Have you ever found yourself in a quandary about whether children should use their fingers to count? If you have, you're not alone. Many preschool teachers are in the same boat. 



Some believe that little ones who resort to finger counting are struggling with math. Others see it as a clear sign of advanced numerical knowledge. 



One of the lead researchers for this study is Dr. Catherine Thevenot from the Institute of Psychology at the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>. 



Her team decided to investigate if a finger counting strategy could give a leg up to kindergarten-aged children when faced with arithmetic problems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-finger-counting-on-kids">Impact of finger counting on kids</h2>



The experiment, which involved 328 five and six-year-olds (mainly white European kids living in France), set out to determine if children who don’t ordinarily count on their fingers could be trained to do so. And more importantly, it sought to find out if this training would improve their arithmetic abilities.



The process was straight-forward. Recruited through their teachers, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-too-much-screen-time-struggle-to-gain-language-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">children</a> underwent a pre-test, a two-week training period, a post-test right after the training, and a delayed post-test.



The children who were trained and did not originally count on their fingers showed a substantial improvement in performance (from 37% to 77% of correct responses), outperforming those in the control group.



We now have the first study to prove that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/board-games-help-children-improve-their-math-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">child's arithmetic performance</a> can be boosted by teaching them a finger counting strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crunching-numbers-with-dr-thevenot">Crunching numbers with Dr. Thevenot</h2>



As it turns out, the catalyst for this research was a question that kept cropping up during her interactions with primary school teachers -- should they encourage or discourage their pupils to count on their fingers? The lack of a clear answer in existing research prompted her to investigate the issue.



"Our findings are highly valuable because, for the first time, we provide a concrete answer to the long-standing question of whether teachers should explicitly teach children to use their fingers for solving addition problems -- especially those who don’t do so naturally. The answer is yes," Dr Thevenot said.



"Our study demonstrates that finger calculation training is effective for over 75% of kindergartners. The next step is to explore how we can support the remaining 25% of children who didn’t respond as well to the intervention." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-finger-counting">Benefits of finger counting</h2>



"When I first saw the results, I was amazed by the huge improvement in performance among children who didn’t initially use their fingers to solve the problems. Before our intervention, these children were only able to solve about one-third of the addition problems at pre-test," Dr. Thevenot said.



"After training, however, they were solving over three-quarters of them! The difference was striking, especially compared to the control groups, where gains were insignificant. The extent of this improvement truly exceeded my expectations," she concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-for-education">Broader implications for education</h2>



The insights gleaned from this study could have far-reaching implications for educational practices. 



By allowing children, particularly those who might initially struggle with arithmetic, the freedom to employ finger counting, educators can foster an environment that is both supportive and conducive to learning. 



This study challenges the traditional pedagogical stance that views finger counting as a crutch indicative of mathematical deficiency. 



Instead, it paints finger counting as a valuable tool that can enhance a child's comprehension of numbers and arithmetic processes, potentially leading to more effective teaching strategies that embrace individual learning styles.



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



What does the future hold? Well, they are now probing if the children have gained a deeper understanding of numbers or are simply following a procedure to solve problems. 



Initial results are promising according to Dr. Thevenot, but more tests are required for confirmation.



The study by Dr. Thevenot and her team opens several avenues for further investigation. Future research could explore the long-term impacts of finger counting as a foundational skill integrated into early mathematics education. 



Additionally, examining how cultural differences affect the perception and utilization of finger counting in various educational systems can provide a more comprehensive understanding of its benefits and limitations. 



Importantly, expanding the demographics beyond the initial cohort to include diverse populations will enhance the generalizability of the findings. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-show-of-hands">A show of hands</h2>



To sum it up, it seems that finger counting could be instrumental in reducing disparity in mathematics among children. 



So, the next time you see a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kindergarten-conduct-childhood-behavioral-problems-will-cost-society-later/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">child</a> using their ten tiny tools to solve a math problem, remember, they might just be on to something. And, who knows? Maybe we adults could pick up a thing or two from those little fingers.



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This study is summarized from an article in Child Development, titled "Finger counting training enhances addition performance in kindergarteners," authored by Poletti, C., Krenger, M., Létang, M., Hennequin, B., and of course, our Dr. Thevenot from <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://srcd.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cdev.14146" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Child Development</a>.



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Finger counting boosts math skills in children

Have you ever found yourself in a quandary about whether children should use their fingers to count? If you have, you're not alone. Many preschool teachers are in the same boat. Some believe that little ones who resort to finger counting are struggling with math. Others see it as a clear sign of advanced numerical knowledge. One of the lead researchers for this study is Dr. Catherine Thevenot from the Institute of Psychology at the University of Lausanne. Her team decided to investigate if a finger counting...

New research reveals that work-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> caused by job strain and an imbalance between efforts applied and rewards received can increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. This condition is characterized by an irregular (often rapid) heartbeat that commonly causes poor blood flow. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yoga-improves-mental-and-physical-health-among-patients-with-atrial-fibrillation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atrial fibrillation</a> (also known as AFib or AF) is the most frequent form of arrhythmia and can lead to stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. Over 12 million people are projected to have atrial fibrillation in the United States by 2030.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-work-related-stress-and-atrial-fibrillation-nbsp">Work-related stress and atrial fibrillation&nbsp;</h2>



Previous studies connected high job strain and effort-reward imbalance at work with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. However, this research is the first to investigate the adverse effect of these psychosocial stressors at work on atrial fibrillation.&nbsp;



Study senior author Dr. Xavier Trudel is an occupational and cardiovascular epidemiologist and associate professor at Laval University in Canada.



“Our study suggests that work-related stressors may be relevant factors to include in preventive strategies,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;



“Recognizing and addressing psychosocial stressors at work are required to foster healthy work environments that benefit both individuals and the organizations where they work.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-job-strain-and-effort-reward-imbalance-nbsp">Job strain and effort-reward imbalance&nbsp;</h2>



The experts examined the impact of job strain, which refers to a work environment in which employees struggle with high job demands, such as a heavy workload and tight deadlines, along with low control over their work and lack of decision-making in how they execute their work-related tasks.



