Every living organism relies on a genetic blueprint encoded in its DNA, yet the amount of DNA - or genome size - varies dramatically across the tree of life.&nbsp;



In animals alone, genome sizes range from the minuscule genome of Intoshia variabili, a marine parasite - which is about 200 times smaller than the human genome - to the massive genome of the marbled lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) - which is over 40 times larger than ours.&nbsp;



Plants exhibit a similar range, with the fork fern (Tmesipteris oblanceolata) setting the record with a genome size over 50 times larger than that of humans.



This diversity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> size reveals the vast variety of life forms on Earth, but it also raises a fascinating question: If smaller genomes lead to faster, more efficient growth, why do some species have larger genomes?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-smaller-genome-sizes">Advantages of smaller genome sizes</h2>



The replication of DNA is essential for cell production and growth, making smaller genomes more efficient as they require fewer resources and time to replicate.&nbsp;



Smaller genomes demand fewer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/excess-nutrients-are-creating-ocean-dead-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a>, especially the DNA-building elements nitrogen and phosphorus, making them ideal for rapid growth and reproduction.



Because of these advantages, it’s not surprising that most species have evolved with relatively small genomes.&nbsp;



However, large genomes persist in some organisms, suggesting that these genomes may confer certain benefits in specific environments, where the costs of carrying extra DNA are outweighed by unique growth advantages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-large-genome-benefits-in-grasses">Exploring large genome benefits in grasses</h2>



A research team led by the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a> has recently studied the potential benefits of large genomes in grass species. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fairy-circles-kill-all-newly-planted-grasses-deepening-their-mystery/">Grasses</a>, a vast plant family found worldwide from arctic tundras to tropical savannas, vary in genome size, making them an ideal group to examine how genome size affects growth in different conditions.



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.20150" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>, examined the growth of various grass species under conditions mimicking their natural environments - high temperatures, low nutrients, and drought. 



The scientists compared growth rates to each species’ genome size and observed that while grasses with smaller genomes generally grew better across most conditions, larger genomes provided advantages in two specific scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-genomes-thrive-in-nutrient-rich-environments">Large genomes thrive in nutrient-rich environments</h2>



The first scenario where larger genomes proved beneficial was in nutrient-rich soils. While low nutrient levels slowed down large-genome grasses, those with large genomes thrived in high-nutrient environments.&nbsp;



Here, the extra DNA content meant larger cells that produced more biomass, such as leaves, which allowed these plants to outgrow and overshadow neighbors with smaller genomes.&nbsp;



In nutrient-poor areas, however, the demands of replicating additional DNA outweighed these benefits, making smaller genomes more favorable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-seasons-and-genome-sizes">Growing seasons and genome sizes</h2>



The second advantage for large-genome grasses occurred in cooler environments, such as temperate regions with lower growing season temperatures.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-grow-more-branches-and-become-bushy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant growth</a> typically has two stages: cell division, where new cells are generated, and cell expansion, where cells swell with water to help the plant grow taller or spread. 



Cool temperatures significantly slow down cell division, but they have less impact on cell expansion.&nbsp;



Consequently, grasses with larger cells, which accompany large genomes, can expand more rapidly by cell enlargement even in cooler weather, outpacing smaller-genome plants that rely on faster cell division in warmer temperatures.



This cell expansion process explains the early spring growth of plants like daffodils and bluebells, which also have large genomes.&nbsp;



These plants perform much of their cell division in warmer months, allowing them to use cell expansion to grow quickly in early spring, well before smaller-genome plants begin to compete for light and nutrients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-size-diversity">Genome size diversity</h2>



The diversity in genome sizes among grasses may be one reason for their global success, as it allows them to adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions.&nbsp;



While smaller genomes typically support efficient growth, larger genomes offer unique advantages in specific environments, enabling certain species to thrive where others cannot.&nbsp;



This genetic diversity in grasses underscores the importance of variation in supporting species’ survival and adaptability across ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-size-and-evolutionary-success">Genome size and evolutionary success</h2>



The relationship between genome size and survival is not limited to plants. Our own medium-sized genome has supported humanity’s adaptability, though we don’t face the same nutrient limitations as stationary plants.&nbsp;



Unlike grasses, humans can move to seek out food and resources, which may allow us to bear the metabolic costs associated with our DNA without significant limitation.&nbsp;



This mobility highlights how different species leverage their genetic make-up in conjunction with unique behaviors and environmental interactions to thrive across diverse habitats.



In summary, the role of genome size in evolutionary success is nuanced and complex.&nbsp;



From the efficient replication of small genomes to the adaptability enabled by larger ones, genome size continues to shape the ecological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-forests-proving-resilient-both-climate-change-human-actions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a> and global distribution of life on Earth.



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How does genome size impact evolutionary success?

Every living organism relies on a genetic blueprint encoded in its DNA, yet the amount of DNA - or genome size - varies dramatically across the tree of life.&nbsp; In animals alone, genome sizes range from the minuscule genome of Intoshia variabili, a marine parasite - which is about 200 times smaller than the human genome - to the massive genome of the marbled lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) - which is over 40 times larger than ours.&nbsp; Plants exhibit a similar range, with the fork fern (Tmesipteris oblanceolata)...

Spending almost five decades in deep space has not been easy on NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft. Age-related issues are cropping up, including a recent clogging problem in its thrusters. 



Now is not the time for a space probe to get 'constipated.' It's got a job to do. But not to worry, NASA engineers have stepped in to resolve the situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-1-s-thrusters-price-of-time">Voyager 1's thrusters price of time</h2>



Voyager 1's thrusters have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-spacecraft-fighting-survival-cosmic-threats-outside-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">been active for 47 years</a>, during which they've gathered a byproduct of age: silicon dioxide.



This resultant from a rubber diaphragm in the spacecraft's fuel tank has had the audacity to clog the fuel tubes in the thrusters, impacting their efficiency. But the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/voyager/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team at NASA</a> was not about to be defeated by some clogged tubes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efficiency-of-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Efficiency of Voyager 1's thrusters</h2>



The thrusters operate on liquid hydrazine that, once turned into gas, is released in short puffs to direct the spacecraft's antenna towards Earth. 



If the Voyager 1's thrusters were in prime condition, about 40 of these puffs would be enough to do the job in a day. 



They are vital, you might say, for the spacecraft to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-sending-data-to-earth-from-interstellar-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interact with Earth</a> -- to receive commands, send engineering data, and unload the precious scientific data it has been collecting in its journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choices-ahead-with-voyager-1-thrusters">Choices ahead with Voyager 1 thrusters</h2>



Voyager 1 is endowed with three sets of thrusters, two being attitude propulsion thrusters and one set being trajectory correction maneuver thrusters. In its younger years, during planetary flybys, all types were actively used. 



But now, as Voyager 1 boldly goes where no human-made object has gone before -- out of our solar system -- the needs are simpler. Any thruster can be used to pivot the craft towards Earth.



In 2002, engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>) noticed clogging in the fuel tubes in use for pointing the spacecraft towards our home planet.



The solution was to switch to the second branch of attitude thrusters. Sixteen years later, in 2018, they had to switch again as the second branch also showed signs of clogging. 



