Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Klinaklini Glacier, located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada.



Klinaklini Glacier is notable for its size and the role it plays in the regional environment. It is part of a larger system of glaciers and ice fields in the area, which are critical for their contribution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a> resources and their influence on local climate conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-klinaklini-glacier-and-climate-change">Klinaklini Glacier and climate change</h2>



Klinaklini is particularly interesting due to its dynamics and response to climate change. Like many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> around the world, it is being closely monitored for changes in its size, flow, and overall health. 



Glaciers in the Coast Mountains, including Klinaklini, have been studied for their response to global warming, with many showing signs of retreat and reduced ice mass.



"Decades of satellite images of western Canada make it clear that the region’s glaciers are shrinking and that the rate of ice loss is accelerating," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"In 1984, there were 14,329 glaciers in British Columbia and Alberta that were large enough to detect with sensors on the Landsat 5 satellite."



"By 2020, nearly 8 percent of them - 1,141 glaciers - had shrunk so much that newer Landsat sensors could no longer distinguish them, according to research conducted by University of Northern British Columbia glaciologists Alexandre Bevington and Brian Menounos."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-the-klinaklini-glacier">Ecological role of the Klinaklini Glacier </h2>



Klinaklini Glacier also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It feeds into the Klinaklini River, which is an important waterway for the region. 



The river supports a variety of wildlife, including salmon populations that are vital both ecologically and economically for local communities.



Studies conducted on and around the Klinaklini Glacier contribute to the understanding of glaciology, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and hydrology. 



This research is essential for predicting future changes in the glacier and for understanding the broader impacts of climate change on glacial systems globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coast-mountains-of-british-columbia">Coast Mountains of British Columbia </h2>



The Coast Mountains of British Columbia are a striking and expansive mountain range forming part of the Pacific Coast Ranges in western North America. 



Stretching approximately 1,600 kilometers from the Fraser River near Vancouver in the south to the Yukon Territory in the north, the range is known for its rugged beauty and significant ecological and cultural importance.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-of-the-mountains">Geography of the mountains</h3>



Geographically, the Coast Mountains are positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Interior Plateau to the east.



They are divided into three main sections: the Pacific Ranges in the south, the Kitimat Ranges in the central region, and the Boundary Ranges in the north, which extend into Alaska and Yukon. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-processes">Geological processes</h3>



The range's dramatic landscapes include steep peaks, fjords, and valleys carved by ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-release-vast-quantities-of-unknown-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>, highlighting the lasting influence of glaciation on the region.



Geologically, the Coast Mountains are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, formed by volcanic and tectonic activity. 



Their granitic composition is a result of millions of years of geological processes. Mount Waddington, the highest peak in the range at 4,019 meters, stands as a notable landmark in the Pacific Ranges.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-wildlife">Climate and wildlife</h3>



The climate of the Coast Mountains varies significantly depending on location. The western slopes are characterized by a temperate rainforest climate, with high levels of precipitation brought by moist Pacific air. 



In contrast, the eastern slopes are drier, with semi-arid conditions in some areas. This climatic diversity supports a wide range of ecosystems, from lush coastal rainforests to alpine tundra. 



The region is home to diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/outdoor-recreation-noise-triggers-fear-response-in-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, and numerous bird species.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recreation-and-culture">Recreation and culture</h3>



The Coast Mountains are a popular destination for recreation and tourism. Activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering draw visitors from around the world - particularly to destinations like Whistler, a renowned resort town in the Pacific Ranges. 



The fjords and valleys of the range provide opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic exploration.



Indigenous peoples, including the Tlingit, Tsimshian, Haida, and Squamish, have lived in and around the Coast Mountains for millennia. 



These groups maintain a deep connection to the land, reflected in their stories, traditions, and art. The mountains are not only a physical presence but also a vital cultural and spiritual landscape.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Klinaklini Glacier in British Columbia

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-webb-nbsp-nbsp">The power of Webb&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



The same cluster was featured as the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;



According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. 



"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc1333">Webb’s view of NGC1333</h2>



ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC1333 cloud.&nbsp;



“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."



The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-sun">Formation of the Sun</h2>



“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.



Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.



Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <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> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.



Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. 



These disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation.&nbsp;



These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ngc-1333">Significance of NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy, still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;



In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;



It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;



These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.



The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

Today's Image of the Day from 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 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...

“If we had true Eurasian wild boar without any domestic pig, this whole issue would be a lot easier to handle… Reproductive rates would be lower,” he said of the feral hog empire. The animals were even pulling off feats that blew experts away. Photo Credit: The Weather Channel

Defying Logic

Imagine strolling along the same path where our ancestors once walked, then accidentally discovering human footprints that had been left behind roughly 115,000 years ago. 



This is precisely what happened to a group of archaeologists when they found the oldest-known human footprints on the Arabian Peninsula.



Discovered among the tracks of prehistoric animals, these imprints mark a significant discovery in the study of human migration and life before the Ice Age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-human-footprints-on-the-arabian-peninsula">Early human footprints on the Arabian Peninsula </h2>



In 2017, the fossilized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earliest-human-footprints-ever-found-are-believed-to-be-300000-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracks</a> were spotted in a special lakebed region of northern Saudi Arabia. The tracks consisted of seven discrete footprints.



"Here, we report hominin and non-hominin mammal footprints and fossils from the Alathar lacustrine deposit in the western Nefud Desert, Saudi Arabia," noted the researchers.



