<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>“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>.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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.</p>



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



<p>“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.”</p>



<p>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.”</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p><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;</p>



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



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



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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>Finally, 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.&nbsp;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope</p>



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

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.  The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the nebula in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope. Planetary nebulae&nbsp; According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered. “A planetary nebula...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132, located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).</p>



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



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



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star in visible light is actually a less massive companion, while the fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. This star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.</p>



<p>“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula. A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence. The pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.”</p>



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



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



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



<p>The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).</p>



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



<p>The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star formed from the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.</p>



<p>Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months, though it is partially visible in the Northern Hemisphere as well. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI</p>



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

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

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Harrat Khaybar, one of the largest volcanic fields in Saudi Arabia. This extensive lava field, which covers 5,400 square-miles, was formed by eruptions over the last five million years.</p>



<p>“According to the Smithsonian’s Global Volcanism Program, the volcanic field is still active, and eight lava flows are less than 1,500 years old. The last known eruption was reported in Harrat Khaybar in the 7th century,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>A couple of the youngest volcanic vents in Harrat Khaybar can be seen in this <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/152000/152839/harratkhaybar_oli2_20240425_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a>, which was captured by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-qidr-nbsp">Jabal Qidr&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“These volcanoes resulted from different eruptive styles: Jabal Qidr is a stratovolcano (or composite cone); Jabal Abyad is a felsic dome; and Jabal Bayda is a tuff cone,” explained NASA.</p>



<p>“Jabal Qidr, in the northern part of the volcanic field, is built from several generations of dark, basaltic lava flows. Qidr has a 400-meter-diameter summit crater and exhibits the textbook cone shape of a stratovolcano. This is the only stratovolcano in the harrats of western Saudi Arabia.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-abyad-nbsp">Jabal Abyad&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Visible in the center of the image, Jabal Abyad was formed from a more viscous, silica-rich lava classified as rhyolite, noted NASA.</p>



<p>"While Jabal Qidr exhibits the cone shape of a stratovolcano, Jabal Abyad is a lava dome - a rounded mass of thicker, more solidified lava flows. Abyad’s dome reaches over 2,090 meters above sea level, the highest elevation amongst all the surrounding harrats.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-bayda-nbsp">Jabal Bayda&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To the west of Jabal Abyad is Jabal Bayda, a tuff cone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-aspect-of-volcanic-eruptions-observed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> with a much larger summit crater measuring 1,400 meters in diameter, stated NASA.</p>



<p>"Tuff cones form from the interaction of rising magma with water. When heated rapidly by lava, water turns to steam and expands violently, fragmenting the lava into plumes of very fine grains of ash.”</p>



<p>In Arabic, abyad and bayda are the masculine and feminine words for “white.” The lighter color of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mount-erebus-breaks-through-the-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is associated with lava that has high silica content. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-harrat-khaybar-nbsp">More about Harrat Khaybar&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One of the notable features of Harrat Khaybar is its striking contrast between the black basaltic lava fields and white-colored rhyolitic lava domes. This contrast creates a visually stunning terrain, with some areas of the field resembling a lunar or Martian landscape.</p>



<p>Harrat Khaybar is part of a larger series of harrats, or lava fields, which are prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula. The largest of these volcanic fields is Harrat Rahat, which stretches over 20,000 square kilometers.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in Harrat Khaybar began millions of years ago and has continued into relatively recent times, with the last known eruptions occurring several thousand years ago.</p>



<p>The field is also notable for its archaeological sites, including ancient rock art, which provide insights into the early human habitation of the area. </p>



<p>The harsh environment of Harrat Khaybar has shaped both the natural ecosystem and the human activities throughout its history, making it a place of interest not only for volcanologists but also for archaeologists and ecologists.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-activity-in-saudi-arabia">Volcanic activity in Saudi Arabia </h2>



<p>Saudi Arabia, despite being more commonly associated with vast deserts, has a surprising history of volcanic activity.</p>



<p>Volcanic eruptions have occurred over the past few thousand years, with the most recent major eruption occurring in the year 1256. That eruption, from a series of fissures, sent lava flowing towards the city of Medina, but it stopped before reaching the urban area. Historical records document the panic that followed, as people feared the destruction of the city.</p>



<p>While there hasn't been a significant eruption since, there are still signs of geothermal activity, such as hot springs and occasional minor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-music-will-yellowstones-seismic-activity-produce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic activity</a>. </p>



<p>Researchers monitor the volcanic fields for any signs of future eruptions, though none are currently expected. Despite the long periods of dormancy, Saudi Arabia's volcanic landscape remains an important part of the country's natural history.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Harrat Khaybar: An active lava field in Saudi Arabia

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features the Wapiti Fire in central Idaho, which was ignited by lightning on July 24, 2024.&nbsp;</p>



<p>More than a month later, the fire continues to devastate areas across the Boise, Sawtooth, and Salmon-Challis National Forests.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-fire-activity">Explosive fire activity</h2>



<p>In its first month, the Wapiti Fire burned about 9,000 acres. It has now grown twelve times larger, burning more than 108,000 acres.</p>



<p>“Fire activity ramped up in late August, expanding its footprint to over 100,000 acres (400 square kilometers) by early September. The Wapiti fire, as well as the Middle Fork Complex fires burning nearby, have spurred evacuation orders and highway and public lands closures,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153274/wildland-fires-scorch-idaho-wilderness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>By September 3rd, the Wapiti Fire was 2% contained, with firefighting efforts heavily focused on protecting nearby structures and communities, particularly around Stanley and Lowman.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Unpredictable behavior of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The fire's behavior has been unpredictable, intensifying during periods of unstable weather, especially when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thunderstorms-are-becoming-more-intense-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thunderstorms</a> with strong winds have passed through. This has made containment difficult and forced the evacuation of multiple areas, including the communities along Idaho Highway 21.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Efforts to manage the fire include using air tankers to drop fire retardant and creating containment lines to prevent further spread. However, the fire continues to threaten homes and critical infrastructure, with many structures already lost. </p>



<p>Local authorities have emphasized the importance of residents being prepared for evacuation, advising them to gather essential documents and possessions in advance.</p>



<p>The fire has led to the closure of vast sections of national forest land, with restrictions expected to remain in place until at least the end of the year, depending on the fire's progression.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensity-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Intensity of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to media reports, the intensity of the Wapiti Fire can be largely attributed to certain types of vegetation in the area that rapidly fuel fire. The main fuel in this case is timber in forests that already have “60-80% tree mortality from insects and disease,” </p>



