This,Man-made,Vehicle,Reached,A,Record,Speed,Of,635,Thousand

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to achieve its most dangerous feat yet tomorrow, December 24, 2024. After a six-year journey of spiraling closer to the star at the heart of our solar system, the spacecraft is expected to come within 3.8 million miles of the Sun’s surface. 



This tiny distance in cosmic terms lets scientists capture a new type of information, revealing secrets about solar winds, extreme heat, and magnetic fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-probe-on-the-sun-s-doorstep">Solar probe on the Sun's doorstep</h2>



Engineers have spent years carefully adjusting <a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/parkersolarprobe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parker’s flight path</a> using multiple Venus gravity assists. These flybys reshape the spacecraft’s orbit and tighten its looping path around the Sun. “This is one example of NASA’s bold missions, doing something that no one else has ever done before to answer longstanding questions about our universe,” explained <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/people/dr-arik-posner/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arik Posner</a>, Parker Solar Probe program scientist at NASA Headquarters, describing this mission’s significance.



Ever since the launch in 2018, Parker’s main goal has been to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona. Tomorrow’s approach, often called <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/glossary/perihelion.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perihelion</a>, marks a new milestone in that quest. The probe moves at speeds around 430,000 miles per hour, faster than any other spacecraft. At such high velocity, it can swing around our star without getting swallowed. Even so, mission managers won’t receive immediate updates once Parker hits its closest point because signals cannot travel through the intense solar environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-and-lasting-protection">Extreme heat and lasting protection</h2>



What sets Parker apart is its resilient heat shield. This 4.5-inch-thick carbon-composite barrier enables the spacecraft’s instruments to continue functioning in an environment where temperatures can reach roughly 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the harsh surroundings, the precious science instruments remain near room temperature, thanks to expert engineering by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (<a href="https://parkersolarprobe.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APL</a>).



During every close approach, Parker is pelted by gusts of solar wind and bathed in radiation. Still, it keeps sending back readings about magnetic fields, <a href="https://www.plasmacoalition.org/plasma_writeups/solar_plasmas.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plasma</a> behavior, and energetic <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/phenomena/solar-radiation-storm#:~:text=Solar%20radiation%20storms%20occur%20when,of%20the%20speed%20of%20light." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a>. The probe’s data illuminates reasons behind the corona’s blazing heat, which can climb into the millions of degrees, significantly hotter than the visible surface of the Sun. Such puzzling behavior has fascinated scientists for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chasing-the-solar-wind-s-origins">Chasing the solar wind’s origins</h2>



Solar wind, a stream of charged particles flowing away from the Sun at speeds topping one million miles per hour, plays a major role in <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/sun/what-is-the-solar-wind/">space weather</a>. 



By skimming through the corona, Parker records fresh evidence of how these particles speed up and scatter across the solar system. The answers may help experts forecast disturbances that affect satellites and astronaut safety. Surges of these charged particles can disable communication systems or even disrupt power grids on Earth.



For researchers, big questions remain. How does the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/sun/what-is-the-solar-wind/">solar wind</a> pick up its pace so dramatically? Is there a specific region in the corona that triggers bursts of fast-moving particles? 



Parker’s measurements bring us closer to unraveling these mysteries. Officials at NASA say that by tomorrow’s approach, new layers of data will help them see patterns not possible to detect from a greater distance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-probe-and-the-sun-s-active-cycle">Solar probe and the Sun's active cycle</h2>



The Sun moves through an 11-year activity cycle. Right now, it is in an active phase, meaning increased sunspots, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-peak-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storm-expected-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar flares</a>, and <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/phenomena/coronal-mass-ejections" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a>. 



Researchers are tracking not only Parker’s journey but also the Sun’s changing patterns. Sometimes these outbursts interact with Earth’s magnetosphere and spark colorful auroras, even in places unused to such displays. And although most solar weather events are harmless for life on Earth, severe storms can interfere with GPS systems or satellites.



This is why Parker’s findings are so relevant. Gaining a better understanding of how energetic solar events begin could lead to timelier warnings, giving operators on Earth a heads-up to power down sensitive instruments or adjust satellite orbits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paying-tribute-to-eugene-parker">Paying tribute to Eugene Parker</h2>



In 2017, NASA renamed the probe after <a href="https://news.uchicago.edu/story/eugene-parker-legendary-figure-solar-science-and-namesake-parker-solar-probe-1927-2022">Dr. Eugene N. Parker</a>, the first person to predict the solar wind in the 1950s. He introduced key ideas about how stars interact with their surroundings. The mission’s name honors his influential work. Dr. Parker passed away in 2022, but his legacy continues. 



The data this spacecraft is sending back not only expands knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracing-solar-wind-directly-to-its-source-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar physics</a> but also shows how correct Dr. Parker’s early theories were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-setting-solar-probe-flyby">Record-setting Solar Probe flyby</h2>



Mission operations expect Parker to reach perihelion at 6:53 a.m. EST on December 24. 



At that time, the spacecraft will run autonomously, and engineers at APL will wait until December 27 for a beacon tone confirming a safe passage around the Sun. “No human-made object has ever passed this close to a star, so Parker will truly be returning data from uncharted territory. We’re excited to hear back from the spacecraft when it swings back around the Sun,” explained <a href="https://parkersolarprobe.jhuapl.edu/News-Center/Show-Article.php?articleID=205" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nick Pinkine</a>, Parker Solar Probe mission operations manager. 



When that update arrives, scientists will study Parker’s recent measurements to identify potential clues about solar wind origins and coronal heating. Each orbit is another chance to witness the scorching conditions near our star. At the same time, the probe helps refine predictions about solar eruptions that might drive future storms toward Earth.



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



Beyond the scientific breakthroughs, Parker’s success can have practical benefits for technology we rely on every day. Our society depends on GPS signals and stable power systems, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major solar events</a> can disrupt both. By learning how to anticipate strong solar winds or flares, experts might one day keep satellites out of harm’s way or shield power grids from unexpected surges.



Tomorrow’s close approach continues a streak of remarkable achievements for NASA. As Parker zips through the corona, it gathers observations that no other mission could obtain. The craft appears ready for another sizzling pass, thanks to the robust thermal design and careful planning. 



Whether it’s helping forecast solar tempers or refining our knowledge of basic astrophysical processes, Parker remains on track to change the way we see the Sun.



Learn more about <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/parker-solar-probe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Parker Solar Probe here...</a>



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Spacecraft flew through the Sun's atmosphere today for the first time ever

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to achieve its most dangerous feat yet tomorrow, December 24, 2024. After a six-year journey of spiraling closer to the star at the heart of our solar system, the spacecraft is expected to come within 3.8 million miles of the Sun’s surface. This tiny distance in cosmic terms lets scientists capture a new type of information, revealing secrets about solar winds, extreme heat, and magnetic fields. Solar probe on the Sun's doorstep Engineers have spent years carefully adjusting Parker’s flight path...

Yellow,Cheeked,Gibbon

The prevailing notion that males wield more power and dominance than females in primate societies has been a long-standing assumption in the scientific community.