Another factor assessed was the effort-reward imbalance. This phenomenon occurs when employees invest major efforts into their work but perceive the rewards they get for this work&nbsp; (such as salary, recognition, or job security) as or unequal to their performance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-impacts-of-work-related-stress-nbsp">Heart impacts of work-related stress&nbsp;</h2>



By examining medical database records for almost 6,000 adults in white-collar jobs in Canada, with 18 years of follow-up data, the researchers found that employees experiencing high job strain had an 83% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation than workers unaffected by such stressors.



The experts also found that those who experienced an effort-reward imbalance had a 44% greater risk than workers who did not report this imbalance.



Furthermore, the study showed that combined experiences of high job strain and effort-reward imbalance were linked to a 97% increased risk of AFib.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



According to Dr. Trudel, the effectiveness of workplace interventions to reduce psychosocial stressors that may also reduce the risk of AFib should be investigated in future research.&nbsp;



“Our research team previously conducted an organizational intervention designed to reduce psychosocial stressors at work, which was shown to effectively reduce blood pressure levels,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;



“Examples of organizational changes implemented during the intervention included slowing down the implementation of a large project to prevent increased workload; implementing flexible work hours; and holding meetings between managers and employees to discuss day-to-day challenges.”



Some of the limitations of this study include that all participants were white-collar workers in Canada, which means that the results may not apply to other types of workers or to workers in other countries.



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



The scientists collected data through the PROspective Quebec (PROQ) Study on Work and Health, which was initiated in the Quebec region in 1991-1993 and recruited white-collar workers from 19 public and semi-public organizations.



The analysis was focused on 5,926 workers (49% men, 51% women), with an average age of 45 at the beginning of the study (1999-2001) and 65 at the end of the follow-up (Dec. 2018), were included. Levels of work stress were assessed through self-reported questionnaires.&nbsp;



The experts controlled for a broad number of socioeconomic characteristics (sex, education), health risks (diabetes, high blood pressure) and lifestyle factors (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoking-among-teens-has-declined-dramatically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a>, drinking alcohol).



Overall, the researchers identified 186 AFib cases. Among that group, 19% reported high job strain, 25% reported effort-reward imbalance, and 10% reported experiencing both of&nbsp; these stressors at the same time.



The study showed that over one third of all participants had been diagnosed with coronary heart disease or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydration-reduces-the-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart failure</a> before developing AFib.



The research is published in the <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.032414" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Heart Association</a>. 



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Work-related stress linked to serious heart condition

New research reveals that work-related stress caused by job strain...

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-update-august-14-2024-12-44-pm-et">Update -- August 14, 2024, 12:44 PM ET</h2>



The World Health Organization (WHO) has just labeled the mpox outbreaks in Congo and various parts of Africa as a global emergency. 



The virus is on the rise, with cases popping up in both kids and adults across more than a dozen countries. Unfortunately, Africa is facing a serious vaccine shortage.



Earlier this week, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<a href="https://africacdc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Africa CDC</a>) declared it a public health emergency. With over 500 reported deaths, they're urgently asking for international help to curb the virus's spread. 



“This should concern us all... The potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mpox-surging-in-over-a-dozen-countries">Mpox surging in over a dozen countries</h2>



According to the Africa CDC, mpox, or monkeypox, has been detected in 13 countries this year, with Congo accounting for more than 96% of all cases and fatalities. 



In fact, cases have surged by 160% and deaths by 19% compared to last year. So far, there have been over 14,000 reported cases, leading to 524 deaths.



“We’re now at a point where mpox poses a risk to many more neighboring countries in and around central Africa,” said Salim Abdool Karim, a South African infectious diseases expert leading the Africa CDC emergency group. He pointed out that the new strain of mpox coming from Congo has a death rate of about 3-4%.



Back in 2022, the WHO declared mpox a global emergency after it spread to over 70 countries that hadn’t seen any cases before. That outbreak largely affected gay and bisexual men, with less than 1% of cases resulting in death.



Michael Marks, a professor of medicine at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (<a href="https://www.lshtm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSHTM</a>), supports the emergency declaration. “It’s a failure of the global community that things had to escalate to this extent to mobilize the necessary resources,” he said.



This situation raises important questions about global health preparedness and how interconnected our societies are. As we work to tackle these challenges, understanding the implications of mpox and promoting international cooperation is crucial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-vigilance-declines">Public vigilance declines</h2>



It's easy to forget about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/virus-lifespan-and-transmission-boosted-by-high-co2-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public threats</a> that are no longer in the headlines, but when it comes to health, forgetting can be a deadly trap. Take mpox - a disease that's been shuffling in and out of the world's spotlight for years.



Today, two years after the World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>) triggered a global health alarm over an mpox outbreak, this notorious enemy has reemerged, this time spreading its lethal tendrils across African nations. 



But as the stakes rise, public memory and understanding about this disease seem to have taken a nosedive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-perceptions-about-mpox">Public perceptions about mpox</h2>



The evidence for this public "out of sight, out of mind" mentality comes from none other than the respected Annenberg Public Policy Center of the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>. 



Under the leadership of Kathleen Hall Jamieson, the center has been closely monitoring public knowledge and perceptions about mpox. 



Here's the truth: as media attention shifted, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/influenza-is-considered-the-biggest-pandemic-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threat</a> of mpox didn't just pack up and leave. Instead, it quietly snuck into the shadows, covertly marching across the globe as a hidden potential health crisis.



“The speed with which the public learned needed information about mpox in the summer of 2022 was a tribute to effective communication by the public health community,” said Jamieson.



“That same expertise should now be deployed to ensure that those at risk remember mpox’s symptoms, modes of transmission, and the protective power of vaccination.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diving-into-the-data">Diving into the data </h2>



The center's ASAPH survey conducted in July 2024 sheds light on some hard truths. For starters, only five percent of Americans are worried about contracting mpox in the next three months -- a huge drop from 21 percent back in August 2022. A mere nine percent are concerned about their families being hit by the disease.



The public's understanding that mpox is less contagious than Covid-19 has plummeted from 41 to 17 percent.



Knowledge that men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of infection has spiraled down from 63 to 34 percent. Furthermore, recognition of the existence of an mpox vaccine has fallen from 61 to 45 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-mpox">Unmasking mpox</h2>



Understanding a disease is often the first armor in our battle against it. Mpox, first identified in 1958, is a rare but deadly member of the orthopox virus family. It brings with it a medley of symptoms -- fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and painful rashes.



