On September 29, 2024, something unusual happened in our cosmic neighborhood. Earth captured a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5, turning it into a temporary mini-moon. 



That's right... as of today, November 2, 2024, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth has two moons</a>.



Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>), shed some light on these fleeting celestial companions.



"These happen more often than we think, but they're small and tough to spot," Binzel explained. "Only lately have our telescopes become powerful enough to catch them regularly."



Back in August, a team of astronomers from the <a href="https://www.ucm.es/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Complutense University</a> of Madrid detected the small space rock using a powerful telescope in Sutherland, South Africa.



They weren't the only ones keeping an eye on it. The asteroid was first noticed on August 7, 2024 by NASA's Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (<a href="https://atlas.fallingstar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ATLAS</a>) at Haleakala Observatory in Hawaii.



This discovery sparked excitement among astronomers, offering a chance to learn more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth objects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-2024-pt5">What exactly is 2024 PT5?</h2>



Earth occasionally captures small asteroids like 2024 PT5, placing them into temporary orbits around our planet. 



While most asteroids circle the sun on their regular paths, some venture close enough for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-global-electric-field-discovered-equally-important-gravity-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's gravity</a> to snatch them up for a brief visit.



These cosmic visitors only stay in Earth's orbit for a short time -- typically a few weeks or months -- before breaking free and resuming their solar journey.



Each mini-moon gives scientists a rare opportunity to examine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27500-hidden-near-earth-asteroids-discovered-using-google-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth asteroids</a> up close, revealing valuable insights about our solar system's mechanics.



So, what makes this asteroid special, aside from the fact that new technology and the internet made it famous? 



William Blackmore, Planetarium Director and Astronomy Instructor at <a href="https://www.mhcc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mt. Hood Community College</a>, offered his thoughts.



"All mini-moons are unique in their own way," Blackmore explained. "This one isn't different from others except that it's the most recent.”



2024 PT5 will be around for about two more weeks, probably until mid-November.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-2024-pt5-to-our-moon">Comparing 2024 PT5 to our moon</h2>



Let's compare our moon to this new mini-moon: 2024 PT5 is only about 37 feet across, while our familiar moon stretches a massive 2,159 miles in diameter. That makes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-earth-get-its-moon-a-new-theory-has-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our moon</a> over 300,000 times wider than this tiny asteroid.



Knowing it’s up there is pretty exciting, even though we can't see it for ourselves without an invitation to a huge Earth telescope installation.



“These temporary captures are natural cosmic laboratories,” Binzel mentioned. “They help us understand the small bodies that come close to Earth and could be important for future space missions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-asteroid-2024-pt5-became-famous">How Asteroid 2024 PT5 became famous</h2>



Understanding how 2024 PT5 became Earth's temporary moon involves a bit of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-order-in-the-chaos-of-the-three-body-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orbital mechanics</a>. 



Blackmore explained, "It's moving along with us in our orbit around the sun. It's part of a group of asteroids called the Arjuna asteroids, which move at about the same pace as Earth."



He added an interesting analogy: "Imagine a skateboarder dropping into a skate park. They ride the curves, adding energy as they go. That's like the asteroid getting caught in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-debris-will-create-a-human-made-meteor-shower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's gravitational field</a>, riding the curve before moving on."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-spotting-mini-moons">Significance of spotting mini-moons</h2>



Spotting mini-moons is tough because they're incredibly small and faint. These tiny asteroids are often just a few dozen feet across, which means they don't reflect much sunlight. That makes them nearly invisible against the dark backdrop of space.



Plus, they're zipping around at high speeds and don't hang around for long, so by the time we point our telescopes their way, they might already be gone. 



It's like trying to catch a glimpse of a firefly from miles away -- you need the right conditions and equipment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-high-tech-telescopes">Modern high-tech telescopes</h2>



Astronomers find them by using powerful telescopes equipped with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gaia-reveals-moons-around-hundreds-of-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensitive detectors and smart software</a>.



Projects like the ATLAS system scan the skies every night, searching for any objects that weren't there before. 



When they spot something moving in a way that suggests it's close to Earth, they alert other astronomers to help confirm the find. 



It's a collaborative effort, combining technology and teamwork to spot these elusive cosmic visitors.



Knowing more about these temporary moons helps us prepare for any potential asteroid threats and opens up possibilities for mining resources from near-Earth objects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-observing-2024-pt5">Challenges in observing 2024 PT5</h2>



For those eager to see this mini-moon, both experts warned that it would be extremely difficult. "You'd need a telescope with a diameter of at least 30 inches," Blackmore mentioned. "That's beyond what most amateur astronomers have."



Todd agreed, adding, "It won't be visible to the naked eye. Being 33 feet wide and so far away, you'd need a very large telescope."



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



While 2024 PT5 doesn't pose any threat to Earth, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-a-fifth-force-of-nature-asteroids-provide-new-clues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying it is crucial</a>. 



"It's important to analyze how it moves and interacts with Earth's gravitational pull," Blackmore said. "This helps us refine our techniques for tracking objects that could cross our path again."



Todd highlighted the practical applications of this knowledge. 



"We need to understand how to intercept an asteroid at a distance and change its direction," he said. "This could be vital in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preventing potential impacts</a> in the future."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-for-future-space-missions">Inspiration for future space missions</h2>



Blackmore envisioned future missions that could take advantage of these temporary visitors. 



"It would be fascinating if we had missions ready to send small satellites or probes to these objects when they come close," he mused. "Imagine building a network of sensors or cameras traveling along with us, like space webcams."



Todd also saw <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-named-psyche-is-worth-10000-quadrillion-for-whoever-can-extract-minerals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential in asteroid mining</a> and scientific discovery. 



"There might be materials on these asteroids that we can't find on Earth," he said. "They could solve problems in medicine or technology. But we need to weigh the benefits carefully."



To sum it all up, the brief visit of asteroid 2024 PT5 serves as a reminder of the dynamic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroids-were-formed-in-cold-regions-of-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature of our solar system</a>. 



While it won't be with us for long -- just a couple more weeks -- its presence offers valuable opportunities for learning and exploration.



As technology advances, we'll likely spot more of these mini-moons. Each one gives us a chance to understand our cosmic environment better and prepare for the future. 



So even though you'll never see it, you might want to spare a moment of your time and stop to appreciate 2024 PT5 while you still can.



The full study was published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2515-5172/ad781f" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal IOPscience</a>.



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Earth's second moon, a mini-moon, will drift away in a few days and never return

On September 29, 2024, something unusual happened in our cosmic neighborhood. Earth captured a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5, turning it into a temporary mini-moon. That's right... as of today, November 2, 2024, Earth has two moons. Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), shed some light on these fleeting celestial companions. "These happen more often than we think, but they're small and tough to spot," Binzel explained. "Only lately have our telescopes become powerful enough to catch them regularly." Back in August,...

Have you ever considered how much value your passion brings to your work? Well, you might want to start. Recent study suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/market-based-strategies-fall-short-on-forest-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buyers</a> are more likely to pay extra for products created by sellers who create them with passion.