However, a fascinating study by researchers at The <a href="https://www.utexas.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a> at Austin is challenging this idea, revealing that female-biased power structures and social equality between sexes are not only present but may have been a part of primates' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-primate-genome-project-reveals-hidden-evolutionary-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary history</a> across all major groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-female-power-dynamic">Studying the female power dynamic</h2>



This new research offers a significant shift in understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorful-primates-oddly-enough-dont-have-great-color-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> social structures. 



By analyzing 79 primate species and categorizing them into male-dominant, female-dominant, or co-dominant groups, the team discovered patterns that contradict the traditional view of male dominance. 



They found that male-biased power is more likely in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-early-primates-lived-in-pairs-and-were-not-solitary-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> species where males are larger and have longer canine teeth than females. 



Conversely, female power emerges in species where there is a scarcity of female mating partners compared to male demand, especially when size differences between sexes are minimal.



<a href="https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/anthropology/faculty/rl2273" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Rebecca Lewis</a>, a co-author of the paper and a renowned anthropologist, highlighted the importance of this shift in perspective. 



“In the past, primatologists have often focused on the role of males and male power in primate societies. What has sometimes been overlooked is the important role of female power in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-have-greater-diversity-on-indigenous-lands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> societies," Lewis said. 



"Our work suggests that more economic forms of power might really come to the forefront in primate species in which males and females are similar in size and in which females are therefore less readily coerced by males.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upending-previously-held-beliefs">Upending previously held beliefs</h2>



This study also sheds light on the commonality of female power structures in various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-brain-development-aligns-closely-with-other-primates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> species, such as lemurs, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-gibbons-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gibbons</a> in Southeast Asia, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marmosets-practice-crying-out-for-help-before-theyre-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marmosets</a> in the Americas. 



These findings dispute previous theories that considered female dominance in primates like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lemurs-provide-a-window-into-the-evolution-of-hair/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lemurs</a> an anomaly due to unique environmental factors.



Furthermore, the research team's efforts to estimate the probability of male-biased power in ancestral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-primates-that-experience-menopause/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate</a> groups yielded intriguing results. 



They concluded that no specific pattern of intersexual power can be confidently attributed to the ancestors of many major primate groups. 



This suggests that assuming ancestral male-biased power in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-cooperation-challenges-beliefs-about-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> may not be justifiable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-female-power-structures">Significance of female power structures</h2>



Professor Chris Kirk, another co-author of the study, elaborates further on this point. 



“Primates have been thought to be mainly male dominant, which would suggest that male dominance was present in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-chimpanzees-and-humans-learn-to-communicate-in-the-same-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> from early in their evolutionary history. If this assumption is correct, then what would need to be explained is the occurrence of female dominant societies and those with greater equality between the sexes," Kirk explained.



However, Kirk continued, "we show that this assumption of ancestral male-biased power in primates isn’t necessarily supported by the data. In fact, other types of intersexual power relationships are sufficiently common in primate societies that it’s not clear what the ancestral condition might have been. Thus, all types of intersexual power need to be explained, not just the presence of female-biased power.”



In summary, this research challenges the longstanding presumptions of male dominance in primates, while also advancing our knowledge of social structure evolution across different species. 



The implications of this study extend beyond primatology, offering insights that could reshape our understanding of gender roles and power dynamics in the animal kingdom.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/23/3695">Animals</a>.



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Females wield more power in primate societies than previously believed

The prevailing notion that males wield more power and dominance...

Researchers have proposed a new theory explaining the puzzling trend of animal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-strong-link-between-dog-size-and-disease-risk/">size</a> evolution, a topic that has intrigued scientists for decades.



Led by Dr. Shovonlal Roy from the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/">University of Reading</a>, the research provides insights into why some species, such as Alaskan horses, Cryptodira turtles, and island lizards, have exhibited a decrease in size over time.



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



The study hinges on the interplay of two pivotal ecological factors: the intensity of direct competition for resources between species, and the risk of extinction due to environmental factors.&nbsp;



In scenarios where direct competition is less fierce, species tend to grow larger. However, this increase in size can make them more susceptible to extinction, as observed in the case of dinosaurs. This intricate balance highlights the dynamic nature of evolutionary pressures shaping animal sizes.



"Just like how we try to adapt to hot or cold weather depending on where we live, our research shows animal size can get bigger or smaller over long periods depending on the habitat or environment," said Dr. Roy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-direct-competition-nbsp">Direct competition&nbsp;</h2>



"In places and times where there's lots of competition between different species for food and shelter, animal sizes often get smaller as the species spread out and adapt to the distribution of resources and competitors. For example, small horses that lived in Alaska during the Ice Age rapidly shrank due to changes in the climate and vegetation."



“Where direct competition is less, sizes tend to get bigger, even though being really big and few in number can make animals more vulnerable to dying out – such as what happened with the dinosaurs."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Changes in ecological factors help explain why fossil records shows such confusing mixes of size evolution patterns, with some lineages shrinking over time and others growing."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-previous-assumptions-nbsp">Challenging previous assumptions&nbsp;</h2>



Using sophisticated computer models to simulate evolution, the research team uncovered patterns in size evolution that challenge previous assumptions, particularly those related to "Cope's rule."



This rule, named after 19th-century paleontologist Edward Cope, suggests a general trend in the evolution of animal groups towards larger body sizes over millions of years.&nbsp;



For instance, the evolution of horses from small, dog-sized ancestors to their current larger forms exemplifies this rule. However, the fossil record presents a more complex picture, with some species growing larger while others become smaller.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cope-s-rule">Cope's rule</h2>



"Cope’s rule states that lineages evolve toward larger body sizes over evolutionary time," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Recognizing that larger body sizes often improve an animal’s ability to capture prey, avoid predators, fight competitors, maintain metabolism, raise thermal inertia, accommodate climatic variation, withstand starvation, extend longevity, attract mates, and enhance reproductive success, researchers have hypothesized that Cope’s rule applies to all animals - and to all mammals in particular. However, empirical evidence concerning body-size evolution is remarkably conflicting."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-distinct-patterns-nbsp">Three distinct patterns&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers identified three distinct patterns of body-size change:



<ul>
<li>Gradual size increase over time, typically observed in marine animals, where competition is primarily based on body size rather than niche differences. </li>



<li>Size increase followed by extinction events, where large-bodied apex predators are most vulnerable, leaving room for other species to evolve into larger forms. </li>



<li>Gradual size decrease over time, occurring in situations of high competition and overlapping habitat and resource use, leading to a divergence into distinct niches and subsequent size reduction.</li>
</ul>



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



"The three different macroevolutionary patterns our analyses have revealed have potential to reconcile and refine the debate on the validity of Cope’s rule by providing a richer conceptual framework for assessing and understanding phyletic patterns," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"In moving beyond merely documenting a trend toward larger body sizes by distinguishing between a gradual increase to an evolutionary equilibrium and a perpetual increase driven by extinctions, it may be possible to focus paleontological efforts on taxa and systems that are known to have higher extinction risks and in which selection pressures for higher body sizes may be larger."



