Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the remnants of Lake Razzaza, an artificial lake situated a few miles west of Karbala, Iraq.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> was created in the late 1970s as a flood control measure to regulate the floodwaters of the Euphrates River. 



Razzaza covers an area of approximately 1,562 square kilometers and is located in a depression where excess water from Lake Habbaniyah is diverted through a controlled escape channel or canal.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colors-of-lake-razzaza">The colors of Lake Razzaza</h2>



“The lake, also known as Baḩr al-Milḩ (‘Sea of Salt’ in Arabic), is fed by overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, which lies just outside the top left corner of the image,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153756/iraqs-sea-of-salt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The difference in water color results from the various communities of algae that thrive in the lake depending on the water temperature and salinity.”



“Green areas contain lower salt concentrations than red areas. At times when the lake receives no overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, as shown in this image, most of the lakebed is exposed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salinity-of-lake-razzaza">Salinity of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Over the years, the salinity of Lake Razzaza has been increasing due to inadequate water supply from the linked canal and high evaporation rates during Iraq's hot summers.&nbsp;



This rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-pollution-threatens-freshwater-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a> has led to a decline in fish populations, adversely affecting local fishermen who once relied on the lake for their livelihoods. 



By 2008, only the fish species locally known as "al-Shanik" (Acanthopagrus arabicus), of marine origin and stocked by the government, was reported to survive in the lake.&nbsp;



The lake's fluctuating water levels and increasing salinity have also impacted its recreational appeal, with few recreational areas existing around the lake.&nbsp;



Additionally, the surrounding desert landscape and low cliff shores contribute to its limited accessibility for leisure activities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-lake-razzaza">Wildlife of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Despite these challenges, Lake Razzaza remains an important habitat for various bird species. It has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, supporting significant numbers of wintering waterfowl and serving as a breeding ground for species such as the marbled duck.&nbsp;



The lake's mudflats attract large numbers of waders and shorebirds during migration periods.&nbsp;



The surrounding area features vegetation such as Phragmites australis, Juncus acutus, Aeluropus lagopoides, Salicornia herbacea, and Schoenoplectus litoralis, along with desert shrublands including Tamarix aucherana, Prosopis farcta, and Haloxylon salicornicum.&nbsp;



Mammals reported in this region include Rüppell's fox, golden jackal, Indian grey mongoose, jungle cat, and wildcat.&nbsp;



In recent years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-warming-toward-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> has faced environmental challenges due to reduced water inflows and increased evaporation, leading to higher salinity levels and a decline in biodiversity. 



Efforts to address these issues are essential to preserve the ecological and economic significance of Lake Razzaza.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-euphrates-river-nbsp">The Euphrates River&nbsp;</h2>



The Euphrates River is one of the most significant rivers in the Middle East and holds immense historical, cultural, and ecological importance.&nbsp;



Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles), it originates in the mountains of eastern Turkey and flows through Syria and Iraq before merging with the Tigris River to form the Shatt al-Arab, which empties into the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> has been a cradle of civilization for thousands of years, supporting ancient Mesopotamian societies, including Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria.



The Euphrates has provided water for irrigation, enabling the development of agriculture in an otherwise arid region. Its floodplains have been vital for sustaining life and fostering the growth of cities along its course.&nbsp;



However, the river also plays a key geopolitical role, as disputes over water usage and dam construction among Turkey, Syria, and Iraq have emerged over the years, impacting water availability downstream.



Ecologically, the Euphrates supports a range of habitats, from wetlands to desert ecosystems, making it home to diverse flora and fauna.&nbsp;



However, modern challenges such as damming, pollution, and climate change threaten its flow and ecological balance. Despite these challenges, the Euphrates remains a symbol of life and resilience in the heart of the Middle East.



The image was captured by an astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) on September 23, 2024.



Image Credit: NASA



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the remnants of Lake Razzaza, an artificial lake situated a few miles west of Karbala, Iraq. The lake was created in the late 1970s as a flood control measure to regulate the floodwaters of the Euphrates River.  Razzaza covers an area of approximately 1,562 square kilometers and is located in a depression where excess water from Lake Habbaniyah is diverted through a controlled escape channel or canal.&nbsp; The colors of Lake Razzaza “The...

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral galaxy NGC 2566, which is located 76 million light-years away in the constellation Puppis. The image was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



“A prominent bar of stars stretches across the center of this galaxy, and spiral arms emerge from each end of the bar. Because NGC 2566 appears tilted from our perspective, its disk takes on an almond shape, giving the galaxy the appearance of a cosmic eye,” said <a href="https://phys.org/news/2024-12-hubble-spies-spiral-galaxy-ngc.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“As NGC 2566 appears to gaze at us, astronomers gaze right back, using Hubble to survey the galaxy's star clusters and star-forming regions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-appearance-of-ngc-2566">Complex appearance of NGC 2566</h2>



NGC 2566 lies at a considerable distance from Earth, making it a challenging object for amateur astronomers to observe in detail without powerful telescopes.&nbsp;



It can be seen in the Southern Hemisphere sky and is better observed from locations with minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-light-pollution-influences-interest-in-astronomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>.&nbsp;



The galaxy's arms are populated with young, bright stars, regions of active star formation, and interstellar gas and dust - giving it a dynamic and complex appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-ages-of-stars">Measuring the ages of stars</h2>



According to NASA, data from Hubble is especially valuable for studying stars that are just a few million years old. “These stars are bright at the ultraviolet and visible wavelengths to which Hubble is sensitive.”