The choice? The trajectory correction maneuver thrusters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dilemma-of-cold-and-power">Dilemma of cold and power</h2>



Switching Voyager 1's thrusters isn’t as simple as it used to be in the spacecraft due to the advanced age of the spacecraft and the resultant decrease in its power supply. 



Along those lines, non-essential systems have been deactivated to conserve power, including some heaters, leading to the spacecraft getting colder. Operating the cold thrusters could risk damaging them beyond repair.



The solution? Turning on non-essential heaters to warm up the thrusters. But there's a catch. 



Power is so limited that turning on these heaters would require shutting off something else, and everything currently in operation is essential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-puzzle-of-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Power puzzle of Voyager 1's thrusters </h2>



After ruling out switching off an operating science instrument, the engineers decided to temporarily turn off one of the spacecraft's main heaters to provide enough electricity for the non-essential heater. And it worked. 



The thrusters returned to action, as confirmed on Aug. 27, successfully guiding Voyager 1 towards Earth.



"All the decisions we will have to make going forward are going to require a lot more analysis and caution than they once did," confessed Suzanne Dodd, Voyager's project manager at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-voyager-1-s-legacy">Resilience of Voyager 1's legacy</h2>



Voyager 1's journey has not only been a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-messages-to-earth-from-15-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testament to the scientific and engineering prowess</a> of the late 20th century but also a marvel of the resilience embedded in legacy technology. 



Constructed with materials and systems that predate modern advancements, Voyager 1 continues to function beyond expectations. 



Its durability demonstrates the foresight of its initial design, which has allowed it to withstand the harsh conditions of space for decades.



This legacy technology, while appearing antiquated by today's standards, showcases a robustness that modern systems strive to emulate. 



The mission's success is a reminder of the value of meticulous engineering and the enduring quest for exploration.



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



As Voyager 1 and its thrusters continue its solitary voyage through interstellar space, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of humanity. 



The data it transmits back to Earth provides invaluable insights into the universe's broader realms and conditions far beyond our solar system. 



With each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-lost-contact-with-voyager-2-spacecraft-12-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission</a>, scientists gain a deeper understanding of cosmic phenomena, feeding curiosity and inspiration across generations.



Although the spacecraft's operational future is limited by its diminishing power supply, the legacy of its mission will influence future endeavors. 



Lessons learned from Voyager 1 fuel the ambition to explore deeper into space, forever pushing the boundaries of what is possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treading-the-uncharted-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Treading the uncharted Voyager 1's thrusters</h2>



Voyager 1 is now in the realm of interstellar space, far beyond the protective bubble of particles and magnetic fields created by our sun – it's uncharted territory. 



The mission isn't over yet. The team aims to keep Voyager going as long as possible, continuing to reveal the mysteries of the interstellar environment. 



How will it fare? Only time will tell. The universe is watching and so are we.



On the path of continuous discovery, the Voyager 1's and its thrusters journey stands as an epitome of the resolute human spirit, overcoming challenges and advancing knowledge in pursuit of the unfathomable cosmos. It truly is a remarkable journey.



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Voyager 1 team accomplishes tricky thruster swap from 15 billion miles away

Spending almost five decades in deep space has not been...

On World Ozone Day, we celebrate global efforts to protect and restore the ozone layer, a vital shield that protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.&nbsp;



World Ozone Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994. This occasion highlights the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-ozone-depleting-chemicals-is-an-encouraging-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">success</a> of the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty adopted in 1987, which has been instrumental in phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-action-on-world-ozone-day-nbsp">Climate action on World Ozone Day&nbsp;</h2>



World Ozone Day is an important reminder of the link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-the-recovery-of-the-ozone-layer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone protection</a> and climate action. The phasing out of ozone-depleting chemicals has greatly contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="iO1Qd1FFM1-3858489-12187" type="single"]</div>



“The theme for this year's World Ozone Day (WOD) is Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action. This theme underscores the critical role the Montreal Protocol plays in not only restoring the stratospheric ozone layer but also in mitigating climate change,” noted James Curlin, head of the <a href="https://www.unep.org/node" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNEP</a> Law Division’s OzonAction Branch.



“It serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to continue and intensify our efforts to fight climate change through any means possible, be it through the phase out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and other ozone depleting substances, or through the phase down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).”&nbsp;



“By doing so, we can significantly reduce both the direct and indirect emissions of gases that heat our planet, contribute to the broader goals of climate action, and build a sustainable future for all.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ozone-depletion">What is ozone depletion?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/burning-up-of-satellites-severely-harms-ozone-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ozone depletion</a> refers to the gradual thinning of the Earth’s ozone layer in the stratosphere. This phenomenon is primarily caused by the release of ozone-depleting chemicals containing gaseous chlorine or bromine from industrial and consumer products.&nbsp;



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



The most significant contributors are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monsoons-launch-ozone-depleting-substances-into-the-stratosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substances</a>.&nbsp;



When these chemicals are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms.&nbsp;



These atoms then react with ozone (O3) molecules, causing the ozone to break apart into oxygen molecules (O2) and single oxygen atoms, thus depleting the ozone layer.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-ozone-depletion">Impacts of ozone depletion</h3>



The depletion of the ozone layer has significant environmental and health impacts.&nbsp;



A thinner ozone layer allows more harmful UV-B radiation to reach the Earth’s surface, which can lead to an increase in skin cancers, cataracts, and other health issues.&nbsp;



Ozone depletion also affects ecosystems, particularly marine life, as increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-exposes-wildlife-to-harmful-uv-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UV radiation</a> can harm phytoplankton, the base of the marine food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-success-of-the-montreal-protocol-nbsp">Success of the Montreal Protocol&nbsp;</h2>



As we celebrate the success of the Montreal Protocol, we must recognize the need to address ongoing environmental threats.&nbsp;



Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are chemicals that were introduced as replacements for ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).



However, despite their ozone-friendly nature, HFCs have a global warming potential (GWP) that can be hundreds to thousands of times greater than carbon dioxide.&nbsp;



Recognizing this issue, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, adopted in 2016, was created to phase down the production and use of HFCs. This amendment aims to reduce the use of HFCs and minimize their impact on global warming, while maintaining the protection of the ozone layer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-cooperation-on-world-ozone-day-nbsp">International cooperation on World Ozone Day&nbsp;</h2>



World Ozone Day is also a celebration of international cooperation, as nations across the globe have united to tackle a major environmental threat.&nbsp;



The progress in healing the ozone layer shows how collective action can address global challenges.&nbsp;



“At a time when multilateralism is under severe strain, the Montreal Protocol to help protect the ozone layer stands out as a powerful symbol of hope.&nbsp; It is a reminder that when countries show political resolve for the common good, change is possible,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.



“In uniting the world to phase out the consumption and production of different ozone depleting substances, the Protocol has also contributed to shielding carbon sinks, protecting humanity’s health and avoiding economic losses.”



“On this World Ozone Day, let’s commit to making peace with our planet. Let’s commit to build on the success of the Montreal Protocol to show what international cooperation at its best can achieve.”