"We argue that the footprints, dated to the last interglacial and therefore contemporaneous with an early&nbsp;H. sapiens&nbsp;out-of-Africa dispersal, most likely represent the earliest evidence of our species in the Arabian Peninsula."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-footprints-in-similar-states">Human footprints in similar states</h2>



The lakebed, named "the trace" in Arabic, seems to have been a busy spot over 100,000 years ago. The scientists noted that the footprints - which were found in similar states of preservation - were likely generated within a very short time frame. 



"An experimental study of modern human footprints in mud flats found that fine details were lost within two days and prints were rendered unrecognizable within four, and similar observations have been made for other non-hominin mammal tracks," explained the researchers.



Mud, it seems, is nature's perfect canvas to capture history, even though the impressions may be lost rather rapidly from the soft surface. During the Burgess Shale event, for example, organisms were preserved intact because they were caught in a mudslide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tracks-of-our-ancestors">The tracks of our ancestors</h2>



As complex as the past is, several theories have been proposed about the upright primates of that era. Mounting evidence indicates that the tracks were left by members of our own species, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-homo-sapiens-stone-tools-preserved-volcanic-ash-grotta-di-castelcivita/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Homo sapiens</a>.



"Seven hominin footprints were confidently identified and, given the fossil and archaeological evidence for the spread of H. sapiens into the Levant and Arabia during the era 130,000 to 80,000 years ago, and absence of Homo neanderthalensis from the Levant at that time, we argue that H. sapiens was responsible for the tracks at Alathar," stated the researchers. 



Furthermore, the experts noted that the sizes of the Alathar footprints are more consistent with those of early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-homo-sapiens-living-spaces-organized-similarly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H. sapiens</a> than H. neanderthalensis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brief-visits-to-the-lake">Brief visits to the lake</h2>



The scientists did not find marks from tools or knives on the animal bones that were uncovered in the area. In other words, there was no evidence of hunting. 



Does this mean the humans just dropped by for a drink?



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Alathar-paleolake_human-footprints_115000-years-old_ULondon_Science_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Alathar-paleolake_human-footprints_115000-years-old_ULondon_Science_1s.webp" alt="The Alathar paleolake sediments, footprints, and fossils. (A) Plan view of the Alathar paleolake deposits with researchers indicated by white arrowheads. (B) First stratigraphic section (units FS1 to FS3). (C) Second stratigraphic section (units SS1 to SS3) overlying the first but located toward the center of the paleolake. (D and E) Example of an elephant track and trackway, Proboscipeda isp. (F) Camelid trackway, Lamaichnum isp. (G) Camelid forefoot (H) Camelid hindfoot. (I) Equid track, Hippipeda isp. (J) Bovid axis vertebra eroding out of the paleolake sediment. Photo credit: Gilbert Price, The University of Queensland and Richard Clark-Wilson, Royal Holloway, University of London" class="wp-image-1955724"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Alathar paleolake sediments, footprints, and fossils. (A) Plan view of the Alathar paleolake deposits with researchers indicated by white arrowheads. (B) First stratigraphic section (units FS1 to FS3). (C) Second stratigraphic section (units SS1 to SS3) overlying the first but located toward the center of the paleolake. (D and E) Example of an elephant track and trackway, Proboscipeda isp. (F) Camelid trackway, Lamaichnum isp. (G) Camelid forefoot (H) Camelid hindfoot. (I) Equid track, Hippipeda isp. (J) Bovid axis vertebra eroding out of the paleolake sediment. Photo credit: Gilbert Price, The University of Queensland and Richard Clark-Wilson, Royal Holloway, University of London</figcaption></figure>



"The lack of archaeological evidence suggests that the Alathar Lake was only briefly visited by people," the researchers noted. The visit, it seemed, was primarily "tied to the need for potable water."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-last-steps-before-the-ice-age">Last steps before the Ice age</h2>



The fossilized footprints raise the obvious question of who made them, but they also spark another intriguing question: why weren't the tracks covered by those of another group?



One theory is that they may have been the last ones who migrated through a temperate climate before being obliterated by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Age</a>. Their silent footsteps, captured in the mud, are a reminder of a history we may never fully understand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-footprints-of-ancient-humans-and-animals">Footprints of ancient humans and animals</h2>



The footprints discovered at Alathar Lake not only reveal the presence of early humans but also offer a snapshot of the ecosystem that existed 115,000 years ago. 



Surrounding the human footprints, scientists identified tracks from animals such as elephants, camels, and antelopes. The research paints a vivid picture of a lush environment that was vastly different from the arid desert seen today.



These prehistoric creatures likely gathered around the lake to drink water, much like the humans whose tracks were immortalized in the mud.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-environment-with-shared-resources">Dynamic environment with shared resources </h2>



By analyzing the spatial arrangement and depth of the footprints, researchers can infer details about the behavior and interactions of both humans and animals during this period. 



For instance, the proximity of human and animal tracks suggests a dynamic environment where resources like water attracted a variety of species, enabling brief yet crucial encounters. 



These findings help scientists piece together not just human history but also the broader ecological tapestry of the region before the harsh climatic shifts of the Ice Age began to arrive.



The research was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aba8940">Science Advances</a>. 



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115,000-year-old human footprints found in a location where they should not be

Imagine strolling along the same path where our ancestors once...

On October 19, the US Space Command revealed a troubling incident: the Intelsat 33e satellite broke into approximately 20 pieces, littering an already crowded space with large chunks of space debris. 



The cause remains unknown, but the event has reignited serious concerns about the increasing accumulation of space junk in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).