“Using these data, researchers can measure the ages of NGC 2566's stars, which helps piece together the timeline of the galaxy's star formation and the exchange of gas between star-forming clouds and the stars themselves.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-galaxies">Star formation in galaxies</h2>



Star formation in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> is a fascinating and complex process that unfolds over millions of years. It begins in vast clouds of gas and dust, known as molecular clouds, which are often found in the spiral arms of galaxies or in regions of irregular or starburst galaxies.&nbsp;



These clouds provide the raw material for star formation, consisting primarily of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of heavier elements.



As the molecular clouds collapse under their own gravity, regions within them begin to condense and fragment, forming dense clumps. Within these clumps, protostars emerge. Their formation is driven by the gravitational pull drawing in surrounding gas. 



During this process, the gas heats up due to increasing pressure, eventually igniting nuclear fusion in the core, signaling the birth of a new star.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rate-of-star-formation-nbsp-across-galaxies">Rate of star formation&nbsp;across galaxies</h2>



The rate of star formation varies across galaxies is influenced by numerous factors. In spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, star formation is most active in the spiral arms, where density waves compress gas and dust, triggering the collapse of molecular clouds. 



In contrast, elliptical galaxies, which often have little cold gas and dust, typically exhibit low rates of star formation or none at all.



Starburst galaxies, on the other hand, experience episodes of exceptionally high star formation, often triggered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-captures-a-galaxy-collision-with-a-radiant-smile/">galactic collisions</a> or interactions. 



These events can funnel large amounts of gas into central regions, leading to intense star-forming activity. However, such bursts are usually short-lived on cosmic timescales, exhausting the available gas quickly.



The environment within a galaxy also plays a significant role. Stellar winds and supernova explosions from existing stars can both inhibit and promote star formation. They may disperse gas, preventing further collapse, or compress nearby clouds, triggering new star formation.&nbsp;



Over time, as galaxies evolve, the availability of gas diminishes, leading to a gradual decline in star formation activity.



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



The Puppis constellation in the southern sky represents the stern of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation known as Argo Navis, which depicted the mythical ship of Jason and the Argonauts. 



However, Argo Navis was later divided into three separate constellations: Puppis, Carina (the keel), and Vela (the sails). Puppis is the largest of these three and contains many notable celestial objects.



This constellation is home to several bright stars, including Naos (Zeta Puppis), a hot, massive star that emits intense ultraviolet radiation. Puppis also hosts a wide variety of deep-sky objects, such as open <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-star-clusters-captured-in-the-extreme-outskirts-of-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and nebulae. 



Among these, Messier 46 and Messier 47 stand out. Both are beautiful star clusters that are visible through binoculars or small telescopes. The region is dense with stars because it lies along the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-collision-may-change-everything-we-know-about-our-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, making it a prime area for stargazing and astrophotography. 



Image Credit: NASA



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NGC 2566: A cosmic eye in the Puppis constellation

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park in the southeastern corner of Spain.



"The park’s semi-arid climate and volcanic features contribute to the peculiar landscape along more than 60 kilometers of the Mediterranean coastline," reports NASA.



The Tabernas Desert, which is considered mainland Europe’s only desert, lies 30 kilometers to the north of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Park.



"Both the desert and the park are part of Spain’s Almería Province, the driest area of Europe. The region receives just 20 centimeters (8 inches) of rain per year, though the coastal areas are somewhat more humid," explains NASA. "There is enough moisture to support nearly 1,000 species of plants, such as the European fan palm and a thorny shrub known as jujube."



"When viewed from orbit, the park’s most obvious features are volcanic - that is, the 5 percent of the volcanic complex that rises above the water. The remaining 95 percent is hidden from view below the sea’s surface."



According to NASA, volcanic activity began here about 16 million years ago and ended about 8 million years ago.&nbsp;



"Wind and seawater have eroded some of the lava flows into smooth, strange shapes. Other structures just offshore have partially crumbled away. For instance, the tall, jagged rocks jutting from the water at Arrecife de la Sierena are thought to be remains of an old volcanic structure."



The image was captured on May 17, 2022 by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on Landsat 9.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park in Spain

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Tropical Cyclone Freddy, which has been churning in the Indian Ocean for more than a month.&nbsp;



"The storm first developed off the North Australian coast on February 6, 2023, and then tracked across the entire Indian Ocean before striking the east coast of Madagascar on February 21, 2023," says NASA.



"It then crossed the Mozambique Channel and made landfall in Mozambique’s Inhambane province near Vilankulo, where it stalled and dropped a huge amount of rain before doubling back and nearly hit the west coast of Madagascar again. As of March 8, 2023, the weakening storm was following a northwesterly track toward a likely second landfall in Mozambique - this time in the Zambezia province."



"Over the course of Freddy’s 32-day journey, the World Meteorological Organization says the storm likely became the longest-lasting tropical cyclone on record. The previous record holder, Hurricane John, persisted for 31 days in the Central Pacific in 1994."



