short-term memory benefits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/any-type-of-physical-activity-can-help-protect-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> may last longer than previously thought, possibly to the next day instead of just the few hours after exercise. Getting more sleep, particularly deep sleep, seems to add to this memory improvement," noted Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg, the lead author of the study.



“Moderate or vigorous activity means anything that gets your heart rate up – this could be brisk walking, dancing or walking up a few flights of stairs. It doesn’t have to be structured exercise."



The study also revealed that more time spent not sitting, and getting at least six hours of sleep a night also resulted in better scores on memory tests the next day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-triggers-a-cognitive-boost">Exercise triggers a cognitive boost</h2>



Exercise, especially the kind that gets your heart racing, isn't just good for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consensual-touch-greatly-benefits-mental-physical-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical health</a>. It also has several mental and emotional benefits. 



In the short term, exercising increases blood flow to the brain, simulating the release of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. These enhance a range of cognitive functions.



While these neurochemical changes last only a few hours after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evening-workouts-are-best-for-blood-sugar-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">workout</a>, there are other mental changes induced by exercise that last longer, such as mood enhancement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-gains-persist-longer-than-expected">Cognitive gains persist longer than expected</h2>



“This study provides evidence that the immediate cognitive benefits of exercise may last longer than we thought. It also suggests good sleep quality separately contributes to cognitive performance," explained study co-author Professor Andrew Steptoe.



The study utilized data from wrist-worn activity trackers to measure the physical activity levels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-quality-is-determined-by-daily-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a> of participants. 



Care was taken to adjust for a variety of external factors that could potentially distort the results.



The results were clear. More moderate or vigorous physical activity compared to a person’s average was linked to better working memory and episodic memory the next day. 



The researchers found that more overall sleep led to improved episodic and working memory and psychomotor speed, while more slow-wave sleep was linked to better episodic memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-and-cognitive-performance-boost">Exercise and cognitive performance boost</h2>



It's clear that exercise has a long-lasting impact on cognitive performance. By incorporating regular physical activity into our routines, we can ensure our brains stay sharp and active. 



However, the scientists behind the study noted that more extensive research is needed to further validate these findings.



While the correlation between exercise, sleep, and cognitive performance is fascinating, there is still much to be learned in this field. 



But one thing is for sure - getting off the couch and moving can significantly benefit our cognitive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-age-in-cognitive-gains">The role of age in cognitive gains</h2>



The study reveals how exercise boosts cognitive function differently for people of various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-bodies-begin-breaking-down-very-precise-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ages</a>.



The research sheds some much-needed light on the benefits of exercise for older&nbsp;populations. It shows that exercise is&nbsp;as&nbsp;beneficial - if not even more so - for older people.



As&nbsp;human&nbsp;beings&nbsp;age, cognitive aspects of memory and attention gradually decline, but with the presence of regular exercise, these effects&nbsp;seem reversed.



This&nbsp;is particularly&nbsp;promising, as it suggests that even&nbsp;the most&nbsp;modest lifestyle changes - such as adding more movement to&nbsp;daily routines - could make&nbsp;a&nbsp;huge difference in the functioning of an older adult's brain.



Staying active and ensuring good sleep can slow cognitive decline and preserve mental sharpness and agility well into old age.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://ijbnpa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12966-024-01683-7">International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity</a>.



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Cognitive boost from exercise persists for 24 hours

Exercise is known to boost both physical and mental well-being,...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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.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

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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

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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...

The miracle of the Nodosaur&#8217;s perfectly preserved remains still baffles scientists &#8211; especially after its rough and long journey to its final resting place. Exactly how this preservation occurred was still a mystery to experts. All they were able to determine was that it had to have happened quickly because the Nodosaur had lain undisturbed for millions of years after it had been covered by oil.

A Miracle

In its petrified state, the Nodosaur weighed about 2,500 pounds - which gives scientists a reasonable idea of how much it weighed when it was alive. They estimate that the Nodosaur weighed in at around 3,000 pounds! This means that the Nodosaur would have been a fairly solitary creature when it roamed the land 100 million years ago.