Experts warn that this growing problem could lead to the dreaded&nbsp;Kessler Syndrome, potentially rendering space exploration and satellite use impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-low-earth-orbit-leo-the-basics">Understanding Low Earth Orbit (LEO) - the basics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-low-earth-orbit-leo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Low Earth Orbit (LEO)</a> is a region of space that lies relatively close to Earth, typically between 100 and 1,200 miles (160 to 2,000 kilometers) above the planet’s surface. 



It’s the most commonly used orbit for satellites and space stations because it’s cheaper and easier to reach than higher orbits. 



In LEO, satellites orbit the Earth much faster, completing a full circle in just about 90 minutes. This means they can pass over the same spot on Earth several times a day, making LEO ideal for things like weather forecasting, communication, and Earth observation.



One of the most famous objects in LEO is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-nasa-plans-to-keep-people-in-space-after-the-iss-is-gone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station (ISS)</a>, which orbits the Earth at about 250 miles (400 kilometers) above the surface. 



LEO is also where most commercial communication satellites, as well as satellites for internet services, operate. 



Their relatively low altitude means they can provide faster data transmission speeds and lower latency compared to satellites in higher orbits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-kessler-syndrome">What is Kessler Syndrome?</h2>



In 1978, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> scientists Donald Kessler and Burton Cour-Palais introduced the concept of&nbsp;Kessler Syndrome - a dire prediction about space debris.



The experts theorized that as objects in orbit collide, the resulting <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-happens-to-all-the-space-junk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">debris</a> could trigger more collisions. These repeated collisions would create a&nbsp;chain reaction, generating an increasing number of fragments in space.



This phenomenon could spiral out of control, leading to a heavily polluted orbital environment. If allowed to continue accumulating unchecked, the debris could render low Earth orbit completely unusable.



This would prevent future satellite launches, disrupt space exploration, and severely impact technologies that rely on satellites, such as GPS, internet, and weather forecasting.



Kessler Syndrome highlights the critical need to manage space debris effectively and prevent cascading collisions that could jeopardize humanity's access to space.



"The Kessler Syndrome is going to come true. If the probability of a collision is so great that we can't put a satellite in space, then we're in trouble," said&nbsp;John L. Crassidis, space debris expert at the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Buffalo</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-debris-a-growing-problem">Space debris: A growing problem</h2>



Space has become <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/undetectable-space-junk-is-now-easier-to-detect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increasingly crowded</a>. There are currently more than 10,000 active satellites orbiting Earth, with approximately 6,800 of these belonging to Elon Musk's <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-low-earth-orbit-leo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starlink</a> network.



Companies like SpaceX and Amazon aim to launch thousands more satellites, heightening the risk of collisions.



Since the dawn of spaceflight in 1957, there have been over 650 fragmentation events, including collisions, explosions, and deliberate satellite destruction. 



In 2021, Russia destroyed one of its own satellites in a military test, creating over 1,500 traceable debris fragments.



"The size of the debris we are tracking ranges from small fragments roughly the size of a softball to larger pieces up to the size of a car door," noted Bill Therien, CTO at <a href="https://exoanalytic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ExoAnalytic Solutions</a>.



"The majority of the tracked objects are on the smaller end of that spectrum, which contributes to the difficulty of consistently observing all the debris pieces."



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



Congestion in orbit endangers astronauts and vital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clusters-final-mission-a-fiery-return-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space-based technologies</a>. For instance, the&nbsp;ISS&nbsp;has performed numerous evasive maneuvers to avoid debris. 



In one recent incident, a piece of debris came within&nbsp;2.5 miles&nbsp;of the ISS, forcing a Russian spacecraft to adjust its trajectory.



If satellites collide or go offline due to overcrowded space, critical services like&nbsp;GPS, broadband internet, and television&nbsp;could fail. Experts warn that this would cause widespread disruption to modern life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-kessler-syndrome-risks">Mitigating Kessler Syndrome risks</h2>



Efforts are underway to address this growing crisis. The European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) is developing initiatives like <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/ClearSpace-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clearsat-1</a> in collaboration with Swiss startup <a href="https://clearspace.today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ClearSpace</a> to capture and deorbit defunct satellites.



Meanwhile, technologies such as drag sails aim to accelerate the natural descent of debris into Earth's atmosphere.



However, tracking and mitigating debris remains a monumental challenge. The ESA estimates there are over&nbsp;40,500 pieces of debris larger than 10 centimeters&nbsp;and millions of smaller fragments that current technology cannot reliably detect. 



"Even with today’s best sensors, there are limits to what can be reliably 'seen' or tracked, and smaller space debris is often untrackable," said&nbsp;Bob Hall, director at COMSPOC Corp.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-space-regulations">Need for space regulations</h2>



Experts emphasize the urgency of international cooperation to establish binding space regulations. 



<a href="https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future/pact-for-the-future" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The United Nations' Pact for the Future</a> aims to address space debris through frameworks for traffic and resource management. However, enforcement mechanisms are lacking.



"The biggest concern is the lack of regulation," said&nbsp;Dr. Vishnu Reddy, a professor of planetary sciences at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>. "Having some norms and guidelines that are put forward by the industry will help a lot."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-junk-kessler-syndrome-and-the-future">Space junk, Kessler Syndrome, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, as more satellites are launched into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the risk of collisions and the potential for Kessler Syndrome -- the runaway chain reaction of debris collisions -- becomes an increasingly real threat. 



With over 10,000 active satellites currently in orbit, the crowded space environment is putting everything from space missions to vital technologies like GPS and communication systems in jeopardy. 