The fascinating study comes from a collaborative effort of researchers Anna Paley, Robert W. Smith, Jacob D. Teeny, and Daniel M. Zane from <a href="https://www.tilburguniversity.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tilburg University</a>, <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>, and <a href="https://www2.lehigh.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lehigh University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-passion-products-on-marketplaces">Passion products on marketplaces</h2>



Moving with the times, peer-to-peer marketplaces like Etsy, Fiverr, and UpWork are flourishing, with projections indicating their value could reach an astonishing $355 billion by 2025, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.



Here, traditional quality indicators like brand names take a backseat. Instead, we find ourselves in an intimate space where sellers directly communicate the nuances of their goods and services.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-joy-of-creation">Joy of creation</h2>



It appears that the key to attracting customers might just be one's love for their work.



“We suspect that many people who choose to sell things through peer-to-peer marketplaces enjoy making them. Yet, sellers rarely mention it. For example, in the profiles of 30,000 sellers across various peer-to-peer marketplaces, only about 1% of sellers mentioned production enjoyment,” noted Paley. 



Smith said that over 15 experiments, the team found consistent evidence that buyers are more interested in, are more likely to choose, and are willing to pay more for products or services that the seller enjoys producing.



But, here’s a strange paradox - the price that sellers who truly indulge in and enjoy their work are often willing to charge is actually less than those who view their products solely as a means to make money. 



When sellers are passionate about what they do, their intrinsic motivation and genuine connection to their craft can lead them to offer more reasonable prices. 



This approach not only reflects their love for their work but also fosters a loyal customer base that appreciates the value of authenticity and quality over mere profit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychology-of-price-and-perception">Psychology of price and perception</h2>



The study interestingly investigates this anomaly between how a seller's passion influences both buyers' readiness to pay and sellers' pricing decisions. 



The results suggest that when sellers exhibit enjoyment in their work, it strikes a chord with buyers, leading to them perceiving the product or service as higher quality.



An important note to remember is that signaling enjoyment is most effective when the job demands significant skill. However, as more processes become automated, the impact of showcasing enjoyment may lessen. 



Zane provides insight, explaining that a producer's joy in crafting an item inevitably implies more dedication, leading to a presumed high quality of the product or service.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buyers-on-products-created-with-passion">Buyers on products created with passion</h2>



Despite the buyers' affirmed readiness to pay more for products crafted with passion and care, sellers generally accept and charge less for the enjoyable work they produce. 



This phenomenon often stems from a deep-rooted belief among artisans and creators that the joy and satisfaction they derive from the production process itself serve as adequate compensation for their efforts. 



Many sellers prioritize the intrinsic rewards of their craft over monetary gain, which in turn influences their pricing decisions. 



As a result, they may undervalue their work, opting to keep prices lower to make their creations more accessible to a wider audience, even when there is a clear demand for higher-priced, quality products. 



This dynamic reflects a broader tension between passion-driven work and the realities of market pricing in creative industries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-sellers">Tips for sellers</h2>



Echoing throughout the findings of the study is a <a href="https://www2.lehigh.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">valuable lesson</a> for sellers: showcasing your genuine love and passion for your work can pique buyer interest and draw them to your products and services. 



When sellers express enthusiasm and commitment, it resonates with potential customers, making them feel more connected to the brand. 



Moreover, understanding when and how to signal this enjoyment - whether through engaging storytelling, personal anecdotes, or authentic interactions - can significantly impact your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-shocking-reality-of-website-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">business</a>.



By creating an emotional connection and demonstrating a true investment in what you do, you not only foster trust but also enhance customer loyalty, ultimately leading to increased sales and long-term success.



In essence, the study's findings present the power of passion. So next time you dive into a project you enjoy, remember to share your enthusiasm.



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00222429241257913" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Marketing</a>. 



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Buyers are willing to pay more for products made with passion

Have you ever considered how much value your passion brings...

How often have you rushed out of the door in the morning, skipping the first meal of the day? Recent research reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meal-timing-has-a-major-influence-on-our-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regularity of breakfast</a> may be more significant to our overall happiness than we thought.



The research is the collective brainchild of Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) and <a href="https://www.udla.cl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad de las Americas</a>. 



Study senior author Lee Smith, a renowned professor of public health at ARU, meticulously guided his team through data obtained from nearly 150,000 children across 42 countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skipping-breakfast-vs-life-satisfaction">Skipping breakfast vs. life satisfaction</h2>



According to the study, children who frequently skip breakfast are found to have lower life satisfaction compared to their contemporaries who regularly partake in their morning meal. It's certainly food for thought!



The experts discovered a near-linear relationship between higher frequency of breakfast consumption and greater life satisfaction among children and adolescents aged 10 to 17 years across these nations, including Britain.



The healthiest dollop of life satisfaction was observed in participants who ate breakfast daily. On the flip side, those who never partook in breakfast had the lowest life satisfaction scores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-habits-around-the-world">Food habits around the world</h2>



The cultural diversity of food habits around the globe was evident in this study as well. Notably, Portuguese children who ate breakfast every day reported the highest levels of life satisfaction. 



In stark contrast, the lowest life satisfaction was found among children from Romania who never ate breakfast.



Even among the breakfast-eating population, not all countries fare the same. The study noted that children in England who had breakfast daily, did not score as high, coming in fifth in life satisfaction scores just ahead of Romania, Hungary, Germany, and Austria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-breakfast-and-happiness">Science behind breakfast and happiness</h2>



So, what's prompting this apparent correlation between breakfast and happiness? Professor Smith sheds light on some likely factors. Prior studies have indicated a link between low mood among adolescents who skip breakfast and higher instances of anxiety, stress, and depression.



Adding to this, breakfast sets the tone by providing the necessary energy and nutrients for optimal cognitive functioning. It's like oiling the gears for the day ahead, enhancing crucial functions such as concentration, memory, and learning.



Our daily breakfast also serves a cocktail of essential vitamins and minerals. Skipping these nutrients could potentially lead to lower life satisfaction over time. Plus, the regular routine of having breakfast can bring structure and a positive tone to the rest of your day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakfast-choices-and-their-impact">Breakfast choices and their impact</h2>



The type of breakfast consumed also plays a pivotal role in shaping life satisfaction levels. The study highlighted that the nutritional quality of breakfast can significantly affect both physical and mental health. 



Nutrient-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and dairy, are linked to improved mood and cognitive function. In contrast, sugary cereals and processed foods may lead to energy crashes and negatively impact emotional stability. 



As children are increasingly exposed to the lure of convenience foods, prioritizing wholesome breakfast options could serve as a simple yet effective strategy to enhance overall well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-avoid-skipping-breakfast">How to avoid skipping breakfast</h2>



Understanding the profound effects of breakfast on happiness underscores the importance of fostering healthy eating habits from a young age. 



Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">promote the knowledge</a> of the benefits of a nutritious breakfast. 



Schools could play an essential role by incorporating breakfast programs that not only provide healthy options but also educate students about the significance of nutrition in their daily lives. 



By instilling these habits early, we cultivate an environment where children savor the benefits of breakfast, ultimately paving the way for a healthier, happier generation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakfast-is-more-than-just-food">Breakfast is more than just food</h2>



However, there is a caveat. The study found that cultural diversity, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-human-diets-pose-many-risks-health-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyles</a>, and socio-economic factors also had a significant influence, hence the inconsistencies between countries. 



Despite this, the conclusion was unanimous: Regardless of the country, life satisfaction is higher in those who eat breakfast.