<p>To make matters worse, the Wapiti Fire is burning in areas that are difficult to reach. The fire is located in steep and rugged terrain within the Boise National Forest that is challenging for firefighting crews to access. The difficult terrain and limited access routes have greatly complicated firefighting efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-caused-wildfires-nbsp">Lightning-caused wildfires&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Lightning is often responsible for igniting large, destructive fires, particularly in remote and forested areas. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-siberia-are-a-growing-global-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> occur when a lightning strike, typically from dry thunderstorms, ignites dry vegetation like grass, leaves, or trees.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors">Contributing factors</h3>



<p>The intensity and frequency of these wildfires are influenced by several factors, including the amount of available dry fuel, the local climate, and the specific characteristics of the lightning strike itself, such as its intensity and duration.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-western-united-states-nbsp">Western United States&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In some regions, like the western United States, lightning is responsible for the majority of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-environmental-gains-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms are more common. These fires can spread rapidly, driven by winds and the availability of dry fuel, making them difficult to control.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Lightning-caused wildfires can also lead to the formation of large fire complexes, where multiple fires merge into one, further complicating firefighting efforts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role">Ecological role</h3>



<p>Interestingly, while lightning-caused wildfires can be destructive, they also play a crucial role in certain ecosystems. These fires can help to clear out dead vegetation, promote new growth, and maintain the health of fire-adapted ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-fire-weather">The future of fire weather</h2>



<p>The future of fire weather is deeply concerning, as climate change is expected to significantly worsen the conditions that lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-climate-paradox">The climate paradox</h2>



<p>As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere will hold more moisture, but paradoxically, many regions will experience more intense and prolonged droughts. This will dry out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>, turning forests and grasslands into tinderboxes ready to ignite.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, higher temperatures will increase the likelihood of extreme heat waves, which can further desiccate landscapes and create the perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly and uncontrollably.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-precipitation-patterns-nbsp">Changing precipitation patterns&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Another factor influencing fire weather is changing precipitation patterns. While some areas might experience more rain, others will become drier, with rain increasingly falling in intense, short bursts rather than steady, prolonged periods. This leads to rapid runoff, reducing soil moisture and leaving the ground dry and more susceptible to fire. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-events-nbsp">Wind events&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The intensity and frequency of wind events, driven by shifting atmospheric patterns, are also expected to increase, which can fan the flames of wildfires, causing them to spread more quickly and making them harder to control.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-fire-seasons">Extended fire seasons</h3>



<p>In the future, fire seasons will likely become longer, and fires will grow in both size and intensity. Regions that have historically been less prone to wildfires may begin to see more frequent fire events as their climates change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The combination of these factors will make managing wildfires more challenging, putting greater pressure on firefighting resources and leading to increased risks to human life, property, and ecosystems. </p>



<p>The future of fire weather is a harsh reminder of the broader impacts of climate change, and the urgent need to adapt to our new reality.</p>



<p>The Wapiti Fire image was captured on August 31, 2024 by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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

Wapiti Fire in Idaho: Unpredictable and difficult to contain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-star-formation">Process of star formation</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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NGC 604 is home to hundreds of hot, massive stars

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the northeast coast of Somalia. This region, which borders the Indian Ocean, has a mix of sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-northeast-somalia">A closer look at Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>"The detailed image reveals a desert landscape etched by wind and water," said NASA. "Over time, streams have cut canyons into the earth. But streams in this region are ephemeral, making groundwater the main source of fresh water."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The water table is shallow (wells are typically drilled less than 20 meters deep) and meets the surface toward the coast, creating springs."</p>



<p>According to <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, bidirectional winds sculpted the tan, brown, and reddish sand into transverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-dunes-hold-a-record-of-fire-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sand dunes</a> visible near the stream’s deltas. "The orientation of the sand dunes indicates that they were likely formed by summer winds blowing up the coast from the southwest."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy-of-northeast-somalia">Economy of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>The economy of northeast Somalia, specifically the autonomous region of Puntland, is primarily based on fishing, livestock, and trade. </p>



<p>Puntland has a long coastline along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, and the waters are home to various types of fish, including tuna, mackerel, and lobster. </p>



<p>However, the fishing industry is underdeveloped and faces challenges such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> by foreign vessels.</p>



<p>The arid and semi-arid lands are well-suited for raising goats, sheep, camels, and cattle. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-livestock-are-major-drivers-of-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Livestock</a> is the main export, with animals being sold to markets in the Middle East.</p>



<p>The region is home to important port cities like Bosaso, which is a hub for trade and commerce. These ports are vital for both the local and national economy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-northeast-somalia">Wildlife of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>The region includes a mix of desert-adapted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> and those that thrive in the more fertile areas near the coast and highlands. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammals">Mammals</h3>



<p>Large mammals such as the Somali wild ass, a critically endangered species, and the gerenuk, a long-necked antelope, are among the most notable inhabitants. </p>



<p>The Somali wild ass is particularly suited to the harsh desert environment, while the gerenuk can survive long periods without water by feeding on moisture-rich vegetation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds">Birds</h3>



<p>Birdlife in Northeast Somalia is also abundant, with a variety of species adapted to different habitats ranging from coastal areas to dry savannahs. </p>



<p>Raptors such as the Somali ostrich and various eagles can be spotted, along with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-migratory-birds-navigate-with-such-accuracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a> that pass through the region during seasonal changes. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-life-reptiles-and-insects">Marine life, reptiles, and insects</h3>



<p>The coastal waters, especially along the Gulf of Aden, are home to dolphins, whales, and a variety of fish species.</p>



<p>The region's reptiles include various species of lizards, snakes, and tortoises, many of which are well-adapted to the arid conditions. Insects, particularly locusts and butterflies, play significant roles in the local ecosystem.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-conservation">Wildlife conservation </h3>



<p>Despite its arid climate, Northeast Somalia's diverse ecosystems support a surprising range of wildlife, although many species face threats from habitat loss, overgrazing, and hunting. </p>



<p>Conservation efforts are ongoing, but the region's political instability has often hampered effective wildlife management and protection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-northeast-somalia">Culture of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>Northeast Somalia's culture is a mosaic of tradition, religion, and external influences, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of its people.</p>