Experts warn that without significant efforts to manage and reduce space junk, we could face a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-moon-soil-lunar-regolith-space-debris-into-building-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space exploration</a> and satellite services become nearly impossible.



Proactive measures - ranging from technological solutions to enforceable regulations - are crucial to safeguarding Earth's orbit.



The key to avoiding the worst-case scenario of Kessler Syndrome lies in international cooperation and the establishment of strict regulations to prevent further overcrowding. 



If action is not taken soon, the consequences could be catastrophic - not just for space exploration but for the many aspects of modern life that depend on satellite technology.



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Space junk has become a very big problem in low-Earth orbit

On October 19, the US Space Command revealed a troubling...

A recent study has revealed the presence of a rare parasite called Sarcocystis miescheriana in a domestic pig in central Poland. 



The finding has captured attention because it involved cysts large enough to be spotted during routine meat inspection at a slaughterhouse. Such occurrences are seldom recorded, which makes this detection especially noteworthy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rarely-seen-but-concerning">Rarely seen, but concerning</h2>



Experts point out that large, visible cystic lesions associated with <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/sarcocystis-miescheriana#:~:text=Protozoan%20Parasites&amp;text=Sarcocystis%20forms%20cysts%2C%20also%20known,streaks%20arranged%20lengthwise%20in%20muscles." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarcocystis miescheriana</a> do not show up in pigs very often. 



The research describing this event appears in the Journal of Veterinary Research and has underscored how crucial it is to catch uncommon cases during meat inspections. 



In general, most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pigs-slow-growth-diet-increases-longevity-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pigs</a> do not exhibit any obvious weight loss or breathing problems when infected. This subtle presentation can make early identification challenging in typical farming setups.



A dedicated research team led by <a href="https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8266-581X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Weronika Korpysa-Dzirba</a> from the Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases at the National Veterinary Research Institute (<a href="https://www.nvri.gov.ng/parasitology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NVRI</a>) utilized molecular methods, such as analyzing <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/4512#:~:text=the%20presence%20of%20one%20or,in%20blood%20platelets%20during%20aging." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specific genes</a>, to confirm that these rice-grain-sized nodules were indeed S. miescheriana. 



They extracted ten lesions - each about 0.39 inches long by 0.12 inches wide (1 cm x 0.3 cm) and verified them through gene sequencing. 



Testing confirmed the parasite’s presence, marking the first time scientists have used molecular tools in Poland to verify the presence of S. miescheriana in a pig.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-farmers-and-slaughterhouses">Impact on farmers and slaughterhouses</h2>



Carcass condemnation is possible when these lesions appear, since they raise safety flags during post-mortem inspection. Economic hits can follow if part or all of a carcass gets rejected.&nbsp;



Beyond financial losses, the presence of parasites calls for more frequent monitoring and better farm management. 



Ongoing tests could help producers avoid surprises at the slaughterhouse, which in turn safeguards public confidence in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-pig-day-honoring-the-role-of-an-underappreciated-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pork products</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-this-pig-parasite">What is this pig parasite?</h2>



“Sarcocystis infections are quite prevalent in farm animals (higher than 70% in some herbivore populations); however, there have been few outbreaks of clinical disease. Most animals are asymptomatic, and the tissue cysts (chronic stage) are [typically] discovered only at slaughter,” stated the <a href="https://www.merckvetmanual.com/musculoskeletal-system/sarcocystosis/sarcocystosis-in-animals#Etiology,-Transmission,-and-Pathogenesis_v3286641" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck Veterinary Manual</a>. This reference also notes that severe infections can lead to condemned meat if cysts are visible. Even though subclinical infections may not affect an animal’s day-to-day appearance, the discovery of noticeable cysts can trigger concern among inspectors and consumers.



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



“In the intestinal type, people get infected by eating undercooked meat containing the parasite. In the muscular type, eating food or water contaminated with the parasite is a risk factor," warns the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/sarcocystosis/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a>.



"An animal will defecate a form of the parasite out, which can then contaminate food or water that people may drink."



Although S. miescheriana itself is not considered transmissible to humans, other varieties, such as S. hominis and S. suihominis, do pose a risk. 



Vigilance in the meat supply chain can help cut down on the chance that people get infected, and proper cooking and handling of the meat is essential to keep the parasites at bay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-bigger-picture">Investigating the bigger picture</h2>



Researchers have suggested that future studies should determine how often S. miescheriana appears in both domestic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-boar-found-with-alarming-levels-of-forever-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild pigs</a>. At the moment, data on the frequency and distribution of infections remains patchy. 



Molecular testing could become a standard part of swine meat inspection if scientists confirm significant risks. This would help pinpoint infected herds more swiftly, reduce the spread of infection, and catch other parasitic species that are more dangerous to people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-reduce-pig-parasite-risk">How to reduce pig parasite risk</h2>



Pork producers can lower the odds of Sarcocystis contamination by improving on-farm hygiene. Measures like stopping dogs or wild canids from roaming near pig pens may help because the parasite can cycle among animals through fecal contamination.&nbsp;



Adequate disinfection methods in barns and strict feed control can also cut down infection rates. Another level of defense is making sure pork is cooked thoroughly, which inactivates <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-parks-may-be-fueling-parasite-outbreaks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parasites</a> that might lurk in undercooked meat.



Experts plan to broaden their use of modern lab techniques at slaughterhouses. They hope this will catch parasitic infections before they enter the market. 