The transmission of the disease is through contact with infected animals or close interaction with an infected person, including sexual contact and touching with contaminated materials.



Today's outbreak features a different face of mpox -- clade I. This strain is particularly relentless in its attack on infants and children under the age of 5. 



A report from the WHO reveals this led to the unfortunate loss of 511 lives, with 62 percent of the deaths involving children under the age of 5 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.



While clade I currently resides within the boundaries of central and east Africa, clade II, seen in the 2022 outbreak in the U.S., is still lurking around. 



The majority of these cases are found in individuals who didn't receive the vaccine or got only one of the two doses necessary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vigilant-public-awareness-on-mpox">Vigilant public awareness on mpox</h2>



In the face of resurfacing threats like mpox, fostering awareness and understanding among the public is not merely advisable; it is essential.



Public education campaigns must proactively combat misinformation and rekindle interest in health implications linked to mpox.



This strategy should focus on providing clear, accessible information about transmission, symptoms, and the importance of vaccination. 



Engaging a diverse audience through trusted community leaders and health professionals can amplify the message, ensuring that individuals at higher risk understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wood-surfaces-can-naturally-reduce-virus-transmission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessity of preventive measures</a>. 



Furthermore, maintaining the momentum of the discussion around mpox - even when it fades from mainstream media - can help keep the public informed and alert, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and preparedness.



The lessons learned from past outbreaks underscore the critical need for a well-informed populace that is prepared to respond to health threats as they present themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inoculation-our-best-bet">Inoculation: Our best bet</h2>



Hope, however, is on the horizon. The intention of people to get vaccinated against the disease still holds strong. 



The CDC recommends the use of Jynneos, administered in two doses, four weeks apart, for those exposed to the mpox virus and those with risk factors, including men who have sex with men.



Time to kick out complacency and reignite our efforts. Let's dust off the cobwebs of forgetfulness and strengthen our understanding about mpox. In the face of a pandemic, knowledge is indeed our most powerful weapon.



The <a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annenberg Public Policy Center</a> continues its tireless efforts to illuminate the public and policy makers about significant health issues. 



Their work is a beacon in the darkness, reminding us to remember, relearn, and react to keep the threat of mpox at bay.



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WHO Warning: Mpox cases are climbing rapidly with a much higher death rate

Update -- August 14, 2024, 12:44 PM ET The World...

As the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-the-epidemic-crisis-of-our-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity crisis</a> intensifies, researchers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to combat this pressing health issue. 



A cutting-edge project led by a team at the <a href="https://www.keri.re.kr/html/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute</a> (KERI) may offer a breakthrough in how we approach the management of metabolic syndrome, with a particular focus on obesity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obesity-a-daunting-global-health-concern">Obesity: A daunting global health concern</h2>



Metabolic syndrome is a complex of multiple metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides, often caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-linked-to-mothers-poor-dietary-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor diet</a> and lack of exercise. 



According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in eight people worldwide is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overweight</a>, making obesity treatment one of the most prominent markets.



Dr. Shin highlighted the challenge of treating obesity, as well as a possible solution using brain stimulation. 



"Traditional obesity treatments, including drug injections and pharmaceuticals, often come with potential side effects when used long-term," said Dr. Shin.



"To address this, our team has proposed a novel approach: suppressing appetite by electrically stimulating the cerebral cortex through the scalp."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-obesity-with-brain-stimulation">Treating obesity with brain stimulation</h2>



The official name of this electrical stimulation technique is transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). Through years of research, Dr. Shin's team identified that appetite suppression could be induced through non-invasive electrical stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex using tRNS technology.



"The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in executive functions such as planning, flexibility, and abstract thinking," noted Dr. Shin. "By targeting this area, we aim to influence the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-what-triggers-our-brains-to-overeat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain's control over appetite</a> and hunger."



The team has been working on three key technologies essential to this innovation:



<ol>
<li>A technology that accurately delivers electrical stimulation to the specific area of interest,</li>



<li>An electrode technology that can penetrate the space between hairs to make contact with the scalp,</li>



<li>A monitoring technology that confirms that the electrical stimulation has been delivered to the target point and has triggered a change in brain activity.</li>
</ol>



Dr. Shin’s team at KERI has advanced significantly in developing these technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clinical-trial-insights">Clinical trial insights</h2>



To demonstrate the clinical utility of tRNS stimulation, KERI collaborated with Professor Hyung-jin Choi’s team at Seoul National University Hospital. 



The clinical trial aimed to prove the effectiveness of tRNS in reducing appetite, involving 60 female volunteers - 30 in the tRNS group and 30 in the active sham group.



Over two weeks, participants underwent six sessions of electrical stimulation, with a barely perceptible current of 2 mA applied for 20 minutes per session.



The results were promising. "We observed that the tRNS treatment group showed significant reductions in appetite, willingness to eat, and hunger compared to the placebo group," said Dr. Shin. 



"Moreover, the treatment appeared to address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotional-eating-by-teens-is-influenced-by-their-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional eating</a>, significantly reducing the urge to eat in response to stress, depression, anxiety, or joy."



While the short duration of the trial did not allow for confirmation of long-term weight loss, the participants reported significant appetite suppression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-and-verification">Further research and verification </h2>



Looking forward, Dr. Shin acknowledges that the technology is not yet complete and requires further research and verification. 



"However, if commercialized, this electrostimulation treatment - with far fewer side effects than existing obesity treatments - could be used at home instead of hospitals, providing a simple method for daily appetite suppression management."



The research team plans to complete the first project phase by the end of this year and aims to validate the developed technology both academically and clinically in subsequent phases. 



"Our ultimate goal is to transfer this technology to companies for mass production, which could revolutionize the way we approach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swallowing-a-vibrating-capsule-may-revolutionize-obesity-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity treatment</a>," said Dr. Shin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-obesity-a-complex-challenge">Understanding obesity: A complex challenge</h2>



Obesity is more than just a number on the scale; it's a complex health issue influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. 



As societies evolve, sedentary lifestyles and the prevalence of high-calorie foods contribute to rising obesity rates. 