The image was captured on March 8, 2023 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-20 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Tropical Cyclone Freddy persisted for more than a month

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Peyto Glacier in Banff National Park, which is among the most closely monitored glaciers in the world.&nbsp;



"In 1968, the United Nations selected Peyto as a reference glacier for the International Hydrological Decade research initiative. Ever since, teams of scientists have traveled to the Canadian Rockies regularly to conduct field work and calculate changes in the mass of the glacier, providing the scientific community with a longer and more detailed data record for Peyto than most other glaciers," reports NASA.



According to data published by the World Glacier Monitoring Service, Peyto loses more mass than it gains in most years. Over the last five decades, Peyto has lost about 70 percent of its mass.



"Most observers attribute the ice losses to rising summer temperatures. In 2021, this area faced a record-breaking summer heat wave, while wildfires raged west of Banff National Park," says NASA.



"According to some scientists, heat-absorbing soot from wildfire smoke has been accumulating on top and may be accelerating the rate of ice loss. Winter snowfall accumulation, in contrast, has remained roughly the same over the decades."



It is estimated that by 2100, Peyto Glacier will lose about 85 percent of its current mass.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Peyto Glacier in Banff National Park

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an oblique photo of New York City that was taken by an astronaut as the International Space Station orbited over the Gulf of Maine.&nbsp;



"Shadows from skyscrapers and other city buildings give the photograph a sense of three-dimensionality," says NASA.



"The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, an important historic immigration hub into the United States, are within the New York Harbor at the top of the photograph."&nbsp;



"The harbor, busy with ship traffic, is the terminus of the Hudson River that forms a segment of the border between New Jersey and New York."



According to NASA, four out of the five boroughs of New York are visible, as well as neighborhoods in New Jersey.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Astronaut captures striking view of New York City

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Florida Keys, which are visited by several million tourists each year. The Keys have a population of more than 80,000 people across 30 populated islands.



"The chain of hundreds of low-lying islands, also called cays or keys, that extend from southern Florida are relics of a time when global sea levels were higher than today. About 125,000 years ago, during a warm interglacial period, water covered the area," explains NASA.



"However, the sea was shallow enough that big communities of coral flourished just below the surface and built up reefs. As time passed and an ice age took hold, sea levels dropped and the tops of some reefs—as well as some sand bars—began to poke above the water surface. Over time, material from these exposed reefs and sand bars hardened and fossilized, forming the sedimentary rocks that make up the modern Florida Keys."



Many of the Florida Keys are located within the boundaries of national parks, including the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Several of the northern keys are in Biscayne National Park, and most of the islands within Florida Bay are part of Everglades National Park.



"Still, some parts of Big Pine Key and several other islands retain patches of pine rockland, an unusual ecosystem found exclusively in southern Florida. In these areas, scattered slash pine soars over an understory of palms, palmettos, berries, grasses, and several types of herbaceous plants," says NASA.



"While falling sea levels brought the Florida Keys into existence, rising seas now pose a threat to their long-term existence. Sea level rise projections from the Interagency Sea Level Rise Scenario Tool (published by NASA’s Sea Level Change Team) indicate that Key West could experience between 0.45 and 2.16 meters (1 and 7 feet) of sea level rise by 2100."



The image was captured on March 30, 2022 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Hundreds of low-lying islands make up the Florida Keys

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the coast of São Paulo in southeast Brazil, where heavy rainfall and flooding triggered deadly landslides. 



The beach communities of Jaqueí and Praia da Baleia in São Sebastião were among the hardest hit areas. The São Paulo state government said that more than 23.6 inches of rain had fallen in a single day.&nbsp;



Robert Emberson, a landslide expert with NASA’s Earth Applied Sciences Disasters program, said that areas with very dense concentrations of landsliding are quite unusual but not unprecedented.



“South Brazil is a bit of a landslide hotspot at this time of year; high seasonal rainfall, combined with steep slopes, lead to characteristically high landslide hazards,” said Emberson.&nbsp;



“This amount of rainfall will leave nearly all of the hillslopes saturated, destabilizing the soils and underlying bedrock. Unfortunately, these landslides have also impacted homes and infrastructure, leading to major loss of life.”



The image was captured on February 26, 2023 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/ Allison Nussbaum/ USGS



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Torrential rainfall triggers landslides in southeast Brazil

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Zion National Park in southwestern Utah. The photograph was captured on June 30, 2022 by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;



"Note the predominantly south-up orientation of the image," says NASA. "While opposite of many maps, the rotated image depicts the terrain more clearly by minimizing an optical illusion known as relief inversion."



More than four million people visit Zion National Park each year. The region is known for its sharp peaks and deep canyons.&nbsp;



The park is home to more than 1,000 plant species, a number of endangered animals, and tens of thousands of acres of protected wilderness.&nbsp;



"Zion provides a sanctuary to endangered animals, such as the California condor, Mexican spotted owl, and the Southwestern willow flycatcher," notes NASA.



There are also archeological sites throughout Zion National Park.



"Zion shares geologic history with the Grand Canyon. Both sites include the Kaibab Formation, which is a limestone and siltstone deposit formed in an ancient inland sea," says NASA.



