The Universe contains many types of massive formations that shape our understanding of how stars and galaxies group together. Astronomers have long studied these sprawling patterns, which give valuable clues about where matter gathers and where it remains thinly spread. 



These features define how cosmic evolution unfolds and guide current theories of how the universe expands.



Recently, a team of experts announced a giant find. This collection of galaxy clusters surpasses previous giants by orders of magnitude.



This study adds fresh insights by demonstrating that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interstellar-tunnel-found-that-connects-our-solar-system-to-other-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic neighborhood</a> can still surprise us with unexpected details about how matter arranges itself across unimaginable distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-clusters-distribution">Galaxy clusters distribution</h2>



Hans Böhringer from the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (<a href="https://www.mpe.mpg.de/main" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPE</a>) coordinated the effort in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Physics (<a href="https://www.mpp.mpg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPP</a>) and teams in Spain and South Africa. 



Their work relied on the ROSAT X-ray satellite’s survey, which singled out clusters of galaxies by detecting the energetic radiation these huge clusters emit. 



These data allowed the researchers to build a three-dimensional map of our cosmic vicinity.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_3D-model_credit-MPE_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_3D-model_credit-MPE_1s.webp" alt="Three-dimensional representation of the Quipu superstructure. Credit: MPE" class="wp-image-1960534"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Three-dimensional representation of the Quipu superstructure. Credit: MPE</figcaption></figure>



“If you look at the distribution of the galaxy clusters in the sky in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light-years, you immediately notice a huge structure that stretches from high northern latitudes to almost the southern end of the sky,” explains Böhringer.



By tracing each cluster’s position in space, his team pinpointed how matter spreads out in swirling patterns of galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-quipu-superstructure">The Quipu superstructure</h2>



The researchers named this discovery “Quipu,” taking inspiration from the knotted string recording system once used by the Incas. 



Observed as a long strand with smaller threads branching off, the Quipu superstructure contains 68 galaxy clusters with a combined mass of about 2.4 × 10^17 solar masses. 



Its size of roughly 1.4 billion light-years makes Quipu the largest superstructure ever accurately measured, surpassing the Sloan Great Wall’s 1.1 billion light-years.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_illustration_credit-MPE_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_illustration_credit-MPE_1s.webp" alt="Distribution of galaxies (color coding) and galaxy clusters (black dots) in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light years surrounding us. The five superstructures are marked: 1 Quipu, 2 Shapley, 3 Serpens-Corona Borealis and Hercules (overlapping in the sky), 4 Sculptor-Pegasus. The area enclosed by white lines is shadowed by the disk of the Milky Way. Credit: MPE" class="wp-image-1960536"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Distribution of galaxies (color coding) and galaxy clusters (black dots) in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light years surrounding us. The five superstructures are marked: 1 Quipu, 2 Shapley, 3 Serpens-Corona Borealis and Hercules (overlapping in the sky), 4 Sculptor-Pegasus. The area enclosed by white lines is shadowed by the disk of the Milky Way. Credit: MPE</figcaption></figure>



“This breaks the size record of all reliably measured cosmic structures,” note the researchers who compared the finding with other known formations. 



“The Quipu superstructure, end to end, is slightly longer than the <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/figure/SDSS-3D-Universe-Map-Credit-Sloan-Digital-Sky-Survey-Team-NASA-NSF-DOE_fig2_357328983" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sloan Great Wall</a>,” says J. Richard Gott III at Princeton University, who helped discover the Sloan Great Wall. “Congratulations to them for finding it.” 



The name also reflects a connection to Chile, where many distance measurements took place, and where ancient quipus are showcased in Santiago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quipu-and-cosmological-principle">Quipu and cosmological principle</h2>



Across extremely large distances, matter is believed to spread out nearly evenly. At smaller scales of about a billion light-years, it collects in superclusters and leaves behind voids. 



This balance underpins the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-order-or-chaos-universe-expansion-may-follow-a-hidden-pattern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmological principle</a>, which suggests that if we look far enough, the universe should appear uniform in every direction. 



Some experts argue these huge arrangements question that principle’s validity, with past findings triggering debates. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/great-sloan-wall_superstructure_SDSS_credit-MIT_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/great-sloan-wall_superstructure_SDSS_credit-MIT_1s.webp" alt="Sloan Great Wall of galaxies. SDSS 3D Universe Map Credit: Sloan Digital Sky Survey Team, NASA, NSF, DOE." class="wp-image-1960531"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sloan Great Wall of galaxies is 1.1 billion light years long. SDSS 3D Universe Map Credit: Sloan Digital Sky Survey Team, NASA, NSF, DOE.</figcaption></figure>



“Making observations in too small a part of the universe, which has been done earlier on, can be misleading,” says Böhringer. 



Another point comes from an ambiguous definition of the principle. “There is not yet one definition of the cosmological principle that every cosmologist agrees on,” says Alexia Lopez at the <a href="https://www.uclan.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Central Lancashire</a> in the UK. 



Meanwhile, Seshadri Nadathur at the <a href="https://www.port.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Portsmouth</a> notes that “some of those galaxies may drift apart from each other instead of collapsing in on themselves, in which case, according to some interpretations, it’s not really a bound structure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-measurements-and-consequences">Cosmic measurements and consequences</h2>



Quipu’s existence highlights how vast formations can shape calculations of cosmic expansion rates and the properties of primordial radiation left over from the early universe. 



Astronomers pay close attention to features like superclusters because they alter light paths and influence how we determine important parameters such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unknown-factors-are-accelerating-the-expansion-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble constant</a>. 



Small discrepancies can add up when researchers aim for precise numbers in modern cosmological studies.



“Even if these are only corrections of a few percent, they become increasingly important as the accuracy of cosmological observations increases,” emphasizes Gayoung Chon from the Max Planck Institute for Physics. 



This structure offers a reminder that the cosmos presents patterns on many scales. Those patterns appear to affect how we interpret data on the universe’s origin and shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> in our vicinity and beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quipu-and-the-incas">Quipu and the Incas</h2>



The Incas once managed vast territories using quipus, a system of knotted strings that helped track resources and information. 



Each knot arrangement acted like a code, revealing essential data in a form that required no written script.



Quipu’s naming borrowed that image of intertwined threads. 



Researchers see it as a nod to humanity’s long history of gathering knowledge, whether through knotted strings or advanced telescopes that trace the distribution of galaxies across cosmic depths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



The discovery underscores how ongoing surveys might uncover more structures. 



Scientists are keen to see if similar patterns exist in parts of the sky that remain less charted, which could either confirm current theories or reveal new gaps in our understanding.



Future maps will rely on technology to gather clearer data from remote regions. 



These efforts reflect a human wish to capture our place in the universe, searching for the patterns that connect everything from particles to vast congregations of galaxies.



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



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.19236" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a>.



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Largest structure ever found in the universe is 1.4 billion light years long

The Universe contains many types of massive formations that shape our understanding of how stars and galaxies group together. Astronomers have long studied these sprawling patterns, which give valuable clues about where matter gathers and where it remains thinly spread. These features define how cosmic evolution unfolds and guide current theories of how the universe expands. Recently, a team of experts announced a giant find. This collection of galaxy clusters surpasses previous giants by orders of magnitude. This study adds fresh insights by demonstrating that our cosmic...

Recent analyses have revealed surprising volcanic activity on Venus, challenging prior assumptions about its geological state. 



The discovery was made possible using data from NASA's Magellan mission, which provided comprehensive radar mapping of nearly the entire surface of Venus from 1990 to 1992. These detailed images have shown new rock formations likely caused by lava flows.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-findings-from-magellan-s-radar">Breakthrough findings from Magellan's radar</h2>



The Magellan spacecraft, managed by NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California, mapped 98% of Venus's surface, producing the most detailed images available.



Recent studies of these images have identified changes on the surface that suggest active lava flows at two significant locations. 



This builds on the groundbreaking 2023 discovery of changes at the Maat Mons volcano, providing the first direct evidence of recent volcanic activity on Venus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-evidence-of-active-volcanoes-on-venus">New evidence of active volcanoes on Venus</h2>



By comparing radar images taken at different times, scientists have observed increases in radar signal strength that point to the creation of new rock. 