Recognizing obesity as a multifaceted condition is crucial in developing holistic treatment approaches. Education about nutrition, physical activity, and emotional well-being could play a vital role in combating this epidemic.



Addressing obesity not only improves individual health outcomes but also reduces the economic burden on healthcare systems worldwide. 



By combining innovative treatments like brain electrical stimulation with comprehensive lifestyle changes, we can take significant steps toward curbing obesity.



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Brain stimulation may be the new frontier in obesity treatment

As the global obesity crisis intensifies, researchers are increasingly turning...

The echoes of childhood neglect and maltreatment continue to reverberate long into adulthood, taking a far harsher toll on cognitive abilities than we had initially estimated. 



This is the startling revelation being shared by new research from a team of scientists at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &amp; Neuroscience (<a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IoPPN</a>) at King’s College London and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cuny.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">City University of New York</a>.



Among the researchers is Professor Andrea Danese, acclaimed for his work in Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry at King’s IoPPN. 



Danese's extensive experience and reputation provide ample validation for this study's findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-troubling-oversight">Troubling oversight</h2>



The study, now accessible in Lancet Psychiatry, warns against an overreliance on retrospective self-reports of maltreatment in research. 



Such a methodology is problematic, it argues, because it results in a skewed evidence base that ignores the genuine challenges faced by children exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-maltreatment-fuels-mental-health-crisis-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">documented maltreatment</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maltreatment-and-cognitive-issues">Maltreatment and cognitive issues</h2>



The research team put this theory to the test, examining both court-documented exposure to maltreatment and adult recollection within the same individuals.&nbsp;



The participant group, comprised of 1179 individuals from an ongoing US cohort, underwent various tests to assess cognitive abilities in adulthood.



The results were stark. Those with official records demonstrating childhood maltreatment exhibited average cognitive deficits across most of the tests conducted. 



However, these significant cognitive challenges did not appear among participants whose accounts of maltreatment were based solely on retrospective self-reporting.



Interestingly, this trend wasn't consistent across all types of maltreatment. Neglect left a notable&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive impact</a>, whereas documented experiences of physical and sexual abuse did not seem to do so.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-maltreatment-nbsp">Consequences of maltreatment&nbsp;</h2>



“While there are some important exceptions, most research in this area has relied on retrospective reports of childhood maltreatment from adult participants," noted Andrea Danese, Professor of Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry at King’s IoPPN and one of the study’s co-authors.



“Our study highlights the importance of identifying young people who have experienced neglect so that the proper support can be put in place, for example, to mitigate the negative consequences in education and employment.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facing-cognitive-challenges">Facing cognitive challenges</h2>



While this study has shed light on the underestimated impact of neglect, it brings to light another question -- why exactly do those with documented instances of neglect face cognitive challenges? 



The researchers suggest potential factors such as limited stimulation in childhood, familial transmission of cognitive challenges or the influence of other concurrent experiences like family poverty.



Their study also has important implications for mental health policy and clinical practice. It highlights how neglect affects cognitive development, urging a review of current strategies for helping at-risk children. 



Policymakers should focus on early identification and intervention that meet the cognitive and emotional needs of neglected kids, creating supportive systems. 



Additionally, training for clinicians should stress the need to use objective evidence, like documented abuse cases, in assessments to provide the right support for individuals based on their experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maltreatment-research-and-cognitive-issues">Maltreatment research and cognitive issues</h2>



Given the study's revelations, there is a pressing need for future research to explore the underlying mechanisms through which neglect affects cognitive outcomes.&nbsp;



Investigations could delve deeper into the interplay between environmental factors, such as socioeconomic status, and the developmental trajectories of children who endure maltreatment.&nbsp;



Additionally, longitudinal studies that track the cognitive and emotional growth of neglected individuals over time may yield insights into effective interventions and support mechanisms. 



Understanding these dynamics will be vital for fostering resilience and improving the life trajectories of those affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/adverse-childhood-experiences-lead-to-lifelong-health-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood neglect</a> and maltreatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maltreatment-and-cognitive-development">Maltreatment and cognitive development</h2>



As the scientific community continues to investigate, we can hope to better understand the nexus between childhood maltreatment and cognitive development and to craft effective interventions.&nbsp;



With this knowledge comes the potential to transform countless lives, offering a future where the traumas of the past need not dictate one's cognitive capabilities.



Remember, the shadows of the past may be long, but our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-can-be-overcome-in-adulthood-even-in-the-animal-kingdom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capacity to learn, respond, and adapt</a> is infinite.



The National Institute of Justice (<a href="https://nij.ojp.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIJ</a>), the National Institute of Mental Health (<a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIMH</a>), the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NICHD</a>), and the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute on Aging</a> all supported this research. 



It provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of mental health, a core focus for the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &amp; Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King’s, renowned for its highly cited outputs on psychiatry, mental health, and neuroscience.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(24)00209-8/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Psychiatry</a>.



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Childhood maltreatment linked to severe cognitive issues

The echoes of childhood neglect and maltreatment continue to reverberate long into...

In recent times, the medical world has faced an unprecedented challenge: the diagnosis and treatment of a condition now largely referred to as long COVID. 



Characterized by a myriad of symptoms that linger well beyond the initial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sars-cov-2-can-survive-on-frozen-meat-for-up-to-a-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> infection, it presents a puzzle for doctors worldwide. 



Emerging research suggests routine laboratory tests may fall short in pinning down this elusive illness, highlighting the complexity of identifying and diagnosing long COVID.



“Our challenge is to discover biomarkers that can help us quickly and accurately diagnose long COVID to ensure people struggling with this disease receive the most appropriate care as soon as possible,” said Dr. David Goff, director for the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the NIH’s <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute</a>. 



“Long COVID symptoms can prevent someone from returning to work or school and may even make everyday tasks a burden, so the ability for rapid diagnosis is key.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-long-covid">Symptoms of long COVID </h2>



Long COVID encompasses a wide spectrum of symptoms and health conditions that persist for months or years after infection from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.



The signs of long COVID vary widely, affecting multiple organ systems. Common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paxlovid-helps-fight-covid-but-it-does-not-prevent-long-covid-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a> range from mild to debilitating, including fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, or difficulty breathing.