Video Credit: Ozone Secretariat



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World Ozone Day 2024: Advancing climate action

On World Ozone Day, we celebrate global efforts to protect...

Have you ever thought about the role your home and office heating and cooling systems play during climate change? If your answer is no, you are not alone. Most of us don't. 



We are amusingly oblivious that the warm air we so much enjoy during winters and the cool breeze we desire in hot summers have a tiny part to contribute to the global climate. 



It's time to focus on urban microclimates -- a fascinating yet overlooked aspect of climate change. The mundane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-sea-levels-threaten-groundwater-global-cities-underground-infrastructure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">city infrastructure</a> we interact with daily can significantly alter local climates and eventually our beloved globe.



It's like throwing a tiny stone in a pond. The ripples may start small, but they grow larger, affecting a much wider area than the stone's initial impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heating-and-cooling-systems-in-cities">Heating and cooling systems in cities</h2>



Leading the pack in this research is the <a href="https://illinois.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a>. Under the stewardship of civil and environmental engineering professor Lei Zhao, the team has been investigating the effects of city-level waste heat from our beloved residential and commercial buildings.



“The heat generated from heating and cooling systems is a substantial part of the total heat generated within urban areas,” Zhao said. 



“These systems generate a lot of heat that is released into the atmosphere within cities, making them hotter and further increasing the demand for indoor cooling systems, which feeds even more heat into local climates.”



Think of these systems as the culprits that release a lot of heat into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-is-likely-the-hottest-year-in-recorded-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">city's atmosphere</a>, making it uncomfortably hot and thereby increasing everyone's demand for cooling systems.



That, my friends, is a classic example of a positive physical feedback loop. As we insist on cooling our spaces, we inadvertently feed more and more heat into local climates. Isn't that a bit counterproductive?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-loops-to-polarized-demand">Negative loops to polarized demand</h2>



However, the plot thickens. Zhao and his team also discovered an antagonist to this boiling story -- the negative feedback loop.



With rising temperatures under climate change, it's plausible that people would require less heating during winter months. 



Translated to city scales, less heating use would mean less heat being released into the city atmosphere, leading to less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-summer-of-2024-could-make-it-the-hottest-year-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a>.



But don't get too comfy just yet. "This process forms a negative physical feedback loop that may dampen the heating demand decrease. But it does not by any means cancel out the positive feedback loop effect," Zhao warns. 



The team's model hints at a potential polarization of seasonal electricity demand that could unravel a unique set of challenges requiring careful planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feedback-loops-of-heating-and-cooling-systems">Feedback loops of heating and cooling systems</h2>



The team, led by Zhao, includes experts from various fields. Zhao is part of the <a href="https://sustainability.illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment</a>. He also works with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications and the <a href="https://giesbusiness.illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gies College of Business</a> at Illinois.



The team used a hybrid modeling framework to study global urban heating and cooling energy demand. This framework combines dynamic Earth system modeling with machine learning techniques. Their research addresses the effects of climate change, considering variability and uncertainties.



Their mission? To integrate the effects of positive and negative physical feedback loops into energy projections and ultimately lay the groundwork for more comprehensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate impact assessment</a>, science-based policymaking and coordination on climate-sensitive energy planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward">Moving forward </h2>



Supported by the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>) and iSEE at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the team is embarking on another exciting journey. 



They plan on introducing variables like humidity, building materials, and future climate-mitigating efforts into their models to refine energy-demand projections further.



As we move forward, the importance of such research becomes more evident. The in-depth understanding it provides will play a crucial role in shaping our sustainable energy planning for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-heating-and-cooling-systems">Using heating and cooling systems</h2>



If there's one thing to take away from this deep dive, it's this -- every action matters. The way we cool or heat our spaces today might seem insignificant in the larger picture of climate change, but remember the ripples.



Unseen to the eye, these ripples are expanding in the form of local microclimates. The way we plan our cities, consume energy, and mitigate climate impacts can either create ripples of problems or waves of sustainable solutions.



The choice, as always, is ours.



So next time you adjust your thermostat on the heating or cooling systems, take a moment to think - "What ripple am I creating?".



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-02108-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Indoor heating and cooling systems affect city temperatures

Have you ever thought about the role your home and...

Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island or Te Pito o Te Henua (the navel of the world), is one of the most remote inhabited locations on Earth, situated over 1,900 km from the nearest Polynesian island and 3,700 km from South America.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-mysteries-of-easter-island-nbsp">Biggest mysteries of Easter Island&nbsp;</h2>



Despite extensive study by archaeologists, anthropologists, and geneticists, two central aspects of Rapa Nui’s history remain controversial.



The first contentious topic is the theory of Easter Island's population collapse due to “ecocide” or environmental mismanagement.



The second debate centers around whether the Polynesian ancestors of the Rapanui people had contact with Indigenous Americans before European arrival in 1722.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-clues-in-easter-island-remains">New clues in Easter Island remains</h2>



A new study published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07881-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> examines the genomes of 15 Rapanui individuals who lived between 1670 and 1950.&nbsp;



The remains from Easter Island, housed in the Musée de l'Homme in Paris, were analyzed by an international team of scientists, including assistant professor Víctor Moreno-Mayar from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> and researchers from institutions across Europe, the U.S., Chile, and Rapa Nui itself.&nbsp;



The study sheds light on both the ecocide theory and the possibility of transpacific contact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cautionary-tale">A cautionary tale</h2>



For many years, the story of Rapa Nui has been used as a cautionary tale of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-loss-can-lead-to-total-ecosystem-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological collapse</a>. After the island was settled by Polynesians around 1250, its landscape dramatically transformed.&nbsp;



The famous moai statues were constructed, and the once-lush forests, particularly palm trees, disappeared by the 1600s.&nbsp;



According to the “ecocide” hypothesis, the environmental changes were triggered by a growing population of over 15,000 people, leading to resource depletion, warfare, famine, and even cannibalism, which ultimately caused a catastrophic population collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-easter-island-population-was-surprisingly-stable">Easter Island population was surprisingly stable</h2>



However, the new genetic study challenges this narrative. The researchers expected to find signs of a sudden population decline in the genomes of ancient Rapanui individuals, but their analysis showed no such genetic evidence.&nbsp;



Study co-author Bárbara Sousa da Mota is a researcher at the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>.



“Our genetic analysis shows a stably growing population from the 13th century through to European contact in the 18th century. This stability is critical because it directly contradicts the idea of a dramatic pre-contact population collapse,” said Sousa da Mota.



The study illustrates the resilience of the Rapanui population in adapting to environmental changes, suggesting that the real disruptions came with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-antelope-hippotragus-leucophaeus-extinction-caused-european-colonization/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European colonial activity</a> after 1722.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-settling-a-long-debate">Settling a long debate</h2>



Another long-debated topic is whether the Polynesian ancestors of the Rapanui reached the Americas before European arrival.&nbsp;



Despite previous studies rejecting the possibility of such contact, the new research paints a different picture.&nbsp;



By generating high-quality ancient genomes, the researchers discovered that around ten percent of the Rapanui gene pool has Indigenous American origins.&nbsp;



More importantly, the team found that this contact likely occurred before European arrival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-ancient-dna">Distribution of ancient DNA</h2>



Study lead author Víctor Moreno-Mayar is an assistant professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Globe Institute.