"The significantly younger Navajo Sandstone exposed at Zion forms most of the prominent cliffs throughout the park. Evidence of human life in the Zion National Park area dates to the Ancestral Puebloan people, who inhabited the region between 2,000 and 8,000 years ago."



"Deep, narrow slot canyons branch off the North Fork of the Virgin River. Zion is prone to flash floods during monsoon season, between July and September, posing a threat to hikers in the slot canyons."



In he summer heat, cyanobacteria blooms in the rivers of Zion pose an additional threat to hikers and wildlife, according to NASA.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Zion National Park in southwestern Utah

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a dust storm over the southwestern United States on February 26, 2023.



"In late February 2023, a sprawling storm system that brought rare snowfall to parts of California also fueled violent thunderstorms and tornadoes in the Southern Plains," says NASA.



"In the wake of the cold front, strong winds lofted a huge amount of dust into the air and darkened skies across parts of northern Mexico, eastern New Mexico, and northwestern Texas."



Wind gusts exceeded 70 miles per hour in Lubbock, and a gust of 114 miles per hour was recorded in Memphis, Texas. The massive storm reduced visibility as parts of West Texas were completely blanketed in dust.&nbsp;



The photo was captured by the Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite 16 (GOES-16), which is operated by NOAA.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/ NOAA



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Massive dust storm blows through the southwestern U.S.

As the new year approaches, millions prepare to adopt healthier eating habits. However, experts warn that this well-intentioned shift towards "clean" eating can sometimes go too far, leading to a dangerous obsession known as orthorexia nervosa. 



Researchers, including those from Semmelweis University in Hungary, caution that overly restrictive “clean eating” diets can result in physical malnutrition and severe mental health issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-allure-of-clean-eating">Allure of clean eating</h2>



In recent years, clean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-food-day-fighting-global-hunger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating</a> has become synonymous with health and discipline. For many, this lifestyle promises physical vitality and mental clarity.



Yet, a survey conducted by <a href="https://semmelweis.hu/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Semmelweis University</a> of 179 female fashion models revealed that over one-third showed symptoms of orthorexia nervosa - an unhealthy fixation on eating only “pure” foods. Alarmingly, about one-fifth of the control group, comprising students, exhibited similar tendencies.



Orthorexia nervosa manifests when an individual’s dedication to healthy eating disrupts their daily life. Warning signs include avoiding social gatherings, such as family meals or holiday celebrations, due to dietary restrictions. 



People with this condition often experience stress when their eating routines are disrupted and may suffer from physical symptoms like hair loss, brittle nails, and chronic fatigue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-restrictive-diets">Risks of restrictive diets</h2>



Dr. Nikolett Bogar of Semmelweis University emphasizes the dangers of such restrictive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>. 



“If someone eats only certain types of food - for example, fish, vegetables, green foods, raw items, or exclusively carbohydrate-free dishes - they can just as easily develop nutrient deficiencies as those with eating disorders,” said Dr. Bogar. “They don’t consume enough vitamins, minerals, protein or carbohydrates.”



The obsession with food quality over quantity is particularly concerning. While prioritizing healthy foods is important, it often leads to nutritionally inadequate diets. Severe cases of orthorexia nervosa can even escalate to clinical eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-growing-trend-of-clean-eating">A growing trend of clean eating </h2>



The research highlighted a startling reality: 90% of participants reported aspiring to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-diets-can-reduce-environmental-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy</a> and clean eating, mirroring the cultural obsession with slimness from past decades.



Statistics indicate that around 35% of people attempt to adopt healthier diets in January following indulgent holiday seasons.



However, experts warn against categorizing foods as strictly good or bad. Dr. Bogar advises embracing a balanced, long-term dietary approach. 



“Eating should not simply be seen as a source of nutrients but a social and cultural event, especially during the festive season and the following weeks,” said Dr. Bogar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-orthorexia-nervosa">Origins of orthorexia nervosa</h2>



Orthorexia nervosa, first introduced in 1997 by American physician Steven Bratman, describes an unhealthy fixation on consuming only "pure" or "clean" foods. 



Unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia focuses more on the quality of food rather than its quantity. Although widely discussed in medical and psychological circles, it is not yet officially recognized as an eating disorder in diagnostic manuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-eating-disorders">Consequences of eating disorders</h2>



Dr. Bratman observed that extreme clean eating trends could lead to severe consequences, both physical and psychological. Individuals with orthorexia often isolate themselves socially, avoiding gatherings where their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-human-diets-pose-many-risks-health-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specific dietary preferences</a> cannot be met.



This isolation can promote anxiety and stress, further compounding the mental toll. Over time, their limited food choices may result in malnutrition, depriving the body of essential nutrients. In extreme cases, this obsession can even lead to life-threatening outcomes.



Orthorexia impacts both men and women equally and is often linked to personality traits like perfectionism and narcissism. Many individuals with orthorexia strive for an ideal of purity or perfection in their eating habits. 



Interestingly, studies suggest that the underlying motivation for this behavior is not low self-esteem, as seen in some other eating disorders. Instead, it often stems from a desire to feel superior to others, using their strict dietary discipline as a marker of personal virtue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-new-dietary-goals">Setting new dietary goals</h2>



For those setting new dietary goals in January, experts recommend aiming for moderation. Dr. Bogar highlights the importance of indulgence without guilt. 