So, taking the time to enjoy a morning meal could be a recipe for not just a healthy day, but a happier life too. It's more than just food on the plate; it's nourishment for your body, mind, and perhaps even your happiness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-024-00979-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Nutrition</a>.



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Children who eat breakfast are happier in life

How often have you rushed out of the door in...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/western-diet-identified-as-major-cause-of-colon-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer</a> is a highly complex, multifaceted disease that places a substantial health burden all over the world. Since treatment is many times unsuccessful, especially if cancer is detected late, recent years have witnessed a significant surge in devising prevention strategies.



Many cancer prevention strategies are focused on dietary changes and the consumption of certain dietary supplements. However, the precise role of nutrition in cancer prevention is not yet fully understood.&nbsp;



Now, a review study published in the journal <a href="https://www.xiahepublishing.com/2835-3315/CSP-2023-00001" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer Screening and Prevention</a> has attempted to provide more comprehensive dietary guidelines to prevent this frequently lethal disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-cancer-prevention-nbsp">Diet and cancer prevention&nbsp;</h2>



“Diet and supplements have a significant impact on the causes and prevention of cancer. It is generally accepted that nutrition plays an important part in cancer incidence,” wrote the study authors.



“However, even after decades of epidemiological research, several inconsistencies arise as to how exactly specific dietary factors are linked to cancer prevention, limiting the establishment of firm conclusions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-increasing-cancer-risk">Factors increasing cancer risk</h2>



It is generally agreed in the scientific world that factors such as obesity, or intake of high-calorie foods, sugary beverages, and processed products increase cancer risk.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obesity">Obesity</h3>



Studies have found that obesity is linked to 14 percent of cancer deaths in men and 20 percent in women, with specific products such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-red-meat-risk-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red meat</a>, alcohol, or aflatoxins being related to the development of a variety of cancer types.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruits-and-vegetables-nbsp">Fruits and vegetables&nbsp;</h3>



On the other hand, consuming a high intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains appears to play a major role in cancer prevention.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamins-and-micronutrients">Vitamins and micronutrients</h3>



Moreover, various micronutrients and antioxidants found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-dietary-supplement-proven-to-combat-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary supplements</a>, such as vitamin B12, C, D, selenium, folic acid, and carotenoids have also been shown to prevent the development of carcinogenic tumors and increase overall health. Yet, their indiscriminate use can be dangerous, as many studies attest. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-extracts-and-cancer-prevention-nbsp">Plant extracts and cancer prevention&nbsp;</h2>



Another promising direction of research in cancer prevention has focused on plant extracts such as polyphenols, which were found to prevent cancer emergence and development.&nbsp;



Polyphenols are mostly found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts and can be classified into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-onions-antioxidants-flavonoids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavonoids</a>, phenolic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and other compounds.



“The main polyphenols found in plants are flavonoids and phenolic acids, which make up about 30% and 60% of all naturally occurring polyphenols, respectively,” noted the researchers.&nbsp;



“Some forms of cancer are well-protected against polyphenols: They have toxic effects on cells that can limit the growth of tumors and that cause apoptosis.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-effects-of-polyphenols-nbsp">Protective effects of polyphenols&nbsp;</h2>



According to the study authors, polyphenols appear to be effective chemopreventive drugs due to a number of protective actions they exhibit, including cell cycle signaling modification, activation of antioxidant enzymes, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest.



“The antioxidants (present in fruits, vegetables, and nuts) help to repair cells, have anti-inflammatory properties, and reduce excessive free radical formation in the body, which is the main mechanism of action of cancer cells.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-diet-and-cancer-prevention">Connecting diet and cancer prevention </h2>



The researchers also noted that data from epidemiological, preclinical, and clinical research have made a significant contribution to the knowledge connecting diet and cancer prevention.



However, up to date, there is only a limited understanding of the fundamental relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-improves-health-in-women-with-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> and cancer prevention. 



In addition, as the researchers argued, dietary supplements should not be administered indiscriminately since they may also have negative effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-conclusive-evidence">Lack of conclusive evidence </h2>



“Cancer research is challenging, and it is never easy to determine the true impact of just one of these factors because several lifestyle factors also have an impact on the risk of cancer. This is an important point regarding the efficacy of diet and supplements in the prevention of cancer,” noted the study authors.



“There is currently no conclusive evidence in favor of any one dietary regimen for lowering the risk of cancer.”



Yet, as they repeatedly stress, the findings of various studies indicate that general dietary modification has a positive impact on the prevention of cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The experts concluded that while diet and dietary supplements enable cancer patients to actively participate in their care, it is important to make sure that the patient is aware of the risks associated with forgoing proven conventional treatments.



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Which dietary changes are best for cancer prevention?

Cancer is a highly complex, multifaceted disease that places a...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-forecast-the-future-of-monarch-butterflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monarch butterflies</a>, easily identifiable by their vivid orange and black wings, are facing a serious threat due to the disappearance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-milkweed-could-save-the-eastern-monarch-butterfly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milkweed</a>, their sole food source as caterpillars.&nbsp;



The reduction of milkweed has put monarch populations at risk of extinction.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-milkweed-gardens-for-monarchs">Urban milkweed gardens for monarchs</h2>



Recent research published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ecology-and-evolution/articles/10.3389/fevo.2024.1444460/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution</a> indicates that urban milkweed gardens can play a crucial role in providing habitat for monarchs.&nbsp;



Study lead author Karen Klinger is a geographic information systems analyst in the Keller Science Action Center at the <a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Field Museum</a>.



“In this study, we found that monarchs can find the milkweed, wherever the milkweed is, even if it’s in planters on balconies and rooftops,” said Klinger.&nbsp;



“Milkweed gardens can be in all shapes and sizes, and any milkweed garden can contribute habitat for monarchs.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monarch-migration-relies-on-milkweed">Monarch migration relies on milkweed</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> of monarchs is one of the most extraordinary among insects, involving a multi-generational journey from Mexico to Canada and back.&nbsp;



The eastern monarch population starts in Mexico and travels northward, laying eggs on milkweed plants along the way. Each generation moves further north until they reach southern Canada.&nbsp;



At the end of summer, a special “super generation” of butterflies makes the long trip back to Mexico to overwinter.



This migration pattern heavily relies on the availability of milkweed, which has drastically decreased due to the use of pesticides in agriculture, particularly in the Midwest.&nbsp;



As a result, monarch populations have plummeted, leading to their consideration for endangered species status by the <a href="https://www.iucn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Union for Conservation of Nature</a> and the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Fish and Wildlife Service</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-urban-milkweed">Decline in urban milkweed </h2>



“If we don’t do anything soon, monarchs are going to be in serious trouble,” warned Aster Hasle, a lead conservation ecologist at the Field Museum’s Keller Science Action Center and co-author of the paper.



Given the decline in rural milkweed, scientists have explored the potential of urban milkweed gardens to fill the gap.&nbsp;



“There was a call for all hands on deck, to plant milkweed across all sectors of the landscape, but people discounted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-nature-affect-human-health-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban areas</a>, because if you look at some mapping of urban areas, it looks like it’s completely developed, with no availability for milkweed plants,” Klinger explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milkweed-plants-in-urban-settings-nbsp">Milkweed plants in urban settings&nbsp;</h2>



Klinger was involved in a 2019 study by Field Museum scientists, which demonstrated that urban areas could support milkweed in various locations, such as yards, alleyways, and rooftops.&nbsp;



The recent follow-up study engaged over 400 community scientists who monitored milkweed plants in their urban settings for monarch eggs and caterpillars.



