Earth, the only known planet to support life, owes much of its habitability to water. Understanding when and how water arrived on Earth is crucial for piecing together the story of life’s origins. 



Scientists have long debated whether water was present from the planet’s formation or if it arrived later through external sources. 



A recent study led by a Rutgers-New Brunswick scientist challenges existing theories, suggesting that water arrived much later than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-cycles-through-plants-with-unexpected-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously believed</a>.



The findings indicate that Earth received water toward the final stages of its formation. This discovery could reshape scientific understanding of the conditions necessary for life.



By examining isotopes in Earth’s rocks and comparing them with meteorites, researchers have provided new insights into the timing and process of water’s arrival on our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-life-s-origins">Timing of life’s origins</h2>



Scientists seek to pinpoint when key <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/comets-may-have-delivered-water-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients for life</a> first appeared on Earth. Water, energy, and a mix of organic chemicals known as CHNOPS - carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur - are essential for life to emerge. 



Determining when these components arrived can offer clues about the timing of life’s formation.



Katherine Bermingham is an associate professor in the <a href="https://eps.rutgers.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences</a> at Rutgers and lead author of the study.



“When water was delivered to the planet is a major unanswered question in planetary science,” said Bermingham. “If we know the answer, we can better constrain when and how life developed.”



Her research suggests that water was not present during the early phases of Earth’s formation, as some theories propose. Instead, the planet acquired it much later through a process known as late accretion, when additional material from space continued to shape Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examining-the-building-blocks-of-planets">Examining the building blocks of planets</h2>



Bermingham specializes in cosmogeochemistry, a field that examines the chemical composition of planetary materials to understand their origins. 



By analyzing Earth rocks and extraterrestrial materials such as meteorites, she investigates how rocky planets, including Earth, formed and evolved.



In this study, Bermingham’s team used thermal ionization mass spectrometry, a precise method for measuring isotopic compositions. 



They developed a new analytical approach to examine isotopes of molybdenum, an element found in both Earth’s crust and meteorites.



Isotopes are variations of an element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, which gives them slightly different atomic masses while maintaining identical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical properties</a>.



“The molybdenum isotopic composition of Earth rocks provides us with a special window into events occurring around the time of Earth’s final core formation, when the last 10% to 20% of material was being assembled by the planet. This period is thought to coincide with the Moon’s formation,” explained Bermingham.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-meteorites-and-earth-rocks">Comparing meteorites and Earth rocks</h2>



To track Earth’s early chemical history, the team examined meteorite samples from the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian Institution. Scientists classify meteorites into two main groups based on their place of origin in the solar system.



The first group, known as “CC” meteorites, likely formed in the outer solar system, where conditions were wetter. The second group, “NC” meteorites, originated in the inner solar system, where conditions were much drier. 



This study focused on meteorites from the NC group to compare their chemical composition with Earth rocks.



The researchers analyzed molybdenum isotopes in rocks from Greenland, South Africa, Canada, the United States, and Japan. 



These rocks date back to the time of the Moon’s formation and are believed to contain elements added to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-other-planets-collected-first-water-from-unexpected-source-planetesimals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> during this period.



By comparing the isotopic signatures of meteorites and Earth rocks, the team sought to determine whether the Moon-forming event delivered a significant amount of water to Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-water-may-have-arrived-late">Earth’s water may have arrived late</h2>



“Once we gathered the different samples and measured their isotopic compositions, we compared the meteorites’ signatures with the rock signatures to see if there was a similarity or a difference,” Bermingham said. “And from there, we drew inferences.”



The analysis revealed that the molybdenum composition of Earth rocks closely matched that of NC meteorites, which originated in the drier inner solar system. 



This finding suggests that Earth’s building blocks primarily came from a region of the solar system where water was scarce.



This contradicts a popular theory that a significant amount of Earth’s water arrived during the Moon-forming event. 



Instead, the study indicates that water was delivered in smaller amounts long after the Moon formed, during the later stages of planetary development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-source-of-earth-s-water">Rethinking the source of Earth’s water</h2>



“We have to figure out from where in our solar system Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-earths-building-blocks-contained-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> - the dust and the gas - came and around when that happened,” Bermingham said. “That’s the information needed to understand when the stage was set for life to begin.”



If most of Earth’s original material came from the drier inner solar system, then the Moon-forming event was likely not a major contributor of water. Instead, water must have arrived in smaller portions later. 



This conclusion challenges the idea that a single event provided Earth with the majority of its water. 



The study supports the view that water accumulated gradually over time, arriving through a combination of asteroid impacts and other processes occurring well after the planet had taken shape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-about-life-s-early-conditions">Questions about life’s early conditions</h2>



“Our results suggest that the Moon-forming event was not a major supplier of water, unlike what has been thought previously,” Bermingham said. “These findings, however, permit a small amount of water to be added after final core formation, during what is called late accretion.”



This discovery raises new questions about how long it took for Earth to become habitable. If water arrived later than previously thought, then life may have taken longer to emerge. 



This could also have implications for understanding other planets, particularly those that scientists consider candidates for life.



By refining the timeline of Earth’s water history, this study contributes to a broader effort to understand planetary evolution. If water arrived late on Earth, then other planets might have followed a similar pattern. 



This could mean that life-supporting conditions take longer to develop than scientists once assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-in-the-search-for-earth-s-water">What’s next in the search for Earth’s water?</h2>



The study represents a step forward in unraveling Earth’s past, but it also highlights the many unanswered questions about the origins of water and life. 



Future research will likely focus on refining models of planetary accretion, analyzing additional meteorite samples, and exploring other isotopic markers that could provide further insights.



Other Rutgers contributors to the study include Linda Godfrey, an assistant research professor, and Hope Tornebene, a laboratory researcher in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. 



The research continues to push the boundaries of planetary science, bringing us closer to understanding how Earth became a world capable of supporting life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016703724005751?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta</a>.



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Water arrived on Earth gradually over time, not in one big event

Earth, the only known planet to support life, owes much of its habitability to water. Understanding when and how water arrived on Earth is crucial for piecing together the story of life’s origins. Scientists have long debated whether water was present from the planet’s formation or if it arrived later through external sources. A recent study led by a Rutgers-New Brunswick scientist challenges existing theories, suggesting that water arrived much later than previously believed. The findings indicate that Earth received water toward the final stages of its...

Mosquito,Fern,(azolla,Caroliniana);,One,Of,World's,Smallest,True,Fern

In the quest for innovative solutions to combat food insecurity and bolster resilience in the face of disasters, researchers from <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> have shed light on a remarkable yet underappreciated plant: Carolina azolla. 



This research unfolds the potential of azolla, a water plant native to the eastern U.S., known scientifically as azolla caroliniana Willd, to revolutionize our approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-infections-are-threatening-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food sustainability</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-secrets-of-carolina-azolla">Discovering the secrets of Carolina azolla</h2>



Carolina azolla, with its rapid growth rate -- capable of doubling its biomass in just two days -- and its ability to capture atmospheric nitrogen, presents a multifaceted solution to pressing global challenges. 



Not only does it serve as a green fertilizer, but it also holds promise as a nutritious feed for poultry and livestock, and, intriguingly, as a viable food source for humans in crisis situations.