People with long COVID also experience cognitive difficulties such as trouble concentrating, memory issues, or confusion.&nbsp;



Severe headaches, chest pain, aching muscles, sleep problems, and gastrointestinal issues are also reported by long COVID <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-death-toll-of-covid-19-pandemic-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patients</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-long-covid-enigma">The long COVID enigma</h2>



Despite tireless research, no validated clinical biomarkers for long COVID have been identified to date, making the diagnostic process intricate. 



Currently, it demands a comprehensive medical history, a thorough physical examination, and extensive lab work to eliminate other potential causes.



The study in focus is part of NIH’s Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative. The primary goal is to determine whether individuals with a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection had distinct changes in biomarkers, such as platelet counts or protein in the urine, compared to those without a prior <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-covid-19-deaths-were-caused-by-secondary-infections/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-recover-study">The RECOVER study</h2>



More than 10,000 adults were enrolled in the RECOVER Adult Cohort at 83 sites across the United States between October 2021 and October 2023. 



The cohort is demographically diverse, with participants from various geographic locations, including some who had never contracted the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-virus-lingers-body-two-years-after-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a>.



Among the 8,746 participants with a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, many were exposed to different variants of the virus.



Study participants underwent a baseline regimen of surveys, physical examinations, and 25 standard lab tests, followed by periodic surveys and lab work throughout the two-year study. 



The lab tests included a complete blood count panel, metabolic panel, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), urinalysis, and urine albumin to creatinine ratio (uACR), among others.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-few-variations-in-biomarkers">Few variations in biomarkers </h2>



Despite the vast range of testing, the lab results showed few significant variations in biomarkers between those with prior infection and those without. 



Notably, prior infection was associated with modest increases in HbA1c, a measure of average blood sugar levels over two to three months, though these increases disappeared after excluding people with pre-existing diabetes. 



Another intriguing find was a minor rise in uACR, a measure of low kidney function, among those previously infected. However, this was observed in only a small subset of participants, suggesting it could be a result of the severity of their initial infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-efforts-to-decipher-long-covid">Ongoing efforts to decipher long COVID</h2>



In a further analysis, researchers compared individuals who developed long COVID with those who did not within the infected group. 



Using a long COVID index that highlighted twelve symptoms typically identifying people with long COVID, the experts found no significant differences in lab test results between the two groups.



But as with any complex phenomenon, the research continues. Dr. Kristine Erlandson is a professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.



"Future work will use RECOVER's biobank of cohort samples such as blood and spinal fluid, to develop more novel laboratory-based tests that help us better understand the pathophysiology of long COVID," said Dr. Erlandson.



Thus, while the mystery of long COVID diagnosis remains largely unsolved, the relentless pursuit of understanding it better continues, offering hope to those grappling with this enigmatic condition.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M24-0737" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Internal Medicine</a>.



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Long COVID remains an elusive condition with no reliable diagnosis

In recent times, the medical world has faced an unprecedented...

Laughter is often called the best medicine, but according to a new study led by researchers from <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, it could also serve as an effective parenting tool.



In a pilot study, the research team discovered that many people consider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/playful-teasing-among-apes-suggests-that-humor-has-ancient-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humor</a> to be a valuable tool in parenting. They found that the use of humor by parents or caregivers significantly influenced the quality of their relationship with their children.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humor-puts-a-positive-spin-on-life">Humor puts a positive spin on life</h2>



Most participants who experienced humor from their parents viewed their relationships and upbringing in a positive light.



“Despite the widespread use of humor in social interactions and the considerable literature on humor in multiple fields of study, the use of humor in parenting has received very little formal study. The purpose of this pilot study was to gather preliminary data on the use of humor in the raising of children,” the authors wrote.



“Humor can teach people cognitive flexibility, relieve stress, and promote creative problem solving and resilience,” noted Benjamin Levi, a professor of pediatrics and humanities at Penn State College of Medicine and the senior author of the study. 



“My father used humor, and it was very effective. I use humor in my clinical practice and with my own children. The question became, how does one constructively use humor?”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallel-between-business-and-parenting-nbsp">Parallel between business and parenting&nbsp;</h2>



Study first author Lucy Emery was a medical student at Penn State College of Medicine during the research and is currently a pediatrics resident at <a href="https://www.childrenshospital.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Children’s Hospital</a>.&nbsp;



According to Emery, there is an interesting parallel between business and parenting, which are both hierarchical. “In business, humor has been shown to help reduce hierarchies, create better environments for collaboration and creativity, and diffuse tension.”



Emery noted that while parent-child relationships are more loving than business relationships, stressful situations are common in parenting. “Humor can help diffuse that tension and hierarchy, making both parties feel better about a stressful situation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humor-and-the-joy-of-parenting-nbsp">Humor and the joy of parenting&nbsp;</h2>



This preliminary research was designed to explore how people perceive the relationship between humor, their experiences of being parented, and their experiences of parenting.&nbsp;



The study aims to lay the foundation for understanding how to use humor constructively in parenting and identify situations where humor might be riskier.



The researchers surveyed 312 individuals aged 18 to 45. More than half reported being raised by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/men-with-a-sense-of-humor-are-perceived-as-being-more-attractive-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caregivers</a> who used humor, and 71.8% agreed that humor can be an effective parenting tool. 



The majority also said they either use or plan to use humor with their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-appreciate-humor-very-early-in-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">children</a> and believe it has more potential benefits than drawbacks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humor-and-parent-child-relationships">Humor and parent-child relationships</h2>



The study also revealed a correlation between a parent’s use of humor and how their now-adult children viewed their upbringing and their relationship with their parents.&nbsp;



Among those who reported that their parents used humor, 50.5% said they had a good relationship with their parents, and 44.2% felt their parents did a good job raising them.&nbsp;



Conversely, among those whose parents did not use humor, only 2.9% reported having a good relationship with their parents, and just 3.6% believed their parents had done a good job.



While it might be expected that parents would use humor with their children if they were raised by caregivers who did the same, Levi found the stark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-traits-are-not-strongly-inherited-from-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">differences</a> between the two groups surprising.



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



The research team is now expanding on this initial study by surveying a larger and more diverse group of parents, as well as gathering qualitative data based on parents’ experiences with using humor.