“Aim for a long-term, balanced diet rather than an ultra-clean one in January. Occasionally indulging in chocolates or holiday treats should be part of your diet – without guilt,” she added.



Ultimately, food should nourish the body and enrich life through shared cultural and social experiences. By embracing balance, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of orthorexia and maintain both physical and mental health.



This study, published in the journal Eating and Weight Disorders, serves as a timely reminder to approach clean eating and dietary resolutions with caution and self-compassion.



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Obsession with eating 'clean' might result in eating disorders

As the new year approaches, millions prepare to adopt healthier...

While Earth celebrates the advent of a northern hemisphere New Year amidst winter chills, Mars embraces the start of spring.



On November 12, 2024, the Red Planet completed another journey around the Sun, marking this the beginning of a Martian year - a cycle that lasts 687 Earth days.



Springtime on Mars triggers unique and explosive transformations, including avalanches, as temperatures rise and ice begins to thaw.



“Springtime on Earth has lots of trickling as water ice gradually melts. But on Mars, everything happens with a bang,” said Serina Diniega, a planetary surface researcher at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>).



Unlike on Earth, Mars’s thin atmosphere doesn’t support liquid water. Ice sublimates directly into gas, creating dramatic phenomena that NASA scientists are closely monitoring using the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-reconnaissance-orbiter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MRO</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-arrival-of-spring-on-mars">The arrival of spring on Mars</h2>



Mars’s cliffs roar to life during spring as frost avalanches cascade down their slopes.



In 2015, the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (<a href="https://www.uahirise.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HiRISE</a>) camera aboard the MRO captured a remarkable moment - a 66-foot-wide chunk of frozen carbon dioxide in mid-fall.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_ice-cracking_co2-frost_MRO_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_ice-cracking_co2-frost_MRO_NASA_1s.webp" alt="Martian spring involves lots of cracking ice, which led to this 66-foot-wide (20-meter-wide) chunk of carbon dioxide frost captured in freefall by the HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter in 2015. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona" class="wp-image-1955359"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Martian spring involves lots of cracking ice, which led to this 66-foot-wide (20-meter-wide) chunk of carbon dioxide frost captured in freefall by the HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter in 2015. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona</figcaption></figure>



“We’re lucky we’ve had a spacecraft like MRO observing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-gravity-pulls-earth-closer-to-the-sun-warming-our-climate-scientists-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> for as long as it has,” Diniega shared. “Watching for almost 20 years has let us catch dramatic moments like these avalanches.”



These avalanches highlight the dramatic environmental shifts that occur on Mars, offering scientists a chance to understand its dynamic surface better.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-gas-geysers">Explosive gas geysers</h2>



As sunlight penetrates frozen carbon dioxide, the bottom layers sublimate into gas, causing pressure to build.



Eventually, the gas erupts through the surface, creating geysers that spray dark fans of sand and dust. These explosive jets are unique to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-can-engulf-the-entire-planet-of-mars-but-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> spring and offer a stark contrast to Earth’s gentle seasonal transitions.



“You get lots of cracks and explosions instead of melting,” Diniega said. “I imagine it gets really noisy.”



While these fans are visible across the planet, the most dramatic examples appear during southern spring, which starts in December 2025.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="dDNrFq8TXp-4158293-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spider-like-scour-marks-on-mars">Spider-like scour marks on Mars </h2>



Mars’s southern hemisphere presents a fascinating phenomenon: spider-like patterns that form on its surface due to erupting geysers.



These patterns, known as "araneiforms," are created when sunlight penetrates layers of translucent frozen carbon dioxide.



As the ice sublimates directly into gas during spring and summer, the trapped gas builds pressure until it bursts through the surface. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_mars-spiders_c02-gas-carvings_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_mars-spiders_c02-gas-carvings_NASA_1s.webp" alt="Sometimes, after carbon dioxide geysers have erupted from ice-covered areas on Mars, they leave scour marks on the surface. When the ice is all gone by summer, these long scour marks look like the legs of giant spiders. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona" class="wp-image-1955361"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sometimes, after carbon dioxide geysers have erupted from ice-covered areas on Mars, they leave scour marks on the surface. When the ice is all gone by summer, these long scour marks look like the legs of giant spiders. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona</figcaption></figure>



This eruption sends dust and debris outward, carving branching, spider-like marks into the ground. Once all the frozen carbon dioxide has sublimated, these marks remain visible, resembling the legs of giant spiders.



To understand this process, NASA scientists have recreated it in controlled conditions at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-mars-s-spring-winds">Power of Mars's spring winds</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mars-became-uninhabitable-after-being-life-supporting-ocean-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> north pole, home to a Texas-sized ice cap, experiences the relentless power of springtime winds. These gusts carve spiral troughs into the ice cap, revealing traces of the red soil beneath.



“These things are enormous,” said Isaac Smith from Toronto’s York University. “You can find similar troughs in Antarctica but nothing at this scale.”



The winds accelerate as they move down the troughs, reshaping the icy surface through what scientists call an adiabatic process. 



This process involves changes in air temperature and pressure, without the addition or removal of energy. Adiabatic processes on Earth give rise to the Santa Ana and Chinook winds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wandering-dunes-sand-on-the-move">Wandering dunes: Sand on the move</h2>



The powerful winds also affect the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-radiation-levels-are-measured-for-the-first-time-and-will-help-astronauts-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> sand dunes.