<p>The region's culture is deeply intertwined with Islam, which influences daily life, social norms, and celebrations. Poetry and storytelling are highly valued, with oral traditions serving as a key method for passing down history and values. </p>



<p>Somalis from this region are known for their hospitality, with the concept of "sooryo" emphasizing the importance of welcoming guests.</p>



<p>Family ties and clan affiliations play a significant role in the social structure, dictating everything from marriage to conflict resolution. </p>



<p>The people of Northeast Somalia have a strong sense of identity and pride, which is often expressed through traditional dances, music, and clothing. Despite modern influences, there is a conscious effort to preserve traditional customs, especially in rural areas.</p>



<p>The photograph was captured on August 9, 2023 as the International Space Station orbited over the Horn of Africa.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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Northeast Somalia: A landscape shaped by wind and water

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features Typhoon Shanshan, the tenth typhoon of the 2024 Pacific season. The storm has been devastating Japan since making landfall on August 29, 2024.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In late August 2024, Typhoon Shanshan barreled into Japan. The potent storm had already spurred landslides, power outages, and flooding in the southern parts of the country as it continued to move northeast over the archipelago,” said <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“On August 27, before Shanshan made landfall, bands of heavy rain triggered a deadly landslide that buried a house in the city of Gamagori, near Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued emergency warnings for most of Kyushu Island and parts of central Japan.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-typhoon-shanshan-nbsp">Impacts of Typhoon Shanshan&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Typhoon Shanshan made landfall over the southern tip of Japan’s Kyushu Island with wind speeds of 85 miles per hour, which is equivalent to a Category 1 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricane</a>.</p>



<p>According to NASA, high waves hit the southern coast of the island, fierce winds knocked over trees and power lines, and more than 100,000 homes were without power the evening of August 29.</p>



<p>As of now, the typhoon has resulted in at least six fatalities and over 170 injuries, with two people still missing. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for millions of residents, particularly in southern and western Japan, due to the heightened risk of landslides and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-plants-endangered-by-plastic-pollution-and-flooding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>. </p>



<p>In addition to human casualties, the storm has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including the suspension of most high-speed rail services and the cancellation of over 1,000 flights.</p>



<p>Shanshan's impact is also being felt in the economy, as major companies like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda have had to halt operations at their factories, especially in Kyushu, which is a key hub for Japan's semiconductor industry. The typhoon's slow movement has exacerbated its effects, leading to severe disruptions across multiple sectors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensification-of-typhoon-shanshan-nbsp">Intensification of Typhoon Shanshan&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“The slow-moving storm continued to drench southern Japan as it moved northeast. As of August 29, parts of Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures reported rainfall accumulations topping 15.75 inches in 24 hours. Since August 26, the city of Ebino in the Miyazaki prefecture has been deluged with over 33 inches of rain,” said NASA.</p>



<p>Hisashi Nakamura, a climate scientist at the University of Tokyo, noted that the typhoon intensified between August 25 and 27, fueled by unusually warm water in the Philippine Sea. The sea surface temperatures were around 86 degrees Fahrenheit.</p>



<p>Forecasters expect the storm to weaken to a tropical depression by the start of next week, but heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> is likely to continue, raising concerns about further flooding and mudslides.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-typhoons-in-japan">History of typhoons in Japan</h2>



<p>Typhoons have been a significant part of Japan's history, shaping both the culture and the landscape of the nation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The earliest recorded typhoon in Japan dates back to the 7th century, but it was the "Kamikaze" typhoons of the 13th century that left an indelible mark on Japanese history.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">typhoons</a>, occurring in 1274 and 1281, are said to have destroyed the Mongol fleets led by Kublai Khan, preventing an invasion and preserving Japan’s independence.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The term "Kamikaze" or "divine wind" was later romanticized in Japanese culture as a symbol of protection by the gods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-typhoon-vera">Typhoon Vera</h2>



<p>In the modern era, the 20th century brought further challenges as Japan faced numerous powerful storms. One of the most catastrophic was Typhoon Vera, also known as the Isewan Typhoon, which struck in 1959.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Vera caused widespread destruction, particularly in the Kansai and Chubu regions, resulting in over 5,000 deaths and displacing hundreds of thousands of people.</p>



<p>Japan's geographical location, where warm, moist air from the Pacific Ocean meets cooler air from the Asian continent, makes it particularly vulnerable to typhoons. The nation has developed sophisticated early warning systems and disaster preparedness strategies to mitigate the impact of these storms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The image was captured on August 29, 2024 by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-20 satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Millions displaced by Typhoon Shanshan in Japan

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features Svalbard, an archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. </p>



<p>The image is focused on Nordaustlandet - the second largest island in the archipelago. Water and sediment is visibly draining into the Arctic Ocean.</p>



<p>“Sediment is likely causing the striking swirls of color in the water surrounding the island," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. "The melting of seasonal snow and an older, compressed layer of snow called ‘firn,’ left some areas of glacial ice bare and exposed in the images.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-melting-in-svalbard">Extreme melting in Svalbard</h2>



<p>According to NASA, the ice caps of Svalbard suffered extreme episodes of melting in summer 2024, which was driven by exceptionally high air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-amplification-is-destabilizing-the-delicate-balance-of-the-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>.</p>



<p>“Situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is one of the fastest-warming places on the planet. Over half of its land area is covered with ice, composing about 6 percent of the planet’s glaciated area outside of Greenland and Antarctica."</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Temperatures</a> in late July and early August were around seven degrees Fahrenheit above average across the region. “The heat took its toll on Svalbard, home to some of Earth’s northernmost glaciers, causing snow and ice to rapidly melt,” said NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-surface-melt-rates">Record surface melt rates</h2>



<p>Xavier Fettweis, a climatologist at the University of Liège, reported that Svalbard’s ice caps broke their all-time record for daily <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface melt</a> on July 23, 2024. On this day, Svalbard shed about 55 millimeters of water equivalent, which is five times the normal rate.</p>



<p>“The exceptional melting continued into August, corresponding with a persistent heat dome that baked parts of Scandinavia’s Arctic,” said NASA.</p>



<p>According to the Copernicus State of the Climate report, Svalbard experienced its warmest summer on record in 2023.</p>



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



<p>Svalbard is known for its stunning, stark landscapes, characterized by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-hidden-sources-of-greenhouse-gases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>, mountains, and fjords, as well as its extreme polar climate.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The islands are part of Norway, although they operate under a unique international treaty that allows citizens of signatory countries to live and work there without a visa.</p>