"Thus, our study is opening up possibilities for mapping ecological determinants and process-based mechanisms onto the contrasting patterns in body-size evolution observed in nature. In this way, several testable hypotheses can be formulated based on the findings we have reported here."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-023-05375-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.



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Shrinking giants: Unraveling the evolution of animal size

Researchers have proposed a new theory explaining the puzzling trend...

A recent study has uncovered a potential biological reason for mood changes and cognitive symptoms experienced by some individuals after recovering from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19s-impact-on-life-expectancy-is-worse-than-anticipated/">Covid-19</a>.&nbsp;



Researchers have found that the virus can infect brain cells related to mood, stress, and movement, leading to a disruption in dopamine production. This discovery offers insight into why Covid-19 can cause symptoms such as brain fog and feelings of sadness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



The research, conducted by a team from <a href="https://weill.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weill Cornell Medicine</a>, <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a>, and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center</a>, utilized human stem cells to create various cell types found in the human body. This approach allowed them to study how SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19, affects different cells. Their findings were further confirmed with autopsy samples from individuals infected with Covid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-neurons-nbsp">Dopamine neurons&nbsp;</h2>



Remarkably, the study found that only dopamine neurons were infected by Covid-19, leading to impaired functioning and the release of inflammatory chemical signals. 



Dr. Shuibing Chen of Weill Cornell Medicine, the senior author of the study, shared her surprise at these findings: "This project started out to investigate how various types of cells in different organs respond to SARS-CoV-2 infection... But the senescence pathway is only activated in dopamine neurons. This was a completely unexpected result."



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



The study highlights the phenomenon of senescence, or biological aging, where cells gradually lose the ability to grow and divide. This process, now linked to Covid's effect on dopamine neurons, could explain the onset of neurological symptoms in long Covid sufferers.&nbsp;



The researchers discovered that about five percent of dopamine neurons can be infected, leading to senescence and inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-treatments-nbsp">Potential treatments&nbsp;</h2>



Intriguingly, the study identified three medications – riluzole, metformin, and imatinib – which might protect dopamine neurons from Covid infection. These drugs, already approved by the Food and Drug Administration, offer a potential avenue for preventing Covid's neurological impacts. Riluzole is typically used for Lou Gehrig's Disease, metformin for diabetes, and imatinib for leukemia and other cancers.



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



However, the researchers note that not everyone exposed to Covid will experience damage to dopamine neurons. The risk of neurological complications varies based on factors like genetics and the severity of the disease. The team suggests further research with larger human populations to explore this issue more comprehensively.



Additionally, given that dopamine neuron senescence is a characteristic of Parkinson's disease, the researchers recommend monitoring individuals with long Covid for an increased risk of developing Parkinson's-related symptoms. This study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Stem Cell</a>, offers vital insights into the neurological implications of Covid-19 and potential strategies for mitigating these effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurological-symptoms-of-covid-19-nbsp">Neurological symptoms of Covid-19&nbsp;</h2>



COVID-19, primarily known as a respiratory illness, can also affect the nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. These symptoms vary widely among patients and can range from mild to severe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loss-of-smell">Loss of smell</h3>



One of the most common neurological symptoms is a loss of taste and smell. This often occurs without a blocked nose and might be among the earliest signs of the virus. Headaches are also frequently reported, which can vary in intensity.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dizziness">Dizziness</h3>



In some cases, patients experience dizziness or confusion. This is especially common in older adults or those with severe infections. There's also evidence of more serious neurological complications like strokes, which occur due to blood clotting disorders. These strokes can lead to significant long-term disability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seizures">Seizures</h3>



Another concerning symptom is the onset of seizures in some patients, which can occur even in those without a prior history of seizures. Additionally, there are reports of peripheral nerve damage, manifesting as tingling or numbness in various body parts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-inflammation-nbsp">Brain inflammation&nbsp;</h3>



Encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain, and meningitis, inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, have been observed, though they are less common. These conditions can lead to altered mental status and require immediate medical attention.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-fog">Brain fog</h3>



Post-COVID, some patients suffer from a condition known as "brain fog," where they experience difficulties with concentration, memory, and carrying out daily activities. This can persist for weeks to months after recovery from the acute phase of the illness.



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Covid-19 makes you feel sad and moody by depleting dopamine

A recent study has uncovered a potential biological reason for...

Broken,Asphalt,Road,With,Cloudy,Sky,In,The,Middle,Of

The recent update to the U.S. Geological Survey's National Seismic Hazard Model (<a href="https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/hazards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSHM</a>) reveals a concerning scenario: nearly three-quarters of the United States is at risk of experiencing damaging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-surges-of-cosmic-radiation-from-space-directly-linked-to-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquake</a> shaking.



This alarming study, led by a team of over 50 scientists and engineers, employs a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/earthquakes_National-Seismic-Hazard-Model_US-earthquake-map_credit-USGS_1m-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">color-coded map</a> to illustrate areas most susceptible to earthquake damage. 



This map is the result of comprehensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-similarities-warning-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic research</a>, historical geological data, and cutting-edge data collection technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earthquake-risk-across-the-united-states">Earthquake risk across the United States</h2>



This updated map, specifically requested by Congress, is a critical tool designed to guide engineers and other professionals in mitigating earthquake impacts on vulnerable U.S. communities. 



It highlights probable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/violent-earthquake-threat-in-the-pacific-northwest-revealed-in-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquake locations</a> and their potential intensity, a vital aspect for public safety planning.



The NSHM's latest version, which is the first to provide a comprehensive assessment for all 50 states, builds on earlier versions released in 2018, 2007, and 1998 for the contiguous U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii, respectively. 



What sets this iteration apart is its inclusion of nearly 500 newly identified faults capable of producing significant quakes.



This highlights the dynamic nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/california-earthquakes-rain-snowfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquake</a> research and the continuous evolution in our understanding of seismic risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-altered-u-s-earthquake-landscape">Altered U.S. earthquake landscape</h2>



Mark Petersen, a geophysicist at the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USGS</a> and the study's lead author, emphasized the collaborative nature of this effort. 



“This was a massive, multi-year collaborative effort between federal, state and local governments and the private sector,” said Petersen. “The new seismic hazard model represents a touchstone achievement for enhancing public safety.”



One of the most striking findings of the updated model is the increased potential for damaging earthquakes along the central and northeastern U.S. Atlantic Coastal corridor. 



Major cities like Washington D.C., Philadelphia, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-york-city-earthquake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York</a>, and Boston are now seen as more vulnerable. 



Additionally, the model indicates heightened seismic risks in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/san-francisco-fault-earthquake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California</a> and Alaska and a greater potential for shaking in Hawaii, informed by recent volcanic activities and seismic unrest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improvements-in-earthquake-forecasting">Improvements in earthquake forecasting</h2>



Petersen highlighted the strides made in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/west-coast-earthquake-warning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquake forecasting</a> through this model. "Earthquakes are difficult to forecast but we’ve made great strides with this new model," he noted.



"The update includes more faults, better-characterized land surfaces, and computational advancements in modeling that provide the most detailed view ever of the earthquake risks we face."