A study led by Daniel Winstead, alongside Professors <a href="https://ecosystems.psu.edu/directory/mgj2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jacobson</a> and <a href="https://plantscience.psu.edu/directory/fxd92" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Francesco Di Gioia</a>, explores the unique properties of Carolina azolla that make it more digestible and nutritious for human consumption compared to its counterparts used in Asia and Africa. 



This discovery is part of a broader research initiative, <a href="https://sites.psu.edu/emergencyfoodresilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Resilience in the Face of Catastrophic Global Events</a>, aimed at identifying sustainable food resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cooking-unlocks-its-dietary-potential">How cooking unlocks its dietary potential</h2>



The nutritional profile of Carolina azolla is notable for its moderate protein content and high mineral yields, challenging the previously held belief that its high total polyphenolic content could limit its use in human diets. 



Polyphenols, while beneficial in lower concentrations for their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-science-behind-a-smoothie-the-fruit-you-choose-makes-a-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidant properties</a>, can inhibit nutrient absorption when present in high amounts. 



However, the Carolina strain's lower phenolic content, further reducible through cooking methods such as boiling, pressure cooking, and natural fermentation, marks a significant advancement in making azolla a feasible dietary option.



Described as having a crisp texture and a neutral taste, Carolina azolla's adaptability to different cooking processes significantly diminishes its antinutritional factors, thus enhancing its appeal for human consumption and livestock feed alike. 



The research found that cooking reduces the plant's total phenol content by up to 92%, making it comparable to common fruits, beans, and nuts in terms of phenolic content.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carolina-azolla-as-a-sustainable-food-source">Carolina Azolla as a sustainable food source</h2>



Beyond its nutritional benefits, Carolina azolla stands out for its low maintenance and minimal input requirements, making it an ideal crop for fast cultivation. 



Its ability to thrive with limited resources positions it as a key player in enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seed-systems-will-play-a-key-role-in-future-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food supplies</a>, particularly in smallholder farms and low-income regions. 



The plant's versatility and quick growth cycle make it a strategic resource in disaster recovery efforts, offering a rapid response to food scarcity and contributing to climate resilience.



This study is part of a series of investigations by Penn State researchers into drought-resistant food crops and the role of agrobiodiversity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-farming-could-boost-food-security-slow-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustaining food systems</a> amid increasing disasters. 



By highlighting underutilized plants like Carolina azolla, which once formed a part of Native American diets, the research advocates for a diversified approach to food security.



As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and food scarcity, Carolina azolla emerges as a beacon of hope. Its potential applications, from emergency food supplies to inclusion in space exploration programs, underscore the importance of exploring and developing resilient food systems. 



Through continued research and development, Carolina azolla could play a pivotal role in securing a sustainable and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilient food future</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carolina-azolla-and-a-future-of-resilient-food-systems">Carolina azolla and a future of resilient food systems</h2>



In summary, this important research by Penn State offers hope for addressing global food insecurity and building resilience against disasters. 



Through its rapid growth, nitrogen-fixing ability, and potential as a nutritious food source, Carolina azolla presents a versatile solution to the challenges of sustainable agriculture and emergency food provision. 



The study highlights the plant's significant benefits and underscores the importance of innovative approaches to food production. 



As we move forward, embracing underutilized resources like Carolina azolla could be key to developing robust, sustainable food systems capable of withstanding the unpredictable challenges of the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fsn3.3904" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Science &amp; Nutrition</a>.



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Carolina azolla plant could help reduce global food insecurity

In the quest for innovative solutions to combat food insecurity...

A new study suggests that disturbances in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-color-has-no-impact-on-our-internal-clocks-or-sleep-patterns/">sleep patterns</a> and circadian rhythms can trigger or exacerbate a variety of psychiatric disorders. The research emphasizes the potential for treating mental health issues by addressing sleep-circadian disturbances.



The experts reviewed recent evidence on sleep and circadian factors, focusing on adolescents and young adults with psychiatric disorders. This is a time when disruption to sleep and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circadian-rhythms-persist-during-bear-hibernation/">circadian rhythms</a> are likely to occur.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-sleep-circadian-disturbances">What are sleep-circadian disturbances?</h2>



Sleep-circadian disturbances involve disruptions in the natural sleep-wake cycle, impacting both sleep quality and timing. Such disturbances often lead to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. 



Our bodies operate on a circadian rhythm. This internal clock dictates sleepiness and wakefulness throughout a 24-hour period. When this rhythm is off, it can affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-apps-to-practice-mindfulness-improves-mental-health-of-children/">mental health</a>, leading to issues like depression or anxiety. 



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



“Sleep-circadian disturbances are the rule, rather than the exception, across every category of psychiatric disorders,” said Dr. Sarah L. Chellappa from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>.



“Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, are well understood in the development and maintenance of psychiatric disorders, but our understanding of circadian disturbances lags behind."



“It is important to understand how these factors interact so we can develop and apply sleep-circadian interventions that benefit the sleep and mental health symptoms of patients.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insomnia-and-psychiatric-disorders">Insomnia and psychiatric disorders</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/energy-drinks-linked-to-insomnia-among-college-students/">Insomnia</a> is a condition that is far more common in individuals with mental health disorders than in the general population. It is particularly prevalent during the early stages of psychosis, affecting over half of those individuals.&nbsp;



Furthermore, a significant portion of people with mood disorders experience both insomnia and hypersomnia, leading to a challenging cycle of sleep difficulties at night and excessive sleepiness during the day.&nbsp;



The study sheds light on circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders (CRSWD). The findings suggest that a substantial percentage of patients with a mood disorder experience altered sleep-wake patterns. This highlights the profound impact of body clock processes on psychiatric conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underlying-mechanisms">Underlying mechanisms</h2>



The review delves into the mechanisms behind sleep-circadian disturbances in psychiatric disorders. It identifies <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-diet-quality-in-adolescence-linked-to-lifelong-health-risks/">adolescence</a> as a critical period due to physiological and behavioral changes that affect sleep. 



“This variability in the duration and timing of sleep can lead to a misalignment between our body clock and our sleep-wake rhythms can increase the risk of sleep disturbances and adverse mental health outcomes," said Dr. Nicholas Meyer of <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King's College London</a>.



The researchers also investigated the roles of genetics, exposure to light, neuroplasticity, and other factors. They found that individuals with a genetic predisposition towards a reduced change in activity levels between rest and wake phases are more likely to experience depression, mood instability, and neuroticism.&nbsp;



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



The study not only identifies the problem but also points towards potential solutions. “Targeting sleep and circadian risk factors presents the opportunity to develop new preventative measures and therapies," said Dr. Renske Lok from <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>.



"Some of these are population-level considerations, such as the timing of school and work days, or changes in the built environment to optimise light exposure. Others are personalized interventions tailored to individual circadian parameters.”



Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and light therapy were shown to have positive effects on mental health disorders. Additionally, the researchers found the timing of medication, meals, and exercise to be effective treatments.



“Collectively, research into mental health is poised to take advantage of extraordinary advances in sleep and circadian science and translate these into improved understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders," said Dr. Chellappa.



The research was funded by the <a href="https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2214756121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a> (PNAS).



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Sleep-circadian disturbances trigger mental health disorders 

A new study suggests that disturbances in our sleep patterns...

Women can attain the same, if not greater, health benefits from exercise as men, but with considerably less effort. This is the conclusion of a new study published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.12.019">Journal of the American College of Cardiology</a> (JACC).