The team collected extensive data over four years, totaling 5,905 observations from 810 milkweed patches.&nbsp;



The results showed that monarchs are attracted to gardens with common milkweed and a diversity of blooming plants, which provide necessary nectar. Moreover, mature milkweed plants were more effective in supporting monarch reproduction.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-gardens-and-monarch-conservation-nbsp">Urban gardens and monarch conservation&nbsp;</h2>



“We encouraged participants who had planters on balconies, who had planters on rooftop decks, and we saw some of the most amazing things,” Klinger recalls, noting one instance where a rooftop planter housed five large caterpillars.



These findings underscore the importance of urban gardens in monarch conservation. While larger gardens with a variety of plants are ideal, even small contributions can make a significant difference. “Plant the species that works the best for you and your garden,” Klinger advised.&nbsp;



In support of these efforts, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the MONARCH Act, which restricts homeowners associations from prohibiting native plantings and provides assistance for creating native and pollinator-friendly gardens.



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



Monarchs serve as indicators of broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-ecosystems-are-needed-to-prevent-future-pandemics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological health</a>, as their extensive migration covers a vast area.&nbsp;



“Monarchs need a lot of the things that other insects need, like blooming flowers, so what’s good for monarchs is good for other pollinators too. And we’re in the midst of a global insect decline, so it’s important to help,” Hasle said.&nbsp;



Supporting urban milkweed planting not only aids monarchs but also benefits the broader ecosystem, highlighting the critical role of these efforts in conservation.



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Milkweed gardens are needed to save monarch butterflies

Monarch butterflies, easily identifiable by their vivid orange and black...

The humble pot, pan, or vacuum cleaner may pop into our minds when we talk about household work. While the physical aspect of these chores, especially done by mothers, does indeed carry weight, there's an often-overlooked factor. It's something less tangible yet just as taxing – the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-report-excess-burnout-due-to-unrealistic-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive load</a> of household management. Now, what if this mental load of household chores could affect their health?



The research was carried out at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a>, led by Darby Saxbe, a Professor of Psychology, and Lizzie Aviv, a Ph.D. Candidate in Psychology. They have unraveled the 'invisible' aspect of household labour.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-load-of-household-chores">Mental load of household chores</h2>



Physical tasks are a big part of housework. But it turns out there's another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-often-feel-lonely-burnt-out-parenting-demands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sphere of work</a> entailing anticipation, planning, organizing, and delegation.



Ever wondered who's responsible for remembering when to get more dish soap? Or who decides which vegetables need to be chopped for that stew? That is cognitive housework.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unequal-burden-of-chores-for-mothers">Unequal burden of chores for mothers</h2>



In their study, Saxbe and Aviv reveal how this cognitive part of housework is split even more unequally between partners than the physical part.



And the impact? Women, especially, mothers, who bear the brunt of this cognitive load tend to experience higher levels of depression, stress, relationship dissatisfaction, and burnout.



In their research, the researchers asked 322 mothers of young children about who handled 30 common household tasks. Intriguingly, on average, mothers reported performing about 73% of all cognitive household work and 64% of physical work in contrast to their partners' 27% and 36% respectively.



"Our study is one of the first to investigate the cognitive dimension of household labor and its effects on maternal mental health. Cognitive labor may be particularly taxing for women because it often runs behind the scenes and goes&nbsp;unacknowledged or unappreciated by others. It also pulls mental energy away from other priorities," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chores-and-mothers-health">Chores and mothers' health</h2>



Such disparities in the division of household work are not just about who does the dishes or laundry. They play an important role in global gender equality, affecting women's participation in paid work, as well as their health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-top-concerns-of-parents-as-kids-return-to-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">well-being</a>.



While this research is certainly eye-opening, it does rely heavily on self-reported data from mothers in heterosexual relationships. Future studies could include both partners and explore diverse relationship configurations. 



Plus, the long-term effects of this unequal cognitive labor division on women's mental health and cognitive functioning are still largely unknown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-mental-load-of-chores">Addressing the mental load of chores</h2>



To address the cognitive labor imbalance, both individuals and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/maternal-mortality-the-overlooked-needs-of-mothers-after-childbirth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">families</a> can adopt practical strategies that foster equality in household responsibilities. 



Open communication between partners is essential; discussing expectations and dividing tasks based on personal strengths and preferences can alleviate the mental load shouldered by one individual. 



Additionally, implementing shared planning tools, such as family calendars or task management apps, can serve as a visual cue that encourages collaboration and accountability. 



By actively engaging both partners in housework planning, the invisible burden of cognitive labor can be more evenly distributed, leading to better mental health outcomes and relationship satisfaction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



As we strive for a more equitable division of household responsibilities, raising awareness about the nuances of cognitive labor is crucial. Educational initiatives that highlight the unseen aspects of household management can empower individuals to recognise and discuss their experiences. 



Moreover, societal changes - such as advocating for policies that support work-life balance and promote shared parental responsibilities - are essential to foster an environment where both partners can contribute to household tasks equally.



Raising this collective consciousness can ultimately shift cultural perceptions around gender roles in domestic settings, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced future for families everywhere.



Next time you see a mom, remember there's likely a whole load of unseen work she's responsible for - and this "mental load" can be a major stress factor. 



As Saxbe and Aviv suggest, it's high time we acknowledged this issue. From couples therapists to premarital relationship educators, everyone needs to pay attention to this under-recognized aspect of domestic work.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00737-024-01490-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archives of Women s Mental Health</a>.



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Moms are more worried about chores, and it's a heavy mental load

The humble pot, pan, or vacuum cleaner may pop into...

Our life story might have begun with a bolt from the blue, quite literally. This is not mere illusion or flight of fancy, but a revelation from a diligent group of chemists from <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>. 



In a scientific endeavor, remarkable for its ingenuity, the team attempted to reenact the drama of early Earth in their laboratory. Among the results, a surprising protagonist emerged - cloud-to-ground lightning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-our-beginnings">Rethinking our beginnings</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origin of life on Earth</a> is a real head-scratcher. For years, scientists have been piecing together this grand jigsaw. Comets or asteroids depositing vital materials on Earth's surface and lightning strikes between clouds were once strong contenders in this cosmic lottery.



However, as these theories were inspected and dissected, they seemed less and less likely. For instance, collisions from space objects became rare soon after our planet formed. 



Not to mention, lightning zapping between clouds turned out to be an inefficient method to produce the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgotten-chemical-reactions-offer-clues-to-lifes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessary materials</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-s-impact-on-life-s-origins">Lightning's impact on life's origins</h2>



That's where the team from Harvard brings a new narrative to the table. The experts suggest that cloud-to-ground lightning strikes may be the unsung heroes in the genesis of life.



To validate their hypothesis, they turned their lab into a mini early Earth. With great precision, they simulated lightning strikes across air, water, and land replicas in this controlled environment. 