Regulatory bodies could use these methods, along with conventional inspections, to give consumers safer products and maintain trust in the pork sector. 



Some producers might see higher costs if advanced testing becomes routine, yet these steps could help avoid the larger price tag of losing entire carcasses due to suspicious lesions.



The full research report will be published in the <a href="https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jvetres-2024-0067" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Veterinary Research</a>.



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Scientists report first case of rare parasite in pigs, posing human health risks

A recent study has revealed the presence of a rare...

Researchers at the Allen Institute have identified a specific brain region in mice where aging triggers significant changes in numerous cell types. The study also pinpointed which cell types undergo the most profound transformations



This new information, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-08350-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>, points toward potential approaches for slowing or controlling the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-25-years-of-research-revealed-about-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> process in the brain.



The research was focused on numerous glial cell types - the brain’s “support cells” - that demonstrated considerable shifts in gene activity with age. Among the cells most affected were microglia, border-associated macrophages, oligodendrocytes, tanycytes, and ependymal cells.&nbsp;



The study showed that, in aging brains, the activity of genes linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-helps-the-body-fight-inflammation-and-chronic-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inflammation</a> rose, while the activity of genes important for neurons decreased.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-hotspot-identified-in-the-brain">Aging hotspot identified in the brain</h2>



The researchers discovered a concentration of these changes in an “aging hotspot,” located in the hypothalamus.&nbsp;



The most significant gene expression changes were discovered in cell types located near the third ventricle of the hypothalamus.



The cells include tanycytes, ependymal cells, and neurons with an important role in food intake, energy homeostasis, metabolism, and how our bodies use nutrients.&nbsp;



This observation hints at a connection between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a>, lifestyle factors, brain aging, and changes that influence susceptibility to age-related brain disorders.



“Our hypothesis is that those cell types are getting less efficient at integrating signals from our environment or from things that we're consuming,” said study lead author Kelly Jin, a scientist at the <a href="https://alleninstitute.org/division/brain-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allen Institute for Brain Science</a>.&nbsp;



“And that loss of efficiency somehow contributes to what we know as aging in the rest of our body. I think that's pretty amazing, and I think it’s remarkable that we're able to find those very specific changes with the methods that we're using.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-millions-of-brain-cells">Analyzing millions of brain cells</h2>



The experts employed advanced single-cell RNA sequencing and high-resolution mapping methods created through <a href="https://braininitiative.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The BRAIN Initiative®</a>.&nbsp;



The team analyzed over 1.2 million brain cells taken from mice at two months of age (classified as “young”) and 18 months of age (considered by researchers to be “late middle-aged”).&nbsp;



Mice share critical structural, functional, and genetic features with humans, making them useful for studying how the brain evolves over time.



“Aging is the most important risk factor for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-disease-attacks-the-brain-in-two-separate-phases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s disease</a> and many other devastating brain disorders. These results provide a highly detailed map for which brain cells may be most affected by aging,” said Richard J. Hodes, the director of <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH’s National Institute on Aging</a>.&nbsp;



“This new map may fundamentally alter the way scientists think about how aging affects the brain and also provides a guide for developing new treatments for aging-related brain diseases.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-will-this-study-help">How will this study help?</h2>



The researchers found that particular clusters of cell types in the hypothalamus had a meaningful drop in the genes essential for neuron functioning, while the genes involved in inflammation rose in activity.&nbsp;



The experts reasoned that examining this hotspot and these cell types more closely could lead to targeted interventions.



“We want to develop tools that can target those cell types,” said Hongkui Zeng, the executive vice president and director of the Allen Institute for Brain Science. “If we improve the function of those cells, will we be able to delay the aging process?”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle-factors-in-brain-aging">Lifestyle factors in brain aging</h2>



These data support earlier links between aging and metabolic changes, along with evidence suggesting that intermittent fasting or a balanced diet might influence longevity.&nbsp;



While the study did not test dietary patterns directly, it highlights the importance of understanding which brain cells may be “players” in the aging process.



“It’s not something we directly tested in this study,” said Jin. “But to me, it points to the potential players involved in the process, which I think is a huge deal because this is a very specific, rare population of neurons that express very specific genes that people can develop tools for to target and further study.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-age-related-brain-decline">Preventing age-related brain decline</h2>



The study provides a starting point for deeper inquiries into how diet, lifestyle, or pharmaceuticals might alleviate or slow age-related declines in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-may-literally-be-a-state-of-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. 



By tracking the most vulnerable cell types, researchers hope to devise strategies - whether dietary or pharmaceutical - that help maintain healthy brain function well into old age.



“The important thing about our study is that we found the key players - the real key players - and the biological substrates for this process,” Zeng said.&nbsp;



“Putting the pieces of this puzzle together, you have to find the right players. It’s a beautiful example of why you need to study the brain and the body at this kind of cell type-specific level.”&nbsp;



“Otherwise, changes happening in specific cell types could be averaged out and undetected if you mix different types of cells together.”



As scientists probe further into the link between these specific cells and the hypothalamic region, this line of research sets the stage for developing new methods aimed at preserving cognitive abilities and forestalling age-related diseases.&nbsp;



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"Aging hotspot" found in the brain may hold the key to longevity

Researchers at the Allen Institute have identified a specific brain...

Volcanoes hold incredible power, but similar to plants and their root systems, most volcanic activity that occurs before an eruption happens beneath the surface.



Traditional monitoring tools focus on measuring seismic activity and collecting gas samples, yet these methods can miss subtle warning signs hidden in rugged landscapes. 