“We looked into how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-american-civilization-cahokia-50000-people-vanished-600-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indigenous American</a> DNA was distributed across the Polynesian genetic background of the Rapanui. This distribution is consistent with a contact occurring between the 13th and the 15th centuries,” explained Moreno-Mayar.



While the study cannot pinpoint where this contact took place, the findings suggest that the ancestors of the Rapanui may have reached the Americas before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vikings-landed-in-the-americas-500-years-before-columbus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbus</a>. This could mean that Polynesians undertook even more formidable voyages than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-the-narratives-of-easter-island-nbsp">Challenging the narratives of Easter Island&nbsp;</h2>



The new findings challenge longstanding narratives about Easter Island and the potential collapse of its population.&nbsp;



“Personally, I believe the idea of the ecocide is part of a colonial narrative,” said Moreno-Mayar. “The notion that these supposedly primitive people could not manage their resources and almost destroyed themselves is not supported by the genetic evidence.”&nbsp;



“While we must acknowledge that human arrival dramatically altered the ecosystem, there is no evidence of a population collapse before Europeans came. So we can put those ideas to rest now.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formidable-voyages-across-the-pacific-nbsp">Formidable voyages across the Pacific&nbsp;</h2>



Likewise, the study debunks the idea that Indigenous American genetic ancestry in modern-day Rapanui is solely due to European colonial activity. Instead, it points to earlier interactions between Rapanui and Indigenous American populations.&nbsp;



“We believe this means that Rapanui were capable of even more formidable voyages across the Pacific than previously established,” noted Sousa da Mota.



The research team engaged directly with the Rapanui community, including the “Comisión Asesora de Monumentos Nacionales” (CAMN), to ensure the study addressed questions of interest to both scientists and the islanders.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-revelations-nbsp">Genetic revelations&nbsp;</h2>



One key outcome of these discussions was confirmation that the ancient Rapanui individuals studied are most closely related to the modern-day population of Rapa Nui.



“We have seen that museum archives contain mistakes and mislabels. Now that we have established that these 15 individuals were in fact Rapanui, we know they belong back on the island,” said Moana Gorman Edmunds, an archaeologist from Rapa Nui and co-author of the study.



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



Th study offers significant new insights into Rapa Nui’s history, refuting the ecocide theory and providing evidence of pre-European contact between Rapanui and Indigenous Americans.&nbsp;



Moreover, it opens the door to discussions about repatriating the remains of Rapanui ancestors and preserving their legacy for future generations.



The Rapanui community, through CAMN, will also retain control over who has access to the genetic data of their ancestors and how it is used.



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Easter Island DNA proves the population did not collapse 

Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island or Te Pito...

NOAA Warning: "Strong" solar storms and auroras expected today

Update -- September 16, 2024, 09:06 AM Eastern Time The...

A recent discovery slamming the fish world is drawing us deep into the abyss. The protagonist of our story is an ancient fish called a coelacanth. 



If you haven't heard of them, these large, less-than-attractive fish have been swimming around our planet for over 400 million years. Yet, they still have a few tricks up their fins.



Our adventure starts in the sun-soaked stretches of Western Australia, where an ancient, pristinely preserved new coelacanth species from the Devonian Period was <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/coelacanth_Ngamugawi-wirngarri_new-species_credit-Katrina-Kenny_1b.jpg">found poking through the sand</a>.



The story weaves between past and present, science and culture, tracing the evolution of coelacanths and the Earth itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coelacanths-a-fish-out-of-time">Coelacanths: A fish out of time</h2>



What makes these deep-sea dwellers so fascinating? Today, coelacanths are a rare spectacle observed off the coasts of eastern Africa and Indonesia. 



Reaching up to 2 meters (about 6.5 feet), they are known as "lobe-finned" fish. Their fin structure bears an uncanny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-shoulders-evolved-from-the-jawbones-of-ancient-fish-called-placoderms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resemblance to our arm bones</a>.



This particular quirk places them closer to lungfish and backboned animals -- frogs, emus, mice (and yes, dear reader, humans too) -- than most fish.



Over their 410-million-year tenure, coelacanths have bloomed into more than 175 species worldwide. One of their finer moments of diversification occurred during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic Era</a>, the age of dinosaurs. 



But as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-dinosaur-fossils-discovered-from-the-end-of-cretaceous-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous Period</a> (around 66 million years ago) rolled to a close under the impact of an asteroid, these mighty fish fell off our fossil radar.



In 1938, however, a group of South African fishermen pulled a Lazarus-like marvel from the ocean's depths -- a living, breathing coelacanth. 



This resurgence led to their infamous reputation as 'living fossils'. However, evidence is beginning to challenge this notion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birth-of-ngamugawi-wirngarri">Birth of Ngamugawi wirngarri</h2>



This brings us to our ancient starlet, the newly discovered coelacanth called Ngamugawi wirngarri. This specimen comes from a time of heightened tectonic activity. 



These time periods were earth-shaking epochs when the terrestrial plates shifted and carved out new habitats.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/coelacanth_Ngamugawi-wirngarri_skull-discovery_credit-Katrina-Kenny_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/coelacanth_Ngamugawi-wirngarri_skull-discovery_credit-Katrina-Kenny_1s.webp" alt="Ngamugawi wirngarri, a new coelacanth species, skull bones after they were acid etched out of rock at Museum Victoria, 2009. Credit: Flinders University" class="wp-image-1944732"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ngamugawi wirngarri, a new coelacanth species, skull bones after they were acid etched out of rock at Museum Victoria, 2009. Credit: Flinders University</figcaption></figure>



Dr. Alice Clement, an evolutionary biologist and paleontologist from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a> in Australia, was part of the team that christened the fish in partnership with the Mimbi community.



"Our analyses found that tectonic plate activity had a profound influence on rates of coelacanth evolution," she revealed. 



"New species of coelacanth were more likely to evolve during periods of heightened tectonic activity as new habitats were divided and created."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gogo-sites-and-coelacanth-fish">Gogo sites and coelacanth fish</h2>



Ngamugawi wirngarri lived about 380 million years ago amidst the Devonian Period's tropical reefs, teeming with more than 50 species of fish. 



Today, this region is the rocky Gogo Formation on Gooniyandi Country in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia.



John Long, a Flinders University Strategic Professor of Palaeontology, sheds light on the importance of the Gogo sites. 



"For more than 35 years, we have found several perfectly preserved 3D fish fossils from Gogo sites," he said, "which have yielded many significant discoveries, including mineralized soft tissues and the origins of complex sexual reproduction in vertebrates," he explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-ngamugawi-wirngarri">Importance of Ngamugawi wirngarri</h2>



The story of coelacanths takes a crucial turn as we dive deeper into their lineage. Many landmarks of human anatomy, such as our jaws, teeth, and chambered hearts, can trace their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-rays-were-more-diverse-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots to early fishes</a> in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-swamp-creature-found-in-namibia-was-an-ambush-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early Palaeozoic</a> (540-350 million years ago).



Although coelacanths' evolution has dramatically slowed since the dinosaur era, they're not static entities fossilized in time. 