<p>The largest settlement, Longyearbyen, serves as the administrative center and is home to a mix of Norwegians and international residents.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-svalbard-community">Svalbard community</h3>



<p>Despite its remote location, Svalbard has a relatively modern infrastructure, including schools, shops, and even a university center dedicated to Arctic research.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The community is tightly knit, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, especially given the region's extraordinary natural environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-nbsp">Wildlife&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Svalbard is also famous for its wildlife, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-struggling-to-survive-longer-summers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bears</a>, which outnumber the human population.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The islands are one of the few places where polar bears can be seen in their natural habitat, and there are strict regulations to protect both the animals and the people who live there.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, Svalbard is home to a variety of other Arctic wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, and a rich array of bird species.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-research-nbsp">Scientific research&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The archipelago has a significant role in scientific research, particularly in fields related to climate change, given its sensitive Arctic environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Svalbard is also home to the Global Seed Vault, a secure facility that stores seeds from around the world to safeguard the planet's biodiversity in case of a global catastrophe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy-nbsp">Economy&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Historically, Svalbard was used as a base for whaling and later for coal mining, which brought the first permanent settlements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Today, while mining still exists on a smaller scale, the economy has shifted more towards tourism and research, drawing visitors and scientists from all over the world to experience its unique and pristine environment.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Svalbard melts into the Arctic Ocean 

<p>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. </p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;</p>



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Young stars carve cavities in the clouds of Messier 78

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features a plume of Saharan dust pouring off the coast of southern Morocco.</p>



<p>The Sahara Desert is the world's biggest source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-is-an-understudied-contributor-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">airborne dust</a>. Each year, it produces hundreds of millions of tons of mineral dust that are lifted into the atmosphere and transported across vast distances up to thousands of miles. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-air-layer-nbsp">Saharan Air Layer&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The transport of Saharan dust is primarily driven by the trade winds and atmospheric phenomena such as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). This dry air mass often accompanies tropical storms across the Atlantic, sometimes even influencing the development and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saharan-dust-can-intensify-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>. </p>



<p>“From late spring to early fall, it is common for the dry, dusty Saharan Air Layer to carry the particles westward across the Atlantic Ocean high in the atmosphere. With different wind patterns in the winter and spring, dust emerging from North Africa can drift over the United Kingdom and western Europe at relatively low altitudes,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153246/dust-pours-off-the-moroccan-coast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“Saharan Air Layer activity subsides after mid-August, according to NOAA, making it less likely that the plume shown here is bound for a transoceanic journey. Instead, it arcs to the north after blowing out over the ocean. Earlier in the summer, however, several clouds of fine dust from the Sahara reached the United States, creating hazy skies over Texas.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-saharan-dust-nbsp">Impacts of Saharan dust&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Saharan dust plays a crucial role in global climate and environmental systems. For example, Saharan dust can affect weather patterns by absorbing and scattering sunlight, influencing temperature and cloud formation. It also plays a role in fertilizing ecosystems, such as the Amazon rainforest, by providing essential nutrients like iron and phosphorus. </p>



<p>However, Saharan dust also has more complex impacts. It can reduce air quality, leading to respiratory issues in people living downwind of the dust. In addition, the dust impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> health by contributing to algae blooms, which can create dead zones in marine environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-clouds-and-human-health">Dust clouds and human health</h2>



<p>In a recent study from Texas A&amp;M University, researchers explored the potential health impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-desert-dust-storms-carry-harmful-bacteria-and-fungi-around-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria and fungi</a> that travel within dust plumes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).</p>



<p>Study co-author Dr. Daniel Spalink noted that the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust, yet it is not yet known if they can infect us and make us sick.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summertime-dust-events">Summertime dust events</h2>



<p>“Scientists are interested in summertime Saharan dust events in part because of the influence they can have on large storm systems. Dry, stable, dust-laden air can inhibit tropical cyclone formation in the North Atlantic. And in a new study, researchers found that dust can modulate the amount of rainfall brought by these storms,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>“Using a machine-learning model based on meteorological data, NASA’s IMERG (Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM) precipitation estimates, and other satellite measurements, the study’s authors found that dust optical depth - a measure of how much light filters through a dusty plume - was a key predictor of rainfall from tropical cyclones.”</p>



<p>The researchers concluded that smaller amounts of dust particles promote the formation of rain clouds, while the sunlight-blocking effects of large dust clouds ultimately suppress precipitation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-dust-storms">Saharan dust storms</h2>



<p>Dust storms in the Sahara Desert are some of the most far-reaching in the world. These storms, also known as haboobs, occur when strong winds lift large quantities of sand and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-impacts-dust-levels-on-a-global-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust</a> from the desert's surface into the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Saharan dust storms vary in intensity, with some being relatively mild while others are severe, reducing visibility to almost zero and creating hazardous conditions. They often happen in the spring and early summer when the temperature difference between the desert and the surrounding regions creates strong pressure gradients, fueling powerful winds.</p>



<p>Ultimately, these dust storms are a natural part of life. They shape the landscape over time by eroding rock formations and redistributing sand dunes. Despite their destructive potential, they are also a reminder of the dynamic and interconnected nature of Earth's climate systems.</p>



<p>The image was captured on August 24, 2024 by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Saharan dust launches off the Moroccan coast

<p>In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach is being explored that holds the potential to revolutionize the future of personalized cancer treatments.</p>



<p>The technology, which is an amalgamation of artificial intelligence, molecular dynamics simulations, and network analysis, aims to predict the binding sites on cancer-related proteins. This will pave the way for a faster development of treatments tailored for individual cancer patients.</p>



<p>The study was led by Dr. Rafael Bernardi, an associate professor of biophysics in the Department of Physics at Auburn University. As part of a collaborative effort with the <a href="https://www.unibas.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Basel</a> and <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>, the team is breaking barriers on how we understand and fight cancer.</p>



<p>"Our research underscores the potential of employing dynamic network analysis to enhance AI-based structure predictions for more accurate identification of protein-protein interaction interfaces," noted the study authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-biophysics-in-cancer-therapy">AI and biophysics in cancer therapy</h2>