The research sheds light on the efficiency of women's bodies in responding to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-much-exercise-reduces-the-risk-of-premature-death/">exercise</a>. It also offers a new perspective on fitness and gender-specific health guidelines.



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



The researchers analyzed data from 412,413 adults collected through the National Health Interview Survey database, spanning from 1997 to 2019.&nbsp;



With a participant pool that was 55% female, the experts sought to understand how different genders experience the effects of exercise. The study was focused on parameters such as frequency, duration, intensity, and type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-activity-can-protect-mental-health-in-pre-teen-years/">physical activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-women-get-more-out-of-each-minute-of-exercise-nbsp">Women get more out of each minute of exercise&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-lead author Dr. Martha Gulati is an expert in the Department of Cardiology at the Cedars-Sinai <a href="https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/heart.html">Smidt Heart Institute</a>.



“Women have historically and statistically lagged behind men in engaging in meaningful exercise,” said Dr. Gulati. “The beauty of this study is learning that women can get more out of each minute of moderate to vigorous activity than men do. It’s an incentivizing notion that we hope women will take to heart.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mortality-risk">Mortality risk</h2>



The study's findings are particularly compelling in the context of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/every-year-of-education-reduces-mortality-risk/">mortality risk</a> and physical activity.



"For all adults engaging in any regular physical activity, compared to being inactive, mortality risk was expectedly lower," said study senior author Dr. Susan Cheng. “Intriguingly, though, mortality risk was reduced by 24% in women and 15% in men."



The discrepancy in mortality risk underscores the enhanced benefit that women receive from physical activity. This revelation that could potentially revolutionize public health recommendations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maximum-survival-benefit-nbsp">Maximum survival benefit&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers found that men required approximately five hours per week of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity, such as brisk walking or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cycling-could-dramatically-cut-carbon-emissions/">cycling</a>, to reach maximal survival benefit. By contrast, women achieved the same benefit with just under 2 ½ hours per week.&nbsp;



For muscle-strengthening activities, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-lifting-strengthens-the-bodys-nervous-system/">weight lifting</a> or core exercises, men peaked at three sessions per week. Meanwhile, women gained comparable benefits from roughly one session per week.



According to Dr. Cheng, women had even greater gains if they engaged in more than 2 ½ hours per week of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity.&nbsp;



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



The researchers noted that their findings help to translate a longstanding recognition of sex-specific physiology seen in the exercise lab to a now-expanded view of sex differences in outcomes.



Dr. Gulati said there is power in recommendations based on the study’s findings. “Men get a maximal survival benefit when performing 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week, whereas women get the same benefit from 140 minutes per week. Nonetheless, women continue to get further benefit for up to 300 minutes a week.”



Dr. Christine M. Albert emphasized that concrete, novel studies like this don’t happen often. “I am hopeful that this pioneering research will motivate women who are not currently engaged in regular physical activity to understand that they are in a position to gain tremendous benefit for each increment of regular exercise they are able to invest in their longer-term health."



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Women achieve greater benefits from exercise with less effort

Women can attain the same, if not greater, health benefits...

Climate change is making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-rivers-always-recover-from-floods/">floods</a> worse and more common around the world. Professor Lindsey McEwen, Director of the Centre for Water, Communities and Resilience at the <a href="https://www.uwe.ac.uk/">University of the West of England</a>, warns that extreme floods will happen more frequently and become more damaging. This means that people need to change how they prepare for and deal with flood risks.



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



Multiple scientists agree that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/">climate change</a> will cause more frequent and intense floods.&nbsp; This prediction, based on extensive research and modeling, considers the impact of rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-struggling-to-maintain-oxygen-as-temperatures-rise/">temperatures</a>, changing precipitation patterns, and other climate-related factors.



The consequences of flooding are far-reaching, impacting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-butts-leak-thousands-of-deadly-toxins-into-the-environment/">environment</a>, economy, and society. Floods destroy habitats, pollute water sources, damage infrastructures, disrupt businesses, and force people from their homes. These problems are all connected, making it hard to solve them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-communities">Vulnerable communities</h2>



Floods do not affect everyone equally and this means that not every community can prepare for flood risks the same way. Some have easier access to information, like flood warnings, or have more people who can get organized and work together. They might also have tools to help stop floods. 



This isn't fair, and it makes it harder for some communities to protect themselves during floods. Without the right knowledge, power to act, and resources, it's much harder to keep people safe from floods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europe-s-rising-tide">Europe's rising tide</h2>



Europe provides a stark example of flood consequences. Experts predict yearly flood costs to jump from $5.724 billion USD to $43.2 billion USD by 2050. This significant increase stems from several factors, including the growing value of assets in flood-prone areas, the higher frequency and severity of floods, and potential delays in implementing effective flood resilience measures.



Beyond economic losses, the human cost is also staggering. The number of people affected by floods in Europe alone is expected to jump from 200,000 to over 500,000 by 2050.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-centric-flood-management">Community-centric flood management</h2>



For over 20 years, Professor McEwen has focused on floods and worked with communities facing them. She stresses that these communities are essential to handling flood risks and minimizing disaster damage.



Building walls and other traditional solutions funded by the government are important, but they're not enough. Even with these measures in place, there's still a chance of flooding (called "residual risk"). This makes community involvement critical.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misconception-about-government-responsibility">Misconception about government responsibility</h3>



Not everyone trusts communities to help with flood protection, thinking it lets the government off the hook. But that's not true.



Both communities and governments have important roles to play, and working together leads to better flood plans. When everyone joins forces, we can make our communities more resilient to floods.



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



Climate change demands a shift in how we approach flood protection. While traditional methods like dams and levees serve a purpose, they alone cannot withstand the rising tide.&nbsp;



“Investing in large infrastructure projects as the sole flood management solution simply hasn’t reduced ecological, financial and even sentimental losses,” explained McEwen. “Investment in defen­sive infrastructure alone, with its costs and design limits, can only be part of the solution.”



She suggests we must build resilience, and that goes beyond physical structures. “Flood risk management is all about how we shift the focus away from reactive responses to preparation and resilience at the household and community level. Much of that residual risk management needs to happen at a local level, but people might not have the necessary information, skills or resources to do this.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-flood-resilient-communities">Building flood-resilient communities</h2>



“A key question is how to increase community participation and agency when there is expectation of a key role of the state still pervades. There is a wider perceived disconnect between citizens and water in the developed world,” said McEwen.



Communities need comprehensive plans, early warning systems, and robust education programs to prepare for floods. Engaging local knowledge and understanding vulnerabilities through collaborative efforts are key.



Wealth disparities can worsen flood impacts. We must identify vulnerable populations, ensure equal access to resources and planning, and develop solutions that consider diverse needs and capabilities.



Strong social networks, empowered leadership, and collective action are vital. Communities working together, sharing information, and taking responsibility for preparedness can face floods head-on.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change-nbsp">More about the flood risks of climate change&nbsp;</h2>



Climate change significantly increases the risk of flooding in various parts of the world. As the Earth's atmosphere warms due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases, weather patterns become more extreme and unpredictable. 