They then meticulously studied the products formed after these electric performances - in particular, the aftermath in the water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-and-the-molecules-for-life">Lightning and the molecules for life</h2>



The findings were enlightening. The experts observed that both carbon and nitrogen underwent a transformation into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-oxygen-discovery-deep-ocean-no-photosynthesis-baffles-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecules</a> that could have been early building blocks of life.



For instance, carbon morphed into carbon monoxide and formic acid, while nitrogen transformed into nitrite, nitrate and ammonium.



The researchers brought in some rocky recruits – minerals similar to those that would have adorned early Earth's landscape. After repeating the simulated lightning strikes and analyses, they discovered sulfide minerals, akin to those found near volcanic eruptions, were produced.



A noticeable spike in ammonia production was also observed, a molecule crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life on our planet</a>.



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



As we stand at the intersection of chemistry and astrophysics, the prospects for future investigations are tantalizing. The Harvard team's work opens avenues for exploring how lightning could play a role in the nascent stages of life on exoplanets with aqueous environments. 



Could similar electrical phenomena catalyze life-sustaining chemical reactions elsewhere in the universe? 



These questions shift our gaze from a singular focus on Earth to a more expansive view of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biggest-known-space-cloud-of-life-building-complex-chemicals-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life potential</a> across the cosmos. 



By integrating experimental laboratory work with astronomical observations, we move closer to unraveling one of the most profound mysteries: Are we alone in the universe, or does life flourish in hidden corners of our galaxy?



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



The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical musings about life's origins. Understanding the mechanisms by which lightning interacts with different elemental compositions offers profound insights into planetary chemistry as a whole. 



Moreover, the conditions replicated in Harvard's laboratory can serve as a model to guide astrobiologists in identifying exoplanets that might harbor similar life-sustaining processes. 



By examining the chemical signatures in the atmospheres of distant worlds, scientists can look for indicators of such energetic interactions, hinting at the potential for life. 



In a universe teeming with possibilities, each revelation from our own planet enhances our understanding of life's resilience and adaptability, pushing the boundaries of what we consider habitable environments. As these inquiries continue, they ignite an ever-growing curiosity about our role in the cosmic narrative.



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



The intriguing findings from Harvard add a new, electrifying chapter to the narrative of life's origin on Earth. 



The team posits that cloud-to-ground lightning strikes appear to be more adept at creating the building blocks for life than comets, asteroids or cloud-to-cloud lightning strikes.



"Cloud-to-ground lightning strikes could have generated high concentrations of reactive molecules locally, establishing diverse feedstocks for early life to emerge and survive globally," concluded the researchers.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2400819121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Lightning may have delivered the building blocks of life to Earth

Our life story might have begun with a bolt from...

Cotton is an integral part of everyday life, being used in everything from clothing to bed linens.&nbsp;As climate change intensifies, cotton farmers face the threat of lower yields due to challenges like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> and heat. 



However, new research offers hope for developing drought-resistant cotton varieties.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-cotton-production-nbsp">Global cotton production&nbsp;</h2>



The study authors noted that upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is the world's top renewable textile fiber, supporting a multibillion-dollar industry with a global production of 120.2 million bales of cotton.&nbsp;



“It is a major economically important crop for the U.S. and for Arizona, where upland cotton is planted on ∼50 000 ha, mainly in the semi-arid environment of the low desert using surface irrigation to complement limited <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forecast-more-extreme-precipitation-ahead/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation</a>,” wrote the researchers.



“Cotton productivity in semi-arid areas of the Southwestern U.S. is severely threatened by global climate change.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-drought-risk">Climate change and drought risk</h2>



The experts pointed out that increasing climatic variability is responsible for hotter summers, with day and night temperatures far above the thermal optimum (30/22 °C) for the crop, and lower and erratic rainfall patterns which expose cotton plants to an increasing risk of drought.&nbsp;



“Therefore, revealing the physio-genetics mechanisms that regulate cotton's response to arid conditions is of primary interest,” wrote the researchers.



“Specifically, this information can be leveraged for the development of new elite cotton cultivars with improved adaptation to hotter and drier climatic conditions that are predicted in the near future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cotton-responds-to-water-stress">How cotton responds to water stress</h2>



In their recent study, published in the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pbi.14402" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant Biotechnology Journal</a>, the team examined how 22 varieties of upland cotton respond to drought conditions in Arizona's low desert.&nbsp;



The researchers identified two key regulatory genes, GhHSFA6B-D and GhDREB2A-A, that are crucial for helping cotton plants manage water stress while maintaining fiber production.&nbsp;



These genes function like conductors, orchestrating other genes involved in drought response and fiber development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-tolerance-and-fiber-yield">Stress tolerance and fiber yield</h2>



“We were excited to discover this direct link between stress tolerance and fiber yield maintenance,” said study co-author Andrew Nelson, an assistant professor at the <a href="https://btiscience.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boyce Thompson Institute</a>. 



“It appears that over time, cotton plants have evolved this regulatory mechanism to help them cope with dry conditions while still producing the fibers that are so economically important.”



A particularly notable discovery involved the gene GhIPS1-A, which produces an enzyme that helps protect plants from drought stress.&nbsp;



The researchers observed that only one copy of this gene, inherited from the cotton plant's African ancestors, responds to the regulatory gene GhHSFA6B-D. This suggests that the cotton plant's drought resilience has deep evolutionary roots, predating its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-origin-of-horse-domestication-has-finally-been-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domestication</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fiber-production-in-drought-stressed-plants-nbsp">Fiber production in drought-stressed plants&nbsp;</h2>



The study also revealed a tiny genetic variation near the GhIPS1-A gene that appears to influence fiber production under water-limited conditions.&nbsp;



“This single DNA letter change was associated with higher fiber production in drought-stressed plants,” noted study co-author Duke Pauli, an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>. “Such small genetic differences could be valuable targets for breeders looking to develop more resilient cotton varieties.”



Given the increasing frequency and severity of droughts due to climate change, the development of cotton varieties that can thrive with less water is crucial.&nbsp;



The research provides valuable insights and genetic targets to guide these breeding efforts. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining genetic diversity among cotton varieties, as the range of drought responses observed underscores the need for adaptability in crops facing changing conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regulatory-mechanism-conserved-across-time">Regulatory mechanism conserved across time</h2>



According to the experts, the specialized regulatory mechanism they identified in this study seems to have emerged in cotton well before domestication, most likely reflecting an evolutionary conserved stress response mechanism, similar to that observed in Arabidopsis.&nbsp;



However, this mechanism appears to have undergone additional selection after speciation in order to provide evolutionary advantages under water-limited conditions.&nbsp;



Further research is needed to clarify these mechanisms and develop breeding methods suited to the ongoing environmental crisis.



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



In a world grappling with environmental challenges, understanding how critical crops like cotton respond to stress at the molecular level is vital.&nbsp;



This study not only advances scientific knowledge but also lays the groundwork for more resilient and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-diversity-is-key-to-sustainable-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable agriculture</a> amidst climate change.&nbsp;



The insights gained from this research are essential for ensuring the continued availability of cotton, a staple of the global textile industry, in the face of an uncertain environmental future.



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Genetic secrets of cotton will make it more climate resilient

Cotton is an integral part of everyday life, being used...