Davide Sulcanese, lead researcher from <a href="https://en.unich.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">d'Annunzio University</a> in Pescara, Italy, noted that Venus "may be far more volcanically active than previously thought."



His team used comparisons with Earth's lava flows to estimate the new rock depth, discovering substantial volumes of new material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-volcanic-activity-on-venus">Confirming volcanic activity on Venus </h2>



The researchers analyzed additional data, including surface height measurements, to confirm that these changes were indeed due to volcanic activity.



Marco Mastrogiuseppe from <a href="https://www.uniroma1.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sapienza University of Rome</a> explained: "We interpret these signals as flows along slopes or volcanic plains that can deviate around obstacles like fluid."



The detailed analysis ruled out alternative explanations such as micro-dunes or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-organisms-may-be-transforming-the-clouds-around-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric effects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-future-venus-exploration">Implications for future Venus exploration</h2>



Scott Hensley, senior research scientist at JPL and co-author of the 2023 study, emphasized the significance of these findings.



"This exciting work augments the vent change we reported last year and increases the excitement in the planetary science community for future missions to Venus," said Hensley.



These discoveries underscore the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-has-lost-almost-all-of-its-water-but-why-did-it-disappear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamic nature</a> of Venus's geology and provide crucial data for upcoming missions like NASA's VERITAS.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-veritas-mission">The VERITAS mission</h2>



Scheduled for launch in the early 2030s, the VERITAS mission will employ advanced technologies to create 3D global maps and analyze the surface composition of Venus.



“These new discoveries of recent volcanic activity on Venus by our international colleagues provide compelling evidence of the kinds of regions we should target with VERITAS when it arrives at Venus,” said Suzanne Smrekar, a senior scientist at JPL and principal investigator for VERITAS.



“Our spacecraft will have a suite of approaches for identifying surface changes that are far more comprehensive and higher resolution than Magellan images. Evidence for activity, even in the lower-resolution Magellan data, supercharges the potential to revolutionize our understanding of this enigmatic world.”



The mission aims to enhance our understanding of Venus's geological processes and its distinct evolutionary path compared to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-secret-past-may-have-implications-for-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>.



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



These recent findings highlight the unexpected and ongoing volcanic activity on Venus, providing a glimpse into the planet's dynamic interior. 



As scientists continue to decipher these phenomena, the mysteries of Venus are slowly being unraveled, paving the way for future explorations that could reshape our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-hellish-planet-venus-can-help-us-find-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary science</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maat-mons">Maat Mons</h2>



Maat Mons is a large shield volcano on Venus. It is one of the highest mountains on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-environment-could-support-certain-types-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a>, with an elevation of about eight kilometers above the mean surface level. 



The volcano is situated in the northern hemisphere of Venus, within a region known as Aphrodite Terra. The volcano is characterized by its large, irregular summit caldera, which measures about 28 kilometers in diameter and three kilometers deep. 



Maat Mons is particularly interesting because of the evidence suggesting recent volcanic activity. Radar imaging from spacecraft such as Magellan has revealed lava flows on the surface that may be only a few million years old, indicating that Maat Mons could still be an active volcano.&nbsp;



This ongoing activity may be due to the relatively young and thin crust in the region, allowing for easier magma ascent. Maat Mons has become a focal point for studies on planetary volcanism.



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Venus may have far more volcanic activity than we thought

Recent analyses have revealed surprising volcanic activity on Venus, challenging...

The ingenuity of ancient Egyptian medicine in treating a variety of ailments, including cancer, is well documented through historical texts and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-diets-early-humans-richer-berries-nuts-plants-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">archaeological discoveries</a>.



Known for their advanced medical techniques, the Egyptians excelled at addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychoactive-drug-relieves-symptoms-of-traumatic-brain-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traumatic injuries</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex diseases</a>.



They were pioneers in using prostheses and performing intricate procedures like dental fillings. However, their approach to more elusive conditions, such as cancer, continues to be a subject of fascination and study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-egyptians-treating-cancer">Ancient Egyptians treating cancer</h2>



A recent investigation into the medical practices of ancient Egyptians, led by researchers from the <a href="https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a>, has shed light on their attempts to treat cancer.



The study examined two ancient skulls that reveal significant findings about the medical challenges and innovations of that era.



"Although ancient Egyptians had a grasp on treating complex cranial fractures, cancer was still a medical frontier barely touched upon by their knowledge," explained Tatiana Tondini, a researcher and the first author of the study.



These findings were published in a leading medical journal, adding a profound layer to our understanding of historical medical practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-from-the-skulls">Evidence from the skulls</h2>



The team's research centered around two skulls from the <a href="https://www.arch.cam.ac.uk/institutes-and-facilities-overview/duckworth-laboratory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge’s Duckworth Collection</a>.



The first skull, dated between 2687 and 2345 BCE, showed evidence of a neoplasm -- a big-sized lesion indicative of excessive tissue destruction, and multiple small, round metastasized lesions across the skull. 



Remarkably, around these lesions were cutmarks likely made by a sharp metal instrument.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ancient-egyptian-skull_4000-years-old_cancer-surgery_cutmarks_credit-Tondini_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ancient-egyptian-skull_4000-years-old_cancer-surgery_cutmarks_credit-Tondini_1s.jpg" alt="Cut marks found on 4000-year-old Egyptian skulls. Credit: Tondini" class="wp-image-1935757"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cut marks found on 4000-year-old Egyptian skulls. Credit: Tondini</figcaption></figure>



"When we first observed these cutmarks under the microscope, we were astonished," recounted Tondini. It appears that these early medical practitioners might have attempted some form of surgical intervention in response to cancerous growths.



"This discovery offers unique evidence of ancient Egyptian medicine's attempts to tackle or investigate cancer more than 4,000 years ago," added Prof Edgard Camarós, the study’s lead author and a noted paleopathologist.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-through-the-ages">Cancer through the ages</h2>



The second skull, dating from between 663 and 343 BCE, belonged to a female over 50 years old and displayed a large lesion consistent with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancerous tumor</a>.



This skull also bore signs of healed traumatic injuries, possibly from a violent event involving a sharp weapon, suggesting that the individual had received treatment that led to recovery.



The presence of such injuries in a female skull raises intriguing questions about gender roles in ancient conflicts. 



"Was this female individual involved in warfare activities? If so, we must rethink the role of women in the past and their active participation in conflicts during antiquity," Tondini pointed out.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-future-directions">Challenges and future directions</h2>



Despite these fascinating insights, the researchers caution that <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ancient-egyptian-skull_4000-years-old_cancer-surgery_credit-Tondini_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying skeletal remains</a> presents significant challenges.



The incomplete nature of remains and the absence of clinical history often complicate definitive conclusions.



"In archaeology, we work with a fragmented portion of the past, which complicates an accurate approach," emphasized Prof Albert Isidro, a co-author and surgical oncologist who specializes in Egyptology.



Nevertheless, this study not only enriches our understanding of ancient medical practices but also establishes a promising foundation for future research in the field of paleo-oncology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-ancient-egyptian-cancer-treatments">Exploring ancient Egyptian cancer treatments</h2>



This study not only highlights the experimental nature of ancient Egyptian medical practices but also underscores the continuity of human curiosity and endeavor across millennia in understanding and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-type-of-sugar-that-kills-honeybees-could-help-fight-cancer/">combating cancer</a>.



"More studies will be needed to untangle how ancient societies dealt with cancer," concluded Camarós, pointing towards an encouraging future for research in this intriguing area of study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-evidence-on-ancient-cancer-treatments">More evidence on ancient cancer treatments</h2>



Ancient cancer treatments extended beyond Egypt, with varied approaches across different cultures. The Edwin Smith Papyrus, an Egyptian medical text, mentions treatments for tumors using cauterization and poultices. 



However, the understanding of cancer was rudimentary, and it was often attributed to supernatural causes.



In ancient Greece, Hippocrates referred to cancer as "karkinos," suggesting surgical removal as a potential treatment. 



Galen, a Roman physician, believed in balancing bodily humors and used dietary changes and herbal remedies to treat cancer symptoms.



In India, ancient texts like the Sushruta Samhita discussed surgical techniques for removing tumors, while Ayurveda prescribed herbal treatments and lifestyle changes to manage the disease.