Richard Cloutier, a vertebrate paleontologist at the <a href="https://www.uqar.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Quebec</a> in Rimouski and a study co-author, offers unique insight.



"While most early forms remain poorly known, our study allows us to start understanding how living coelacanth species of Latimeria might not deserve the enigmatic title of 'living fossils,'" he explained.



The discovery of Ngamugawi wirngarri brings to light the intricate interplay between biology and geology that has shaped life on our planet. 



It's more than just a fish tale -- it's a story about the profound influence of Earth's ever-changing skin on the dance of evolution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51238-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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'Living fossil' fish species has survived for over 400 million years

A recent discovery slamming the fish world is drawing us...

Change is the only constant in life - except for blinking, of course. And for the 360 million people living with dry eye disease (DED), those constant blinks can be pure agony. 



But what if the cure for dry eyes was as simple as sharing a good belly laugh through laughter therapy?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healing-power-of-laughter">Healing power of laughter</h2>



Scientific studies have long endorsed laughter therapy as a potent remedy, particularly for patients dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, and chronic pain.



The healing effects of laughter have been observed in patients with diverse medical conditions such as mental health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-brain-processes-visual-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disorders</a>, cancer, and diabetes.



However, a clinical trial from China recently published by The BMJ unearthed something more profound: laughter therapy might also hold the cure for DED.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-eye-disease">Dry eye disease</h2>



Dry eye disease can make your eyes feel as scratchy as a cat's tongue. It can paint your whites an irritated red and make you wish you could shower your eyes in rejuvenating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-retinal-cells-explain-complex-color-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eye</a> drops just to get some relief. 



If you've ever suffered from a case of DED, you know it's no walk in the park.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-laughter-for-treating-dry-eyes">Laughter for treating dry eyes</h2>



Experts from China and the UK embarked on a journey to investigate the effectiveness and safety of laughter exercises in patients struggling with DED symptoms.



"With the population aging, video display terminal use increasing, and air pollution, the global prevalence of dry eye disease has risen sharply, affecting approximately 360 million individuals," noted the researchers.



The trial involved 283 participants, aged between 18-45 years, with an average age of 29 years (74% female). The participants were split into two groups: one group practiced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-who-use-humor-have-better-relationships-with-their-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laughter</a> exercises while the other applied 0.1% sodium hyaluronic acid eye drops four times a day, both for eight weeks.



The researchers ensured all participants had no existing eye conditions, and recent contact lens wearers or DED treatment users were excluded from the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimpse-into-the-laughter-exercise">Glimpse into the laughter exercise</h2>



The idea of laughter being a workout might coax a smirk onto your face, but it's no laughing matter (pun intended). 



The participants in the smiling group were asked to watch an instructional video and vocalize phrases like "Hee hee hee, hah hah hah, cheese cheese cheese, cheek cheek cheek, hah hah hah hah hah hah," 30 times over a five-minute session.



They used a face recognition mobile app to track these laughter workouts and enhance their facial movements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-drops-the-control-experiment">Eye drops: The control experiment</h2>



On the other hand, the second group treated their eyes with 0.1% sodium hyaluronic acid eye drops four times a day, for the same span of eight weeks. 



Eye drops are typically the go-to remedy for combating DED's scratchy, irritating symptoms. This group also used the same app to keep tabs on their usage frequency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tears-of-laughter-for-dry-eyes">Tears of laughter for dry eyes</h2>



After both treatments were stopped at eight weeks, the researchers observed that the average OSDI (ocular surface disease index) score in the laughter group was 10.5 points lower, indicating less discomfort. The eye drop group, in contrast, scored 8.83 points lower.



Laughter exercise was not only as effective as traditional eye drops but also showed noticeable improvements in non-invasive tear break up time (the time taken for the first hint of dryness to appear on the cornea after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blink</a>), meibomian gland function (oil glands that prevent tears from drying up too soon), and mental health scores.



What makes this discovery even more exciting is that there were no adverse events reported in either study group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-laughter-and-dry-eye-symptoms">Laughter and dry eye symptoms</h2>



The researchers acknowledged some limitations that could have influenced the results, but they firmly believe that laughter exercise has the potential to improve DED symptoms substantially.



"As a safe, environmentally friendly, and low-cost intervention, laughter exercise could serve as a first-line, home-based treatment for people with symptomatic dry eye disease and limited corneal staining," the authors noted.



So next time you're feeling the scratch, why not put on your favorite sitcom or call that friend who never fails to make you laugh?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/386/bmj-2024-080474" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The BMJ</a>.



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Laughter may help dry eyes as much as eye drops

Change is the only constant in life - except for...

Believe it or not, pet food gobbles up a whopping 9 to 20 percent of all livestock worldwide, with the higher end of the scale being true for high pet ownership nations like the U.S. 



But what if there was a way to reduce this significant environmental footprint with vegan diets for dogs without compromising their health? Turns out, there might be.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-of-vegan-dog-diets">Rise of vegan dog diets</h2>



Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not strict carnivores. They are, in fact, omnivores by nature. This basically means they can thrive on a diet consisting of a mix of plants, minerals, and synthetic ingredients as long as all the necessary nutrients are present. 



A growing number of companies are catching on to this and are producing vegan dog food that ticks all these boxes.



By 2024, ten scientific studies had been published indicating positive health outcomes for dogs on vegan or vegetarian diets. And it's worth noting that the British Veterinary Association has even given a thumbs up to nutritionally sound vegan <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/probiotics-help-overweight-dogs-shed-pounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canine diets</a>.



However, the critical question still remained - What is the real magnitude of the health benefits that average dogs could enjoy from a vegan diet?



In other words, once we account for age, sex, neutering status, breed size and exercise level - all of the elements that can influence a dog's health - could we still see notable health improvements in dogs on a vegan diet?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-benefits-of-vegan-dog-diet">Health benefits of vegan dog diet</h2>



A research team led by Veterinary Professor Andrew Knight analyzed health outcomes for a staggering 2,536 dogs, including 336 that had been on a vegan diet for at least a year. 



The experts found an actual decrease in seven general indicators of illness in the vegan diet group.



The study revealed that dogs on vegan diets were less likely to require medication or specialized medical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warning-dogs-drinking-from-public-water-sources-is-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>. 



Dogs on vegan diets also needed fewer trips to the vet, were frequently assessed as healthy by their owners and veterinarians, and exhibited lower rates of illness.



When they did fall ill, these dogs also showed fewer health disorders compared to those on conventional meat-based diets. These improvements ranged from 14 percent to an impressive 51 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-likelihood-of-health-disorders">Reduced likelihood of health disorders </h2>



To add to the weight of these findings, all of the observed differences were statistically significant. In non-statistician speak, this means that the differences seen were not due to pure chance but are likely true. 



What's more, the likelihood of suffering from six specific health disorders fell by 50 to 61 percent compared to dogs fed traditional meat. 



These disorders included some common doggie health problems like weight issues and problems with the ears, musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-different-diets">Comparing different diets</h2>



A recent study found that of the 22 most common health disorders, 11 were most prevalent in dogs on conventional meat diets.