The updated NSHM key findings are crucial and have significant implications for earthquake zones in the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-u-s-earthquakes">Key findings about U.S. earthquakes</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-to-people">Risk to People</h3>



Firstly, it identifies that nearly 75% of the U.S. is at risk of damaging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oklahoma-earthquake-wastewater-injection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> and intense ground shaking, placing hundreds of millions of Americans in potential danger. 



This finding underscores the vast scale of seismic risks facing the nation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-hazard">Widespread Hazard</h3>



In addition, the history of seismic activity in the U.S. is widespread and notable. 



Over the past 200 years, 37 states have experienced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-1000-shallow-earthquakes-detected-in-california/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> exceeding a magnitude of 5, highlighting the extensive geographical spread of earthquake hazards across the country.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structural-implications">Structural Implications</h3>



Next, for architects, engineers, and policymakers, the updated model serves as an invaluable resource. 



It offers essential insights for the future of building and structural design, guiding how structures across the U.S. should be planned and constructed to withstand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aftershocks-can-last-for-centuries-after-historic-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic events</a>. 



This aspect of the model is particularly crucial for enhancing the resilience and safety of new and existing infrastructures.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unified-approach">Unified Approach</h3>



Furthermore, a significant advancement in this iteration of the NSHM is its comprehensive scope. For the first time, the model includes all 50 states in a unified seismic hazard assessment. 



This achievement reflects a considerable collaborative effort, bringing together various levels of government and sectors to provide a cohesive understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-roughness-of-tectonic-plates-may-predict-earthquake-magnitude/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic risks</a> nationwide.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-a-prediction">Not a Prediction</h3>



Finally, it's important to note that the model, while detailed and informative, does not predict earthquakes. Instead, it offers a scientific foundation for assessing the likelihood and potential intensity of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-activity-wastewater-disposal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic events</a>. 



This distinction is vital in understanding the model's role as a tool for preparedness and risk assessment rather than as a predictive mechanism for specific earthquake occurrences.



In summary, the updated NSHM underscores the pressing need for preparedness and resilience in the face of seismic threats across the United States. 



It serves as a vital tool for professionals and policymakers, guiding them in protecting communities and infrastructure from the unpredictable but inevitable occurrence of earthquakes.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/87552930231215428" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthquake Spectra</a>.



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New map shows 75 percent of the U.S. at risk of damaging earthquakes

The recent update to the U.S. Geological Survey's National Seismic...

The ocean, Earth's largest habitat, remains largely unexplored, holding secrets to numerous unidentified species and microorganisms. Recent advancements in ocean DNA research have brought us closer to uncovering these mysteries. 



The latest landmark in this journey is the creation of the KMAP <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/KMAP_ocean-gene-DNA_mapping_landscape_infographic_Laiolo_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ocean Gene Catalog 1.0</a>, a comprehensive database of marine microbial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/historic-treaty-adopted-to-protect-biodiversity-in-the-high-seas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazing-achievement-in-marine-science">Amazing achievement in marine science</h2>



Elisa Laiolo of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KAUST</a>) in Saudi Arabia, the lead author of the study, shares her excitement.



“With over 317 million gene groups from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine organisms</a> globally, the KMAP catalog represents a significant step towards understanding the ocean's full diversity. Focusing on marine microbes, this catalog is pivotal for comprehending their influence on ocean health and Earth's climate,” Laiolo said.



This catalog is a gateway to endless possibilities. Prof Carlos Duarte, KAUST faculty member and the study's senior author, elaborates on its potential.



“Hosted on the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-90799-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KAUST Metagenomic Analysis Platform</a> (KMAP), this freely accessible catalog enables scientists to explore diverse ocean ecosystems, assess the effects of pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-threatens-the-oceans-most-diverse-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, and even discover biotechnological applications like new antibiotics or methods to degrade plastics.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-ocean-dna-mapping">Challenges in ocean DNA mapping</h2>



The quest to map marine biodiversity is centuries old, fraught with challenges, primarily due to the inability to study most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine organisms</a> in a lab setting. 



The advent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racing-boat-collects-edna-samples-on-a-round-the-world-sailing-competition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> sequencing technologies revolutionized this field, allowing for direct identification of organisms from ocean water and sediments.



Laiolo simplifies the process, saying, “Each species has a unique gene set, enabling us to determine the organisms present in an ocean sample by analyzing its genetic material.” 



She credits two technological advancements for this large-scale achievement: the rapid development and reduced cost of DNA sequencing technologies, and the emergence of powerful computational and AI technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kmap-ocean-gene-catalog">KMAP ocean gene catalog</h2>



The research team utilized KMAP to analyze DNA sequences from 2,102 ocean samples collected worldwide. 



This cutting-edge <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/KMAP_ocean-gene-DNA_mapping_landscape_infographic_Laiolo_2m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computational effort</a> identified 317.5 million gene groups, with over half classified by organism type and gene function. 



By correlating this information with sample locations and habitat types, the catalog offers unprecedented insights into the distribution and roles of marine microbes.



“This achievement underscores the essence of open science,” Duarte remarks. The catalog's creation was possible due to global sailing expeditions for sample collection and the open-access sharing of DNA data. He emphasizes the ongoing collaborative efforts to keep this catalog freely available.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-and-future-of-kmap">Impact and future of KMAP</h2>



The KMAP catalog has already uncovered significant findings, like differences in microbial activity between the water column and ocean floor, and a notable presence of fungi in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/KMAP_ocean-gene-DNA_mapping_landscape_infographic_Laiolo_3m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mesopelagic</a> 'twilight' zone. 



These discoveries aid in understanding how different habitats' microbes shape ecosystems, contribute to ocean health, and affect the climate.



This catalog also serves as a crucial baseline for monitoring the impact of human activities, like pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-disrupts-the-distribution-of-marine-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, on marine life. It's a treasure trove of genetic material, ripe for exploration in drug development, energy, and agriculture.



Laiolo highlights the need for continued ocean sampling, especially in under-studied areas like the deep sea. She points out that due to the ocean's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-are-not-immune-to-ocean-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamic nature</a>, the catalog will require regular updates.



However, Duarte warns of the catalog's uncertain future, citing international legislation on benefit-sharing from discoveries in international waters as a major hurdle. 



“The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-seas-treaty-will-help-protect-the-worlds-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 Treaty of the High Seas</a> offers some solutions, but it might also hinder research by diminishing investment incentives. Resolving this uncertainty is crucial now that we have the tools for groundbreaking innovation in blue biotechnology,” he concludes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-global-ocean-genome-atlas">Building a global ocean genome atlas</h2>



The KMAP Ocean Gene Catalog 1.0 is just the beginning. It's a first step towards developing a comprehensive atlas documenting every gene from every marine species worldwide, from bacteria and fungi to plants and animals. 



In summary, as we continue to explore and understand the vast and complex ocean ecosystem, this catalog will be an indispensable resource, guiding us towards a deeper appreciation and better stewardship of our planet's greatest natural resource.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/science/articles/10.3389/fsci.2023.1038696/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Science</a>.