Traditional Chinese Medicine viewed cancer as a result of energy imbalances, treating it with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments.



Although these early efforts lacked the precision of modern medicine, they laid the groundwork for understanding and addressing cancer, highlighting humanity's enduring quest to combat this disease.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1371645/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Medicine</a>.



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4000-year-old skulls reveal ancient Egyptian attempts at cancer treatment

The ingenuity of ancient Egyptian medicine in treating a variety...

Human,Cell,Biology,Dna,Strands,And,Virus,Molecular,Structure,Illustration

Have you ever wondered if there's something hidden deep inside that is influencing our mental well-being? What if I told you the answer might lie not in our present experiences, but in remnants of ancient viral infections buried within our DNA? 



A new study from <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King's College London</a> has unearthed a fascinating connection between these "fossil viruses" and mental disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viral-code-for-mental-disorders-in-dna">Viral code for mental disorders in DNA</h2>



Imagine our ancient ancestors, facing viral infections hundreds of thousands of years ago. While their bodies fought these infections, tiny fragments of the viruses' genetic code became embedded within their DNA. 



These fragments, called Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs), were passed down through generations and now make up a significant portion of our own genetic makeup. 



For a long time, scientists believed that these HERVs were merely remnants of past infections, serving no purpose in our bodies.



However, recent advancements in the field of genomics have allowed us to explore these sequences in greater detail, revealing potential links between HERV activity and certain psychiatric disorders. 



This research suggests that HERVs, once dismissed as "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-dna-may-set-humans-apart-from-chimpanzees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">junk DNA</a>," may actually play a role in influencing our mental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-circadian-disturbances-trigger-mental-health-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-the-junk-dna-narrative">Rewriting the "junk DNA" narrative</h2>



"This study uses a novel and robust approach to assess how genetic susceptibility for psychiatric disorders imparts its effects on the expression of ancient viral sequences present in the modern human genome," explains Dr. Timothy Powell, a senior author of the study.



"Our results suggest that these viral sequences probably play a more important role in the human brain than originally thought, with specific HERV expression profiles being associated with an increased susceptibility for some psychiatric disorders."



In other words, these ancient viral remnants might be actively influencing our brains and potentially increasing our risk for certain mental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supportive-adults-help-protect-children-from-mental-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">illnesses</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viral-genes-in-mental-disorders">Viral genes in mental disorders</h2>



To unravel this mystery, the researchers analyzed genetic data from tens of thousands of individuals, both with and without mental health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-disorders-can-be-contagious-among-teens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a>. 



They also examined brain samples from 800 individuals to see how variations in DNA associated with psychiatric disorders affected HERV expression.



What they discovered was remarkable: while most genetic risk factors for mental illness impacted genes with known functions, some specifically targeted the expression of HERVs. 



The team identified five distinct HERV expression patterns linked to psychiatric disorders:



<ul>
<li>Two associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/owning-a-cat-before-age-25-doubles-the-risk-of-schizophrenia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">schizophrenia</a></li>



<li>One associated with both schizophrenia and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-changes-bipolar-disorder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bipolar disorder</a></li>



<li>One associated with depression</li>
</ul>



"We know that psychiatric disorders have a substantial genetic component, with many parts of the genome incrementally contributing to susceptibility," notes Dr. Rodrigo Duarte, the study's first author.



According to Duarte, they were able to investigate parts of the genome corresponding to HERVs, which led to the identification of five sequences that are relevant to psychiatric disorders. 



"Whilst it is not clear yet how these HERVs affect brain cells to confer this increase in risk, our findings suggest that their expression regulation is important for brain function," Duarte concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viral-frontier-in-mental-disorders-research">Viral frontier in mental disorders research</h2>



While we don't yet know exactly how these ancient viruses affect brain cells or contribute to mental illness, this research opens a whole new avenue for exploration. It suggests that these "fossil viruses" could play a more significant role in human health than we ever imagined.



"Further research is needed to understand the exact function of most HERVs, including those identified in our study," notes Dr. Douglas Nixon, another senior author. 



Nixon believes that a better understanding of these ancient viruses, and the known genes implicated in psychiatric disorders, have the potential to revolutionize mental health research and lead to novel ways to treat or diagnose these conditions.



Could these ancient viral sequences hold the key to developing new treatments or diagnostic tools for mental disorders? It's a tantalizing possibility. 



Imagine being able to pinpoint individuals at higher risk for certain mental illnesses based on their unique HERV expression profiles. Or even developing therapies that target these viral remnants to alleviate symptoms.



The research is still in its early stages, but the implications are profound. By delving into our evolutionary past, we may unlock a deeper understanding of our mental health present and future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48153-z">Nature Communications</a>.



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Ancient viral infections may lurk in DNA and cause mental disorders

Have you ever wondered if there's something hidden deep inside...

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have found that during sleep, some brain cells not only replay recent experiences but also prepare for future ones.&nbsp;



The research suggests that precognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-dreams-influence-our-perceptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a>, or dreams that predict the future, may be more than just a coincidence. The brain may actually anticipate upcoming experiences.



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



The study, conducted by researchers from <a href="https://www.rice.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a> and the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, was focused on sleep and learning. It offers new insights into how the hippocampus of rats stabilizes and tunes spatial representations after they navigate a maze for the first time.



“Certain neurons fire in response to specific stimuli,” said study co-author Professor Kamran Diba. “Neurons in the visual cortex fire when presented with the appropriate visual stimulus. The neurons we’re studying show place preferences.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-experiences-and-memory-storage">New experiences and memory storage</h2>



The experts investigated how these specialized neurons form representations of the world post-experience. They focused on sharp wave ripples, a pattern of neuronal activation crucial for consolidating new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-helps-the-brain-consolidate-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> and tagging parts of new experiences for memory storage. 



"For the first time, we have observed individual neurons stabilizing spatial representations during rest periods," noted Rice neuroscientist Caleb Kemere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-and-memory-consolidation-nbsp">Sleep and memory consolidation&nbsp;</h2>



The connection between sleep and learning has been gradually understood over many years, with significant advancements in the 20th century.&nbsp;



Research in the early 1900s began to explore sleep’s impact on cognitive functions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-breathing-impacts-memory-formation-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory consolidation</a>. 



However, it wasn't until the latter half of the 20th century that more detailed studies, using EEGs and other tools, began to clearly demonstrate sleep’s critical role in consolidating memories and learning.



This link is demonstrated by improved memory test performance following sleep compared to periods of wakefulness or sleep deprivation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-replays-experiences-during-sleep">Brain replays experiences during sleep</h2>



Previous research has also shown that neurons in the brains of sleeping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-needed-sleep-before-they-even-had-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> replay their exploration paths, helping to transform new experiences into stable memories. In the current study, the researchers sought to explore this phenomenon further.



“We imagined that some neurons might change their representations - reflecting the experience we’ve all had of waking up with a new understanding of a problem,” said Kemere.&nbsp;



“Showing this, however, required that we track how individual neurons achieve spatial tuning, i.e., the process by which the brain learns to navigate a new route or environment.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-activity-spikes-in-individual-neurons-nbsp">Activity spikes in individual neurons&nbsp;</h2>



The team trained rats to run on a raised track for liquid rewards and monitored spikes of individual neurons in the hippocampus.



By analyzing the average spiking rate, they estimated each neuron's place field - the specific area in the environment that a neuron “cared” about the most.



“The critical point here is that place fields are estimated using the behavior of the animal,” explained Kemere, noting the complexity of measuring place fields during rest.



“I’ve been thinking for a long time about how we can evaluate the preferences of neurons outside of the maze, such as during sleep,” said Diba. “We addressed this challenge by relating the activity of each individual neuron to the activity of all the other neurons.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-preferences-of-brain-cells-nbsp">Tracking the preferences of brain cells&nbsp;</h2>



This innovative approach led to a statistical machine learning method that predicted where the animal dreamed it was, allowing estimation of each neuron's spatial tuning during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a>.



“The ability to track the preferences of neurons even without a stimulus was an important breakthrough for us,” said Diba.



Both Diba and Kemere praised Kourosh Maboudi, a postdoctoral researcher at Michigan and the study's lead author, for his role in developing this method.