Eight were most common in dogs on raw meat diets, and just three were most likely in the vegan diet group. 



Overall, 49 percent of dogs on conventional meat diets were unwell compared to 43 percent on raw meat diets and a mere 36 percent on vegan diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-impact-of-vegan-dog-diets">Environmental impact of vegan dog diets </h2>



Beyond the health benefits explored, the environmental ramifications of switching to vegan <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-breeding-dogs-like-dachshunds-deserve-a-healthy-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets for dogs</a> are equally compelling. 



Traditional meat-based pet food significantly contributes to the carbon footprint due to the intensive resource demands of livestock farming, such as land, water, and feed. By reducing reliance on meat, vegan dog food can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation rates. 



According to a study from <a href="https://www.ucla.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a>, if all U.S. dogs and cats switched to plant-based diets, the reduction in meat consumption would be equivalent to taking millions of cars off the road in terms of carbon emissions. 



This shift offers a dual benefit: fostering pet health while supporting environmental sustainability - an urgent consideration in our rapidly changing climate landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-considerations">Nutritional considerations </h2>



While the prospect of transitioning to a vegan diet for dogs presents numerous advantages, it is not without its challenges. 



Ensuring balanced nutrition is paramount, as improper diets can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins such as B12 and D. 



For pet owners contemplating this switch, it's advisable to consult with veterinarians or pet nutrition specialists to tailor a nutritious plant-based diet. 



Recent advances in pet food technology have yielded a plethora of commercially available vegan options, fortified and balanced to cater specifically to canine dietary needs. 



Paying close attention to food labels and opting for brands with reputable nutritional accreditations can help safeguard against potential deficiencies, ensuring that the transition supports <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medium-sized-dogs-have-a-greater-risk-of-developing-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet health</a> effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-final-verdict">The final verdict</h2>



"Dogs fed vegan diets clearly had the best health outcomes in this very large-scale study, and these results are consistent with prior studies in this field," said Professor Knight.



"Nutritionally sound vegan diets offer extremely large environmental benefits, so this is very good news for dog owners who want to protect the environment while also maximizing their dogs' health." 



"However, care should always be taken to ensure diets are nutritionally sound, by checking package labeling and purchasing from reputable pet food companies."



Vegan dog have significant potential for a more sustainable planet and healthier pooches. But, like every aspect of pet care, it's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-diets-may-not-be-best-for-dogs-after-all/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essential to do your homework</a> and ensure that you're making the best choice for your furry friend.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/heliyon/fulltext/S2405-8440(24)11609-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heliyon</a>.



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Dogs on vegan diets stay healthier and visit the vet less often

Believe it or not, pet food gobbles up a whopping...

Wounds that resist healing have long posed a significant challenge in medical care, but a recent discovery offers a solution that combines luxury with cutting-edge science.



Researchers have tapped into the remarkable healing properties of gold nanoparticles mixed with antioxidant-rich red wine.



This unexpected fusion of precious metal and natural compounds paves the way for a revolutionary approach to treating chronic wounds and other medical conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-medicine-and-new-technology">Traditional medicine and new technology </h2>



In the heart of South Africa, the <a href="https://www.uwc.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Western Cape</a> hosts a team of researchers driven to make significant strides in medical science.



The team's dedication to exploring novel solutions for persistent health challenges has led them to a fascinating discovery that blends traditional medicine with cutting-edge technology.



Their latest research was focused on a concoction combining gold nanoparticles with the potent antioxidants found in red wine. The innovative formula has shown tremendous potential, as lab tests revealed that it significantly accelerated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-protein-in-milk-could-revolutionize-wound-healing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wound healing</a>.



Remarkably, in just 72 hours, wounds treated with this unique mixture of gold and red wine healed almost entirely - a promising and exciting outcome that could pave the way for future advancements in chronic wound care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dangers-of-chronic-wounds">The dangers of chronic wounds</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blueberries-could-be-key-to-treating-non-healing-wounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chronic wounds</a>, defined as those that fail to heal within three months, represent a widespread and persistent health challenge, affecting approximately 3.8 million patients each year. 



Chronic wounds often stall in the inflammatory phase, a stage where the body’s natural healing processes become hindered. This prevents progression to the crucial remodeling phase where new tissue begins to grow and repair the damaged area.



For individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes, this issue becomes even more serious. Poor blood circulation, a common complication of diabetes, exacerbates the healing process, leaving these wounds vulnerable to infections. 



In severe cases, the inability to heal can lead to devastating outcomes, including the risk of limb amputation. Identifying solutions for chronic wound care is a medical priority.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wound-healing-power-of-gold">The wound healing power of gold</h2>



The research team hypothesized that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-role-of-seawater-in-gold-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gold</a> could act as the ideal catalyst to jump-start the healing process for chronic wounds. 



Gold’s renowned <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-with-milk-has-powerful-anti-inflammatory-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-inflammatory properties</a>, combined with its natural compatibility with human tissues, have made it a valuable element in medical treatments for centuries. 



Its unique ability to reduce inflammation without causing adverse reactions allows gold to interact harmoniously with the body, promoting faster recovery.



Historically, gold has played a significant role in medicine, with gold particles being used as early as the 20th century to treat chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis in the UK. 



Building on this legacy, the research team explored how gold could unlock similar benefits in the realm of wound care, providing a modern twist to an age-old remedy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-antioxidants-of-red-wine">Powerful antioxidants of red wine</h2>



Red grapes, the foundation of many popular wines, are rich in powerful antioxidants like resveratrol. These naturally occurring compounds play a crucial role in protecting the body from oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals.



Free radicals can damage cells and impede the healing process, but the antioxidants in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-wine-grapes-have-unexpected-gut-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> help to counteract these effects.



By combating these damaging molecules, resveratrol and other antioxidants support the body’s ability to repair itself. 



The antioxidants ensure that tissues receive a sufficient oxygen supply, which is essential for regeneration and recovery, ultimately boosting the healing process and enhancing the body's natural defenses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combining-gold-and-red-wine">Combining gold and red wine</h2>



The team tested their hypothesis by drying red wine to obtain extracts, which were then mixed with chloroauric acid, a gold-containing chemical. 



The blend was applied to a lab dish containing human skin cells, with a scratch in the middle to simulate a wound.



Cells treated with this golden mixture saw an 80% wound closure within 72 hours, compared to 50% with wine alone. 



The combination of cabernet sauvignon and gold proved even more effective, healing wounds almost entirely in the same time frame.



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



Renowned vascular surgeon Stella Vig of <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/services/hospital/croydon-university-hospital/RJ611" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Croydon University Hospital</a> praised the novel use of red wine and the innovative production of gold nanoparticles. Both silver and gold nanoparticles could play a critical role in reducing wound infections.



Dr. Ahmed Osman from <a href="https://www.qub.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen’s University, Belfast</a> added that gold particles encourage cell growth and enhance the natural healing process of the skin.



This revolutionary approach to wound healing, combining gold and red wine, holds remarkable promise for the future of wound care. 



While further research is needed, the implications are significant, opening new avenues for advanced medical treatments.



-----



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Healing chronic wounds with gold and red wine

Wounds that resist healing have long posed a significant challenge...