<p>The team’s primary focus was understanding the interaction between therapeutic proteins and PD-L1, a protein that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unique-fingerprint-of-cancer-cells-revealed-in-hydrogen-atoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer cells</a> use to hide from the immune system. </p>



<p>This insight could dramatically improve immunotherapies, making treatments like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) more effective.</p>



<p>“Utilizing computational tools to engineer proteins represents the next frontier in cancer therapeutics,” explained Dr. Bernardi. “Our integrated approach combining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-research-ai-will-change-the-way-we-see-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>, molecular dynamics, and network analysis holds immense potential for developing personalized therapies for cancer patients.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-manipulated-by-cancer-cells">Protein manipulated by cancer cells</h2>



<p>The most significant obstacle in this field of study is predicting the precise point where a drug can bind to its target protein. In this instance, the researchers concentrated on PD-L1, a checkpoint protein that cancer cells cleverly manipulate to suppress our immune defenses.</p>



<p>Modern drugs that block PD-L1 empower our immune system to attack these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumors</a>, but knowing where precisely to target PD-L1 has remained elusive until now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-computation-and-experimentation">Merging computation and experimentation</h2>



<p>Dr. Bernardi and his team have innovatively combined AlphaFold2-based AI tools with molecular dynamics simulations and dynamic network analysis to predict and verify crucial binding regions in the PD-L1 protein. </p>



<p>“This work showcases the importance of collaboration between the computational team at Auburn University and the experimental validation efforts of our colleagues at the University of Basel and ETH Zurich, Switzerland, driving forward breakthroughs in the field,” said study lead author Dr. Diego Gomes.</p>



<p>To confirm the accuracy of their predictions, the team relied on cutting-edge experimental techniques, such as cross-linking mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing. </p>



<p>These experiments have shown how powerful it can be to combine computational models with laboratory validation to unravel the complexity of protein-protein interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-future-of-targeted-treatments">Expanding the future of targeted treatments </h2>



<p>The impact of this study is expected to extend well beyond PD-L1. The methods developed can be applied to numerous other proteins, potentially leading to the discovery of new drug targets for various diseases, including different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-linked-to-32-cancer-types-that-could-drive-40-of-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">types of cancer</a> and autoimmune conditions.</p>



<p>Moreover, it opens the door for more cost-effective and swift development of therapeutics, an area where traditional experimental methods have often been slow and costly.</p>



<p>“This research stresses the potential of computational tools like NAMD and VMD, combined with cutting-edge hardware such as NVIDIA DGX systems, to advance cancer therapeutics. Our findings mark a significant step toward developing new, targeted treatments for cancer,” noted Dr. Gomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-ai-driven-cancer-treatment">Advancing AI-driven cancer treatment </h2>



<p>While this research offers significant promise, the road to clinical application is not without its challenges.</p>



<p>Translating computational findings into effective cancer therapies requires extensive testing and collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies. </p>



<p>However, the team remains optimistic about the potential of these AI-driven approaches to fast-track drug development.</p>



<p>The next phase of this research will focus on refining the accuracy of these predictions and expanding the scope of study to include other cancers and autoimmune diseases. </p>



<p>As personalized medicine continues to evolve, AI-powered approaches like this one could soon become a standard tool in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-plant-species-show-great-promise-in-fight-against-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fight against cancer</a>, offering patients faster, more effective treatments tailored to their specific genetic makeup.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacs.4c05869" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Chemical Society</a></em>.</p>



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AI is the next frontier in cancer treatment

In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach...

<p>The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for dieticians and individuals, with some questioning its nutritional value. </p>



<p>As interest in low-carb diets skyrockets, it is increasingly important to dispel any misconceptions that undermine the potential benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-low-carb-diets">New perspective on low-carb diets</h2>



<p>Recently, a study published in <em>Frontiers in Nutrition</em> busted one of the top myths about low-carb diets - that they leave you undernourished. Contrary to this belief, the research reveals that strategically planned low-carb diets can meet, and sometimes surpass, one’s dietary needs.</p>



<p>According to Dr. Beth Bradley, a co-author of the study from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/cals/nfs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences</a>, many Americans struggle to get the nutrients they need from typical food choices. </p>



<p>"Low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality and close critical nutrient gaps," said Dr. Bradley. </p>



<p>The researchers evaluated the nutritional composition of three distinct 7-day low-carb meal plans. Two of these were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-and-keto-diets-rapidly-transform-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ketogenic diets</a>, comprising roughly 20 grams and 40 grams of net carbs daily, while the third had around 100 grams of net carbs daily.</p>



<p>All three diets meet the key requirement for low-carb diets, which is under 130 grams of carbs per day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-packed-with-nutrients">Packed with nutrients</h2>



<p>Each of these meal plans exceeded the average nutrient needs for essential vitamins such as A, C, D, E, K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12. This was applicable for men and women aged 31-70. </p>



<p>Dr.Bradley emphasized that low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality, further dismissing the belief that these diets result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/micronutrient-deficiency-rates-are-soaring-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient deficiency</a>.</p>



<p>However, for specific sub-populations with higher needs, such as younger women and older adults, a few nutrients like iron and calcium might fall slightly short. This highlights the importance of individualized nutritional planning when adopting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-exactly-constitutes-a-low-carb-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-carb lifestyle</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-about-fiber">How about fiber?</h2>



<p>One of the most notable findings from the study revolved around fiber. The meal plans with 40 grams and 100 grams of net carbs succeeded in meeting the daily fiber needs of women aged 31-70.</p>



<p>“The idea that a low-carb diet must also be low in fiber is simply not supported by the data,” noted Dr. Bradley. She emphasized that “high-fiber foods are actually an important part of a low-carb lifestyle, in part because <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fiber-rich-diets-reduce-antimicrobial-resistance-in-the-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber-rich</a> food choices can help lower net carbohydrate intake.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-and-fat-consumption">Protein and fat consumption</h2>



<p>While the protein content of these meal plans exceeded the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), they still fell within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range of 10-35% of daily calories. The diets were lower in saturated fat and sodium compared to the average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthier-american-diets-could-greatly-benefit-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American diet</a>.</p>



<p>However, the diets slightly exceeded recommendations for these components, providing more beneficial omega-6 to omega-3 and sodium to potassium ratios.</p>



<p>“Which foods your nutrients come from and how they fit within the broader context of your overall diet may play a more important role in determining health outcomes," said Dr. Bradley. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-low-carb-lifestyles">A new era of low-carb lifestyles</h2>