Researchers have been searching for additional ways to detect signs of unrest before eruptions happen, especially for volcanoes that are far from inhabited areas. They are now turning to plant life for clues and signs that a volcano is close to erupting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dioxide-plants-and-volcanoes">Carbon dioxide, plants, and volcanoes</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Volcanic gases, like carbon dioxide</a>, are often released as magma pushes upward. Detecting them can be tricky because the same gases also appear in everyday life.



Certain remote volcanoes lack permanent sensors or easy access, which leads scientists to test creative approaches that might reveal small changes long before other instruments notice them.



One project was led by Robert Bogue from <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> in Montreal, Canada, who worked with colleagues to measure patterns in vegetation health near hydrothermal areas in the Yellowstone Caldera. 



The results reveal how plants respond to changes in the ground beneath them, which may point to rising magma and a heightened risk of volcanic activity or the imminent eruption of a volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-and-volcanoes-as-allies">Plants and volcanoes as allies</h2>



Plants adjust how they grow when their surroundings shift. This adjustment includes changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> and patterns in leaf structure.



Variations in carbon dioxide, sulfur, and soil temperature can affect how trees flourish, and these factors often emerge in volcanic settings. 



Scientists reason that such signals might appear in plant tissues months or years before major events occur.



In the field, it can be hard to see small changes in vegetation by eye alone. Forests are vast, and weather can alter growth in ways unrelated to volcanoes. 



That is why satellite imaging has become popular. It can scan large areas and detect subtle hints of stress or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unusual greening</a> that might not stand out on the ground.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beneath-the-canopy">Looking beneath the canopy</h2>



One helpful technique is the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (<a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/MeasuringVegetation/measuring_vegetation_2.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NDVI</a>). This calculation captures how vigorously plants are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/details-photosynthesis-water-viewed-atomic-level-cryo-microscope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesizing</a> by measuring chlorophyll levels.



Scores range from negative numbers up to 1, with higher numbers pointing to healthy leaves. By comparing these values in different spots over time, researchers can see if there are trends that may connect to shifts in the subsurface environment.



Studies in volcanic regions suggest that small bursts of carbon dioxide and heated fluids can initially fertilize local plants. But higher concentrations of harmful gases or very hot soil can stress and even kill them. 



Tracking these ups and downs over multiple years can reveal a story of underground changes that unfold gradually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tern-lake-as-a-proving-ground">Tern Lake as a proving ground</h2>



In Wyoming, the Tern Lake thermal area sits in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-music-will-yellowstones-seismic-activity-produce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone Caldera</a>. From 1984 to 2022, archived Landsat images showed that tree health in this hydrothermal zone improved for about 16 years. 



Scientists believe the initial benefit may have come from extra nutrients reaching the soil. Then around the early 2000s, the satellite record captured a shift, with tree health dipping and many lodgepole pines dying near the center of activity.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/plants_predict-volcanic-eruptions_satellite-photos_credit-McGill-University_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/plants_predict-volcanic-eruptions_satellite-photos_credit-McGill-University_1s.webp" alt="Images of the study area in 1994 compared to 2022, with the significant loss of trees in the epicenter of the hydrothermal area. Landsat images (c, d) highlight the decline in plant health in the central area with lighter color shading corresponding to lower Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values. Credit: Bogue et al. McGill University" class="wp-image-1955545"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Images of the study area in 1994 compared to 2022, with the significant loss of trees in the epicenter of the hydrothermal area. Landsat images (c, d) highlight the decline in plant health in the central area with lighter color shading corresponding to lower Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values. Credit: Bogue et al. McGill University</figcaption></figure>



Infrared data suggested that soil temperatures in parts of the site exceeded 122°F, and that poisonous gases and acidic fluids were breaking down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant tissues</a>.



Over time, the zone of stress spread outward, and a bare patch of dead trees became more visible. This persistent change confirmed that a deeper process was heating the ground and altering the chemistry that plants depend on.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-from-plants-that-a-volcano-is-waking-up">Signs from plants that a volcano is waking up</h2>



The research team linked these findings to pathways of hydrothermal fluids moving toward the surface. In some areas, mineral buildup may have clogged old routes, forcing new channels to open. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-activity-will-increase-due-to-glacial-retreat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthquake data</a> supported this interpretation. Small tremors can indicate that magma or hot fluids are seeking different escape routes.



Collectively, these events point to activity that might have begun well before on-the-ground surveys took note.



Observations also suggest that this expansion reached a limit. Some recent field checks found signs of new seedlings taking hold in once-barren terrain. 



This could mean the local system is calming, at least for the moment. Changes in vegetation and plant life can serve as a reminder that volcanoes and their processes are not always linear. Conditions can shift as gases and fluids come and go.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



These discoveries illustrate how forests can serve as eyes on a hidden world. Researchers have often relied on thermal cameras and gas detectors to evaluate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic hazards</a>, but those instruments have limitations.



In some places, there is no easy way to install or maintain them. Harsh weather, dense canopies, and rough slopes can hamper efforts to collect reliable data.



Satellite imagery provides wide coverage without the need for a permanent presence in challenging locations. 



Vegetation-based monitoring is not a standalone method, but it can offer valuable hints for scientists. If the data show unusual patterns of greening or die-off, teams can schedule closer inspection or deploy instruments before any major event.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanoes-plants-and-a-safer-tomorrow">Volcanoes, plants, and a safer tomorrow</h2>



Every volcano is unique. Some are surrounded by thick forests, while others sit in deserts or at high elevations. 