This warming causes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/">glaciers</a> and ice caps to melt, contributing to a rise in sea levels, which in turn increases the likelihood of coastal flooding.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warmer-atmosphere">Warmer atmosphere</h3>



Additionally, a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to more intense and frequent rainstorms. Heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-will-wreak-havoc-on-mountain-ranges-as-warming-climate-turns-snow-to-rain/">rainfall</a> can overwhelm drainage systems and natural waterways, causing flash floods and river floods.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-areas">Urban areas</h3>



Urban areas, often with impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt, face heightened flood risks. These materials prevent water from being absorbed into the ground, exacerbating runoff and flooding.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather">Extreme weather</h3>



Climate change also influences the severity and frequency of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-causes-the-rapid-intensification-of-hurricanes/">hurricanes</a> and cyclones. These storms bring heavy rains and storm surges, further increasing flood risks.&nbsp;



Professor Lindsey McEwen has elaborated more on flood management in her book <a href="https://www.routledge.com/Flood-Risk-and-Community-Resilience-An-Interdisciplinary-Approach/McEwen/p/book/9781138954472" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flood Risk and Community Resilience</a>.



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Can we outrun the flood risks of climate change?

Climate change is making floods worse and more common around...

Annoyed,Young,Woman,Waiting,In,Line,At,Restaurant

In a world characterized by instant gratification, waiting emerges as a universally dreaded experience. Yet, it's an inevitable part of our daily lives, whether we're stuck in traffic or eagerly anticipating the results of an election. 



<a href="https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-directory/annabelle-roberts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annabelle Roberts</a>, an assistant marketing professor at <a href="https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas McCombs</a>, delves into this common human experience through her insightful research. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closer-look-decision-making-and-waiting">Closer look: Decision-making and waiting</h2>



Roberts' studies, detailed in two new papers, shed light on the intricate dance of patience and impatience, revealing the significant role of closure in managing our waiting experiences.



Her work also offers lessons on what marketers can do to make waiting less annoying. She says, “Everyone has had this experience of getting overly frustrated while they’re waiting.”



Roberts' research centers on the impact of the desire for closure on our patience levels. In one study, she collaborates with Alex Imas and Ayelet Fishbach from the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> to explore how this need influences our decisions, particularly when faced with the option of receiving a reward now versus later. 



Their findings illustrate a counterintuitive truth. People often prefer to exert more effort or pay more upfront to achieve closure sooner. 



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



In a series of studies carried out both online and in laboratory settings, participants faced choices that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-pollution-impairs-brain-network-connectivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tested their patience</a>: either to undertake more work immediately or to defer the effort for a lesser workload later, with the outcome remaining constant. 



The studies found that participants leaned towards options that granted them closure more swiftly, manifesting a willingness to either pay a premium or exert additional effort. 



Specifically, they opted to pay an extra dollar if it meant they could settle payments promptly and eliminate the pending task from their mental checklist.



Similarly, the option to complete 15% more work upfront for identical compensation was more appealing if it enabled them to conclude the task sooner. 



Furthermore, faced with the desire to clear their minds before a vacation, participants chose to work an extra hour without pay to finalize a report, over the option of completing it for pay upon their return.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impatience-paradox-when-waiting-becomes-too-much">Impatience paradox: When waiting becomes too much</h2>



This phenomenon highlights a deeper aspect of impatience -- it's not merely about the eagerness to obtain a reward but also about the relief that comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/switching-lines-wait-shorter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">completing goals</a>. 



"The need for goal closure helps explain the counterintuitive preference for working more sooner or paying more sooner," Roberts explains. "It’s also about crossing goals off their list, not having the goal hanging over them."



Roberts' insights hold valuable lessons for both management and marketing. Understanding that the desire for closure can motivate people to avoid procrastination, managers can devise strategies to enhance team motivation effectively. 



Moreover, the research provides a critique of marketing promotions like "buy now, pay later" deals, suggesting that consumers might reject these offers to avoid the looming stress of future payments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-trajectory-of-waiting">Emotional trajectory of waiting</h2>



Roberts' second paper, in collaboration with Fishbach, delves into the emotional journey of waiting. Their research reveals that the distress associated with waiting intensifies as the end approaches. 



“This paper was about people's feelings, their experiences while they wait,” Roberts says. “When you expect the wait to be ending soon, you become more impatient closer to that expectation.”



This was observed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/patience-is-a-virtue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real-life scenarios</a>, such as the anticipation for the COVID-19 vaccine or the arrival of a bus, where individuals reported increasing levels of impatience as they neared the moment of fulfillment. 



This trend was also evident during the 2020 presidential election, with supporters of both candidates experiencing heightened impatience as the vote counting progressed.



“Even for those who expected their candidate wasn’t going to win, they just wanted to get this over with,” Roberts says. “This nicely demonstrates the desire for closure and how it plays out in the experience of waiting.”



Roberts suggests practical applications of her findings for businesses, especially in managing customer expectations around waiting times. 



She advises that companies prepare customers for longer waits to mitigate impatience and communicate any delays early in the waiting period, allowing customers to adjust their expectations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-focus-beyond-immediate-gratification">Future focus: Beyond immediate gratification</h2>



As Roberts continues her research, she aims to identify interventions that can help individuals manage their waiting experiences more effectively. 



"I want my research to help people manage their waiting experiences," she states, emphasizing the importance of developing strategies that enable people to make better decisions, such as saving for the future, by enhancing their patience.



In summary, Dr. Annabelle Roberts' pioneering research analyzes the psychological underpinnings of impatience, offering valuable insights into how the need for closure drives decision-making and emotional responses during periods of waiting. 



By dissecting the motivations behind our desire to expedite tasks and the intensifying distress as waits draw to a close, Roberts enhances our understanding of human behavior and provides practical guidance for individuals and businesses alike. 



Her work emphasizes the importance of managing expectations and the potential for targeted interventions to foster patience, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of our decisions and our overall experience of waiting in everyday life.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fpspa0000367" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Personality and Social Psychology</a>.



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Why humans hate to wait and what our impatience says about us

In a world characterized by instant gratification, waiting emerges as...

Wetlands, the most extensive natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-release-more-methane-from-wetlands-than-expected/">methane</a> sources on Earth, are contributing significantly to atmospheric warming, with methane being around 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide.&nbsp;



A study led by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-release-more-methane-from-wetlands-than-expected/">Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory</a> (Berkeley Lab) has revealed a concerning trend. Methane emissions from the Boreal-Arctic wetlands have surged by approximately nine percent since 2002. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerated-warming-rates-nbsp">Accelerated warming rates&nbsp;</h2>



This rise is particularly alarming given the accelerated warming rates in Boreal and Arctic ecosystems, which are currently warming at nearly four times the global average.