During winter, frozen carbon dioxide fixes the dunes in place. But when spring arrives, the frozen gas sublimates, allowing the dunes to resume their slow migration.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_sand-dunes_NASA-JPL_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mars-new-year_sand-dunes_NASA-JPL_1s.webp" alt="Surrounded by frost, these Martian dunes in Mars’ northern hemisphere were captured from above by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter using its HiRISE camera. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona" class="wp-image-1955363"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Surrounded by frost, these Martian dunes in Mars’ northern hemisphere were captured from above by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter using its HiRISE camera. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona</figcaption></figure>



This ongoing process, observed by researchers, highlights how seasonal changes impact Martian landscapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-different-world-of-ice-and-fire">A different world of ice and fire</h2>



Every northern spring on Mars is slightly different. Variations in temperature and sublimation rates influence the speed and intensity of these natural phenomena. 



The dynamic interactions between frozen carbon dioxide, winds, and sand are crucial for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-water-found-on-mars-would-cover-the-planet-over-one-mile-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars’s past</a> and future.



NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, equipped with the HiRISE camera and other sensors, has been pivotal in uncovering these extraordinary events. 



Managed by NASA’s JPL, the MRO has provided nearly two decades of continuous observations, allowing researchers to capture Mars’s explosive beauty in unprecedented detail.



With each Martian year that passes, scientists gain deeper insights into the planet’s extreme seasonal transformations, which differ vastly from Earth’s. 



Whether it’s avalanches, geysers, "spider legs" or wandering dunes, spring on Mars is a spectacle of cosmic proportions.



Video Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech



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New year on Mars: Avalanches, icy explosions, and the arrival of spring

While Earth celebrates the advent of a northern hemisphere New...

Have you ever wondered why it takes us a while to process what's happening around us? Or why we can't multitask as effectively as we'd like? The answer lies in our brains' processing speed.



Despite their immense complexity, our brains operate much slower than the average internet connection.



Scientists have revealed that while the human sensory system gathers information at a staggering rate of one billion bits per second, our brains process these signals at just 10 bits per second - a rate millions of times slower than the input.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-fast-do-we-really-think">How fast do we really think?</h2>



“Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions," said study co-author Markus Meister of <a href="https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/thinking-slowly-the-paradoxical-slowness-of-human-behavior" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CalTech</a>. "This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all this information?” 



To put this in perspective, a typical Wi-Fi connection processes data at around 50 million bits per second. This is incredibly fast when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-complete-map-of-every-neuron-in-the-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compared to the human brain</a>, which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-simple-solutions-appeal-to-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">processes thoughts</a> at just 10 bits per second.



Now, consider the brain's structure. It has over 85 billion neurons, and each neuron can transmit signals at speeds greater than 10 bits per second individually. 



However, the collective processing rate of the brain - the speed at which it actually processes thoughts - remains very slow at 10 bits per second.



This means that while individual neurons are capable of fast transmission, the brain as a whole is limited in how quickly it integrates and processes all the information it receives. 



This bottleneck reflects the brain's focus on quality over quantity, filtering out vast amounts of sensory data to concentrate on the most relevant details for survival and decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-the-brain-so-slow">Why is the brain so slow?</h2>



The brain’s "speed limit" on processing information likely evolved for survival. Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-3d-map-of-human-brain-created-by-harvard-and-google/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nervous systems</a> in primitive organisms were simple and designed for basic tasks like navigating toward food and avoiding predators. 



These systems didn’t need to handle complex, multitasking scenarios, just survival-focused decisions.



As humans evolved, this limitation carried over into our more complex brains. While our brains are highly sophisticated, they still follow a sequential approach to problem-solving. 



This means we can only focus on one possible outcome or course of action at a time, rather than exploring multiple options simultaneously.



Take chess as an example. A chess player cannot mentally calculate every possible move and counter-move at once. Instead, they examine one sequence of moves, analyze it, and then move on to another.



This sequential thought process contrasts with machines, such as computers, which can perform millions of parallel calculations almost instantly. 



This difference highlights the trade-off in human evolution - our brains prioritize quality, focus, and survival over speed and multitasking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-sensory-filters-and-speed">Brain sensory filters and speed</h2>



Despite the apparent slowness, our brains excel at prioritizing. While bombarded with trillions of sensory inputs, the brain filters out unnecessary data, focusing on what’s vital for survival. 



“Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible. In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace,” Meister noted.



This adaptability helps humans focus on immediate tasks without being overwhelmed by excessive information.



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



These findings suggest that machines will eventually outperform humans in any task as their computational capabilities improve. 



With computing power doubling approximately every two years, machines are rapidly bridging the gap in areas like decision-making and problem-solving. 



In fact, scientists believe computers could soon replicate, and even surpass, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abilities of the human brain</a>.



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



The discovery highlights a paradox about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-brains-create-three-copies-of-every-memory-we-make/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human intelligence</a>. Despite being relatively slow thinkers, humans excel in creativity, emotion, and adaptability - traits machines have yet to master.



However, understanding the brain’s speed limit raises questions about the future of neuroscience and artificial intelligence.