The machine learning technique confirmed that the spatial representations formed during new experiences are stable across several hours of post-experience sleep. However, just as the researchers expected, there was more to the story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-future-experiences-during-sleep">Predicting future experiences during sleep</h2>



“The thing that I loved the most about this research and the reason that I was so excited about it is finding that it’s not necessarily the case that during sleep the only thing these neurons do is to stabilize a memory of the experience,” said Kemere. “It turns out some neurons end up doing something else.”



“We can see these other changes occurring during sleep, and when we put the animals back in the environment a second time, we can validate that these changes really do reflect something that was learned while the animals were asleep. It’s as if the second exposure to the space actually happens while the animal is sleeping.”



This represents a direct observation of neuroplasticity occurring during sleep. Kemere noted that while most plasticity research examines waking periods, this study highlights the brain's ability to rewire and form new representations during sleep.



The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health. The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07397-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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The sleeping brain may predict future experiences

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have found that during sleep,...

For decades,&nbsp;the fiery moon Io has tantalized astronomers with its explosive volcanic activity.&nbsp;This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant world</a>,&nbsp;orbiting Jupiter,&nbsp;offers insights into the early,&nbsp;volatile period of our own solar system's history.&nbsp;



But until now,&nbsp;getting a truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clear picture of Io</a> from Earth has been a challenge.&nbsp;New images from a telescope in Arizona,&nbsp;however,&nbsp;are changing the game.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-eye-on-the-solar-system">New eye on the solar system</h2>



The Large Binocular Telescope (<a href="https://www.lbto.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LBT</a>) on Mount Graham in Arizona isn't your average Earth-based stargazing tool.&nbsp;



Equipped with a cutting-edge instrument called <a href="https://sites.google.com/inaf.it/shark-vis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SHARK-VIS</a> and an adaptive optics system to counteract atmospheric blurriness,&nbsp;the LBT has recently captured the sharpest images of Io ever taken from Earth.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/io_jupiter-moon_shark-vis_berkeley_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">These images are so detailed</a>, they rival those taken by spacecraft that have actually journeyed to Jupiter. We're talking about seeing features as small as 50 miles across -- the equivalent of spotting a dime from 100 miles away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-details-on-jupiter-s-moon-io">Details on Jupiter's moon Io</h2>



"The visible light images are really incredible,"&nbsp;says Imke de Pater,&nbsp;a professor emerita of astronomy at the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California,&nbsp;Berkeley</a>.&nbsp;De Pater has spent much of her career studying Io,&nbsp;primarily using infrared telescopes.&nbsp;



While infrared provides valuable data on heat signatures (like lava flows),&nbsp;the detail is limited.&nbsp;The LBT's new images,&nbsp;on the other hand,&nbsp;reveal the moon's topography and landscapes in a way that hasn't been possible from Earth before.



Jupiter's moon lo is the most volcanically active body in our entire solar system.&nbsp;Its surface is a constantly changing canvas of eruptions,&nbsp;lava flows,&nbsp;and colorful deposits.&nbsp;The LBT's images offer a front-row seat to this geological mayhem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dueling-volcanoes-of-jupiter-s-moon">Dueling volcanoes of Jupiter's moon</h2>



One of the most exciting revelations from the new images involves two of Io's most prominent volcanoes,&nbsp;Pele and Pillan Patera.&nbsp;



According to Ashley Davies,&nbsp;a principal scientist at NASA's <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a>,&nbsp;the images show a resurfacing event where deposits from Pillan Patera are covering over Pele's plume deposits.&nbsp;



This kind of volcanic interaction was previously only observed by the Galileo spacecraft that orbited Jupiter. "Before SHARK-VIS, such resurfacing events were impossible to observe from Earth,"&nbsp;Davies notes.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/io_jupiter-moon_cross-section-interior_berkeley_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/io_jupiter-moon_cross-section-interior_berkeley_1s.jpg" alt="Cross section diagram of the interior of Jupiter's volcanic moon, Io. Credit: UBerkeley" class="wp-image-1935739"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cross section diagram of the interior of Jupiter's volcanic moon, Io. Credit: UBerkeley</figcaption></figure>



These observations help scientists understand the complex interplay of forces within Io,&nbsp;the movement of magma beneath its surface,&nbsp;and the tidal heating process responsible for its intense volcanic activity.



Io's fiery nature is due to a constant gravitational tug-of-war with Jupiter and two of its other large moons,&nbsp;Europa and Ganymede.&nbsp;This squeezing action generates immense heat within Io,&nbsp;fueling its volcanic activity.



“Io, therefore, presents a unique opportunity to learn about the mighty eruptions that helped shape the surfaces of Earth and the moon in their distant pasts,”&nbsp;notes Al Conrad,&nbsp;an associate staff scientist at the Large Binocular Telescope Observatory and the lead author of a paper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-planetary-observation">New era of planetary observation</h2>



The SHARK-VIS instrument,&nbsp;developed by the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics,&nbsp;is ushering in a new era of high-resolution imaging from Earth.&nbsp;Its ability to freeze the blurring effects of Earth's atmosphere allows for unprecedented clarity.



"The keen vision of SHARK-VIS is particularly suited to observing the surfaces of many solar system bodies -- not only the moons of giant planets, but also asteroids,"&nbsp;says Simone Antoniucci,&nbsp;the instrument scientist for SHARK-VIS.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/io_jupiter-moon_pele-volcano-closeup-comparison_shark-vis_berkeley_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/io_jupiter-moon_pele-volcano-closeup-comparison_shark-vis_berkeley_1s.jpg" alt="Pele, Pillan Patera and Loki Patera volcanoes on Io. Credit: UBerkeley" class="wp-image-1935747"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pele, Pillan Patera and Loki Patera volcanoes on Io. Credit: UBerkeley</figcaption></figure>



These new images of Io are not just a stunning achievement in telescope technology; they're a window into the dynamic and violent processes that have shaped worlds throughout our solar system – including our own.&nbsp;



As we continue to explore the cosmos,&nbsp;both near and far,&nbsp;it's clear that our ability to see and understand is only getting sharper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-interesting-facts-on-jupiter-s-moon-io">Other interesting facts on Jupiter's moon Io</h2>



Jupiter's moon Io, the most volcanically active body in the solar system, boasts over 400 active volcanoes. Discovered by Galileo Galilei in 1610, Io's surface is dotted with volcanic pits and lava flows, constantly reshaping its landscape. 



This intense volcanic activity is driven by the immense gravitational forces exerted by Jupiter and its other large moons, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-will-deliver-a-message-to-one-of-jupiters-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ganymede</a>, which cause tidal heating in Io's interior. This process generates enough heat to maintain a subsurface layer of molten rock.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jupiter-moon-Io_juno-mission_color-closeup_credit-NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jupiter-moon-Io_juno-mission_color-closeup_credit-NASA_1s.jpg" alt="Jupiter's volcanic moon, Io, captured by Juno. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1935742"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jupiter's volcanic moon, Io, captured by Juno. Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



The moon's vivid colors, ranging from yellow to red and black, result from various sulfur compounds ejected by its volcanoes. These eruptions also contribute to Io's thin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-may-exist-on-one-of-jupiters-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>, composed mainly of sulfur dioxide. 



Io's dynamic environment offers valuable insights into planetary geology and volcanic processes, making it a fascinating object of study for scientists seeking to understand the solar system's history and the mechanics of other volcanic worlds.



The researchers will publish the images next week in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2405.19604" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Lava trails captured on Jupiter's volcanic moon Io in new images taken from Earth

For decades,&nbsp;the fiery moon Io has tantalized astronomers with its...

A recent genetic study led by the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> has found that heavy fishing at the beginning of the fishing season may result in younger Atlantic salmon that are smaller in size. 



This discovery is vital for conserving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leaving-big-fish-in-the-ocean-greatly-reduces-co2-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large fish</a>, which are essential for the diversity and sustainability of salmon populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-salmon-genetic-variant-nbsp">Large salmon genetic variant&nbsp;</h2>



Atlantic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> are typically caught during their spawning migration. The study, focusing on wild salmon in the northern Baltic Sea, revealed that early-season fishing predominantly targets salmon carrying a “large salmon genetic variant.” 