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has recently delivered intriguing insights about star clusters in the outer Milky Way. 



The telescope zeroed in on some key areas of the galaxy, providing fascinating snapshots of new stars, material jets, and a cluster of background galaxies with red clouds gadding about the space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-clusters-in-the-extreme-outer-galaxy">Star clusters in the extreme outer galaxy</h2>



There is a specific area of our galaxy that has piqued scientists' interest -- the Extreme Outer Galaxy. 



Situated a staggering 58,000 light-years from the Galactic Center, this remote region presents a stark contrast to our planetary home, which is approximately <a href="https://d2pn8kiwq2w21t.cloudfront.net/original_images/e-outer_milky_way_ANNOTATED.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">26,000 light-years from the center</a>.



Two critical instruments were used by a team of astronomers to study this far-flung space. 



Webb’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/nircam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIRCam</a> (Near-Infrared Camera) and <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/mid-infrared-instrument-miri/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a> (Mid-Infrared Instrument) were utilized to capture images of Digel Clouds 1 and 2, molecular clouds inside the Extreme Outer Galaxy.



Armed with these top-notch tools, the team was able to observe these clusters in unprecedented detail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-in-the-outer-milky-way">Stars in the outer Milky Way</h2>



Not only were the experts able to gather intel on star clusters undergoing bursts of star formation, but they also secured details about the components, including young protostars, jets, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-origins-of-young-star-clusters-traced-to-three-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distinctive structures</a>.



The telescope time that captured these observations was allocated to Mike Ressler, a scientist from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>) in Southern California.



The work by Ressler and his team is helping us understand how stars form in the outer Milky Way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-images-of-star-forming-regions">Images of star-forming regions </h2>



So, what do we know thus far? We are aware of regions where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-found-in-mysterious-milky-way-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> form, but detailed knowledge about their properties remained elusive until now.



Natsuko Izumi of <a href="https://www.gifu-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gifu University</a> and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (<a href="https://www.nao.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NAOJ</a>) noted that Webb's findings built upon existing observations.



“In the past, we knew about these star-forming regions but were not able to delve into their properties,” said Izumi. 



“The Webb data builds upon what we have incrementally gathered over the years from prior observations with different telescopes and observatories. We can get very powerful and impressive images of these clouds with Webb."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-within-a-dense-digel-clouds-sub-cluster">Stars within a dense Digel Clouds sub-cluster</h2>



The Digel Clouds in our galaxy are relatively deficient in elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, making them comparable to dwarf galaxies and the Milky Way in its early history.



The team leveraged this opportunity and captured images showing the activities within four clusters of young stars in the Digel Clouds -- labeled 1A, 1B, 2N, and 2S.



One particular attraction was Cloud 2S, where jets of material were seen ejecting from new stars within a dense sub-cluster.



“We know from studying other nearby star-forming regions that as stars form during their early life phase, they start emitting jets of material at their poles,” said Ressler. 



“What was fascinating and astounding to me from the Webb data is that there are multiple jets shooting out in all different directions from this cluster of stars. It’s a little bit like a firecracker, where you see things shooting this way and that.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elemental-composition-of-the-digel-clouds">Elemental composition of the Digel Clouds</h2>



The revelations concerning the elemental composition of the Digel Clouds offer profound insights into the chemical makeup of early star-forming regions. 



Studying the relative abundance of lighter elements has considerably enhanced our comprehension of conditions that might have prevailed in the primordial cosmos. 



These clouds, having roughly the same composition as nascent galaxies, act as time capsules, granting us access to the formative periods of the universe. 



The scientists emphasize the importance of this discovery, as it allows for the refinement of theoretical models regarding star formation and the evolutionary processes of galaxies, propelling our understanding of cosmic chronology forward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-expeditions-and-star-clusters">Future expeditions and star clusters</h2>



The exploration of the Extreme Outer Galaxy is merely a prelude to the broader scientific possibilities that await with the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>. 



As Webb continues to peel back layers of cosmic history, future missions are already on the horizon, aiming to probe ever deeper into the galaxy's mysterious corners. 



Astronomers are particularly enthusiastic about pursuing further study of similar molecular clouds in more remote, uncharted galactic spaces.



These endeavors will not only illuminate the conditions of our cosmic past but also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inspire new inquiries</a> into the intricate dynamics of star formation.



The potential of Webb's ongoing mission is boundless, promising a cascade of astronomical discoveries that will etch an indelible imprint on our understanding of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-stellar-mysteries-left-to-unravel">Many stellar mysteries left to unravel</h2>



Webb's imagery provides a starting point for the team, as they intend to explore this "outpost" of the Milky Way further. 



The experts hope to answer questions about star clusters in the Extreme Outer Galaxy and the relative abundance of stars of various masses in these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/intermediate-mass-black-holes-survive-and-thrive-in-giant-star-clusters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clusters</a>.



Izumi is keen on studying how star formation occurs in these regions and aims to investigate the shorter lifetimes of circumstellar disks in the Extreme Outer Galaxy.



Although the complex process of star formation still houses many mysteries, Webb's findings are gradually helping us piecing together this stellar puzzle.



The study is published in the <a href="https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2024AJ....168...68I/abstract">Astronomical Journal</a>. 



-----



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Stunning star clusters captured in the extreme outskirts of the Milky Way

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has recently delivered intriguing insights...

The intricate dance of uranium trichloride (UCl3), a molten salt under extremely high temperatures, holds the key to unlocking the full potential of next-generation nuclear reactors. 



Its unique properties, when transformed into a liquid state, offer unparalleled opportunities to rethink nuclear fuel technology and improve reactor safety and efficiency.



Researchers from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and their collaborators have meticulously documented, for the first time, the elusive structure and complex chemistry dynamics of high-temperature liquid UCl3 salt. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promising-source-of-nuclear-energy">Promising source of nuclear energy </h2>



The research positions this substance as a promising source of nuclear fuel. The critical insights pave the way for designing safer, more efficient, and innovative reactors that could reshape the future of nuclear energy.



In a paper published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, ORNL researcher Santanu Roy noted that this is a first critical step in enabling good predictive models for the design of future reactors. 



"A better ability to predict and calculate the microscopic behaviors is critical to design, and reliable data helps develop better models," said Roy.



The study highlights the significant leap toward understanding the behavior of molten uranium salts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuclear-energy-and-molten-salt-reactors">Nuclear energy and molten salt reactors</h2>



For decades, molten salt reactors have been seen as a promising solution for producing safe and affordable nuclear energy. 



ORNL's prototyping experiments in the 1960s demonstrated the potential of this technology. With the global push for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decarbonizing-worlds-industrial-emissions-possible-with-current-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decarbonization</a>, there has been renewed interest in making these reactors widely available.



However, designing the ideal system requires a deep understanding of how liquid fuel salts behave, particularly those involving actinide elements such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranium-detected-in-two-thirds-of-u-s-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uranium</a>. 



Molten salts, which melt at extremely high temperatures, exhibit complex ion-ion coordination, making them challenging to study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-state-of-the-art-neutron-scattering-studies">State-of-the-art neutron scattering studies </h2>



The research was a collaboration between ORNL, Argonne National Laboratory, and the <a href="https://sc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of South Carolina</a>. The team utilized a combination of computational approaches and advanced facilities like the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS).