Future research may unlock why this limit exists and how it influences everything from perception to decision-making. It could also provide insights into enhancing human cognition and developing smarter, more efficient technologies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/neuron/abstract/S0896-6273(24)00808-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuron</a>.



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Brain processing speed is millions of times slower than Wi-Fi

Have you ever wondered why it takes us a while...

The global livestock industry plays a significant role in the production of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change in ways that are often overlooked. 



Cows, sheep, and other livestock produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, during digestion through a process called enteric fermentation. 



In fact, methane has a much higher heat-trapping potential than carbon dioxide, making livestock farming a key driver of global warming. 



Additionally, the industry is responsible for large amounts of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions, mainly from the use of synthetic fertilizers and land-use changes like deforestation for grazing. 



Together, these emissions make the livestock sector one of the leading contributors to global greenhouse gas levels.



On top of direct emissions, the livestock industry also contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> and other forms of environmental degradation through its high demand for resources like water and land.



A substantial amount of land - counting both grazing areas for cattle, pigs, and poultry, and agricultural fields for their feed crops - is devoted to sustaining the world’s 92 billion farm animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-pets-involved-with-livestock">How are pets involved with livestock?</h2>



A large portion of pet food is made from animal products, including meat, which requires significant land, water, and energy to produce. 



As a result, the pet food industry indirectly contributes to the environmental problems tied to livestock farming, such as deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.



Andrew Knight of the <a href="https://www.winchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Winchester</a>, writing for The Conversation, recently explored the potential environmental benefits of switching all pets to vegan diets. 



If this were somehow possible, how much impact would it have on the planet? Short answer - a lot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-considering-the-impacts-of-pet-diets">Considering the impacts of pet diets</h2>



Efforts to address these challenges have sparked interest in shifting human diets to plant-based alternatives. Yet, as experts increasingly argue, the environmental impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-owners-ages-and-beliefs-influence-their-pet-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet food</a> must also be considered.&nbsp;



This focus on pet diets stems from the fact that companion animals - dogs and cats in particular - often consume meat-based products comparable to those eaten by humans, ultimately contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and land use changes. 



The question arises: should our pets join us in transitioning to plant-based diets?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-environmental-costs-of-pet-diets">The environmental costs of pet diets</h2>



Quantifying how pet food affects the environment has long been hindered by sparse data on its ingredients. However, a 2020 report providing in-depth information on over 500 components used by the U.S. pet food industry enabled researchers to estimate its ecological footprint.&nbsp;



By examining this database, scientists calculated potential benefits if the global population of dogs and cats were fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diets</a>.



The results proved eye-opening. Transitioning all pet dogs to nutritionally sound plant-based diets could save an estimated 0.57 gigatons of CO₂ each year - more than what the United Kingdom emitted in 2023.&nbsp;



This transition would also free up land larger than Mexico’s total area, which could be reclaimed for habitat restoration, enhancing both biodiversity and carbon storage.&nbsp;



Furthermore, replacing livestock feed crops with plant-based alternatives for pets would yield enough calories to feed some 450 million people - more than the population of the European Union. Such a change could also spare as many as six billion land animals from slaughter annually.



A similar pattern emerges for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/switching-dogs-and-cats-to-vegan-diets-would-help-the-earth-tremendously/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>. Switching all cats to plant-based diets could prevent 0.09 gigatons of CO₂ emissions yearly - surpassing New Zealand’s total emissions - and would liberate land exceeding the size of Germany.&nbsp;



The freed-up food energy could feed around 70 million people, comparable to the entire population of the United Kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-use-of-byproducts">Rethinking the use of byproducts</h2>



Some have assumed that pet food’s reliance on byproducts of human meat consumption reduces its environmental impact, on the grounds that these are materials otherwise considered waste.&nbsp;



However, recent research suggests the situation is more complicated. Because a relatively small portion of each animal carcass is converted into these byproducts, sustaining pet food production can, in fact, raise the demand for livestock overall.&nbsp;



More animals being raised and slaughtered translates into more land cleared for grazing or feed crops, heavier freshwater consumption, and additional greenhouse gas emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-of-vegan-pet-diets">Health implications of vegan pet diets</h2>



While dogs are naturally omnivorous and cats are considered carnivorous, modern commercial pet foods already deviate from their ancestral diets.&nbsp;



In practice, these foods commonly blend plant materials - like grains and vegetables - with various animal-sourced ingredients, then add preservatives and flavor enhancers.&nbsp;



Meeting a pet’s nutritional needs fundamentally involves supplying adequate protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, rather than providing specific meat sources. As researchers have found, pets can thrive on meticulously formulated plant-based diets.



Several studies completed by late 2024 suggest dogs and cats can thrive on vegan meals. In certain cases, these diets may lead to improvements in areas such as obesity control and allergic responses.&nbsp;



Furthermore, investigations into feeding behavior indicate that pets generally accept vegan meals as readily as they do meat-based ones, based on measures of excitement and enjoyment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-broader-push-for-sustainability">A broader push for sustainability</h2>



Confronting climate change and curbing biodiversity loss requires far-reaching measures, as emphasized by international bodies.&nbsp;



While shifting human diets toward plant-based options is a commonly proposed solution, it may not go far enough on its own.&nbsp;



Integrating pets into these changes expands the potential for lowering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> and decreasing the strain on resources. If such diets are provided by reputable manufacturers that ensure complete nutrition, it is possible to preserve the health and welfare of companion animals.