This variant is responsible for guiding salmon to grow larger and mature at an older age - an important trait for both the viability of salmon stocks and the fishing industry.



Genetic analyses of thousands of wild salmon caught between 1928 and 2020 by fisheries from the northern Baltic Sea showed that fishers consistently caught salmon with the large salmon variant more frequently in the early part of the fishing season, regardless of the year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-fishing-impacts-salmon-size">Timing of fishing impacts salmon size</h2>



“This finding suggests that the timing of fishing may cause evolutionary changes in the age and size that Atlantic salmon reach before maturation. Intensive fishing, especially in the early fishing season, may lead to the 'large salmon variant' becoming rarer and to salmon spawning at a younger age and smaller size,” explained lead author Antti Miettinen, a biologist at the University of Helsinki.



Such evolutionary impacts, resulting in fewer large salmon, would negatively affect the diversity and viability of salmon populations and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing industry</a>, which values large catches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-induced-evolutionary-selection-pressures-nbsp">Human-induced evolutionary selection pressures&nbsp;</h2>



The results of the study are crucial for understanding how human-induced evolutionary selection pressures, such as fishing, can affect wild fish populations and their important traits.&nbsp;



The largest wild Baltic salmon stock spawns in the Tornio and Kalix Rivers in northern Finland and Sweden and holds high ecological and societal value. The researchers found that early-season fishing at sea and in the Tornio River targeted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-atlantic-salmon-linked-to-humans-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> from upstream sites in the river system more often than fishing later in the season.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-impacts-of-fishing-on-salmon">Evolutionary impacts of fishing on salmon</h2>



“Fishing in the early part of the fishing season targets salmon that spawn in the headwaters of these rivers, which should be accounted for in fisheries management to ensure the viability of these salmon populations,” Miettinen explained.



“By analyzing the genetics of samples collected across the northern Baltic over many decades, this study shows how human activities could cause evolutionary changes in wild salmon populations,” said senior author Victoria Pritchard, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Highlands and Islands</a>.



“This study is a fantastic example of using genetic approaches to answer important questions about the conservation and management of biodiversity. The genetic tools designed during this project can be used to monitor the future impacts of fishing regimen changes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atlantic-salmon-nbsp">Atlantic salmon&nbsp;</h2>



Atlantic salmon is a species primarily found in the northern Atlantic Ocean and rivers that flow into this ocean. These fish are anadromous, meaning they hatch in freshwater, migrate to the ocean as they grow, and then return to freshwater to spawn.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-life-cycle">Unique life cycle</h3>



The life cycle of Atlantic salmon makes them unique among many fish species because of this long <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>, which can be quite arduous and fraught with hazards, from natural predators to human-made obstacles like dams.



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



Their appearance is distinctive, with a silver-flanked body during their ocean phase and darker, more pronounced coloring when they return to spawn.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigation">Navigation</h3>



Atlantic salmon are also known for their ability to “leap” upriver, a necessary skill to navigate upstream to their spawning grounds.



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



Historically, Atlantic salmon have been a vital part of both the ecosystem and regional economies, supporting commercial and recreational fishing industries.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-population-decline-nbsp">Population decline&nbsp;</h3>



However, their populations have faced significant declines due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution, leading to strict regulations and conservation efforts in many areas they inhabit.&nbsp;



These efforts include hatchery programs and habitat restoration projects to support their numbers and maintain their role in the biodiversity of their native regions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/eva.13690" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolutionary Applications</a>.



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Early-season fishing may shrink the size of salmon

A recent genetic study led by the University of Helsinki...

Happy,Business,People,Smile,During,A,Planning,Meeting,In,A

Navigating the pressures of the modern workplace can be akin to walking a tightrope. Tight deadlines, resource crunches, and ever-shifting priorities -- all of these can push an employee's mental and physical health to the brink, sometimes with disastrous results. 



In Belgium alone, a staggering 66.4% of individuals on disability for psychological reasons are grappling with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression or burnout</a>.



This isn't just a Belgian issue. Across the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (<a href="https://www.oecd.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OECD</a>), a significant proportion of workers (47.6%) with mental health issues have missed work in the past year. 



The question is, how do we support these individuals when they return to the very environment that may have contributed to their struggles?



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-number-of-americans-are-high-on-marijuana-at-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Employees</a> who take time off work due to mental health issues face significant challenges when returning to their jobs.



Research indicates a high likelihood of experiencing a relapse in mental health conditions,&nbsp;with a majority of these relapses happening within three years of returning to work,&nbsp;and a considerable portion within the first year itself.



Therefore,&nbsp;it's crucial to recognize that the reintegration process goes beyond simply filling an empty role.&nbsp;It is a complex process that requires a focus on the employee's well-being,&nbsp;aiming to cultivate their long-term engagement and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cognitive-stimulation-at-work-helps-prevent-memory-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productivity</a> within the company.&nbsp;



This involves providing support,&nbsp;understanding,&nbsp;and resources to help the employee successfully readjust to the workplace and maintain their mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colleagues-in-the-reintegration-process">Colleagues in the reintegration process</h2>



Successful reintegration isn't just about the relationship between an employee and their employer. It's also about the often-overlooked dynamic between the returning employee and their colleagues.



For the returning worker to be successfully reintegrated, it's essential for her or his coworkers to understand the importance of their providing support. 



This can be tricky, as reintegration measures, such as part-time work, tailored arrangements, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/workplace-stress-can-double-mens-heart-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">limited stressful tasks</a>, might be perceived as 'privileges' by other team members.



In such cases, clear communication related to employees mental health is paramount. The rationale behind these measures needs to be explained to the team, without compromising medical privacy. 



The goal is to foster understanding that these adjustments are not just about one individual, but about the long-term health and productivity of the entire team.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-workplace-mental-health">Managing workplace mental health</h2>



It's crucial to manage the team's expectations of their returning colleague. Uncertainty about what they can and can't expect can lead to friction, especially when the returning employee and employer strive to adhere to the agreed-upon work limits.



Therefore,&nbsp;it's crucial for managers to explain the rationale behind the special accommodations made for the returning employee to their colleagues,&nbsp;while being mindful of maintaining the employee's medical confidentiality.&nbsp;



This explanation should emphasize that these measures are not special treatment, but rather essential steps to safeguard the<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-men-relationship-satisfaction-can-prevent-workplace-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> long-term health</a> and productivity of the individual. 



By doing so, the entire organization benefits, as a healthy and productive employee contributes to the overall success of the team and company.



This includes being transparent about the returning employee's capabilities and limitations, and communicating the expected pace of reintegration. 



The importance of delegating tasks to the returning employee through their direct supervisor, rather than having them available to everyone, is also stressed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-reintegration-policy">Sustainable reintegration policy</h2>



Many companies still don't have well-developed and sustainable reintegration policies. They offer several starting points, which ideally form part of a broader, open approach to absenteeism:



<ul>
<li>Cultivate a supportive culture: A workplace that values mental health and understands the importance of supporting returning colleagues lays the groundwork for successful reintegration. </li>



<li>Invest in training: Equipping managers and team members with the skills to recognize mental health issues, provide support, and foster an inclusive environment is key. </li>



<li>Encourage open communication: Transparency builds trust and reduces stigma, especially when an employee takes a temporary mental health leave. Regular meetings and feedback sessions during reintegration can help address any concerns. </li>



<li>Embrace flexibility: Policies should be adaptable to the needs of returning employees, such as flexible hours or a gradual increase in workload. </li>



<li>Harness the power of peer support: Colleagues with similar experiences can offer invaluable insights and emotional support. </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-imperative-to-employees-mental-health">Strategic imperative to employees mental health</h2>



Sustainable reintegration is not simply an act of compassion for better mental health. It's a strategic imperative for employee retention and organizational resilience.



Understanding and implementing effective reintegration strategies will lead to healthier workplaces, lower turnover rates, and ultimately, a more robust and committed workforce.



The responsibility for successful reintegration doesn't rest solely on the individual or their manager. It's a collective endeavor that requires a supportive, understanding, and flexible workplace <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-despite-working-long-hours-an-average-day-in-human-life-may-surprise-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>. 



By prioritizing these elements, companies can ensure their employees not only return to work but truly thrive in their roles.