“My hope is that people can learn to use humor as an effective parenting tool, not only to diffuse tension but also to develop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-teen-friendships-build-lasting-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a> and cognitive and emotional flexibility in themselves and model it for their children,” Levi said.



The study authors noted that if these findings are generalizable, they potentially open the door to a much deeper and broader exploration of how “parenting humor” functions and how it can be appropriately leveraged to enhance the experiences of both children and their parents.&nbsp;



“To that end, future research should examine the ways parents currently use different kinds of humor; children’s lived experiences with such humor; and how these uses of humor map onto existing knowledge and theory about how humor functions.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0306311" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>.



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Parents who use humor have better relationships with their children 

Laughter is often called the best medicine, but according to...

The concept of "crazy cat ladies" has been firmly etched into our cultural psyche through popular media, with iconic portrayals ranging from Eleanor Abernathy in The Simpsons to Angela Martin in The US Office.



Can you think of other such characters? The stereotypical portrayal often depicts such individuals as neurotic solitaires. But are these portrayals based on a shred of truth, or merely figments of creative imagination?



A recent study from Down Under suggests that there may, surprisingly, be a larger grain of truth to the stereotype than we initially thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crazy-cat-lady-phenomenon">"Crazy cat lady" phenomenon</h2>



This distinctive study was led by two diligent psychologists, Jessica Oliva and Leah Michelle Baines, affiliated with <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> in Queensland, Australia.



While their research did not specifically probe into the "crazy cat lady" phenomenon, it unearthed some eye-opening findings that lend credibility to its existence.



"Cat ownership positively predicted neuroticism," the experts noted in their report, which is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08927936.2024.2378592" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthrozoos</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facts-on-crazy-cat-people">Facts on 'crazy cat people'</h2>



The study conducted by Oliva and Baines involved an in-depth survey of 321 Australian adults, a mix of dog owners, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-mourn-the-loss-of-other-pets-similar-to-human-grief/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cat</a> owners, and those who didn't own pets.



Survey participants who owned both dogs and cats were asked to choose the pet they were closest to or spent the most time with, to be classified as a dog <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-experience-puppy-blues-with-a-new-pet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owner</a> or cat owner. Overall, 60% of this group chose dogs.



Every participant was scrutinized for various personality traits that included extroversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and resilience. After accounting for other factors such as age and gender, the results were quite revealing.



Dog owners, it seems, bagged the prize for resilience. Simply put, they were evidently better at managing and adapting to challenging situations. Cat owners, on the other hand, portrayed heightened levels of neuroticism. 



Interestingly, among cat owners, it was the women who outscored men on the neuroticism scale, giving some weightage to the crazy cat lady stereotype. But it's not a woman's game alone. The research also uncovered the existence of a "crazy cat gentleman."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeling-the-layers">Peeling the layers</h2>



These findings may raise more questions than they answer. What's causing these differential behaviors among our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/homeless-pet-owners-need-better-options-to-protect-their-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feline-loving and canine-adoring friends</a>? Could it be that people who are more introverted or neurotic choose cats, while the adaptable ones prefer dogs? Do our genes hold the key to this mystery?



"There is evidence to support the idea that genes guide ownership of a particular species," said Dr. Oliva. Another aspect to ponder is whether owning a cat can render someone more neurotic compared to owning a dog.



For instance, dogs need more outdoor time and hence, the owner naturally gets to spend more time outdoors, engage in social interactions, and potentially curb neurotic tendencies. In contrast, as cats are relatively low maintenance, their owners might not get the same level of social interaction.



Another angle Dr. Oliva brings to the light is the proven difference between "dog people" and "cat people."



"Dog ownership has been associated with reduced loneliness in people living alone during periods of prolonged isolation, like Covid lockdowns, suggestive of higher levels of resilience in dog owners," she noted.



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



To sum it up, the study intriguingly suggests that cat owners might be more prone to anxiety and stress than dog owners. 



Whether this is down to temperament, genetics, or simply the nature and needs of the pet, requires further exploration. So, is the concept of crazy cat ladies (and gentlemen) a dramatic exaggeration, or mere art imitating life?



But remember, while these findings are fascinating to ponder, they are not universally true for every cat or dog <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/owning-a-pet-can-lead-to-more-restless-nights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owner</a> out there. So, if you are a cat owner, don't worry - it doesn't mean you are neurotic. And if you are a dog owner, don't get too self-assured - resilience isn't a given. 



At the end of the day, we are as beautifully unique and complex as the pets we adore. Let's embrace that.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a class="" href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08927936.2024.2378592" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthrozoos</a>.&nbsp; 



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Are cat people really more 'crazy' than dog lovers?

The concept of "crazy cat ladies" has been firmly etched...

A recent study has stirred up conversations in scientific circles and even rippled out to capture public intrigue. The captivating subject matter? Intermittent fasting and its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-ingredient-to-healthy-aging-your-midlife-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential anti-aging perks</a>—a topic far more digestible than the dread-spurred headlines of fresh diseases or impending pandemics.



Riding the wave of this eye-opening research were noteworthy scientists, directed by Dr. Ioanna Daskalaki and Dr. Ilias Gkikas. They worked under the guidance of Dr. Nektarios Tavernarakis of the <a href="https://en.uoc.gr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Crete</a> and FORTH, Greece.



The researchers partnered with Dr. Guido Kroemer's team at <a href="https://u-paris.fr/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Cité University</a>, France, and Dr. Frank Madeo's group at the <a href="https://www.uni-graz.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Graz</a>, Austria. Together, they took on the task of unraveling the enigma of aging and longevity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-intermittent-fasting">Decoding intermittent fasting</h2>



Lately, Intermittent Fasting (IF) has been the buzzword. But what does it mean? IF is a pattern of eating that alternates between fasting and eating intervals. 



It's more of a lifestyle choice than a diet, propelled by regimes like the 16/8 method and the 5:2 method. IF has won favor for its potential benefits in metabolic health, cellular repair, and speculated anti-aging perks. 