Where conditions support enough plant life, scientists can try vegetation indexes to look for shifts that might signal building magma. 



In other areas, this strategy may be less useful or confounded by drought, wildfires, or different species that react in unexpected ways.



The hope is to combine these plant observations with other signals. Minor quakes, ground swelling, and changes in gas composition all help create a clearer picture of what lies beneath the surface. 



Scientists continue to refine these approaches. As they gather more information, they can figure out how to focus resources on volcanoes that pose the greatest risk.



The story at Tern Lake shows that forests can act as an early warning system, revealing shifts that might mean an eruption is more likely. By studying these patterns, experts might someday issue alerts sooner than ever before.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GC010938" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems</a>.



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Plants and trees are able to predict volcano eruptions

Volcanoes hold incredible power, but similar to plants and their...

Ground,Coffee,In,Coffee,Maker,Portafilter,On,Coffee,Beans,Background,

Ever wondered if the flavor of your coffee could taste even better? A simple dash of water might hold the secret to a richer, smoother cup. 



New research reveals that adding moisture to coffee beans before grinding can significantly improve brewing flavor while preventing the mess and waste often caused by static electricity.



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



Grinding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-coffee-reduces-the-risk-of-certain-cancers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> beans produces friction as the particles collide, rub together, and break apart. This process causes the ground coffee to develop a charge, which then produces static electricity.



The charged coffee particles stick together, forming clumps that can clog grinders. These clumps make it difficult to achieve a consistent grind, leading to uneven brewing and less flavorful coffee.



Scientists have investigated the impact of this static buildup on the brewing process. Their research revealed a simple yet effective solution: adding water to the beans before grinding. 



This moisture reduces static electricity, prevents clumping, and ensures smoother grinding, which ultimately improves the quality and flavor of the brewed coffee.



"Moisture, whether it's residual moisture inside the roasted coffee or external moisture added during grinding, is what dictates the amount of charge that is formed during grinding," explained Christopher Hendon, a materials chemist at the <a href="https://www.uoregon.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oregon</a>.



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



Static electricity is what happens when there's an imbalance of tiny electric charges on the surface of an object. 



Everything around us is made up of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/x-ray-single-atom-captured-by-scientists-for-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny particles called atoms</a>, and inside these atoms, there are even smaller particles called electrons. Electrons carry a negative charge, and they can move from one object to another.



For example, when you rub a balloon on your hair, some electrons from your hair move to the balloon, making the balloon negatively charged and your hair positively charged. This is why the balloon can stick to your hair or make your hair stand up - opposite charges attract!



We experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-of-static-electricity-has-finally-been-solved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">static electricity</a> a lot in everyday life. You might have felt it when you touch a metal doorknob and get a little shock, or when your clothes stick together after they come out of the dryer.



These shocks happen when the extra charges suddenly move from one thing to another, often through your body, which feels like a quick zap. 



Static electricity is more common in dry air because moisture in the air helps stop the buildup of charges. That’s why it tends to happen more in the winter when the air is dry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-of-better-coffee-brewing">Science of better coffee brewing</h2>



Hendon and Joshua Méndez Harper, a former volcanologist from the University of Oregon, investigated how moisture affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> grinding. 



The researchers examined coffee beans from various origins, with different roasting levels and moisture contents. 



They measured key factors such as the static electricity generated during grinding, the size of the resulting particles, and the flavor profiles of the brewed coffee.



The study revealed that darker, drier coffee roasts are more susceptible to static electricity than lighter, moister beans. 



The increased brittleness of darker roasts leads to greater friction during grinding, which causes clumping and uneven grounds.



By adding a small amount of water to the beans before grinding, the researchers showed that static electricity could be reduced. 



This simple adjustment produced a smoother grind and improved consistency, enhancing the quality of the coffee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stronger-espresso-with-water">Stronger espresso with water</h2>



Harper and his team compared espresso brewed with beans ground with and without added moisture. 



They discovered that a light spritz of water not only reduced clumping but also improved the extraction process. The moist grounds allowed water to flow more evenly, and pulled more flavor from the coffee.



Hendon recommends adding about 20 microliters of water per gram of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robusta-coffee-could-save-our-morning-brew-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a>, which equals roughly half a milliliter for a single shot of espresso. 



This minor adjustment not only enhances the uniformity of the grind but also ensures a stronger and tastier cup of coffee, making it a simple yet effective technique for coffee enthusiasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-geophysics">Lessons from geophysics</h2>



The research also connects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-aging-drinking-coffee-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> science with earth science. 



"There's a lot more to know about how coffee breaks, how it flows as particles, and how it interacts with water," said Harper. 



By studying coffee, scientists hope to gain insights into broader geophysical phenomena like landslides, volcanic eruptions, and soil water flow.



These parallels highlight how everyday activities like brewing coffee can inspire scientific breakthroughs in seemingly unrelated fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spritz-your-beans-before-grinding">Spritz your beans before grinding </h2>



For coffee enthusiasts, the study provides an easy and practical tip: spritz your beans before grinding. By preventing clumping, the grinding process becomes smoother and more consistent, which leads to evenly sized grounds.



This consistency enhances the brewing process, allowing water to flow more uniformly through the coffee. 



The result is a richer and more flavorful espresso, making this method an easy way to elevate your coffee experience without requiring additional tools or complex techniques.



"A few simple squirts of water have solved the problems of clumping, channeling, and poor extractions while aiding in the pursuit of attaining the tastiest espresso," Hendon states.