The study was led by Qing Zhu, a Berkeley Lab research scientist, along with postdoctoral researcher Kunxiaojia Yuan. Their work leverages advanced monitoring techniques to quantify the uptick in emissions over the last two decades.&nbsp;



“Boreal and Arctic environments are carbon-rich and vulnerable to warming. Rising temperatures increase microbial activity and vegetation growth, which are associated with methane emissions. By understanding how natural methane sources are evolving, we can better track greenhouse gasses critical for projecting future climate change scenarios,” Zhu explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-s-impact-on-global-warming">Methane's impact on global warming</h2>



The study underscores methane's significant impact on atmospheric warming, despite its shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-plants-are-absorbing-more-human-produced-co2-than-expected/">carbon dioxide</a>.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, higher temperatures not only boost the activity of methane-producing microbes in saturated soils but also expand their habitat as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-traveling-pathogens-from-melting-permafrost-pose-great-risk-to-the-earth/">permafrost</a> thaws and precipitation patterns shift.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-results">Alarming results</h2>



Employing a combination of traditional gas trapping and eddy covariance towers, the Berkeley Lab team analyzed over 307 years' worth of methane emissions data from Arctic-Boreal wetlands.&nbsp;



Their findings indicate an average annual release of 20 teragrams of methane since 2002, equating to the mass of roughly 55 Empire State Buildings, with a notable nine percent increase in emissions during this period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights">Critical new insights</h2>



The study also identifies two "hotspot" regions with significantly higher emissions, emphasizing the importance of focused mitigation efforts in these areas.&nbsp;



The analysis further reveals temperature and plant productivity as key drivers of methane emissions, with warmer conditions and more productive vegetation leading to increased microbial activity and, consequently, higher methane release.



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



The year 2016, marked as the warmest in the high-latitudes since 1950, also recorded the highest methane emissions, underscoring the direct correlation between temperature elevations and methane release.



However, according to Zhu, since “methane has a relatively short lifetime in the atmosphere, its reduction and removal can be achieved relatively quickly.”&nbsp;



The research provides a scientific baseline for comprehending wetlands' role in global climate dynamics and addressing climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetland-methane-emissions">Wetland methane emissions</h2>



Wetland methane emissions significantly contribute to the global methane budget, playing a critical role in atmospheric chemistry and climate change.&nbsp;



Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is released from wetlands primarily through the metabolic activities of microorganisms. In these waterlogged environments, organic matter decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen), leading to the production of methane by methanogenic archaea.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors-nbsp">Contributing factors&nbsp;</h3>



The rate of methane emissions from wetlands depends on several factors, including temperature and water saturation levels.



Warmer temperatures and higher levels of water saturation typically enhance methane production, as they provide ideal conditions for methanogens.&nbsp;



The type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetation-impacts-energy-movement-in-the-arctic/">vegetation</a> present in wetlands also influences methane emissions, as different plant species contribute varying amounts of organic material for decomposition.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities">Human activities</h3>



Human activities, such as land use changes and water management practices, can alter wetland conditions and thus affect methane emissions.&nbsp;



Drainage, agriculture, and the construction of dams can reduce wetland areas and their capacity to emit methane. Conversely, restoration of wetlands and creation of artificial wetlands can increase methane emissions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-wetlands">Benefits of wetlands</h3>



Globally, wetlands represent the largest natural source of methane emissions to the atmosphere. Despite their contribution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-plans-to-eliminate-greenhouse-gas-emissions-from-power-plants-by-2040/">greenhouse gas emissions</a>, wetlands also provide critical ecosystem services, including biodiversity conservation. 



Balancing the ecological benefits of wetlands with their role in methane emissions is a key challenge in climate change mitigation and environmental management.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-01933-3">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Wetland methane emissions have surged at high latitudes

Wetlands, the most extensive natural methane sources on Earth, are...

A recent study highlights a concerning link between sleep deprivation and increased cardiovascular risks among middle-aged women. Conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www.pitt.edu/">University of Pittsburgh</a>, the investigation followed nearly 3,000 women aged 42 to 52 over a span of 16 years.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-cardiovascular-risks">Severe cardiovascular risks</h2>



Through annual surveys, the study meticulously tracked the participants' sleep patterns. This data included average nightly sleep duration and experiences of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/energy-drinks-linked-to-insomnia-among-college-students/">insomnia</a>. The team also tracked the health status of the participants to monitor the onset of diseases.



The analysis unveiled a stark finding: women who consistently slept fewer than five hours per night were at a risk up to 75 percent higher of encountering severe cardiovascular issues such as strokes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-people-die-from-heart-attacks-during-the-holidays/">heart attacks</a>, heart failure, and coronary artery disease.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-a-direct-link">Evidence of a direct link</h2>



Notably, the correlation persisted even after adjusting for other risk factors like BMI and pre-existing health conditions. This suggests that there is a direct link between short sleep duration and cardiovascular health.



The researchers propose that insufficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-counteracts-negative-effects-of-sleep-deprivation/">sleep</a> might escalate blood pressure levels and foster insulin resistance, both of which can lead to vascular damage. Another concern is an increased obesity risk due to disrupted regulation of hunger caused by lack of sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-for-optimal-health">Sleep for optimal health</h2>



With the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/index.htm">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a> (CDC) advising seven to nine hours of sleep per night for optimal health, it's alarming that up to one-third of adults in the U.S. regularly fall short of this recommendation.&nbsp;



This issue is particularly prevalent among middle-aged women, half of whom reportedly do not achieve the suggested seven hours of sleep, placing them at heightened risk for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-disease-mortality-risk-escalated-by-climate-change/">heart disease</a>, especially as estrogen levels decline post-menopause, affecting blood vessel flexibility and heart blood flow.



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



The study, featured in the American Heart Association's journal <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.123.066491">Circulation</a>, utilized data from the extensive <a href="https://www.swanstudy.org/">Study of Women's Health Across the Nation</a> (SWAN), which has been observing thousands of women for over 22 years. Throughout this period, 200 cardiovascular events were recorded, including 23 fatalities.



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



The research, while groundbreaking, acknowledges certain limitations, such as reliance on self-reported sleep and insomnia data without the verification of medical devices. Additionally, factors like sleep timing, regularity, and quality were not evaluated.



Further research and intervention strategies are urgently needed in order to mitigate the risks associated with inadequate sleep and safeguard the heart health of women, particularly since cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in the U.S.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-risks-of-sleep-deprivation-nbsp">Additional risks of sleep deprivation&nbsp;</h2>



Sleep deprivation significantly impacts health, leading to a range of short-term and long-term consequences.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immediate-impacts">Immediate impacts</h3>



In the short term, sleep deprivation reduces alertness, concentration, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. This makes daily tasks more challenging and increases the risk of accidents. Lack of sleep also affects mood, leading to irritability, problems with relationships, and increased stress.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-effects-nbsp">Long-term effects&nbsp;</h3>



Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to serious health issues. It weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections.&nbsp;



It disrupts metabolic health, increasing the risk of weight gain, obesity, type 2 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-eating-sea-cucumbers-can-prevent-diabetes/">diabetes</a>, and cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Sleep deprivation also affects hormone production, impacting growth and stress hormones, which can further exacerbate health problems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-disorders-nbsp">Mental health disorders&nbsp;</h3>



Additionally, prolonged sleep deprivation is linked to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. It can also lead to impaired <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/">memory</a> and decreased ability to learn new information, as sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation.



By disrupting the body's natural processes and increasing stress and inflammation, sleep deprivation poses a significant threat to overall health and well-being. Prioritizing adequate sleep is essential for maintaining health and preventing these adverse effects.



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Sleep deprivation increases the risk of stroke by 70 percent

A recent study highlights a concerning link between sleep deprivation...

3d,Of,Human,Hand,Holding,The,Light,Blood,Dna,Cell

Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), part of the Mass General Brigham healthcare system, have introduced a major advancement in the field of biological age research.