In essence, intermittent fasting gives our bodies a much-needed hiatus to rest, reset, and repair, thereby fostering longevity and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-autophagy-the-cellular-cleanup-crew">Autophagy: The cellular cleanup crew</h2>



In this enlightening study, the researchers underscored an incredible revelation: Intermittent fasting boosts spermidine levels. This naturally occurring polyamine bolsters our cells with phenomenal resilience and survival rates. This increase is facilitated by a process known as autophagy.



In plain terms, autophagy is like a cellular cleanup crew, eliminating unrequired or dysfunctional cellular components. 



However, any disruption to autophagy, much like a congested garbage chute in a residential building, often paves the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-diet-puts-the-brakes-on-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">way for aging</a> and the onset of age-related diseases, such as diabetes, heart diseases, cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spermidine-cells-valiant-defender">Spermidine: Cells' valiant defender</h2>



In our cells' battle against aging, spermidine steps up as a valiant defender. As we age, our bodies produce less spermidine, which dwindles autophagic activity and heightens the risk of age-related diseases. 



This theory was put through its paces using experimental models ranging from simple organisms like nematodes and yeasts to fruit flies, mice, and even human cell lines.



Across all these models, spermidine was a protective force. Intermittent fasting noticeably increased cellular spermidine levels, boosting autophagy, and excitingly, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diet-positively-influences-the-brains-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extending lifespan</a> in these organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-tweaks-gigantic-impacts">Small tweaks, gigantic impacts</h2>



Could our longevity actually be linked with our eating habits? The study certainly points towards that, echoing the time-honored wisdom, "You are what you eat." 



It underscores the importance of maintaining cellular balance, a critical factor in slowing aging and promoting longevity. Consuming less calorie-dense food and adopting IF are suggested as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">powerful strategies</a>.



The consistency of spermidine's role in regulating autophagy and aging across diverse organisms emphasizes its fundamental role in maintaining cellular balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-far-reaching-effects-of-intermittent-fasting">Far-reaching effects of intermittent fasting </h2>



The repercussions of intermittent fasting stretch beyond merely enhancing autophagy and increasing spermidine levels. 



Research indicates that this eating pattern positively affects several health markers, including insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and inflammatory responses. Improved insulin sensitivity reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, while lower blood pressure correlates with decreased cardiovascular events. 



Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of fasting could strengthen the immune system, potentially reducing the prevalence of chronic diseases. 



Significantly, these health markers mirror a holistic approach to well-being, underlining the idea that our dietary choices significantly shape our overall health journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intermittent-fasting-and-aging">Intermittent fasting and aging </h2>



As scientific interest in intermittent fasting and its myriad benefits heightens, promising avenues for future research appear. Probing the molecular mechanisms behind increased spermidine levels during fasting could expose new therapeutic targets for age-related conditions. 



Furthermore, longitudinal studies involving diverse populations will be key in determining the long-term effects of intermittent fasting on human health. 



As we untangle the complexities around aging and cellular maintenance, continued exploration of lifestyle choices like intermittent fasting may shine a light on new routes for enhancing healthspan, the period of life spent in good health, especially pertaining to the aging global population.



These promising findings kindle hope for innovative strategies to arrest age-related decline, augmenting life expectancy and the quality of life for our elderly population. 



As we anticipate more enlightening studies, it's a question worth mulling over - could simple adjustments to our diet and lifestyle guide us towards longer, healthier lives?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41556-024-01468-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Cell Biology</a>.



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Intermittent fasting slows aging by boosting cell health

A recent study has stirred up conversations in scientific circles...

A dopamine-based technique to tackle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-disease-earliest-biomarker-protein-psd-95-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's disease</a> has been uncovered, potentially revolutionizing the way we diagnose, manage, and treat this debilitating condition.



The innovative approach promises to change the landscape of Alzheimer's treatment and offers new hope to millions affected by the disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-science">Unlocking the science</h2>



The esteemed <a href="https://cbs.riken.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RIKEN Center for Brain Science</a> (CBS) is the powerhouse behind this promising research. Led by Takaomi Saido and his dedicated team, the study was primarily focused on mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease.



The unique approach consisted of treating these mice with dopamine, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that transmits signals in the brain and other vital areas. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in many brain functions, including movement and memory. 



The scientists witnessed a compelling reduction in physical symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease and a noticeable improvement in memory function in the treated mice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-s-dual-role">Dopamine's dual role</h2>



Alzheimer's disease is notorious for forming hardened plaques around the neurons, which are a hallmark of the condition. In fact, this is one of the earliest indicators of the disease, often manifesting decades before behavioral symptoms like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory loss</a> are detected.



These plaques are composed of fragments of the peptide beta-amyloid, which accumulate over time and disrupt normal brain function, leading to the progressive cognitive decline characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.



The team's previous research had indicated that hormones produced by the hypothalamus, such as dopamine, resulted in increased levels of an enzyme known as neprilysin, which can dissolve the harmful plaques.



For a fundamentally new treatment to be viable, it must be practically applicable for human patients, not just experimentally useful. Enter L-DOPA: a precursor molecule to dopamine that is frequently used for treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-movement-and-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a>. It can enter the brain from the blood and then becomes dopamine.



The RIKEN CBS team found that treating their test mice with L-DOPA led to increased neprilysin and decreased beta-amyloid plaques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-alzheimer-s-treatment">The future of Alzheimer’s treatment</h2>



According to the first author of the study, Watamura Naoto, the team has demonstrated that L-DOPA treatment effectively reduces beta-amyloid plaques and enhances memory function in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. 



However, Naoto cautioned that L-DOPA treatment has been known to have serious side effects in Parkinson's patients, which could limit its direct applicability for Alzheimer's treatment.



Therefore, the next phase of their study will explore how dopamine regulates neprilysin in the brain. The goal is to develop a safer and more effective preventative approach which targets the preclinical stage of Alzheimer's disease.



Time will tell if dopamine-based treatment can fundamentally change the approach to Alzheimer's, but these remarkable developments shine a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight against this devastating disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-dopamine-s-influence">Understanding dopamine's influence</h2>



To fully appreciate the efficacy of dopamine and L-DOPA in combating Alzheimer's disease, it is crucial to delve into the underlying mechanisms. 



Dopamine not only plays a vital role in regulating mood and motivation but also influences several neural processes linked to memory and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-regulates-both-learning-and-motivation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>. 