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Largest-ever ocean DNA study uncovers mysteries of marine life

The ocean, Earth's largest habitat, remains largely unexplored, holding secrets...

Planet,Earth,As,Seen,From,Surface,Of,The,Moon.,Elements

An international research team led by Dr. Ottaviano Rüsch from the <a href="https://www.uni-muenster.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Münster</a> has identified anomalous meter-sized Moon rocks, which are covered in uniquely reflective dust, potentially indicating magnetic anomalies. This revelation sheds new light on the understanding of lunar crust formation and changes.



The Moon, unlike Earth, is enveloped in sharp-edged, electrostatically charged dust, a subject of study since the Apollo missions of the late 1960s.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-reflective-properties-nbsp">Unusual reflective properties&nbsp;</h2>



Dr. Rüsch's team identified a few lunar boulders with a layer of dust exhibiting unusual reflective properties. The dust reflects sunlight distinctively, differing from that on previously known rocks. The findings are crucial for comprehending the processes shaping the Moon's crust.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-moon-s-magnetism-nbsp">The Moon's magnetism&nbsp;</h2>



The study, fueled by interest in the lunar surface's magnetic anomalies, particularly near the Reiner Gamma region, delves into uncharted territory regarding the Moon's magnetism. Dr. Rüsch highlighted the importance of these new rocks in understanding the Moon's magnetic history and core.&nbsp;



"Current knowledge of the Moon's magnetic properties is very limited, so these new rocks will shed light on the history of the Moon and its magnetic core," said Dr. Rüsch. "For the first time, we have investigated the interactions of dust with rocks in the Reiner Gamma region - more precisely, the variations in the reflective properties of these rocks. For example, we can deduce to what extent and in which direction the sunlight is reflected by these large rocks."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lunar-reconnaissance-orbiter-images">Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter images</h2>



The team analyzed images from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter to study the interaction of dust with rocks, focusing on variations in the rocks' reflective properties. The research was initially focused on identifying cracked rocks.&nbsp;



Utilizing artificial intelligence, the team sifted through approximately one million images from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, searching for fractured rocks.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-130-000-intriguing-rocks-nbsp">130,000 intriguing rocks&nbsp;</h2>



"Modern data processing methods allow us to gain completely new insights into global contexts - at the same time, we keep finding unknown objects in this way, such as the anomalous rocks that we are investigating in this new study," explained Valentin Bickel from the University of Bern's Center for Space and Habitability.



The algorithm pinpointed around 130,000 intriguing rocks, with half undergoing detailed examination.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-interaction-with-light">Strange interaction with light</h2>



"We recognized a boulder with distinctive dark areas on just one image. This rock was very different from all the others, as it scatters less light back towards the sun than other rocks. We suspect that this is due to the particular dust structure, such as the density and grain size of the dust," said Dr. Rüsch.&nbsp;



"Normally, lunar dust is very porous and reflects a lot of light back in the direction of illumination. However, when the dust is compacted, the overall brightness usually increases. This is not the case with the observed dust-covered rocks," noted Marcel Hess from TU Dortmund University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-research-nbsp">Ongoing research&nbsp;</h2>



The team's discovery is still in its early stages, with ongoing research focused on understanding the dust's properties and its interaction with the rocks. Upcoming studies will explore processes like electrostatic dust lifting and solar wind interaction with local magnetic fields.



This discovery is timely, as NASA plans to deploy an automatic rover to the Reiner Gamma region in the coming years to seek similar boulders. A deeper understanding of lunar dust movement is not only academically significant but also practical, assisting in future human settlement planning on the Moon.&nbsp;



The challenges posed by lunar dust, as experienced by Apollo astronauts in habitat and equipment contamination, highlight the importance of these studies in preparing for extended human presence on the Moon.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2023JE007910" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research Planets</a>. 



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Mysterious rocks may unlock secrets of the Moon's magnetic history 

An international research team led by Dr. Ottaviano Rüsch from...

Father,And,Son,Sitting,On,Sofa,In,Lounge,Playing,Video

In a recent study conducted by a collaborative team of neuroscientists from the University of Vienna and the <a href="https://ki.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karolinska Institute</a> in Stockholm, researchers delved into the effects of violent video games on human empathy. 



This research, now published in the esteemed journal eLife, aimed to address the prevalent concern that exposure to violent content in video <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-can-help-boost-childrens-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a> could diminish empathetic responses in players.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-empathy-connection">The empathy connection</h2>



The study's co-leads, Claus Lamm and Lukas Lengersdorff, guided an international team in this intricate exploration. 



Their primary focus was to examine whether regular engagement with violent video games alters a person's empathetic reactions to others' pain. 



This question is particularly pertinent given the widespread integration of video games into the daily lives of both children and adults, many of which feature explicit violent scenes. 



The underlying worry has been that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-do-not-harm-childrens-cognitive-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a> might not only desensitize players to violence but also lower their threshold for committing real-world violence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-violent-video-games">Studying violent video games</h2>



The methodology of the study was meticulously designed. The research team selected 89 adult male participants, ensuring that these individuals had minimal or no prior exposure to violent video <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/playing-action-video-games-can-improve-reading-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a>, to maintain the integrity of the study's results. 



Initially, the participants underwent a baseline assessment of their empathetic levels. This involved brain scans while they observed another person experiencing painful electric shocks.



Following this, the participants were divided into two groups for the video game phase of the experiment. Over several weeks, they visited the research lab seven times, each session lasting an hour. 



The experimental group engaged with a highly violent version of '<a href="https://www.rockstargames.com/gta-v" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grand Theft Auto V</a>', where their objective was to eliminate as many characters as possible. 



Conversely, the control group played a non-violent version of the same game, focusing on photographing characters instead of harming them.



Upon completion of the gaming sessions, the researchers conducted a second round of empathy assessments on the participants. 



Intriguingly, the results revealed that playing the violent video game had no noticeable impact on the players' empathy levels or the corresponding brain activity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



This finding challenges the widely held belief that exposure to video <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gaming-may-increase-cognitive-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game</a> violence necessarily dulls empathic responses in individuals.



The study's findings bring a fresh perspective to this ongoing debate, challenging preconceived notions and setting new directions for future research.



At the heart of the study was an exploration of how exposure to violent video games influences an individual's empathetic abilities. The results were intriguing. 



Participants who were subjected to extreme violent content in video games showed no significant difference in their empathic responses compared to those who engaged in non-violent tasks, such as taking photos. 



This finding is critical because it suggests that short-term exposure to video game violence might not impair empathy.



Further, the study delved into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gamers-may-be-at-risk-of-irreversible-hearing-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurological aspect</a>, examining brain activities associated with empathy, particularly in areas like the anterior insular and anterior midcingulate cortex. 



No significant differences were observed here either. These findings raise an important question: Are the concerns about video game violence and its impact on empathy overblown?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interpretations-and-significance">Interpretations and significance</h2>



Lead author Lukas Lengersdorff, conducting this research as part of his doctoral studies, urges caution in interpreting these findings. 