The experts have developed a new type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-epigenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetic</a> clock using machine learning to predict biological age from DNA structure with enhanced precision. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-genetic-differences-nbsp">Identifying genetic differences&nbsp;</h2>



This innovative model, detailed in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-023-00557-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Aging</a>, is capable of identifying genetic differences that either decelerate or accelerate the aging process, offering a clearer understanding of aging mechanisms and the effectiveness of anti-aging interventions.



“Previous clocks considered the relationship between methylation patterns and features we know are correlated with aging, but they don’t tell us which factors cause one’s body to age faster or slower. We have created the first clock to distinguish between cause and effect,” said senior author Vadim Gladyshev, an expert in genetics at <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BWH</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-biological-age-research">Shift in biological age research </h2>



This development marks a pivotal shift in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-passed-future-generations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging research</a>, allowing scientists to not only predict biological age but also to discern the changes in DNA methylation that either propel or counteract aging.



The study leverages a vast genetic dataset to perform an epigenome-wide Mendelian Randomization on 20,509 CpG sites related to eight aging traits. 



Kejun (Albert) Ying, the study's first author, helped with the creation of three models - CausAge, DamAge, and AdaptAge - to analyze and interpret these relationships. 



These models were meticulously trained using blood samples from the "Generation Scotland Cohort," comprising individuals aged 18 to 93 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biomarkers-that-directly-influence-aging">Biomarkers that directly influence aging</h2>



The research team successfully mapped human CpG sites causative of biological aging, facilitating the identification of biomarkers directly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-essential-8-may-slow-biological-aging-by-six-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influencing aging</a> and the assessment of various anti-aging strategies. 



The findings underscore the complex interplay between genetic inheritance and lifestyle factors in determining the rate of aging among individuals.



Further validation of these epigenetic clocks was conducted using data from the Framingham Heart Study and the Normative Aging Study, revealing correlations between DamAge and adverse health outcomes and AdaptAge with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-induced-increases-in-biological-age-can-be-reversed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increased longevity</a>. 



The clocks also demonstrated their utility in evaluating the rejuvenation potential of reprogrammed stem cells, with DamAge scores indicating a reduction in age-related damage.



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



By applying these clocks to biological samples from patients with chronic conditions and lifestyle-induced damage, the researchers were able to differentiate between conditions exacerbating age-related damage and those associated with protective adaptations.



"Aging is a complex process, and we still do not know what interventions against it actually work," said Gladyshev. "Our findings present a step forward for aging research, allowing us to more accurately quantify biological age and evaluate the ability of novel aging interventions to increase longevity."&nbsp;



This breakthrough in aging research paves the way for more nuanced understanding and treatment of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consistent-sleep-slows-down-aging-at-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging process</a>, promising a future where interventions can be tailored to not just slow down aging but potentially reverse its effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-biological-aging">More about biological aging </h2>



As discussed above, biological aging, also known as senescence, is the gradual decline in physiological function and integrity that organisms experience as they get older. This process involves changes at the molecular, cellular, and systemic levels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-level">Molecular level</h3>



At the molecular level, aging is characterized by the accumulation of damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids, caused by factors such as environmental stresses and normal metabolic processes. This damage can lead to mutations, disruptions in cellular function, and the loss of cellular integrity.&nbsp;



Telomere shortening, which occurs each time a cell divides, also plays a significant role. Telomeres are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, eventually leading to cellular senescence or apoptosis (programmed cell death) when they become too short.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-age-at-the-cellular-level">Biological age at the cellular level</h3>



Cellular aging is marked by a decrease in the cell's ability to divide (replicative senescence), an increase in the number of senescent cells that resist apoptosis, and a decline in the efficiency of cellular repair mechanisms.&nbsp;



Senescent cells can negatively affect neighboring cells and tissue function through the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors and other molecules, a phenomenon known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP).



At the systemic level, aging affects the function of various organs and tissues, leading to a gradual decline in physiological capacity and an increased risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. The immune system also undergoes changes, becoming less effective at fighting infections and more prone to autoimmune responses.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theories-about-biological-age">Theories about biological age</h3>



Theories of aging are diverse and include the free radical theory, which posits that accumulated damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a critical role, and the mitochondrial theory, which focuses on the decline in mitochondrial function as a key driver of aging. 



Additionally, the role of genetic factors in aging is evident from the observation that lifespan and aging rates vary significantly among species and even among individuals of the same species, suggesting that genetics, along with lifestyle and environmental factors, influence the aging process.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-into-biological-age">Future research into biological age</h3>



Despite the challenges posed by aging, research in the field of gerontology and biogerontology is actively exploring interventions that could delay the aging process, improve health span, and extend lifespan.&nbsp;



These include dietary interventions, such as caloric restriction, and pharmacological approaches targeting aging pathways, such as those involving sirtuins, mTOR, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).



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Epigenetic "DNA clocks" predict biological age more accurately

Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), part of the...

The global battle against COVID-19 has unveiled many mysteries about how the virus affects the human body, including its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-death-toll-of-covid-19-pandemic-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact on the brain</a>. 



Early in the pandemic, the direct infection of the brain by SARS-CoV-2 was considered a potential cause for the neurological symptoms observed in patients. 



But now, research conducted by <a href="https://www.charite.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin </a> has provided evidence that points in another direction. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-interactions-nbsp">Complex interactions&nbsp;</h2>



The detailed study offers insight into the complex interaction between the virus, the immune system, and brain function, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms that lead to neurological symptoms in COVID-19 patients.



One of the most perplexing aspects of COVID-19 infection has been the range of neurological symptoms that patients experience, including headaches, memory problems, and fatigue, which can persist long after the acute phase of the infection has passed. 



Initially, researchers theorized that these symptoms could be due to the virus directly infecting the brain.



“We took that as our hypothesis at the start, too. But so far, there has been no clear evidence that the coronavirus can persist in the brain, let alone proliferate,” explained Dr. Helena Radbruch, head of the Chronic Neuroinflammation working group at the Department of Neuropathology at Charité.&nbsp;



“For that, we would have needed to find evidence of intact virus particles in the brain, for example. Instead, the indications that the coronavirus could infect the brain come from indirect testing methods, so they aren’t entirely conclusive.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-covid-and-inflammation">Studying COVID and inflammation </h2>



This lack of clarity led the Charité team to explore alternative explanations for the neurological impacts of COVID-19.&nbsp;



The study involved detailed molecular biology and anatomical analyses of brain tissue from 21 individuals who succumbed to severe coronavirus infections in hospital settings, typically in an ICU.&nbsp;



The analyses were compared against those of nine patients who died of other causes after ICU treatment. 



While the team did find coronavirus genetic material in the brain in some cases, they discovered no neurons infected by SARS-CoV-2. 



This led to the conclusion that while the virus can be carried into the brain by immune cells, it does not infect brain cells directly.



“We assume that immune cells absorbed the virus in the body and then traveled to the brain. They’re still carrying the virus, but it doesn’t infect cells of the brain. So coronavirus has invaded other cells in the body, but not the brain itself," explained Radbruch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights">Critical insights</h2>



The research suggests that neurological symptoms may arise as a side effect from the body's powerful immune response to the virus. 



Notably, the study found significant changes in molecular processes within some brain cells of those infected with COVID-19. 



These changes included an increased activation of the interferon signaling pathway, a common response to viral infections, indicating that some neurons react to inflammation elsewhere in the body.