Chrononutrition is rapidly gaining attention among established and budding health enthusiasts who have long been concerned with the age-old question: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-not-overeating-but-what-we-eat-that-causes-weight-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What should we eat</a>?



However, recent advancements in nutrition science suggest that we may need to broaden our perspective beyond "what" to include "when."



Emerging research supports the idea that the timing of our meals, in relation to our circadian rhythm and metabolism, can substantially influence our general health and well-being.



In a special publication dedicated to the field of chrononutrition, the complex interplay between temporal eating patterns, circadian rhythms, and metabolism is dissected to ascertain the optimal dietary practices for health. 



The reports, published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics</a>, delve into the impact of various fasting regimes, safety guidelines, and practical advice for the everyday individual.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chrononutrition-a-growing-area-of-interest">Chrononutrition: A growing area of interest</h2>



Chrononutrition is undoubtedly a growing area of interest, and the <a href="https://www.uic.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Chicago</a> is at the helm of exploring this pioneering field. 



Dr. Krista Varady is an influential scholar in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition with over 15 years of research experience.



"Intermittent fasting has emerged as one of the most popular diets for weight loss in recent years. The diet can be defined, in basic terms, as periods of eating, alternated with periods of not eating," said Dr. Varady.



This honorable guest editor is known for her expertise in intermittent fasting for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-protein-with-intermittent-fasting-better-weight-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight loss</a> and lowering the risk of metabolic diseases in obese adults. 



Dr. Varady simplifies complex dietary regimes including time-restricted eating, alternate day fasting, and the 5:2 diet. She has meticulously explored the effects of these dietary patterns on body weight, disease risk, and sleep and exercise performance in human subjects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clinical-implications-of-chrononutrition">Clinical implications of chrononutrition</h2>



Linda G. Snetselaar, a distinguished professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the <a href="https://uiowa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a>, serves as editor-in-chief of the journal. 



"The findings presented in this special issue have important clinical implications. I believe the timing of eating will become increasingly important as we address dietary interventions related to chronic disease risk factors," noted Professor Snetselaar.



The journal issue includes a pioneering study that scrutinized the feasibility of eating within an 8-hour window as a strategy for weight loss and glucose management among adolescents with obesity and new-onset type 2 diabetes.



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



In addition to its impressive array of scientific studies, the special publication also features valuable insights from early-career investigators. A standout example is an enlightening paper exploring correlations between meal <a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timings</a> and sleep health among young adults.



Another compelling read in the <a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issue</a> investigates the diverse factors that can influence adherence to time-restricted eating practices. This particular study was led by Sydney G. O’Connor from the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research at the National Institutes of Health.



"Dietary adherence is the strongest predictor of successful weight loss and maintenance; therefore, identifying dietary strategies that facilitate adherence is a priority in the field of behavioral weight management," said O’Connor.



As more people grow weary of traditional calorie-restrictive diets, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/intermittent-fasting-could-be-the-key-to-better-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intermittent fasting</a> regimes provide a refreshing alternative that allows participants to "watch the clock."



"Many people stop adhering to standard diets that restrict calories because they become frustrated with having to regularly monitor food intake day in and day out," said Dr. Varady.



She noted that although fasting regimens are no more effective than other diet interventions for weight management, these protocols offer individuals an alternative, straightforward approach to addressing obesity by omitting the need for calorie counting. 



"While weight loss is important, having a diet with a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes is paramount in maintaining a replete nutritional status. These foods can be both inexpensive and culturally appropriate."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-technology-in-chrononutrition">The role of technology in chrononutrition</h2>



As the field of chrononutrition continues to evolve, technology is playing an increasingly vital role in helping individuals track their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-eating-patterns-reduce-the-risk-of-premature-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating patterns</a> and optimize their dietary habits. 



Mobile apps designed for meal timing and intermittent fasting are gaining popularity, enabling users to monitor their food intake with ease and precision. These tools not only remind users when to eat but also provide insights into how meal timing affects their energy levels and overall well-being.



Emerging research suggests that wearable devices can also contribute to our understanding of chrononutrition by tracking biological markers related to circadian rhythms, such as sleep patterns and activity levels. 



By combining data from these technologies, individuals can gain a comprehensive view of how their eating habits align with their body's natural rhythms, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective dietary strategies.



The future of chrononutrition may well be intertwined with advancements in technology, paving the way for improved dietary interventions. As we gain access to these tools, we can empower individuals to make informed choices about when to eat, enhancing their journey toward optimal health and wellness.



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Meal timing has a major influence on our health

Chrononutrition is rapidly gaining attention among established and budding health...

A recent study reveals that losing close family members, such as a parent, partner, sibling, or child, can accelerate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological aging</a>. The results suggest that losing multiple loved ones has an even more profound influence on health and aging.



The research was conducted by experts at the <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health</a> and the <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/centers/robert-n-butler-columbia-aging-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Butler Columbia Aging Center</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-loved-ones-and-the-aging-process">Losing loved ones and the aging process</h2>



The study indicates that individuals experiencing such losses exhibit signs of older biological age compared to those who have not.&nbsp;



Biological aging refers to the gradual decline in cellular and organ function, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. This aging process is measured using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetic clocks</a>, which are DNA markers.



“Few studies have looked at how losing a loved one at different stages of life affects these DNA markers, especially in study samples that represent the U.S. population,” said Allison Aiello, PhD, the James S. Jackson professor of health longevity in epidemiology and the study's lead author.&nbsp;



“Our study shows strong links between losing loved ones across the life course from childhood to adulthood and faster biological aging in the U.S.”



The research, which was conducted in collaboration with the <a href="https://www.cpc.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Population Center</a> at UNC Chapel Hill, suggests that the effects of loss on aging manifest well before middle age and may contribute to health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups. 



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



The researchers analyzed data from the <a href="https://addhealth.cpc.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health</a>, which began in 1994-95. This study has tracked participants from adolescence into adulthood.



To assess familial loss during childhood or adolescence, Aiello and her colleagues followed participants through several data collection waves. The initial wave surveyed 20,745 adolescents aged 12-19, with follow-ups continuing through Wave V, which took place from 2016 to 2018.&nbsp;



In the latest wave, around 4,500 participants provided blood samples for DNA testing to measure biological aging markers.



The researchers examined losses experienced up to age 18 (childhood or adolescence) and from ages 19 to 43 (adulthood). They also considered the cumulative number of losses.&nbsp;



Biological aging was evaluated using epigenetic clocks, including the DunedinPACE clock, developed by Aiello’s Aging Center colleague Dan Belsky and collaborators at <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-losing-loved-ones">Effects of losing loved ones</h2>



The study revealed that nearly 40 percent of participants experienced at least one significant loss in adulthood between the ages of 33 and 43. Loss of a parent was more common during adulthood (27 percent) compared to childhood and adolescence (6 percent).&nbsp;



Notably, a higher proportion of Black (57 percent) and Hispanic (41 percent) participants reported experiencing at least one loss compared to White participants (34 percent).



Those who experienced two or more losses showed signs of accelerated biological aging according to multiple epigenetic clocks. The study highlighted that experiencing multiple losses in adulthood was more closely associated with accelerated biological aging than experiencing just one or no losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-stages-of-life-are-more-vulnerable-nbsp">Some stages of life are more vulnerable&nbsp;</h2>



“The connection between losing loved ones and health problems throughout life is well-established,” Aiello said. “But some stages of life might be more vulnerable to the health risks associated with loss, and the accumulation of loss appears to be a significant factor.”