For those contemplating this shift, websites like <a href="http://sustainablepetfood.info/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SustainablePetFood.info</a> can offer guidance in sourcing products that meet pets’ nutritional requirements.&nbsp;



By rethinking how companion animals are fed, pet owners can contribute to mitigating climate change while continuing to support the well-being of dogs and cats.&nbsp;



This aspect of dietary transition underscores that addressing global environmental challenges can be an inclusive effort, embracing not only human choices but also those made on behalf of the animals in our care.



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Changing how we feed our pets will improve their health and also the environment

The global livestock industry plays a significant role in the...

In an interview with the&nbsp;Genomic Press, Professor Raz Yirmiya, a highly respected neuroscientist, discussed how inflammation in the body connects to depression.



As the head of the Laboratory for Psychoneuroimmunology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Professor Yirmiya has conducted innovative research that is changing the way scientists view the biology of depression.



The research shows that depression is not just about emotions or brain chemistry but also involves the immune system and inflammatory responses in the brain. These findings offer a deeper understanding of depression and open the door to new ways of treating it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-and-its-traditional-understanding">Depression and its traditional understanding</h2>



Depression, often described as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-the-hidden-casualty-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">persistent feeling of sadness</a> or a loss of interest in life, has traditionally been understood as a mental health condition rooted in brain chemistry and psychological factors. 



For decades, treatments have primarily focused on correcting imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This approach led to the development of widely used antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).



In addition to chemical imbalances, traditional views emphasized psychological causes such as unresolved trauma, chronic stress, or genetic predisposition. 



Various forms of therapy have played a significant role in addressing these aspects, helping individuals change negative thought patterns and manage their symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-role-of-inflammation-in-depression">Exploring the role of inflammation in depression</h2>



Traditional perspectives often fail to fully explain why some people respond to treatments while others do not. 



The complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-and-the-internet-who-benefits-and-who-suffers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> - with its overlapping biological, psychological, and social causes - has made it challenging to find universal solutions.



These limitations have driven researchers to explore new angles, such as the role of inflammation, to uncover hidden contributors to the condition.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-inflammation-and-depression">Stress, inflammation, and depression</h2>



Professor Yirmiya's research reveals a compelling connection between stress, inflammation, and depression. 



"Most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomscrolling-is-silently-ruining-our-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depressed</a> patients do not have any overt inflammatory disease. However, we and others found that exposure to stress, which is the most significant trigger of depression in humans and animals, also activates inflammatory processes, particularly in the brain," he explained.



This insight highlights the complex role of the immune system in mental health and opens new avenues for therapeutic exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-musical-journey-to-neuroscience">A musical journey to neuroscience</h2>



Professor Yirmiya’s journey into neuroscience began with his love of music. This unusual path shows how different interests can lead to big discoveries. His research on animals and humans shows how brain inflammation affects mood and thinking, and presents new ideas about depression.



"My overarching aim is to harness the extensive knowledge from my research and others to accelerate the development of novel antidepressant therapeutics targeting inflammatory processes," said Professor Yirmiya.



The findings reveal that both immune system activation and suppression can trigger depressive symptoms, emphasizing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">importance of personalized treatment approaches</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-stress-trigger-brain-inflammation">How does stress trigger brain inflammation?</h2>



Professor Yirmiya’s research focuses on two key players in the brain’s immune system: microglia cells and interleukin-1. 



Microglia are specialized brain cells that act as the immune system’s defense team, while interleukin-1 is a molecule that triggers inflammation, often as a response to stress. Together, these factors play a crucial role in the way that stress might lead to depression.



The research raises important questions, such as how understanding these immune processes could help create better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-issues-are-prevalent-among-elite-athletes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> treatments. For instance, knowing exactly how stress triggers brain inflammation might allow scientists to develop therapies that prevent or reduce its harmful effects.



Professor Yirmiya also investigates how different immune responses may result in different types of depression. This insight could allow treatments to be customized for each individual, based on their specific immune activity and inflammatory levels. 



This approach, known as personalized medicine, offers the possibility of more effective and targeted care for people with depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-therapeutic-targets">Innovative therapeutic targets</h2>



Professor Yirmiya’s team combines advanced molecular research with behavioral studies to uncover new ways to treat depression. They have focused on microglial checkpoint mechanisms, which regulate immune activity in the brain, and how these processes relate to stress resilience. 



This work from the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a> sheds new light on how the immune system affects mental health, particularly in conditions like depression.



By identifying specific targets within these mechanisms, the research offers hope for creating treatments tailored to an individual’s needs, and paves the way for more effective and personalized approaches to managing depression.



The <a href="https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/brainmed/aop/article-10.61373-bm024k.0142/article-10.61373-bm024k.0142.xml">full interview</a>, titled&nbsp;“Raz Yirmiya: The inflammatory underpinning of depression,”&nbsp;will be published in the journal&nbsp;Brain Medicine.



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Stress-related brain inflammation linked to depression

In an interview with the&nbsp;Genomic Press, Professor Raz Yirmiya, a...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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