As one of the brightest neutron sources in the world, SNS allowed the team to perform state-of-the-art neutron scattering studies, enabling them to measure the chemical bond lengths of molten UCl3 for the first time.



"I've been studying actinides and uranium since I joined ORNL as a postdoc," said Alex Ivanov, who co-led the study. "But I never expected that we could go to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-molten-rock-layer-discovered-under-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molten</a> state and find fascinating chemistry." 



The findings revealed that, unlike most substances, the bonds between uranium and chlorine contracted rather than expanded as the substance became liquid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-stereotypes-in-chemistry">Breaking stereotypes in chemistry</h2>



One of the most surprising discoveries was the inconsistent behavior of the bonds, which oscillated between expanded and contracted states at ultra-fast speeds. 



"This is an uncharted part of chemistry and reveals the fundamental atomic structure of actinides under extreme conditions," noted Ivanov.



The bond lengths exhibited varying patterns, occasionally becoming shorter and temporarily transforming from an ionic to a more covalent nature. This fleeting change helped explain inconsistencies in previous studies.



These findings, along with the broader results of the study, will improve both experimental and computational approaches to reactor design, while also shedding light on challenges such as nuclear waste management and pyroprocessing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-future-of-nuclear-energy">Unlocking the future of nuclear energy</h2>



The insights gained from this study not only deepen our understanding of molten uranium salts but also highlight their potential in revolutionizing nuclear energy production. 



With the unpredictable behavior of UCl3 now more clearly defined, the path to developing more efficient and safer nuclear reactors becomes clearer.



These breakthroughs could play a crucial role in addressing challenges related to nuclear waste, pyroprocessing, and the advancement of sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-a-nuclear-powered-spacecraft-shorten-the-trip-to-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuclear technologies</a>. 



By improving predictive models and expanding the knowledge of molten salt behavior, scientists are one step closer to creating reactors that can help meet global energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.



As nuclear energy remains a key player in the race toward decarbonization, the discoveries in this study offer hope for more reliable, scalable, and eco-friendly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wellbeing-is-a-more-effective-focus-area-when-discussing-energy-solutions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy solutions</a> in the near future.



The study is published in the <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacs.4c05765" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Chemical Society</a>.



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Molten salt could reshape the future of nuclear energy

The intricate dance of uranium trichloride (UCl3), a molten salt...

Gene regulation has become a key focus of scientific discovery since scientists first cracked the code of DNA, unraveling the intricate sequence of molecules that dictate our cells' behavior. But DNA, while pivotal, is only half of the story.



Our bodies consist of numerous cell types, from skin to muscle to brain cells, all containing the same DNA. Yet, the question remains: how does each cell know when to become skin, muscle, or brain cells?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-blueprint-of-dna">Complex blueprint of DNA</h2>



Picture <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> as a long, twisted ladder, packed with billions of tiny building blocks. It carries the precise instructions that guide the growth, function, and repair of our bodies. When unraveled, this ladder can stretch up to two meters long, much too long to fit within the tiny confines of a cell.



Chromatin, a complex of DNA and proteins, solves this problem by packaging the DNA into a condensed, organized structure that fits within the cell nucleus. 



It functions like beads on a string, looped and packed into chromosomes, which allows DNA to be assembled in a small area and unpacked whenever the cell needs access to genetic information.



In this complex code, DNA contains both coding and non-coding sequences. Coding DNA, or genes, supply the instructions for building proteins, the essential cellular building blocks and mediators. Non-coding DNA plays a pivotal supporting role in controlling when and how these genes are switched on or off to form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-proteins-responsible-for-aging-cause-als/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proteins</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-chromatin-in-gene-regulation">Role of chromatin in gene regulation</h2>



Chromatin organization is crucial to the process of gene regulation. Tightly packed chromatin restricts access to genes, keeping them off. In contrast, loosely packed chromatin allows genes to be turned on and expressed.



Although all humans inherit a fixed set of genes, their expression can vary widely due to factors such as diet, stress, and exposure to pollution. 



This phenomenon, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetics</a>, controls the identity and function of cells, thus shaping the cell's destiny.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emerging-frontiers-in-research">Emerging frontiers in research </h2>



Every two years, the Office of Emerging Frontiers and Multidisciplinary Activities (EFMA) under the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United States National Science Foundation</a> identifies pioneering research topics for the NSF Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation (EFRI) program. 



In 2018 and 2019, the EFRI program focused on chromatin and epigenetic engineering to uncover new ways to manipulate gene activation and deactivation.



Working under four-year grants, interdisciplinary teams tackle challenging, high-risk, high-reward projects to address some of the nation's most pressing challenges. 



Through increasing our understanding and developing innovative tools, these advancements have the potential to combat diseases, enhance crop performance, or even develop organisms that can remediate environmental damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-regulation-and-tissue-regeneration">Gene regulation and tissue regeneration</h2>



One team of scientists has developed a high-resolution <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> imaging platform to visualize chromatin in 3D, enabling more accurate predictions for genome engineering outcomes. 



This can lead to precise manipulation of genes with applications in cancer treatment, organ regeneration, injury prevention, and reversing aging. 



Drugs and interventions are being developed to target cells affected by cancer or oxygen loss from strokes or heart attacks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-dna-arrangement">Understanding DNA arrangement</h2>



Another team discovered that a special protein complex called INO80 is a crucial driver of chromatin movements inside the nucleus. 



Using a newly engineered device, the experts can now observe chromatin interactions happening in real time inside living cells. This can greatly contribute to the understanding of tissues made up of many different cell types, such as the brain or immune system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneering-genetic-delivery">Pioneering genetic delivery</h2>



Using principles derived from paper art origami, a group of researchers has made significant advances in delivering DNA into cells using nanostructures. 



DNA can be packaged very tightly within these intricate designs, enabling even the longest genes to be delivered into the nucleus. 



This method offers a safer, more cost-efficient alternative to traditional viral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revolutionary-gene-therapy-shows-promise-in-treating-autism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene therapy</a> and holds promise for treating diseases and enhancing live cell imaging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-path-to-gene-regulation">A new path to gene regulation</h2>



Another project harnesses the power of chromatin and epigenetic engineering to combat disease. 



The researchers developed new genome-editing technologies to target the non-coding regulatory regions of DNA that turn genes on or off. 



These epigenetic marks can mimic changes that might occur in response to the environment - assisting in tailoring disease interventions more accurately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-generations-of-scientists">New generations of scientists</h2>



EFRI teams provide valuable experiences for aspiring scientists through NSF Research Experience and Mentoring programs. 



These programs offer paid research experiences and mentoring to promote diversity and inclusion within the field of gene and epigenetic engineering. 



Such collaborative efforts are fuelling scientific advancement and cultivating a new generation of scientists equipped to tackle complex challenges in genetic and epigenetic engineering.



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Gene regulation: Controlling cells to improve medical treatments

Gene regulation has become a key focus of scientific discovery...

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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;



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" 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 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



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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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



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 rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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 Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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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



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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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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...