The study emphasizes that loss during any life stage can have profound health implications. However, losses during critical developmental periods, such as childhood or early adulthood, may have more severe consequences.&nbsp;



The trauma from losing a close family member can lead to mental health issues, cognitive problems, increased risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-diet-may-save-your-life-six-key-foods-lower-the-risk-of-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, and a higher likelihood of premature death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-loved-ones-during-formative-years">Losing loved ones during formative years </h2>



Aiello and her co-authors stress that while loss at any age can have enduring health impacts, the consequences may be more pronounced during formative years.&nbsp;



“We still don’t fully understand how loss leads to poor health and higher mortality, but biological aging may be one mechanism as suggested in our study," said Aiello.



"Future research should focus on finding ways to reduce disproportionate losses among vulnerable groups. For those who experience loss, providing resources for coping and addressing the trauma is essential."



The findings underscore the need for comprehensive support systems to help individuals cope with significant losses, aiming to mitigate the adverse health effects associated with accelerated biological aging. This study provides critical insights into the intersection of psychological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-can-cause-muscle-decline-adult-life/">trauma</a>, aging, and public health.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.21869">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Losing loved ones can speed up biological aging

A recent study reveals that losing close family members, such...

Shellfish waste is emerging as a revolutionary solution to the persistent problem of short shelf life for produce and fruits - a challenge that has cost consumers and the agricultural industry millions of dollars each year. 



This unexpected ally in the fight against food waste has come to light through research conducted by the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>.



The innovative use of shellfish waste promises to extend the freshness and safety of agricultural harvests, potentially transforming produce preservation across the globe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-power-of-shellfish">Discovering the power of shellfish</h2>



The researchers have unlocked an extraordinary use for what was once simply regarded as disposal material - shellfish waste.



By tapping into the potential of crab and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-improve-cement-with-shrimp-shell-nanoparticles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shrimp shells</a>, the experts have ingeniously engineered a versatile material that extends the shelf life of agricultural harvests.



This remarkable innovation could dramatically transform the preservation of produce across the globe, offering a sustainable and effective solution to a longstanding problem.



The derived material forms a microscopic nanocrystal layer on treated produce, effectively removing harmful chemical residues. This not only safeguards the taste and appearance of the produce but also significantly extends its shelf life. 



The result is fresher, safer fruits and vegetables that last longer, benefiting both consumers and the agricultural industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-than-freshness">Bigger than freshness</h2>



"This work offers a viable solution to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-waste-could-be-greatly-reduced-with-better-labels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food safety</a> associated with our daily life," said Qin Wang, one of the study's collaborators.



Food safety is a crucial consideration given that pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables have been associated with severe health issues, such as increased cancer risks, Alzheimer's disease, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-shellfish-solutions-for-produce">Innovative shellfish solutions for produce </h2>



Most households use various cleaning solutions, such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and ozone, to get rid of pesticides and herbicides from their produce. 



However, these methods have proven to be either ineffective or detrimental to the produce's aesthetics and flavor. 



Moreover, the vigorous washing process often required can result in "micro-wounds" on the fruits' surface, which not only diminishes their visual appeal but also shortens their shelf life.



To combat this pervasive problem, the research team developed a novel porous material comprising chitosan, abundantly found in shellfish waste, and copper, recognized for its potent antimicrobial properties.



The material was sprayed on strawberries and proved successful in absorbing and neutralizing chemical residues. This advanced coating not only significantly increased the fruit's shelf life but can also be easily rinsed off, ensuring a safe and user-friendly consumer experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safe-and-effective-technology">Safe and effective technology </h2>



By leveraging natural waste materials, this solution offers a sustainable, effective, and consumer-friendly approach to produce preservation.



This technology is not just effective but remarkably safe too. Its components are listed in the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) category by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, ensuring that it poses no risk to consumers. 



Beyond its safety profile, the shellfish waste solution is also easy to implement, cost-effective, and highly scalable. These attributes make it a practical option for widespread adoption, from small-scale farms to large agricultural operations.



By revolutionizing the way we store and consume our produce, the technology represents a major breakthrough in food safety and preservation.



It has the potential to drastically reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/transforming-food-waste-compost-into-biodegradable-bioplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food waste</a>, enhance the nutritional quality of our diets, and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural system. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-and-environmental-impact">Sustainability and environmental impact</h2>



In addition to its benefits for food safety and shelf life, this innovative preservation technique also promotes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability</a> by addressing the issue of shellfish waste.



Each year, millions of tons of shellfish are discarded, contributing to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-deadly-and-widespread-environmental-pollutants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental pollution</a> and waste. 



By repurposing this material, researchers are not only reducing landfill contributions but also creating a valuable product that can benefit consumers and farmers alike.



This sustainable approach aligns with global efforts to minimize waste and foster circular economies. As producers and consumers become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, adopting such eco-friendly practices can contribute to a healthier planet while enhancing the quality of our food supply.



The synergy between food preservation and environmental responsibility signifies a promising future for our health and the health of our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/matter/abstract/S2590-2385(24)00323-0?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2590238524003230%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matter</a>.



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Shellfish waste can be used for fresher, safer produce

Shellfish waste is emerging as a revolutionary solution to the...

Stone,Age,Hut,Of,Reeds,In,The,Woods

Imagine what life might have been like thousands of years ago, when hunter-gatherers roamed the earth. We have an image in our minds of how the days of early humans were crafted around their survival tasks - hunting, gathering, moving, and surviving.



But, have you ever stopped to wonder what their homes might have looked like or how they organized them? 



Recent archaeological discoveries from the famous Mesolithic site of Star Carr in North Yorkshire have given us a whole new perspective, shedding light on the domestic lives of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient ancestors</a>.



Distinct behavioral patterns inside their dwellings imply that they meticulously created 'zones' for specific household chores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunter-gatherers-stone-age-houses">Hunter-gatherers' Stone Age houses</h2>



Unfolding the secrets of Star Carr, researchers from two esteemed institutions, the <a href="https://www.york.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of York</a> and the <a href="https://www.ncl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Newcastle</a>, undertook an exciting exploration. 



The microscopic study of stone tools, found within what are believed to be cone-like or dome-shaped structures, reveals intriguing details about how people lived more than 11,000 years ago.



The investigation reveals that a variety of activities such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-ancestors-woodworking-sophisticated-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">woodwork</a>, bone and antler craftsmanship, plant processing, hide tanning, meat and fish preparation likely took place inside these prehistoric dwellings. 



The spatial patterns of these activities were then meticulously plotted to understand where these activities might have occurred within the dwellings.



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



Dr Jess Bates, from the University of York, shared some surprising findings. 



“We found that there were distinct areas for different types of activity, so the messy activity involving butchery, was done in what appears to be a designated space, separate to the ‘cleaner’ tasks such as crafting bone and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-masters-woodworking-crafting-wooden-hunting-weapons/">wooden objects</a>, tools or jewelry," Dr Bates revealed.



This level of organization is unexpected. It’s well known that hunter-gatherers led a highly mobile lifestyle, necessitated by the constant need to find food and adapt to changing environments.