<p>The research ultimately reinforces evidence that supports the role of a low-carb lifestyle in promoting a balanced diet, overall well-being, and controlling or even reversing diet-related diseases.</p>



<p>While some individuals may need dietary supplements to meet their personal needs, a low-carb diet provides a robust nutritional foundation for a healthy lifestyle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-health-implications-of-low-carb-diets">Broader health implications of low-carb diets</h2>



<p>Low-carb diets go beyond improving nutrient intake; they also have significant implications for managing chronic conditions. For individuals with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, low-carb diets help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.</p>



<p>These diets are also linked to better cardiovascular health, as they can improve omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and balance sodium and potassium intake, reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.</p>



<p>In terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight management</a>, low-carb diets can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie consumption, making them a sustainable option for those aiming to manage their weight. </p>



<p>While not a universal solution, the potential benefits of low-carb diets make them a valuable tool in supporting overall health.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1449109/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a></em>.</p>



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Low-carb diets have more nutritional value than expected

The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for...

<p>Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond mere physical sensations. How we perceive and process pain shapes our overall experience, and this is where meditation plays a pivotal role.</p>



<p>Traditionally, it’s been assumed that mindfulness meditation, a centuries-old practice, alleviates pain by activating the placebo response - where an improvement in symptoms is attributed to an inactive treatment.</p>



<p>However, recent research challenges this long-held belief, revealing that mindfulness meditation operates through distinct neurobiological mechanisms, separate from the placebo effect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-mechanisms-of-mindfulness-meditation">Brain mechanisms of mindfulness meditation </h2>



<p>A breakthrough study unveiled in the <em>Biological Psychiatry</em> journal uncovers that mindfulness meditation uses separate brain mechanisms than those activated by the placebo response to alleviate pain.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://medschool.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego School of Medicine</a> used sophisticated brain imaging techniques to distinguish between the pain-relieving effects of mindfulness meditation, placebo cream, and a counterfeit mindfulness meditation method, referred to as "sham" mindfulness meditation among healthy participants.</p>



<p>The experts found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-can-lead-to-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> meditation resulted in significant reductions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-can-reduce-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> intensity and unpleasantness, and also downregulated brain activity patterns associated with pain and negative emotions.</p>



<p>However, the placebo cream only affected the brain activity pattern synchronized with the placebo effect, leaving the person's primary experience of pain untouched.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-meditation-in-pain-management">Power of meditation in pain management</h2>



<p>“The mind is extremely powerful, and we’re still working to understand how it can be harnessed for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain management</a>," noted Fadel Zeidan, an anesthesiology professor at the UC San Diego Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion.</p>



<p>"By separating pain from the self and relinquishing evaluative judgment, mindfulness meditation is able to directly modify how we experience pain in a way that uses no drugs, costs nothing and can be practiced anywhere.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>Engaging 115 participants from two separate clinical trials, the researchers explored the effects of four interventions. These included guided mindfulness meditation, sham-mindfulness meditation with only deep breathing, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-energy-boost-from-your-morning-cup-of-coffee-may-be-a-placebo-instead-of-the-caffeine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placebo</a> cream (petroleum jelly) that participants were led to believe reduces pain, and an audiobook serving as a control.</p>



<p>After administering a painful yet harmless heat stimulus to the back of the participant's leg, their brains were scanned before and after the interventions.</p>



<p>Using a novel method, multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA), the experts analyzed the brain activity patterns of participants. These patterns revealed whether mindfulness meditation and placebo engaged similar or separate brain processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-placebo-mindfulness-overlap-myth">The placebo-mindfulness overlap myth</h2>



<p>The findings indicate that although the placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation decreased pain, mindfulness meditation was markedly more effective at pain reduction as compared to the other tested methods and controls. </p>



<p>Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-and-yoga-reduce-chronic-pain-and-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness-based pain relief</a> reduced synchronization between brain areas involved in introspection, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, known collectively as the neural pain signal (NPS).</p>



<p>On the other hand, placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation failed to show a significant change in the NPS compared to controls, interestingly engaging separate brain mechanisms with minimum overlap.</p>



<p>These findings challenge the commonly held view that the placebo effect overlaps with brain mechanisms triggered by active treatments, specifically regarding pain. </p>



<p>“Instead, these two brain responses are completely distinct, which supports the use of mindfulness meditation as a direct intervention for chronic pain rather than as a way to engage the placebo effect," said Zeidan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-and-chronic-pain-relief">Meditation and chronic pain relief</h2>



<p>In conventional medicine, therapies are usually deemed effective if they surpass the placebo in their effects. As this study found mindfulness meditation to be more potent than a placebo and not engaging the same neurobiological processes, it opens up new avenues for developing treatments for chronic pain.</p>



<p>Further research is needed to validate these results in individuals living with chronic pain, not just healthy participants.</p>



<p>In the long run, the researchers aspire to create more effective and accessible interventions by understanding the distinct brain mechanisms underlying mindfulness meditation and its power to reduce pain in people with various health conditions.</p>



<p>"Millions of people are living with chronic pain every day, and there may be more these people can do to reduce their pain and improve their quality of life than we previously understood,” said Zeidan. "We are excited to continue exploring the neurobiology of mindfulness and how we can leverage this ancient practice in the clinic.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0006322324015567" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Psychiatry</a></em>.</p>



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Mindfulness meditation is a powerful weapon against chronic pain

Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond...

Probiotic,Background.,Gastrointestinal,Tract.,Large,And,Small,Intestine,With,Bifidobacteria.