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Practical guide to maintaining mental health in the workplace

Navigating the pressures of the modern workplace can be akin...

Ever wondered what your furry friend is really saying when they bark? It turns out, we might soon be able to understand our canine companion's speech better than ever before. Researchers at the <a href="https://news.umich.edu/using-ai-to-decode-dog-vocalizations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> are using artificial intelligence (AI) to decipher the language of dog barks, with some surprising results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-human-speech-to-dog-barks">From human speech to dog barks</h2>



The team's innovative approach involved leveraging AI models originally designed for human speech to analyze dog vocalizations. 



"By using speech processing models initially trained on human speech, our research opens a new window into how we can leverage what we built so far in speech processing to start understanding the nuances of dog barks," explained Professor Rada Mihalcea, director of U-M's <a href="https://ai.engin.umich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Laboratory</a>.



This approach proved surprisingly effective, allowing the researchers to identify different types of barks, such as those indicating playfulness or aggression. 



But the model's capabilities didn't stop there. It was also able to glean additional information from the vocalizations, such as the dog's age, breed, and sex.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scarcity-of-dog-data">Scarcity of dog data</h2>



One of the major hurdles in developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/language-like-patterns-decoded-in-sperm-whale-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI models for animal communication</a> is the limited amount of available data. While there are vast resources for recording human speech, collecting similar data from animals is a much more complex task.



"Animal vocalizations are logistically much harder to solicit and record," said Artem Abzaliev, lead author and U-M doctoral student in computer science and engineering. "They must be passively recorded in the wild or, in the case of domestic pets, with the permission of owners."



To tackle this challenge, the researchers turned to a dataset of dog vocalizations recorded from 74 dogs of various breeds, ages, and sexes in diverse contexts.



By adapting an existing machine-learning model called Wav2Vec2, originally trained on human speech, they were able to successfully interpret the acoustic data from the dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-speech-ai-and-dog-barks">Human speech AI and dog barks</h2>



The results were impressive. The Wav2Vec2 model not only achieved a remarkable 70% accuracy in classifying different types of barks but also outperformed other models specifically trained on dog bark data. 



This is a significant step forward, demonstrating that AI models optimized for human speech can be effectively repurposed for decoding animal communication.



"This is the first time that techniques optimized for human speech have been built upon to help with the decoding of animal communication," said Mihalcea.



"Our results show that the sounds and patterns derived from human speech can serve as a foundation for analyzing and understanding the acoustic patterns of other sounds, such as animal vocalizations."



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



The ability to better understand dog vocalizations has wide-ranging implications. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-animal-welfare">Improved animal welfare</h3>



By deciphering the nuances of barks,&nbsp;whines,&nbsp;and growls,&nbsp;we can better assess a dog's emotional and physical state.&nbsp;This can lead to more effective training techniques,&nbsp;improved veterinary care,&nbsp;and enhanced shelter environments tailored to individual needs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthened-human-canine-bond">Strengthened human-canine bond</h3>



Knowing what our dogs are trying to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dogs-communicate-with-us-is-impacted-by-their-facial-markings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communicate</a> allows for deeper empathy and connection.&nbsp;We can respond more appropriately to their needs,&nbsp;fostering trust and mutual understanding.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-safety-nbsp">Enhanced safety&nbsp;</h3>



Identifying aggressive or fearful vocalizations can help prevent bites and other dangerous situations,both for humans and other animals.&nbsp;This is particularly important in contexts like dog parks and shelters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-dog-behavior-research-nbsp-with-human-speech-ai">Advanced dog behavior research&nbsp;with human speech AI</h3>



AI-powered analysis of vocalizations opens new avenues for studying dog behavior,&nbsp;potentially revealing insights into their cognitive abilities,&nbsp;social dynamics,&nbsp;and emotional experiences.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-applications-to-other-species">Extended applications to other species</h3>



The success of this research demonstrates the potential of AI to decipher the communication of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-monitor-biodiversity-through-animal-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other animals</a>. This could revolutionize our understanding of diverse species, from cats and horses to whales and elephants. 



By analyzing their vocalizations,&nbsp;we can gain valuable insights into their behavior,&nbsp;social structures,&nbsp;and emotional states,&nbsp;ultimately contributing to better conservation and welfare efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-interspecies-communication">Future of interspecies communication</h2>



While the dream of fully understanding our pets may still be a way off, this research brings us closer than ever before. 



"There is so much we don't yet know about the animals that share this world with us," said Mihalcea. "Advances in AI can be used to revolutionize our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-want-to-talk-to-their-cows-so-ai-is-helping-them-interpret-moos-and-burps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal communication</a>, and our findings suggest that we may not have to start from scratch."



As AI continues to evolve, we can look forward to a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/want-a-happier-marriage-try-the-loving-talk-you-use-with-your-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> barriers between humans and animals are gradually broken down, fostering a deeper understanding and connection.



The study is published in<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2404.18739" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> ArXiv.org</a>.



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Dog barks can be translated using human speech patterns

Ever wondered what your furry friend is really saying when...

In the face of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-fertility-rates-are-quickly-declining-and-little-is-being-done-about-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global decline in fertility rates</a>, scientists have made a startling discovery that could be a major piece of the puzzle. Microplastics, the tiny, pervasive plastic particles that have infiltrated nearly every corner of our planet, have now been found lurking within human semen. 



This unsettling revelation raises alarming questions about the impact of these insidious invaders on male reproductive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-the-ubiquitous-pollutant">Microplastics: The ubiquitous pollutant</h2>



Microplastics,&nbsp;tiny plastic fragments typically defined as smaller than 5 millimeters in length,&nbsp;have become a pervasive form of environmental pollution.&nbsp;



They originate from a wide array of sources,&nbsp;including the gradual breakdown of larger plastic debris like bottles and bags,&nbsp;the shedding of microscopic fibers from synthetic textiles during washing,&nbsp;and the degradation of plastic packaging materials due to environmental factors.&nbsp;



These minute particles have infiltrated ecosystems on a global scale, reaching the most remote and pristine environments, from the deepest ocean trenches like the Mariana Trench to the towering heights of Mount Everest. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-male-reproductive-health-and-fertility">Male reproductive health and fertility </h2>



Recent research from <a href="https://english.qdu.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Qingdao University</a> has unveiled a new and alarming dimension to this issue: microplastics have now been detected within the human body, specifically in human semen. 



This discovery raises significant concerns about the potential health effects of microplastic exposure, particularly in the context of male reproductive health and fertility.



"Microplastics are now ubiquitous, and they permeate ecosystems globally, from the deepest ocean to pristine mountain regions," wrote the researchers. This pervasive presence has raised concerns about the potential health effects of these tiny invaders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-microplastics-enter-our-bodies">How do microplastics enter our bodies?</h2>



We are exposed to microplastics through various channels, including the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. These tiny particles can enter our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, and even skin contact. 



Once inside, they can travel through the bloodstream and accumulate in different organs and tissues, including the reproductive system.



While the exact mechanisms by which microplastics affect human health are still under investigation, there is growing evidence that they can have a toxic toll.



Microplastics can release harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which are known to disrupt hormone function and have been linked to various health problems, including cancer and reproductive issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-semen">Microplastics in semen</h2>



In their research, the scientists analyzed semen samples collected from 36 men who were deemed to be in good health. The findings were startling: microplastics were detected in every single sample. 



A total of eight distinct types of plastic were identified within these samples,&nbsp;including polystyrene,&nbsp;a common material used in the production of packaging foam,&nbsp;and polyvinyl chloride (PVC),&nbsp;a type of plastic frequently used in plumbing systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-microplastics-linked-to-declining-fertility-rates">Are microplastics linked to declining fertility rates?</h2>



A particularly alarming discovery in the study was the correlation between the presence of PVC microplastics in semen and decreased sperm motility.&nbsp;Sperm motility,&nbsp;referring to the capacity of sperm to move effectively,&nbsp;is a critical factor in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-body-prevents-multiple-sperm-from-fertilizing-an-egg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fertilization process</a>.&nbsp;



The research revealed that individuals with PVC microplastics in their semen exhibited reduced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-virus-can-remain-in-sperm-months-after-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sperm</a> motility compared to those with only polystyrene microplastics present.&nbsp;



This finding suggests a possible connection between microplastic exposure,&nbsp;specifically PVC,&nbsp;and the worldwide decline in fertility rates observed in recent years.