Yet, despite their transient existence, it seems they took a rather organized and thoughtful approach to their homes, creating designated areas for various activities, reminiscent of how we meticulously arrange our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-homo-sapiens-living-spaces-organized-similarly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">living spaces</a> today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-shelter-for-hunter-gatherers">More than just shelter for hunter-gatherers</h2>



Our homes serve more than just a functional purpose - they are imprinted with social norms, emotional attachments, and provide a sense of identity and belonging.



It seems this was as true for our distant ancestors as it is for us, reflecting a universal human desire for order and comfort.



Furthermore, there is compelling evidence suggesting that these ancient homes were kept clean and tidy, with the insides being regularly swept and maintained, indicating a surprising level of care and attention to their living environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-architecture-of-ancient-dwellings">Architecture of ancient dwellings</h2>



These early human abodes were not just functional but also showed signs of architectural thought. 



The construction of these dwellings used wood from felled trees, coverings perhaps made from plants like reeds, or animal hides. 



The reasons behind why these hunter-gatherers built such structures and continued to throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hazelnut-shells-offer-clues-ancient-landscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesolithic period</a> remain a mystery.



"In modern society we are very attached to our homes both physically and emotionally, but in the deep past communities were highly mobile so it is fascinating to see that despite this there is still this concept of keeping an orderly home space,” according to Dr Bates.



This study shows a completely new facet of the hunter-gatherer’s life, one that values the sense of home as more than just a physical space, but a realm of organization, cleanliness and social order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-community-in-domestic-life">Role of community in domestic life</h2>



The social dynamics within hunter-gatherer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-humans-used-conch-shell-sounds-to-organize-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communities</a> significantly shaped their domestic lives. These groups were tightly-knit communities that relied on cooperation and shared responsibilities. 



Archaeological evidence shows communal activities like food preparation and tool-making, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.



Social interactions likely influenced the organization of living areas, with communal spaces for group activities like storytelling or shared meals, strengthening social bonds. 



Artifacts such as decorated pottery and shared tools indicate a culture rich in collaboration and collective identity.



Emotional connections were vital, much like in modern societies. Burial practices at sites like Star Carr, where individuals were interred together, suggest a belief in interconnectedness beyond life.



Understanding these social dynamics offers a deeper appreciation of our ancestors' sophisticated social structures, balancing individual needs with communal responsibilities, making their lives meaningful beyond mere survival.



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Stone Age hunter-gatherers had a very organized domestic life

Imagine what life might have been like thousands of years...

This month had "hottest day on record" for our dear old Earth. This is not a typical summer update, but rather a revelation that should stir us all.



The main hero of our story is NASA's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a>, and the character under the spotlight is none other than Dr. Peter Jacobs of the Global Modeling and Assimilation Office.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scorching-records-of-hottest-day">Scorching records of hottest day</h2>



On July 22, 2024, the flames of history were stoked as Earth experienced its hottest day ever recorded. Not far behind, July 21 and 23 also sizzled past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-just-experienced-its-hottest-day-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previous daily records</a>, creating a heat-trilogy that surely left the world sweaty. 



It's unsettling to think these record-breaking temperatures are part of a long-term warming trend, largely caused by human activities and a generous helping of greenhouse gases.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>&nbsp;Administrator Bill Nelson describes the situation with a fitting sense of urgency. "In a year that has been the hottest on record to date, these past two weeks have been particularly brutal," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tools-of-trade">Tools of trade</h2>



The Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (<a href="https://gmao.gsfc.nasa.gov/reanalysis/MERRA-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MERRA-2</a>) and Goddard Earth Observing System Forward Processing (<a href="https://gmao.gsfc.nasa.gov/GMAO_products/NRT_products.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOS-FP</a>) systems, revealed this.



These two marvels of human invention play a critical role in collecting global observations from devices on land, sea, air, and satellites using atmospheric models.



GEOS-FP specializes in providing rapid, near-real time weather data, while MERRA-2 takes its sweet time but guarantees the quality of observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hotter-by-the-day">Hotter by the day</h2>



The data collected paints a vivid picture: daily global average temperature values from MERRA-2 for the years 1980-2022 are shown in white, values for 2023 in pink, and values from 2024 through June in red. 



As for the cream of the crop, the daily global temperature values from July 1 to 23, 2024, from GEOS-FP take the purple spot of honor.



The European Union’s Copernicus Earth Observation Programme observed similar results. It provides comprehensive data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and its impacts. 



While there are slight differences between the two analyses, both agree on a concerning trend. Temperatures are rising, and we are experiencing the hottest days on record.



The <a href="https://www.copernicus.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus Programme</a> uses satellites to monitor environmental changes. It highlights the urgency of climate issues. The program tracks more frequent heatwaves that impact ecosystems and human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worrying-trend-of-hottest-days">Worrying trend of hottest days</h2>



The latest daily temperature records succeed 13 months of consecutive monthly temperature records.



Scientists from NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies have based this analysis on the GISTEMP record, which uses surface instrumental data alone and provides a deeper view of changes in global temperatures at monthly and annual resolutions going back to the late 19th century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-hot-day">Science behind the hot day</h2>



Understanding why temperatures are rising is key to grasping the larger impact on our planet.



The primary mechanism driving these extreme conditions is the greenhouse effect. It is a natural process. Certain gases in Earth's atmosphere, like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), trap heat from the sun.



Human activities, notably the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly increased the concentrations of these greenhouse gases, intensifying the effect and leading to what we now refer to as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>.&nbsp;



Research shows that the planet has already warmed by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era, which might seem modest but carries profound consequences for weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-to-action">Call to action</h2>



As global temperature records continue to shatter, it is imperative that we confront these realities with urgency, reinforcing the necessity of sustainable practices and collective action to mitigate this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ongoing crisis</a>.



“Through our over two dozen Earth-observing satellites and over 60 years of data, NASA is providing critical analyses of how our planet is changing and how local communities can prepare, adapt, and stay safe. We are proud to be part of the Biden-Harris Administration efforts to protect communities from extreme heat,” expressed Administrator Nelson.



The rising temperatures are more than just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/march-was-the-hottest-on-record-in-alarming-10-month-streak/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statistical spikes</a>. Perhaps the next time the sun shines a little stronger, we'll remember July 22, 2024, and think about what we can do to change the course. After all, there's no Planet B.



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NASA: Earth's hottest day ever was recorded on July 22, 2024

This month had "hottest day on record" for our dear...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&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> Staff Writer 



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



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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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes why satellite images and measurements of our planet have become "essential to our survival, offering a new outlook of our world."&nbsp;



Rising sea levels pose one of the biggest societal threats associated with climate change. According to ESA, satellite altimeter missions such as Copernicus Sentinel-6 are essential in monitoring global and regional changes in sea level.



"Unbeknown to many, the island of Crete, Greece, plays an important role in the Copernicus satellite altimetry constellation and on an international stage," reports ESA.



"Satellite altimetry data have to be continuously monitored at the ESA’s Permanent Facility for Altimetry Calibration where different techniques have pioneered the use of transponders to provide the best measurements to validate satellite altimeters in space soon after launch."



Dr. Craig Donlon explains that, by understanding planet Earth through satellite measurements, we are able to find evidence of change.&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency&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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...