<p>In a world that is increasingly turning towards personalized health, an innovative holistic tool has surfaced that studies our gut health at an unprecedented level. </p>



<p>Developed by a team of Mayo Clinic researchers, this sophisticated computational tool provides insights into the complex ecosystem of the gut microbiome -- a bustling city of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms within the digestive system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-to-the-heart-of-the-matter">Getting to the heart of the matter</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-gut-microbiome-is-shaped-by-what-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiome</a> plays a pivotal role in digestion, metabolism, immune function, and even chronic diseases. </p>



<p>However, knowing what constitutes a healthy microbiome and identifying early indicators of potential health issues has been a longstanding challenge.</p>



<p>This is where the new tool, called the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2, steps in, revolutionizing how we assess gut health by filling a significant gap in existing wellness measurement tools.</p>



<p>"Finally, we have a standardized index to quantitatively measure how 'healthy' a person's gut microbiome is," explained Dr. Jaeyun Sung, senior author and computational biologist at <a href="https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs/center-individualized-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine</a>.</p>



<p>The tool aims to be a "proactive health indicator" rather than a diagnostic tool, providing early warnings about adverse changes in gut health before serious symptoms arise. </p>



<p>"Our tool is not intended to diagnose specific diseases but rather to serve as a proactive health indicator. By identifying adverse changes in gut health before serious symptoms arise, the tool could potentially inform dietary or lifestyle modifications to prevent mild issues from escalating into more severe health conditions, or prompt further diagnostic testing," said Dr. Sung.</p>



<p>"By being able to answer whether a person’s gut is healthy or trending toward a diseased state, we ultimately aim to empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their own health."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-edge-approach">Cutting-edge approach</h2>



<p>The tool demonstrated at least 80% accuracy in distinguishing healthy individuals from those suffering from any disease.</p>



<p>This feat was achieved by analyzing over 8,000 gut microbiome profiles gathered from published studies spanning 26 countries and six continents, showcasing the impressive range and reliability of the new technology.</p>



<p>The tool can detect subtle changes in gut health, offering insights into whether an individual is progressing towards or recovering from a disease.</p>



<p>The experts tested the index on a massive dataset and validated it on a new cohort of over 1,100 samples, demonstrating the tool’s capability across clinical scenarios such as fecal microbiota transplantation, changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boost-your-gut-health-top-five-prebiotic-rich-foods-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary fiber intake</a>, and antibiotic exposure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-gut-health-monitoring">Future of gut health monitoring</h2>



<p>Building upon the original tool, the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2 incorporates a broader range of data and refined computational methods. </p>



<p>Dr. Sung and his team are working to expand the dataset further and integrate advanced artificial intelligence techniques to enhance the predictive accuracy and adaptability.</p>



<p>The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their own health through early detection and lifestyle adjustments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-gut-health-matters">Why gut health matters</h2>



<p>The importance of gut health extends far beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-humans-have-shockingly-different-digestive-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestion</a>. Recent research has uncovered a deep connection between the gut microbiome and various aspects of overall health, including mental well-being, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-people-have-unique-immune-responses-that-block-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune response</a>, and chronic disease management. </p>



<p>The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to the gut-brain axis, a communication network linking the central nervous system and the digestive tract. This system plays a crucial role in regulating mood, stress levels, and even cognitive function.</p>



<p>Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to a wide range of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and autoimmune disorders. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that gut health can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence mental health</a> conditions like anxiety and depression. </p>



<p>Researchers have found that maintaining a balanced and diverse gut microbiome may help reduce inflammation, improve metabolic function, and strengthen the immune system.</p>



<p>By providing individuals with a quantifiable measure of their gut health, tools like the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2 offer the potential to address these broader health concerns. </p>



<p>As Dr. Sung noted, early detection of gut imbalances through such tools could lead to preventive measures that enhance overall wellness, not just digestive health.</p>



<p>In an era where personalized medicine is gaining traction, understanding and nurturing gut health is becoming increasingly essential for both physical and mental well-being.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51651-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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New tool detects changes in gut health to help prevent disease

In a world that is increasingly turning towards personalized health,...

<p>While a mosquito bite may often be just a temporary nuisance, it can be a serious concern in many parts of the world. Some mosquitoes, such as <em>Aedes aegypti</em>, are responsible for spreading viruses that cause over 100 million cases of diseases like dengue, yellow fever, and Zika each year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another species, <em>Anopheles gambiae</em>, spreads the parasite that causes malaria, leading to more than 400,000 deaths annually, according to the <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a>. These figures have earned mosquitoes the title of the deadliest animals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-mosquitoes-locate-their-hosts">How mosquitoes locate their hosts</h2>



<p>Male mosquitoes are harmless, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-habitats-are-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">female mosquitoes require blood</a> for egg development. Given this, scientists have dedicated over a century to understanding how mosquitoes locate their hosts.</p>



<p>Through this research, experts have discovered that mosquitoes don’t rely on a single cue; instead, they use a combination of different senses at various distances to find their targets.</p>



<p>A team led by researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara (<a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCSB</a>) has now added a new sense to the mosquito’s known capabilities: infrared detection. </p>



<p>They found that infrared radiation from a source at roughly the temperature of human skin doubles the mosquitoes’ host-seeking behavior when combined with CO2 and human odor.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-preference-for-the-infrared-source">Strong preference for the infrared source</h2>



<p>The mosquitoes showed a strong preference for the infrared source during their host-seeking activities. The researchers also identified where this infrared detection occurs and uncovered how it functions at the morphological and biochemical levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The mosquito we study, <em>Aedes aegypti</em>, is exceptionally skilled at finding human hosts,” said Nicolas DeBeaubien, co-lead author of the study and a former graduate student and postdoctoral researcher at UCSB in Professor Craig Montell’s laboratory. “This work sheds new light on how they achieve this.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-new-hosts-from-a-distance-nbsp">Detecting new hosts from a distance<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>It is well known that mosquitoes like <em>Aedes aegypti</em> use multiple cues to home in on their hosts from a distance. </p>



<p>“These include CO2 from our exhaled breath, odors, vision, (convection) heat from our skin, and humidity from our bodies,” explained Avinash Chandel, co-lead author and current postdoc at UCSB in Montell’s group. “However, each of these cues have limitations.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The insects have poor vision, and strong winds or rapid movements can disrupt their ability to track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-are-attracted-to-specific-scents-and-colors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical signals</a>.</p>



<p>Given these limitations, the researchers wondered if mosquitoes could detect a more reliable directional cue, like infrared radiation.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mosquitoes_thermal-infrared_track-humans_UCSB_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mosquitoes_thermal-infrared_track-humans_UCSB_1s.webp" alt="Loose fitting clothing lets through less IR, as demonstrated in this image. Photo Credit DeBeaubien and Chandel et al." class="wp-image-1942526"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Loose fitting clothing lets through less IR, as demonstrated in this image. Photo Credit<br>DeBeaubien and Chandel et al.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Within about 10 centimeters, mosquitoes can detect the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bad-news-mosquitoes-prefer-heat-and-thrive-in-the-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> radiating from our skin. They can also sense the temperature of our skin once they land on it. </p>