"Given the sensitive nature of this topic, we must tread carefully," he explains. "Our study does not definitively prove that violent video games are harmless. We lack the comprehensive data required for such a sweeping statement."



The study's real significance, according to Lengersdorff, lies in its contribution to a more nuanced understanding of previous findings. 



He notes, "Our results indicate that a few hours of exposure to video game violence doesn't significantly affect the empathy of mentally healthy adults. This contradicts earlier studies which reported negative effects after just a few minutes of gameplay." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-previous-studies-on-violent-video-games">Previous studies on violent video games</h2>



Lengersdorff highlights a crucial difference: previous studies often involved participants playing violent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-finds-no-evidence-that-video-games-promote-violence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a> immediately before data collection, a method that fails to differentiate between short-term and long-term effects.



Claus Lamm, the research group leader and co-author, views this study as a benchmark for future research. 



"To make definitive claims about the effects of violent video <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/violent-video-games-kids-guns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a>, we need strong experimental controls and longitudinal studies," says Lamm. Their research aims to pave the way for such rigorous inquiries.



However, the work is far from complete. The next steps involve examining the effects of prolonged exposure to video game violence and determining if these findings hold for vulnerable subpopulations.



Lamm notes, "A critical question remains: are children and adolescents, whose brains are highly adaptable, also unaffected by video game violence?" 



He acknowledges the ethical challenges in studying this aspect but underscores its importance.



In summary, this research represents a significant stride in understanding the complex relationship between video game violence and empathy. 



While it challenges some existing assumptions, it also opens the door to more thorough and ethically considered future studies, especially concerning younger demographics. 



The journey to fully comprehend this relationship is ongoing, but this study marks a pivotal step forward.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/84951" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a>.



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How violent video games impact the human mind

In a recent study conducted by a collaborative team of...

Electric,Car,On,Charging,Spot,With,Solar,Panels,And,Wind

In an effort to combat climate change and its associated consequences, the United States has enacted several ambitious federal laws and climate policies, including the Inflation Reduction Act (<a href="https://www.irs.gov/inflation-reduction-act-of-2022" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRA</a>) passed in 2022 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/11/06/fact-sheet-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IIJA</a>) of 2021. 



These laws aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-utilities-may-be-100-percent-renewable-energy-by-2060/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a> development. 



While some analyses suggest that these policies could bring about a reduction in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-every-nations-contribution-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> by more than 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, researchers at the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a> and their collaborators suggest caution in interpreting these estimates. 



According to their study, various factors, such as consumer decision-making and political polarization, may influence the effectiveness of these laws.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-climate-policies-and-legislation">Importance of climate policies and legislation</h2>



Leaf Van Boven, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at CU Boulder, emphasizes that the passage of these laws signifies a crucial moment for America. 



“America stands at a pivotal moment with the passage of its ambitious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> legislation," said Van Boven. “The nation's ability to unite behind these transformative policies will either ignite a sustainable energy revolution or fumble into the familiar deadlock of political discord.” 



One critical aspect of implementation lies in the speed and scale of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/renewable-energy-must-be-doubled-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a> infrastructure projects. 



The researchers caution that the effectiveness of these policies heavily relies on the timely construction and expansion of renewable energy projects. 



Currently, the process for obtaining permits for power transmission projects in the U.S. takes an average of six to eight years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-policy-implementation-challenges">Climate policy implementation challenges</h2>



Matt Burgess is a co-author of the study and a fellow of the Cooperative Institute for Research and Environmental Sciences (<a href="https://cires.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CIRES</a>). 



He warns that without significant improvements in the speed of expanding the power transmission network, up to 80% of the IRA's potential emissions reductions could be lost. 



“If it takes six to eight years to get a permit for a power line and even longer to get a utility-scale solar project approved, we might have almost no shovels in the ground in many key areas by 2035, when we're supposed to have already made significant progress,” Burgess said. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-of-political-polarization">Influence of political polarization</h2>



The researchers also highlight the potential impact of political polarization on the effectiveness of these climate policies. 



If these laws become overly polarized and face opposition from the next Congress or local governments, their intended benefits may be compromised. 



To address this challenge, the researchers propose reframing these laws to reduce their association with climate policies.



By adopting alternative narratives, it may be possible to mitigate political polarization and increase the likelihood of effective implementation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elections-and-climate-change">Elections and climate change</h2>



The team of researchers conducted a <a href="https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10494414" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">separate study</a>, published by C-SEF, which examined the role of climate change in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-opinions-swing-voting-and-elections-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">voters' decision-making</a> during the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. 



The findings indicated that views on climate change significantly influenced voters' choices. They concluded that the climate issue likely played a role in the 2020 election outcome, emphasizing the relevance of this topic for politicians and advocates ahead of the 2024 election cycle. 



“This is obviously information that politicians and advocates across the political spectrum will want to know, heading into the 2024 election cycle,” said Burgess. 



“Beyond that, we don’t see it as our job as researchers to editorialize. How to reduce political polarization of climate change is one of the questions our research group is most interested in currently, and this provides some insight,” Burgess concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-u-s-climate-policy">Future of U.S. climate policy</h2>



In summary, while the U.S. government's recent climate legislation has the potential to bring about significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the researchers at UC Boulder caution against overly optimistic estimates.



The effective deployment of investments, the timely construction of renewable energy projects, and the mitigation of political polarization are key factors that will determine the success of these climate policies. 



By considering these challenges and implementing potential solutions, the U.S. can continue its progress towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-023-01906-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Why aren’t U.S. climate policies effective?

In an effort to combat climate change and its associated...

A comprehensive study involving over 25,000 dogs across 238 breeds in the United States has uncovered significant links between the size of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-body-positions-that-indicate-your-dog-is-in-pain/">dog</a> and its risk for various health conditions.&nbsp;



Conducted by Yunbi Nam and colleagues from the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, the study marks a significant step in understanding why smaller dogs generally have a longer lifespan compared to their larger counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dog-aging-project">The Dog Aging Project</h2>



"Age in dogs is associated with the risk of many diseases, and canine size is a major factor in that risk. However, the size patterns are complex. While small size dogs tend to live longer, some diseases are more prevalent among small dogs," noted the researchers.



"In this study we seek to quantify how the pattern of disease history varies across the spectrum of dog size, dog age, and their interaction."



To investigate, the experts analyzed data from 27,541 dogs, part of the ongoing Dog Aging Project. This extensive dataset allowed for a comprehensive view of how size impacts health risks across a dog's life.



"The Dog Aging Project (DAP) provides a unique opportunity to investigate how the lifetime prevalence of different conditions varies across age and size in a large community-based population of companion dogs," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Additionally, we explore whether the adjustment for the dog’s sex, breed status (purebred vs. mixed-breed status), and the census division defined by the dog’s residence address impacts this relationship."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-about-dog-size">Key findings about dog size</h2>



The results of the study indicate that large dogs are more prone to suffer from certain health conditions such as cancer, bone-related diseases, and gastrointestinal issues. 