"The widespread presence of these contaminants is alarming, mainly due to the implications they may have on male reproductive health," the researchers warned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-risks-of-microplastics-in-semen">Other risks of microplastics in semen</h2>



Microplastics have infiltrated our environment and now our bodies. The Qingdao University study has confirmed the presence of these particles in human semen, raising concerns beyond just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/semen-has-its-own-microbiome-and-it-may-be-the-cause-of-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infertility</a>. Some of the risks include:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-systemic-inflammation">Systemic inflammation</h3>



Microplastics can cause inflammation in the body. When these particles enter the bloodstream, they can reach various organs, including reproductive organs. This inflammation may not only affect sperm quality but also contribute to broader health issues, such as chronic inflammatory conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormonal-disruption">Hormonal disruption</h3>



Certain microplastics release chemicals that can mimic or interfere with hormones. This hormonal disruption can affect the endocrine system, leading to a variety of health problems. 



In men, hormonal imbalance can impact not only fertility but also other aspects of reproductive health, such as testosterone levels and overall sexual health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-semen-damage-genes">Microplastics in semen damage genes</h3>



There is growing concern that microplastics could cause <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-infertility-humans-linked-same-genes-gorilla-small-penises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic damage</a>. The chemicals leaching from these plastics might lead to mutations or damage to DNA. 



Such genetic alterations could have long-term effects on overall health and potentially increase the risk of cancers or other genetic disorders.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immune-system-impact">Immune system impact</h3>



Microplastics might affect the immune system. Chronic exposure to these particles could weaken the body's immune response, making it more susceptible to infections and diseases. A compromised immune system can lead to a host of other health complications.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-risks">Cardiovascular risks</h3>



The presence of microplastics in the bloodstream suggests they might also reach and impact the cardiovascular system. 



These particles could contribute to cardiovascular diseases by causing inflammation in blood vessels or contributing to the development of atherosclerosis, where arteries become clogged with fatty substances.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxidative-stress">Oxidative stress</h3>



Microplastics can induce oxidative stress, a condition where there's an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Oxidative stress is linked to numerous health problems, including aging, neurodegenerative diseases, and various chronic conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-carcinogenic-effects">Potential carcinogenic effects</h3>



Some microplastics are known to be carcinogenic. Prolonged exposure to these particles might increase the risk of developing cancers. 



This risk is particularly concerning given the widespread presence of microplastics in the environment and their ability to accumulate in the body over time.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-future-generations">Impacts on future generations</h3>



If microplastics cause genetic damage or hormonal disruptions, these effects might be passed on to future generations. This potential transgenerational impact adds a layer of concern about the long-term consequences of microplastic exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-finding-microplastics-in-semen">Significance of finding microplastics in semen</h2>



The discovery of microplastics in human semen is a wake-up call. It highlights the urgent need to address the issue of plastic pollution and its potential impact on human health. 



We must reduce our reliance on plastic, improve waste management practices, and invest in research to better understand the long-term effects of microplastic exposure.



In the words of the researchers, this study is a "call for increased scientific scrutiny and public awareness regarding the potential reproductive hazards of microplastics, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding human health against the insidious threat of environmental contaminants." 



The presence of microplastics in our bodies is a stark reminder that we are interconnected with the environment. What we do to the planet, we ultimately do to ourselves. 



By taking action to reduce plastic pollution, we can protect not only our own health but also the health of future generations.



The study is published in&nbsp;journal <a class="" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724036696#preview-section-references" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.&nbsp;



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Microplastics found in every semen sample tested

In the face of a global decline in fertility rates,...

As the conversation about climate change intensifies, the EarthCARE satellite is poised to address a pressing question: Will clouds cool or warm our planet in the future? 



EarthCARE is a joint mission by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Videos/2024/02/Coming_soon_EarthCARE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> (ESA) and Japan's JAXA space agency. The satellite, which was launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California's Vandenberg base on May 28, aims to deepen our understanding of clouds and their profound effects on Earth's climate.



"EarthCARE, the most complex of all of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/Earth_Explorers_ESA_s_pioneering_science_missions_for_Earth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA’s Earth Explorer missions</a>, will quantify and reduce the uncertainty about the role that clouds and aerosols play in heating and cooling Earth’s atmosphere – contributing to our better understanding of climate change," noted ESA.



"Understanding and monitoring Earth’s radiation balance is crucial for addressing climate-related issues and is something that can only be done from space."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behind-earthcare-s-mission">Behind EarthCARE's mission</h2>



At an altitude of nearly 400 kilometers (250 miles) above Earth, the two-ton satellite will embark on a three-year journey to construct a detailed atmospheric profile. 



This endeavor will illuminate the characteristics and behaviors of the diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cavum-clouds-nasa-captures-mysterious-holes-cloud-formation-florida/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud forms</a> - from the low-hovering cumulus to the towering cumulonimbus clouds.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="ZJv15sBRgy-3664339-12187" type="single"]</div>



Clouds play a dual role in our atmosphere. White, bright cumulus clouds, composed of water droplets, float relatively low in the sky and act as a cooling parasol by reflecting solar radiation back into space. 



In contrast, higher altitude cirrus clouds, made of ice crystals, allow solar radiation to pass through, warming the Earth, and then trap the heat, functioning like a thermal blanket.



Dominique Gillieron, who leads ESA's Earth observation projects, emphasized the significance of clouds in climate dynamics, noting their substantial yet poorly understood influence on climate change.



According to Gillieron, the variability in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-small-aerosols-influence-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud formation</a> across different latitudes and altitudes makes predicting their impact even more challenging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-capabilities-of-earthcare">Unique capabilities of EarthCARE</h2>



EarthCARE is set to revolutionize our understanding of the atmosphere as the first satellite to measure clouds' vertical and horizontal distributions.



Simonetta Cheli, Director of ESA's Earth observation programs, emphasized the satellite's unique capabilities.



“EarthCARE is the most complex of ESA’s research missions to date. Its development, and now launch, is thanks to close cooperation with our JAXA partners, who contributed the satellite’s cloud profiling radar instrument, and all of the space industry teams involved," said Cheli.



“The mission comes at a critical time when advancing our scientific knowledge is more important than ever to understand and act on climate change, and we very much look forward to receiving its first data.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earthcare-will-compile-a-comprehensive-cloud-dataset">EarthCARE will compile a comprehensive cloud dataset</h2>



Equipped with advanced instruments, EarthCARE will probe the depths of clouds using a Lidar instrument that emits laser pulses to measure clouds and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric aerosols</a> - tiny particles that serve as cloud precursors.



Additionally, the satellite's radar can penetrate clouds to determine their water content and monitor their movement speed, akin to how terrestrial radar detects speeding vehicles. 



These technological advancements will also allow the satellite to assess the shape and temperature of clouds, compiling the most comprehensive cloud dataset from a satellite perspective to date.



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



The scientific community is on the edge of its seat, awaiting the data that EarthCARE will deliver. This information is crucial for refining climate models that predict the rate of global warming. Understanding how solar radiation interacts with clouds is key to grasping and mitigating the effects of human-induced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clouds-have-an-amplifying-effect-on-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>.



The mission will explore whether the cooling effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cloud-engineering-can-temporarily-cool-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a> - currently more significant than their warming effect - will intensify or weaken. According to Gillieron, the changing distribution of clouds due to global warming makes this trend increasingly unpredictable.



"EarthCARE is being launched at an even more crucial time than when it was first conceived in 2004," said Cheli, highlighting the growing urgency to address climate change effectively.



As the satellite moves into orbit, the insights it promises to deliver are not just scientific but pivotal in shaping our strategies against a warming world. This mission is about securing a sustainable future for Earth beneath the ever-changing clouds.



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EarthCARE satellite will reveal the climate effects of clouds

As the conversation about climate change intensifies, the EarthCARE satellite...