<p>These abilities correspond to two of the three types of heat transfer: convection (heat carried away by air) and conduction (heat through direct contact).&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, heat energy can also travel longer distances when converted into electromagnetic waves, typically in the infrared (IR) spectrum. </p>



<p>Animals like pit vipers can detect thermal IR from warm prey, so the team wondered if mosquitoes, like <em>Aedes aegypti</em>, could do the same.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>The researchers placed female mosquitoes in a controlled environment and measured their host-seeking behavior in two zones.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Both zones were exposed to human odors and CO2 at concentrations similar to what we exhale. However, only one zone was also exposed to IR from a source at skin temperature.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A barrier was used to prevent heat exchange through conduction and convection. The researchers then counted how many mosquitoes began probing as if searching for a vein.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infrared-radiation-and-mosquito-behavior-nbsp">Infrared radiation and mosquito behavior<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Adding thermal infrared radiation from a 34º Celsius source (about skin temperature) doubled the mosquitoes' host-seeking activity, identifying infrared radiation as a newly documented sense mosquitoes use to locate humans. The team discovered that this sense remains effective up to about 70 centimeters (2.5 feet).</p>



<p>“What struck me most about this work was just how strong of a cue IR ended up being,” DeBeaubien said. “Once we got all the parameters just right, the results were undeniably clear.”</p>



<p>Previous studies didn’t observe any effect of thermal infrared on mosquito behavior, but senior author Craig Montell suspects this is due to differences in methodology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Any single cue alone doesn’t stimulate host-seeking activity. It’s only in the context of other cues, such as elevated CO2 and human odor, that IR makes a difference,” Montell said. Indeed, his team found that infrared alone has no impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-mosquitoes-detect-infrared-radiation">How do mosquitoes detect infrared radiation?</h2>



<p>It’s impossible for mosquitoes to detect thermal infrared radiation the same way they detect visible light because the energy of IR is far too low to activate the rhodopsin proteins that detect visible light in animal eyes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than about 700 nanometers won’t activate rhodopsin, and the IR generated from body heat is around 9,300 nm. </p>



<p>No known protein is activated by radiation with such long wavelengths, Montell said. However, there is another way to detect infrared radiation.</p>



<p>Consider heat emitted by the sun: it’s converted into IR, which streams through space and, when reaching Earth, warms the planet by interacting with atoms in the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“You have heat converted into electromagnetic waves, which is being converted back into heat,” Montell explained, noting that the IR coming from the sun has a different wavelength from the IR generated by our body heat, as the wavelength depends on the temperature of the source.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-body-heat-and-mosquito-neurons-nbsp">Human body heat and mosquito neurons<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The researchers hypothesized that our body heat, which generates IR, might hit certain neurons in the mosquito, activating them by heating them up. This would enable mosquitoes to detect the radiation indirectly.</p>



<p>Scientists have known that the tips of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mating-secrets-of-mosquitoes-may-help-us-gain-control-of-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito’s antennae</a> contain heat-sensing neurons. The team found that removing these tips eliminated the mosquitoes’ ability to detect infrared radiation.</p>



<p>Another lab had identified the temperature-sensitive protein TRPA1 at the end of the antenna. The UCSB team observed that mosquitoes without a functional TRPA1 gene, which codes for the protein, couldn’t detect infrared radiation.</p>



<p>The tip of each antenna has peg-in-pit structures well-suited for sensing radiation. The pit shields the peg from conductive and convective heat, allowing highly directional IR radiation to enter and warm up the structure. The mosquito then uses TRPA1 - a temperature sensor - to detect infrared radiation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosquito-ir-detection-range">Mosquito IR detection range</h2>



<p>The heat-activated TRPA1 channel alone might not fully explain the range over which mosquitoes can detect IR. A sensor that exclusively relied on this protein may not be useful at the 70 cm range the team observed. </p>



<p>At this distance, there likely isn’t sufficient IR collected by the peg-in-pit structure to heat it enough to activate TRPA1.</p>



<p>Fortunately, Montell’s group had previously discovered in fruit flies that some rhodopsin proteins are quite sensitive to small increases in temperature.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although rhodopsins were originally thought to be light detectors, Montell’s group found that certain rhodopsins can be triggered by a variety of stimuli. </p>



<p>They discovered that proteins in this group are versatile, involved not only in vision but also in taste and temperature sensing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Upon further investigation, the researchers discovered that two of the 10 rhodopsins found in mosquitoes are expressed in the same antennal neurons as TRPA1.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosquito-sensitivity-to-infrared-radiation-nbsp">Mosquito sensitivity to infrared radiation<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Knocking out TRPA1 eliminated the mosquito’s sensitivity to infrared radiation. But mosquitoes with defects in either of the rhodopsins, Op1 or Op2, were unaffected.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even knocking out both rhodopsins together didn’t entirely eliminate the mosquitoes’ sensitivity to IR, although it significantly weakened it.</p>



<p>The results indicated that more intense thermal IR - like what a mosquito would experience at closer range (about one foot) - directly activates TRPA1.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Meanwhile, Op1 and Op2 can be activated by lower levels of thermal IR and then indirectly trigger TRPA1. Since our skin temperature is constant, extending the sensitivity of TRPA1 effectively extends the range of the mosquito’s IR sensor to around 2.5 feet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study-nbsp">Broader implications of the study&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Half the world’s population is at risk for mosquito-borne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-may-slow-the-spread-of-dengue-fever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a>, and about a billion people are infected each year, Chandel said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-habitats-are-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and global travel have expanded the range of <em>Aedes aegypti</em> beyond tropical and subtropical countries, bringing these mosquitoes to areas in the U.S., such as California, where they were not found just a few years ago.</p>



<p>The team’s discovery could help improve methods for controlling mosquito populations. For example, incorporating thermal IR from sources around skin temperature could make mosquito traps more effective.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings also help explain why loose-fitting clothing is particularly good at preventing bites. Loose clothing not only blocks mosquitoes from reaching our skin but also allows the IR to dissipate between our skin and the clothing, making it harder for mosquitoes to detect.</p>



<p>“Despite their diminutive size, mosquitoes are responsible for more human deaths than any other animal. Our research enhances the understanding of how mosquitoes target humans and offers new possibilities for controlling the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases,” DeBeaubien concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07848-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Mosquitoes use infrared vision to track and bite humans

While a mosquito bite may often be just a temporary...

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...