So, the next time you prepare your morning brew, try adding a little water to your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-coffee-good-for-you-it-may-depend-on-your-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beans</a>. It’s a simple step with a big payoff - and who knows, your kitchen experiment might just inspire the next scientific breakthrough.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/matter/fulltext/S2590-2385(23)00568-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matter</a>.



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Coffee flavor can be greatly improved with a simple trick

Ever wondered if the flavor of your coffee could taste...

Over the past decade, there's been growing concern about the staggering rates of suicide. Now, a remarkable study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) offers a ray of hope. The study illustrates how artificial intelligence (AI) alerts can aid doctors in identifying patients at a higher risk for suicide.



Led by Dr. Colin Walsh, the research team tested the Vanderbilt Suicide Attempt and Ideation Likelihood (VSAIL) model. This AI-driven system aimed to prompt suicide risk screening in three VUMC neurology clinics. 



The findings, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, demonstrate that interruptive alerts - which actively notify doctors during their workflow - were far more effective than passive notifications embedded in electronic charts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-driven-alerts-for-suicide-risks">AI-driven alerts for suicide risks</h2>



The study compared two types of AI-driven alerts. Interruptive alerts actively interrupted the doctor's workflow by appearing as pop-up notifications during a patient consultation. 



This required the doctor to acknowledge and address the alert immediately, thus ensuring that they took action right away.



Passive alerts provided the same risk information but did so in a less direct way. The information was displayed within the patient's electronic medical chart, where it could be seen but did not actively prompt the doctor to take immediate action. 



This approach avoided interrupting the workflow but relied on the doctor noticing and acting on the information independently.



The study found interruptive alerts to be more effective at prompting doctors to conduct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-who-were-born-prematurely-are-more-prone-to-suicide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suicide risk</a> assessments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interruptive-alerts-reduced-suicide-risk">Interruptive alerts reduced suicide risk</h2>



The results were striking. The team found that interruptive alerts led to suicide risk assessments in 42% of cases, while passive alerts resulted in assessments in only 4% of cases.



“Most people who die by suicide have seen a health care provider in the year before their death, often for reasons unrelated to mental health. But universal screening isn’t practical in every setting. We developed VSAIL to help identify high-risk patients and prompt focused screening conversations,” said Dr. Walsh.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-suicide-a-growing-public-health-crisis">Suicide: A growing public health crisis</h2>



Suicide rates in the United States have been increasing steadily, with 14.2 deaths per 100,000 people annually. Suicide is now the 11th <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stock-market-volatility-increases-risk-of-heart-attacks-and-suicide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highest cause of death</a> nationwide.



The researchers noted that 77% of individuals who die by suicide have seen a primary care provider within the year before their death. These figures highlight the critical need for better ways to identify and support individuals at risk.



The VSAIL model offers a significant advance in addressing this challenge. It uses data from routine electronic health records to assess a patient's 30-day risk of attempting suicide.



In prior testing, VSAIL demonstrated its effectiveness by identifying high-risk individuals, with one in 23 flagged patients later reporting suicidal thoughts. This capability positions VSAIL as a powerful tool for targeted suicide prevention efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-high-risk-patients">Identifying high-risk patients </h2>



The new study involved 7,732 patient visits over six months, which triggered 596 suicide alerts.



Researchers focused on neurology clinics, as certain neurological conditions carry heightened suicide risks. Of the flagged visits, only about 8% prompted alerts, highlighting the model’s efficiency in busy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-alert-doctors-when-patients-might-get-sicker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clinical environments</a>.



During the 30-day follow-up, no flagged patients reported suicidal ideation or attempts. However, the team noted potential downsides, such as “alert fatigue,” where frequent notifications could overwhelm clinicians. Future studies will explore this balance.



“Health care systems need to balance the effectiveness of interruptive alerts against their potential downsides,” Walsh noted. 



“But these results suggest that automated risk detection combined with well-designed alerts could help us identify more patients who need suicide prevention services.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-suicide-alerts">Broader implications of suicide alerts</h2>



The study’s success suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/truth-deception-future-of-ai-artificial-intelligence-lie-detection-machines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar systems</a> could benefit other medical settings. By selectively flagging high-risk patients, AI models like VSAIL offer a feasible and impactful approach to suicide prevention.



“The automated system flagged only about 8% of all patient visits for screening. This selective approach makes it more feasible for busy clinics to implement suicide prevention efforts,” Dr. Walsh concluded.



The research was conducted by a multidisciplinary team from VUMC, including Dr. Michael Ripperger, Dr. Laurie Novak, and co-senior authors Dr. William Stead and Dr. Kevin Johnson. 



The study paves the way for innovative, AI-driven interventions that could save lives and redefine suicide prevention in healthcare.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2828654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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AI alerts improve suicide prevention in clinics

Over the past decade, there's been growing concern about the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

Considering their combination of tenacious traits, they&#8217;ve been deemed &#8220;super <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pigs-and-humans-are-sharing-antibiotic-resistance-genes/">pigs</a>,&#8221; as put by the University of Saskatchewan&#8217;s wildlife researcher, Ryan Brook. Suddenly, fear has struck us. Photo Credit: Larry Bozka / The Express-News

Super Pigs

Feral hogs have a combo of wild and domestic traits, which include their ability to withstand cold temperatures (they have a prickly coat that's layered over thick fur) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arbor-day-celebrates-its-150th-birthday-in-the-united-states/">birth </a>large litters. Photo Credit: Billy Calzada / San Antonio Express-News