Bigger dogs were also found to be more likely to have problems related to ears, nose, and throat; neurological and endocrine conditions; and infectious diseases.&nbsp;



On the other hand, smaller dogs tend to be more susceptible to diseases affecting the eyes, heart, liver, pancreas, and respiratory system.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the prevalence of kidney and urinary diseases did not show a significant difference between large and small dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundbreaking-approach-nbsp">Groundbreaking approach&nbsp;</h2>



The study is groundbreaking in its approach to understanding how risks for various health conditions vary with the size of the dog throughout its lifespan.&nbsp;



Notably, the researchers found distinct patterns of risk associated with various diseases such as cancer, ocular, cardiac, orthopedic, and ear/nose/throat conditions, depending on the dog's size.



Even after accounting for variables such as the dog's sex, living environment, and whether they were purebred or mixed-breed, the clear link between size and disease risk remained evident.



The experts said their results provide insights into the disease categories that may contribute to reduced lifespan in larger dogs and suggest multiple avenues for further exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-size-study-strengths-and-limitations">Dog size study strengths and limitations </h2>



"Our study has several strengths and limitations that should be noted. Strengths include the large sample size of this study, which allows us to estimate patterns with high power across the whole age and size spectrum," wrote the researchers.



"Additionally, we have a very diverse sample of dogs distributed across the entire United States. Since the sample is not veterinary-hospital or clinic-based it may be more representative of the general population of dogs."&nbsp;



"Conversely, while our observations can suggest which conditions manifest differently across age and size, they do not prove any causal relationships due to the cross-sectional nature of the analysis. Over time, longitudinal data will be collected on these dogs, and we will be able to examine disease incidence."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0295840" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Dog size is directly linked to different types of disease

A comprehensive study involving over 25,000 dogs across 238 breeds...

A series of studies has revealed that daily multivitamins could play a crucial role in improving memory and slowing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/">cognitive aging</a> in older adults.&nbsp;



This revelation comes at a critical time, as the Alzheimer’s Association predicts that by 2060, nearly a quarter of Americans will be at an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.



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



The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), led by experts at <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mass General Brigham</a>, has been at the forefront of this research. COSMOS is a comprehensive, nationwide trial that examines the effects of cocoa extract and multivitamin supplements.



Significantly, this is the third study from COSMOS to indicate the positive impact of daily multivitamins on cognition. The results revealed consistent benefits for memory as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-decline-nbsp">Cognitive decline&nbsp;</h2>



Chirag Vyas, the study's first author and an instructor in the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Psychiatry, emphasized the importance of these findings.



“Cognitive decline is among the top health concerns for most older adults, and a daily supplement of multivitamins has the potential as an appealing and accessible approach to slow cognitive aging,” said Vyas.



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



The latest study involved detailed, in-person cognitive assessments of 573 participants, known as the COSMOS-Clinic subset.&nbsp;



In conjunction with two earlier studies that utilized telephone-based and online web-based cognitive assessments, the researchers found modest benefits for global cognition over two years, with a significant impact on episodic memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-evidence-nbsp">Strong evidence&nbsp;</h2>



A meta-analysis combining data from all three studies, with 5,000 non-overlapping COSMOS participants, revealed strong evidence of benefits for both global cognition and episodic memory. The researchers estimated that daily multivitamin usage could slow global cognitive aging by as much as two years.



“The meta-analysis of three separate cognition studies provides strong and consistent evidence that taking a daily multivitamin, containing more than 20 essential micronutrients, helps prevent memory loss and slow down cognitive aging," said Vyas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance-nbsp">Study significance&nbsp;</h2>



Senior author Dr. Olivia Okereke highlighted the significance of the research for older adults concerned about brain health.&nbsp;



“These findings will garner attention among many older adults who are, understandably, very interested in ways to preserve brain health, as they provide evidence for the role of a daily multivitamin in supporting better cognitive aging," said Dr. Okereke.



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



The overall COSMOS project is led by Dr. JoAnn Manson and Howard Sesso, both of Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH).&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The finding that a daily multivitamin improved memory and slowed cognitive aging in three separate placebo-controlled studies in COSMOS is exciting and further supports the promise of multivitamins as a safe, accessible and affordable approach to protecting cognitive health in older adults," said Dr. Manson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-nbsp">Future research&nbsp;</h2>



“With these three studies using different approaches for assessing cognition in COSMOS, each providing support for a daily multivitamin, it is now critical to understand the mechanisms by which a daily multivitamin may protect against memory loss and cognitive decline with a focus on nutritional status and other aging-related factors," said Sesso.



"For example, the modifying role of baseline nutritional status on protecting against cognitive decline has been shown for the COSMOS cocoa extract intervention. A typical multivitamin such as that tested in COSMOS contains many essential vitamins and minerals that could explain its potential benefits.”



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.12.011" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>. 



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Daily multivitamins slow cognitive aging and improve memory

A series of studies has revealed that daily multivitamins could...

Wolf,Spider,On,Leaf

In the animal kingdom, the impact of environmental factors on communication and survival is a subject of endless fascination. A recent study by the <a href="https://www.uc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cincinnati</a> reveals a unique aspect of this interaction, focusing on wolf spiders and its struggle with rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-season-wolf-spiders-and-rain">Mating season, wolf spiders, and rain</h2>



Wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-turn-to-cannibalism-when-food-sources-are-limited/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, a species found throughout the United States, have a unique way of communicating and sensing danger. 



They lack ears but use specialized organs in their eight legs to sense vibrations. This form of communication becomes particularly challenging in wet conditions. 



The study revealed that rain-soaked leaves significantly hamper the spiders' ability to signal each other and perceive threats from predators, such as predatory birds, compared to dry leaves.



The timing of this struggle is crucial. Spring, the mating season for wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolf-spiders-color-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a>, coincides with the nesting season of birds like blue jays. 



These birds, feeding spiders to their offspring due to the high taurine content beneficial for brain development, pose a significant threat to the spiders, especially males engaging in courtship rituals. 



Male wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-wolf-spiders-perform-elaborate-dances-to-woo-females/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> attract mates by drumming their furry front legs on leaves, a display that is less effective and more dangerous on wet leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-camouflage-and-adaptive-behaviors">Camouflage and adaptive behaviors</h2>



Professor George Uetz, the lead author of the study, explains that the camouflage abilities of these striped black and brown spiders are remarkable, especially when they remain motionless. 



However, this strategy has its limitations. 



“Birds preferentially feed spiders to their offspring because spiders have 50 times the amount of taurine than insects,” Uetz said. 



“And taurine is critical for the development of the hippocampus of nestlings’ brains. The hippocampus is associated with spatial memory, which is really important for birds.”



The study also highlighted the spiders' adaptive behavior in response to changing conditions. Despite the challenges posed by wet leaves, male wolf spiders didn't shy away from courting in the rain. 



Instead, they increased their visual signaling to compensate for the reduced effectiveness of vibratory communication. 



“If they remain still, they just disappear,” Utz said. “Like lots of predators, blue jays are visually oriented. They’re very visually acute. For them, movement really is the key.”