“Some neurons evidently react to the inflammation in the rest of the body,” said Professor Christian Conrad, head of the Intelligent Imaging working group at the Berlin Institute of Health at Charité (BIH).



“This molecular reaction could be a good explanation for the neurological symptoms we see in COVID-19 patients. For example, neurotransmitters emitted by these cells in the brainstem could cause fatigue. That’s because the brainstem is home to groups of cells that control drive, motivation, and mood.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-the-vagus-nerve-nbsp">The role of the vagus nerve&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, the reactive nerve cells were found primarily in what are known as the nuclei of the vagus nerve. These cells are located in the brainstem and extend to organs such as the lungs, intestine, and heart.&nbsp;



“In simplified terms, our interpretation of our data is that the vagus nerve ‘senses’ the inflammatory response in different organs of the body and reacts to it in the brainstem – without there being any actual infection of brain tissue,” explained Radbruch. “Through this mechanism, the inflammation does spread from the body to the brain in a way, which can disrupt brain function.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-covid-inflammation">Broader implications of COVID inflammation</h2>



The study not only challenges the initial hypothesis that COVID-19's neurological symptoms are due to direct brain infection but also opens new avenues for understanding how inflammation in the body can impact brain function.&nbsp;



The researchers observed that the neurons' reaction to inflammation is temporary, with molecular changes normalizing after the acute infection phase. 



However, they speculate that chronic inflammation could underlie the persistent neurological symptoms seen in some long COVID patients, a theory they plan to investigate further.



“We think it’s possible that if the inflammation becomes chronic, that could be what causes the neurological symptoms often observed in long COVID in some people,” said Conrad.&nbsp;



Going forward, the team is planning to study the molecular signatures in the cerebral fluid of long COVID patients.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41593-024-01573-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>. 



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COVID harms the brain through inflammation, not infection

The global battle against COVID-19 has unveiled many mysteries about...

Rivers are complex and crucial parts of our planet. From playful otters to towering salmon, countless creatures call rivers home, relying on their ever-flowing waters for survival.&nbsp;



But what happens when powerful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-floods-are-set-to-become-much-more-common-in-the-u-s/">floods</a> disrupt this delicate balance? Scientists from the <a href="https://www.unr.edu/">University of Nevada, Renohas</a> created a model in their lab to answer this question.&nbsp;



The results challenge our previous ideas about how well rivers can recover from floods and other disturbances. The research provides a new perspective on the delicate balance of life in these flowing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/">ecosystems</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-resilience-of-the-river-ecosystem-nbsp">The resilience of the river ecosystem&nbsp;</h2>



After floods, the rising water in a river might seem insignificant, but beneath the surface, a battle for survival is waged. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/">Plants</a> and algae, known as autotrophic biomass, face the flood's fury. How quickly they recover after the flood subsides determines the resilience of the entire river ecosystem.



The researchers set out to gain a better understanding of the resilience of the river ecosystem. They developed a clever method using underwater sensors that monitor oxygen levels of 143 rivers.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-post-flood-recovery-nbsp">A window into post-flood recovery&nbsp;</h2>



This data, fed into their specially designed latent biomass time series (LB-TS) model, revealed a hidden treasure: the daily growth rate of the vital biomass. This model acted as a window into their post-flood recovery, a real-time glimpse into their fight for survival.



"Previously, you would have to go to a river and scrub rocks to measure the algae, and do that several times for an extended period of time in order to estimate changes in biomass growth and loss," said study lead author Joanna R. Blaszczak. "This is very time consuming, so the data have been extremely limited relative to how extensive our sensor networks are."



"The dissolved oxygen sensors show the peak during the day, and the low during the night, and from those patterns, you can estimate how much new algae and other biomass grew that day."



"With the sensors measuring data continuously in hundreds of rivers for years now, we can get a much bigger, clearer picture. The data is there, and we can use it to model the size of flood needed to disturb the biomass in a river, as well as the rate at which a river recovers from flood disturbances, which can help us manage rivers more effectively."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovering-from-disruptions">Recovering from disruptions</h2>



Traditionally, scientists believed rivers could handle natural floods pretty well. But the research shows rivers might be more sensitive to changes in water flow than we realized.



Different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/">rivers</a> recover from disruptions like floods at different speeds. Some bounce back quickly (2 days), while others take longer (14 days).



Normally, we judge a river's flood resistance based on how often it can handle major floods without damage. But it turns out, even smaller changes in water flow can hurt how much life the river supports.&nbsp;



This means our current ways of managing rivers might not be enough. If they're truly more sensitive than we thought, we need to change our approach. This could involve using less water, fixing floodplains, and making plans that better consider the specific needs of each river.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-river-width-and-dams">River width and dams</h2>



Wider rivers bounce back faster from floods than narrow ones, especially if they don't have dams upstream. This study shows that both a river's size and human impacts affect how well it recovers from floods.



Wider rivers spread flood waters out more, which makes the water flow slower and gentler. This gentler flow causes less damage to the plants and animals living in the river, so they can recover more quickly.&nbsp;



Dams, on the other hand, mess up the natural flow of water, sand, and nutrients in the river, making it harder for the ecosystem to bounce back after a flood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-contributing-factors">Additional contributing factors</h2>



Rivers deal with many factors- light, water, plants, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/">animals</a> all play crucial roles. Sunlight acts like fuel for the river ecosystem, powering the growth of plants and algae. Water flow acts like a delivery service, bringing nutrients, shaping the riverbed, and controlling the pace of everything happening.



When a flood disrupts this balance, changes in sunlight and water flow can affect the ecosystem's "food production" (how much organic matter is generated) and its structure (how different organisms are arranged).



Animals like fish and insects play a role in recovering from the disturbance. They eat algae, preventing it from taking over completely, but they can also overeat and slow down the growth of new plants.



Talking about plants, floods can mix things up by moving them around, favoring certain species over others. Initially, fast-growing types might dominate, but as things settle down, a more diverse group usually arrives. This shift in plant life affects everything from nutrient movement to animal habitats.



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



Healthy rivers are vital for clean water, diverse plant and animal life, and strong communities. This study helps us understand how floods affect rivers, which is crucial for protecting their health.



The study focuses on "thresholds": points where floods become harmful to the river ecosystem. Knowing these thresholds is key to managing and protecting rivers effectively. By identifying them, we can take action beforehand, like adjusting dam releases or reinforcing riverbanks, to prevent major damage.



This knowledge is even more important with climate change increasing the number and intensity of floods. We need strong conservation strategies to protect rivers in the face of these challenges.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/ele.14269">Ecology Letters</a>. The river analysis is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.230706512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Can rivers always recover from floods?

Rivers are complex and crucial parts of our planet. From...

In the ever-evolving world of science, a new field known as imageomics is making significant strides, poised to unveil profound insights into the intricacies of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life on Earth</a>. 



<a href="https://tdai.osu.edu/people/berger-wolf.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tanya Berger-Wolf</a>, a pioneering force behind imageomics and the faculty director of the Translational Data Analytics Institute at The Ohio State University, recently shared compelling updates on this discipline's progress and potential. 



During her presentation at the annual meeting of the <a href="https://meetings.aaas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Association for the Advancement of Science</a> on February 17, 2024, Berger-Wolf encapsulated the essence and aspirations of imageomics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imageomics-the-birth-of-a-new-science">Imageomics: The birth of a new science</h2>



Imageomics stands at the intersection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-robot-that-can-swim-under-sand-like-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biology and technology</a>, harnessing the power of machine learning to extract biological insights from images. 