Have you ever wondered what your little one hears throughout the day? We all know babies are surrounded by a symphony of coos, giggles, and words from doting caregivers. But what about music and speech?&nbsp;



A recent study from the <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> has revealed some unexpected findings that might make you rethink your baby's playlist – or lack thereof.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-s-world-of-speech-and-music">Baby's world of speech and music</h2>



Scientists have long been fascinated by the impact of sound on infants' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-diets-of-infants-provide-the-building-blocks-of-human-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>. We know that the amount of speech a baby hears is crucially linked to their language skills. But until now, the role of music in their early lives has remained largely a mystery.



Christina Zhao, a research assistant professor of speech and hearing sciences at the UW, led a team to investigate this unexplored territory. "We wanted to get a snapshot of what's happening in infants' home environments," explained Zhao.



"Quite a few studies have looked at how many words babies hear at home, and they’ve shown that it’s the amount of infant-directed speech that’s important in language <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-scientifically-proven-steps-for-thriving-infant-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>. We realized we don’t know anything about what type of music babies are hearing and how it compares to speech.”"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-speech-less-music-around-babies">More speech, less music around babies</h2>



To peek into the world of infant sound, the researchers analyzed daylong audio recordings from homes with babies aged 6, 10, 14, 18, and 24 months. They found a surprising lack of music.



"We're shocked at how little music is in these recordings," said Zhao. "The majority of music is not intended for babies." Think background tunes on the radio or streaming services – not lullabies or nursery rhymes.



This stark contrast between speech and music raises intriguing questions. Is this just a quirk of modern parenting? Or does the type of music a baby hears truly matter?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-s-impact-on-babies-development">Music's impact on babies development</h2>



To investigate the potential impact of music on infant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-to-babies-in-parentese-boosts-their-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>,&nbsp;Zhao's team revisited their earlier research.&nbsp;In prior laboratory studies,&nbsp;they had conducted experiments involving interactive music sessions with infants.&nbsp;



During these sessions,&nbsp;babies were given instruments to play with while listening and moving to music.&nbsp;The researchers discovered that these interactive musical experiences led to a measurable improvement in the infants' neural responses to speech sounds.



"We did that twice," noted Zhao. "Both times, we saw the same result: that music intervention was enhancing infant's neural responses to speech sounds." 



This led the experts to wonder - if intentional, interactive music has such a positive effect, what's the impact of the mostly ambient music that babies typically hear?



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



This initial study represents a starting point for a broader research program on impact of speech and music on babies. The University of Washington team is committed to expanding their investigation beyond the current sample.&nbsp;



They plan to include families from a wider range of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds to understand how different environments might influence the types of sounds babies encounter.



Specifically, the researchers are interested in exploring whether cultural variations in music and language exposure might impact infants' auditory experiences and, potentially, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-talk-more-when-interacting-with-artificial-objects-than-with-things-made-by-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>.&nbsp;



This expanded research will delve into how early sound exposure may shape language acquisition, cognitive skills, and other developmental milestones in children.&nbsp;



By examining diverse populations, the study aims to uncover potential connections between early auditory experiences and long-term developmental outcomes, offering insights into the complex relationship between sound and child development.



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



Although the exact effects of music on infant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-babies-talk-more-than-females-during-the-first-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a> are not yet fully understood, this research underscores the significance of auditory input in a baby's early learning environment.&nbsp;



It highlights that babies are continuously absorbing information from the sounds they encounter, emphasizing the importance of creating a rich and stimulating auditory landscape for them.



So, why not make those sounds intentional? Sing to your baby, dance with them, and put on some music that's made just for their tiny ears. Who knows, you might be giving their brain a boost – and having a whole lot of fun in the process.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/desc.13528" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Developmental Science</a>.



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Babies hear far more speech at home than music

Have you ever wondered what your little one hears throughout...

The British Isles, known for their picturesque landscapes and winding rivers, harbor a hidden marvel within their waterways -- genetically distinct trout <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-are-quickly-losing-ability-to-support-fish-due-to-plankton-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> thriving in metal-polluted river environments. 



These seemingly ordinary fish have evolved into resilient survivors, yet their isolation and lack of genetic diversity raise concerns about their future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trout-s-adaptation-in-rivers">Trout's adaptation in rivers</h2>



A new study has revealed the genetic secrets of these remarkable trout. By analyzing the DNA of brown trout from 71 sites across Britain and Ireland, researchers discovered that those living in metal-polluted rivers are genetically isolated from their counterparts in cleaner waters.



"We found massively reduced genetic diversity in some of these trout populations inhabiting metal-impacted waters," explained Professor Jamie Stevens from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>. 



"These fish carry a high burden of metals, with toxic binding of dissolved metals to their gills causing suffocation, but trout that can tolerate this have emerged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-effects-of-pollutants-on-river-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polluted rivers</a>." 



This isolation is a direct result of the harsh selection pressure imposed by metal pollution. Over time, only those trout with a genetic tolerance for metals could survive in these toxic environments. Consequently, they became genetically distinct from other trout populations, unable to exchange genes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-vs-vulnerability">Resilience vs. vulnerability</h2>



While these metal-tolerant trout have successfully <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-migrating-towards-poles-escape-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapted</a> to their polluted habitats, their genetic isolation has come at a cost.&nbsp;



"The genetic diversity that allowed them to adapt to this rapid change in their environment is now lacking – leaving them more vulnerable to future changes," notes Dr. Daniel Osmond, who conducted the research as part of his PhD at Exeter.



This lack of genetic diversity leaves the trout populations susceptible to various threats. They may struggle to cope with new diseases, parasites, or environmental changes that could arise in the future. The very trait that allowed them to survive in metal-polluted waters has become a potential weakness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trout-genes-in-polluted-rivers">Trout genes in polluted rivers</h2>



The story of these isolated trout <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-legacy-decades-old-ddt-found-in-deep-sea-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> is intertwined with the industrial history of the British Isles. Many of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iconic-american-rivers-are-threatened-by-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polluted rivers</a> were once home to bustling mining operations. They released heavy metals like lead and copper into the water.



"Throughout different periods of history, these mined regions have been globally important in their industrial production of many metals," Dr. Osmond elaborates.



"This however has left polluted landscapes such as West Cornwall, which is effectively a giant honeycomb of old mines. When rain comes, these can fill with water and that can flow out into rivers."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-troubling-pattern-of-repeated-divergence">Troubling pattern of repeated divergence</h2>



The study found that this genetic isolation and reduced diversity occurred in trout populations inhabiting metal-polluted rivers across multiple regions, including Cornwall, Wales, and northeast England. 



This suggests a repeated pattern of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-are-getting-smaller-as-waters-temperatures-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> evolutionary divergence</a> in response to similar environmental pressures.



Furthermore, the researchers discovered that physical barriers, such as dams and weirs, exacerbate the genetic isolation in rivers that are both polluted and physically obstructed. This highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-impact">Mitigating the impact</h2>



The researchers propose implementing measures to mitigate the genetic isolation observed in these trout populations. 



By reducing the outflow of contaminated water from abandoned mines, the levels of metal pollutants in rivers could be lowered. 



This would make it easier for trout from different populations to interbreed, as the water would no longer be a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-legacy-decades-old-ddt-found-in-deep-sea-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic barrier</a>.



Additionally, removing physical obstacles like dams and weirs would further facilitate the movement and mixing of trout between different river sections. 



This increased gene flow would introduce new genetic variations into isolated populations, boosting their genetic diversity. 



A more diverse gene pool would equip these trout with a wider range of traits, making them better able to adapt to future environmental changes or disease outbreaks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-the-future">Lessons for the future</h2>



The story of these genetically isolated trout populations serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of human activities on the environment. 



While their resilience is a testament to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolution-takes-place-in-decades-not-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">power of evolution</a>, their vulnerability underscores the importance of safeguarding genetic diversity.



By understanding the genetic consequences of pollution and habitat fragmentation, we can make informed decisions to protect and conserve our natural heritage. 



This research provides valuable insights for future conservation efforts and highlights the need to address the legacy of industrial pollution in our rivers and streams.



The study is published in the esteemed journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ddi.13854" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diversity and Distributions</a>.



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Trout living in polluted rivers evolved to tolerate high metal levels in the waters

The British Isles, known for their picturesque landscapes and winding...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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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



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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

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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



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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



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.

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

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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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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

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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"

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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



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.

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



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.

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" 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> 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



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.

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" 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.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



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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" 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> 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



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.

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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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

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