Interestingly, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interesting-fact-hungry-spiders-lose-their-eyesight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> that could utilize dry leaves for communication had greater mating success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-implications-and-climate-change">Ecological implications and climate change</h2>



The implications of this study extend beyond the immediate struggles that wolf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-pest-control-tree-species-diversity-increases-spider-density/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> have when it rains.



With climate change bringing about more frequent and prolonged spring rains, these spiders face increasing ecological challenges. 



“Spring is coming a little earlier. What we’re seeing is there’s a shift in the life cycle of the spiders,” Uetz points out. 



“If global warming shifts the annual life cycle of the spiders, that will push them out of synchrony with the nesting season of the birds, which is more closely tied to daylight cues.”



Rachel Gilbert, a UC graduate and co-author of the study, emphasizes the broader significance of these findings. 



“Spiders are very important to local ecosystems, both as a predator of insects and as a major food source to larger animals like birds,” she says, suggesting that spiders can serve as important indicators of environmental change.



In summary, this research provides insightful revelations about how environmental changes, particularly rainfall, impact the communication, mating success, and survival strategies of wolf spiders. 



It also underscores the broader ecological implications, emphasizing the interconnectedness of species and the potential effects of climate change on these delicate balances.



The study was published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10905-023-09843-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Insect Behavior</a>.



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Wolf spiders hate the rain and change their mating strategies when it showers

In the animal kingdom, the impact of environmental factors on...

The world's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/">iceberg</a>, A23a, is undergoing significant erosion and transformation as it moves away from Antarctica. Captured in new photos and videos, the iceberg, measuring 1,540 square miles, is being reshaped by ocean waters, forming caves and arches.&nbsp;



The erosive process, similar to coastal land erosion, is accelerated by waves crashing against the iceberg, gradually enlarging gaps until the top layers collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mind-boggling-size">Mind-boggling size</h2>



<a href="https://www.eyos-expeditions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EYOS Expeditions</a>, who recently visited iceberg A23a, deployed a drone for aerial photography. Expedition leader Ian Strachan described the scene, thusly. 



"We saw waves, a good three meters or four meters high, smashing into the berg... These were creating cascades of ice – a constant state of erosion." 



"It's mind-bogglingly big and stretches as far as you can see in both directions... It's certainly too big to photograph," added videographer Richard Sidey.



The erosion process involves powerful waves hitting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a23a-worlds-largest-iceberg-is-moving-after-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg's base</a>, creating small gaps that eventually widen into caves and arches, leading to the collapse of the 'roof' or the top ice layer. This leaves behind smaller stacks that eventually melt away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-of-iceberg-a23a">Potential impact of iceberg A23a</h2>



A23a, grounded to the ocean floor for 30 years, is now drifting northwards due to wind and ocean currents. 



The <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> (BAS) revealed that the iceberg is moving at about 30 miles per day and may enter "iceberg alley" towards South Georgia. 



According to a BAS spokesperson, "it depends on its trajectory, but there is potential for impact to wildlife if it approaches any of the sub-Antarctic islands."



Originally part of the Filchner Ice Shelf, A23a became stationary after grounding, a phenomenon that occurs when an iceberg's keel is deeper than the water's depth. 



Scientists noted its movement in November, with the iceberg now on a northward journey. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-title-of-world-s-largest-iceberg">The title of world's largest iceberg</h2>



Despite its current title as the world's largest iceberg, this status is temporary, as icebergs inevitably fragment. 



The previous largest iceberg, A76, detached from the Weddell Sea ice shelf in May 2021 but has since broken into three pieces.



One of the most notable was Iceberg A-68, which calved from the Larsen C Ice Shelf in Antarctica in July 2017. 



At the time of its calving, A-68 was one of the largest ever recorded, measuring about 5,800 square kilometers (2,240 square miles) in area, roughly the size of Delaware or the island of Trinidad.



Over time, these massive icebergs break into smaller pieces and eventually melt. Satellite imagery and tracking have been crucial in monitoring their movements and changes, providing valuable data for understanding the dynamics of polar regions in the context of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-iceberg-a23a">More about iceberg A23a</h2>



In the vast, frigid waters of the Southern Ocean, Iceberg A23a stands as a monumental testament to nature's grandeur and the dynamic processes shaping our planet. 



As discussed above, this massive iceberg, once part of Antarctica's sprawling ice shelf, embarked on an extraordinary journey that captures the attention of scientists and the public alike.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-and-discovery">Origins and discovery</h3>



Iceberg A23a broke away from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf, a significant section of the Antarctic ice sheet. Its calving, a natural part of the ice shelf's life cycle, was a spectacle of nature's power. 



The moment it separated, A23a became an independent entity, charting a course through the world's southernmost waters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iceberg-a23a-size-and-structure">Iceberg A23a size and structure</h3>



Measuring over a hundred kilometers in length and breadth, A23a is comparable in size to major global cities, dwarfing most other icebergs. 



Its towering walls of ice rise majestically, while the bulk of its mass, like that of all icebergs, remains hidden underwater. 



This colossal size makes A23a a subject of fascination and a vital piece in understanding the Earth's cryosphere.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-the-environment">Impact on the environment</h3>



As A23a drifts, it influences the oceanic currents and the marine ecosystem. The iceberg's immense size acts as a floating barrier, redirecting water flows and potentially altering weather patterns. 



Moreover, its gradual melting process releases vast amounts of freshwater, impacting the salinity of the surrounding ocean, which can have far-reaching effects on marine life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h3>



The journey of A23a provides a unique opportunity for research. Scientists employ satellites, drones, and ship-based observations to track its movement and study its impact. 



This research offers insights into the behavior of icebergs and the broader implications for global climate patterns. The data gathered helps refine models predicting the response of polar regions to climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iceberg-a23a-and-climate-change">Iceberg A23a and climate change</h3>



The story of A23a is intrinsically linked to the narrative of global warming. The increasing rate of iceberg calving in Antarctica raises concerns about the stability of ice shelves and the potential for accelerated sea-level rise. 



A23a's voyage is a vivid, tangible example of these changes. While its contribution to sea-level rise is minimal compared to glacial meltwater, it symbolizes the larger, more pressing issue of our warming planet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-social-impact-of-iceberg-a23a">Cultural and social impact of iceberg A23a</h3>



Beyond its scientific importance, A23a has captured the public's imagination. It represents the remote and wild beauty of the Antarctic region and serves as a powerful symbol of the natural world's scale and mystery. 



In a world increasingly concerned with environmental issues, A23a's journey is a reminder of the need for stewardship and understanding of our planet's delicate ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbol-of-change-and-discovery">Symbol of change and discovery</h3>



As Iceberg A23a continues its solitary voyage, it remains a subject of awe and study. It stands as a stark reminder of the Earth's changing climate and the urgent need to understand and protect our planet's polar regions. 



In summary, the story of A23a is not just about a massive chunk of ice. The takeaway here is the interconnectedness of our global environment and the shared responsibility we hold in safeguarding it for future generations.



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World’s largest iceberg, A23a, is adrift and seeing major erosion and melting

The world's largest iceberg, A23a, is undergoing significant erosion and...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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 province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

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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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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