This includes photographs from a variety of sources such as camera traps, satellites, drones, and even the vacation snapshots taken by tourists. 



These images, capturing moments from the lives of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-aquatic-mammals-keep-their-fur-clean-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> like zebras and whales, are more than mere memories. They are data points ripe for analysis.



The discipline, while in its infancy, has already shown promise in bridging gaps that once seemed insurmountable. 



"Imageomics is coming of age and is ready for its first major discoveries," Berger-Wolf remarked, highlighting the institute's founding in 2021 with support from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>. 



The goal is ambitious yet clear: to decode the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-sweaters-use-synthetic-fibers-mimicking-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological language</a> of organisms through imagery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deciphering-nature-s-code">Deciphering nature's code</h2>



A pivotal focus of imageomics lies in understanding the relationship between phenotypes -- the traits of animals visible in images -- and genotypes, the DNA sequences responsible for these traits. 



Berger-Wolf's enthusiasm is palpable as she discusses the threshold of discovery. 



“We are on the cusp of understanding the direct connections of observable phenotype to genotype,” she said. “We couldn’t do this without imageomics. It is pushing forward both artificial intelligence and biological science.”



This exploration extends beyond mere academic curiosity. Imageomics is a tool that propels both artificial intelligence and biological science forward, offering new methodologies to study <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hummingbirds-adjust-their-wings-to-fly-through-very-tiny-spaces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural phenomena</a>. 



A fascinating example is the study of butterfly mimicry. Certain butterfly species evolve appearances similar to those of other species to evade predators, a phenomenon challenging for humans and predators alike to discern. 



Through machine learning, researchers can identify subtle differences in color or other traits that distinguish these species -- an achievement <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cuttlefish-camouflage-is-much-more-complex-and-mind-boggling-than-initially-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beyond human capabilities</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-observation-a-call-to-action">Beyond observation: A call to action</h2>



The implications of imageomics extend far beyond academic achievement. It is a conduit for generating new scientific hypotheses, enabling researchers to manipulate images of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-with-more-white-spots-are-more-likely-to-survive-their-migration-journey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a>, for instance, to test which variations might fool predators in real-world scenarios. 



This innovative approach marks a departure from traditional uses of AI, moving towards creating testable, novel scientific hypotheses.



But the vision for imageomics is broader still. As researchers delve deeper, connecting the dots between appearance and genetics, the potential to uncover new realms of knowledge grows. 



Berger-Wolf is optimistic about the future: "There’s a lot we are going to be learning in the next few years that will push imageomics forward into new areas that we can only imagine now."



A key aspiration of this burgeoning field is to leverage its findings for conservation efforts. The insights gleaned from imageomics could play a crucial role in protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-future-of-the-endangered-species-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered species</a> and preserving their habitats. 



As Berger-Wolf succinctly puts it, "There’s a lot of good that will come from imageomics in the coming years."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imageomics-and-the-future-of-life-on-earth">Imageomics and the future of life on Earth</h2>



In summary, imageomics emerges as a transformative force in scientific research, promising to unlock new dimensions of understanding about life on Earth. 



Through the pioneering efforts of researchers like Tanya Berger-Wolf and the innovative use of machine learning to analyze biological data from images, this nascent field stands on the brink of major breakthroughs. 



From deciphering the genetic underpinnings of observable traits in animals to generating actionable insights for conservation, imageomics embodies the future of interdisciplinary science. 



It enhances our comprehension of biodiversity and provides an outline for safeguarding the natural world for future generations, illustrating the profound impact of integrating technology with biological research.



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Imageomics: AI and biology merge to help us understand life on Earth

In the ever-evolving world of science, a new field known...

New research aimed to observe the changes in the blooming patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-true-survivors-flowering-plants-lived-through-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> and 51 species of shrubs, bushes, and trees over the past 35 years, providing insights into how plant communities are adapting to climate shifts in the southern <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/sunny-summer-day-iberian-peninsula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iberian Peninsula</a>.



Researchers from the <a href="https://ics-seville.org/university-of-seville/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Seville</a> have conducted a significant study to explore the effects of climate change on the flora of <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/685/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doñana National Park</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-s-grip-on-flower-blooming-patterns">Climate's grip on flower blooming patterns</h2>



The backdrop of this study is a notable increase in temperatures in the area, with an average rise of 1°C and a minimum temperature increase of 2°C. 



This warming has led to a significant shift in the plant community's peak flowering time, moving forward by 22 days, from May 9 to April 17. 



This change signifies that the majority of species are now blooming earlier, altering the traditional rhythm of the ecosystem.



This phenomenon is widespread, affecting 80% of the observed species by advancing their flowering start, and 68% by moving up the end of their flowering period. 



Remarkably, rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) exemplifies this shift, flowering 92 days earlier than in the past. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crowded-gardens-pollination-in-a-warmer-world">Crowded gardens: Pollination in a warmer world</h2>



This uneven shift in flowering times has resulted in prolonged blooming periods for many species, leading to an "overcrowded" floral neighborhood. 



This crowding could intensify competition for the attention of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinating</a> insects, as 55% of the species now find themselves in a more congested flowering environment.



Flowering is a crucial phase for plants, as it facilitates sexual reproduction. Since plants are stationary, they depend on insects to transfer pollen from one flower to another. 



This intricate dance requires precise timing; however, the advancing flowering times due to climate change could disrupt the synchronization between plants and their pollinator insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mediterranean-meltdown-hotspot-for-flowering-havoc">Mediterranean meltdown: Hotspot for flowering havoc</h2>



The study underscores that the Mediterranean region, including Doñana National Park, is experiencing climate change impacts more acutely than many other areas, with temperature increases outpacing the global average by 20%. 



This rapid change challenges plants, which rely on accumulating warmth to determine the right moment to flower. 



The altered timing may affect the plants' ability to reproduce effectively, potentially leading to fruiting or germination at less optimal times, especially as drought conditions worsen. 



Moreover, unexpected competition for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildflowers-are-self-fertilizing-to-deal-with-a-lack-of-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> could arise, further complicating the survival of these species.



This research was made possible by leveraging data collected in the 1980s, initially aimed at a different study. 



The foresight to monitor the flowering patterns of these plant communities has provided invaluable data, highlighting the profound effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change on biodiversity</a>. 



It emphasizes the importance of long-term research perspectives, often challenged by the short-term nature of most research projects. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-s-toll-on-flowering-and-reproduction">Climate change's toll on flowering and reproduction</h2>



The research conducted by the University of Seville reveals the profound impact of climate change on the flowering patterns of plant species in Doñana National Park, highlighting a critical shift towards earlier bloom times and the resulting ecological consequences. 



This study underscores the urgent need for continued and comprehensive research to understand the broader implications of these changes on biodiversity and ecosystem health. 



By documenting the significant advancement in flowering times and the challenges posed to plant-pollinator interactions, the findings serve as a compelling call to action for mitigating climate change effects and preserving the delicate balance of our natural environments for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/aob/advance-article/doi/10.1093/aob/mcad193/7473614" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>.



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Flowers are blooming up to 92 days earlier due to climate change

New research aimed to observe the changes in the blooming...

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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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

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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

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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