Research has indicated that dopamine enhances synaptic plasticity, a fundamental property of neurons that enables them to adapt and strengthen their connections based on experiences. 



This adaptive capacity could explain the observed improvements in memory function among the treated mice.



By fostering an environment that promotes neuron health and cognitive resilience, dopamine stands to offer a multifaceted approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pomegranates-may-be-key-in-preventing-and-treating-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's treatment</a>.



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



The insights gained from this research may also have far-reaching implications beyond Alzheimer's disease. 



Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, share common pathological features, including protein aggregation and neuronal death. 



The successful application of L-DOPA in Alzheimer’s mice raises intriguing possibilities for neuroprotective strategies in other conditions. 



If the interplay between dopamine and neprilysin can be further elucidated, it may pave the way for new therapies to mitigate symptoms or slow the progression of various neurodegenerative diseases.



Such discoveries could redefine clinical approaches, offering new hope to millions globally who are suffering with these challenging conditions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scisignal.adk1822" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Signaling</a>.



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Dopamine may help restore memory in Alzheimer’s patients

A dopamine-based technique to tackle Alzheimer's disease has been uncovered,...

"Music has charms to soothe a savage breast." This timeless quote from William Congreve resonates with many of us. Whether we're enjoying the symphonies of Mozart or the concertos of Bach, the positive impact of classical music on our moods is widely acknowledged.



Some believe these effects go beyond simply altering our emotions. New research from China is delving into the deeper impact.



Many of us turn to classical music for stress relief, but researchers at the Center for Functional Neurosurgery at <a href="https://en.sjtu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanghai Jiao Tong University</a> are uncovering effects that go far beyond mere relaxation.



Their mission? To analyze how these compositions <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence the brain</a>, with a focus on individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-and-therapy">Music and therapy</h2>



In a rather daring expedition into the unexplored territory of neuroscience, psychiatry, and neurosurgery, these scientists are using brainwave measurements and neural imaging techniques for exploration. 



The sieges of senior author Bomin Sun and his diligent team uncover the unique interaction between music and emotion and how that relationship can influence mental health.



The team explored the neural pathways brought to life by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/classical-music-can-synchronize-the-heartbeats-of-strangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melodies</a> and harmonies. The patients in question already had electrodes implanted in their brains, which were crucial for their deep-brain stimulation treatments.



These implants, strategically positioned in the forebrain's circuitry, became keys to unlocking the secrets of music's antidepressant effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rhythm-of-the-brain">Rhythm of the brain</h2>



Don't get lost in the scientific jargon here: the "bed nucleus of the stria terminalis" and "nucleus accumbens." Let's call it the BNST-NAc circuit.



What's important to note is that music, apparently, orchestrates a dance between the auditory cortex (responsible for sound processing) and the reward circuit (handling emotional information).



This dance or "triple-time locking of neural oscillations in the cortical-BNST-NAc circuit through auditory synchronization," as Sun describes it, is the secret sauce to the antidepressant effects of music.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-music-in-depression-treatment">The power of music in depression treatment</h2>



The scientists divided their patient pool into two groups: those with high and low <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-enhance-music-appreciation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">appreciation for music</a>.



The group with greater appreciation exhibited significant neural synchronization, superior antidepressant effects, and overall better outcomes.



This approach enabled the researchers to study the mechanisms behind these effects with precision, opening up the possibility for personalized therapy plans that could enhance treatment results.



Interestingly, even the group with lower appreciation reported increased enjoyment when theta frequency noise was added to the music.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-sounds-good">The future sounds good</h2>



Western classical music was specifically chosen for this study, due to its unfamiliarity amongst the majority of participants. The aim was to eliminate any bias that could originate from subjective familiarity.



This promising research opens the door to a new frontier of therapy. Looking forward, researchers at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University have plans for a harmonic blend of clinicians, music therapists, computer scientists, and engineers to study how music and deep brain structures interact in depressive disorders.



As for the grand finale? "We plan to develop a series of digital health products based on music therapy, such as smartphone applications and wearable devices," noted Sun.



These innovative tools will use personalized music recommendations, real-time emotional feedback, and virtual-reality multi-sensory experiences as potential self-help tools for emotional management and symptom improvement. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-music-therapy">Personalized music therapy</h2>



One of the most intriguing aspects of this research is the potential for personalized music <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-therapy-key-features-of-healing-music-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapy</a>. Just as individuals experience depression differently, their responses to music can vary significantly, making tailored therapy essential.



By considering personal music tastes and emotional connections, therapists can create more effective treatment plans that resonate deeply with each patient.



Familiar tunes can evoke strong emotions, enhancing therapy's impact. For instance, a song tied to positive memories might uplift a patient, while an energizing track could boost motivation. 



Incorporating technology can further refine this approach, using algorithms to curate playlists that match a patient's mood and therapeutic needs, with real-time adjustments to support their emotional state.



As our understanding of music's impact on mental health grows, personalized approaches promise to revolutionize treatment, making music a powerful tool for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healing</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(24)00803-9?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2211124724008039%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Classical music orchestrates a mood-lifting dance in the brain

"Music has charms to soothe a savage breast." This timeless...

Potatoes may have long been overshadowed by their less starchy counterparts, but new research reveals that these humble tubers could be a game-changer for those managing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-plant-based-diets-reduce-the-risk-of-type-2-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Type 2 diabetes</a> and looking to improve heart health.



Often criticized for their carbohydrate content, potatoes, especially when prepared properly, offer a powerhouse of nutrients capable of slashing waistlines and improving blood sugar levels. 



Despite their rich mineral content and numerous health benefits, potatoes have been unfairly stigmatized by many weight-conscious individuals.



However, new findings by Neda Akhavan, an assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences at <a href="https://www.unlv.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNLV</a>’s School of Integrated Health Sciences, are set to revolutionize how we view these versatile vegetables.



Akhavan, who recently presented her findings to the Alliance for Potato Research and Education, explained the motivation behind the study.



“I like doing research on food items that are highly stigmatized in the nutrition world," said Akhavan. Most people associate the potato as something that is mostly fried or has a lot of fat, and we wanted to shine a light on how a potato - when prepared properly - can be both functional and healthy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-health-benefits-of-potatoes">Heart health benefits of potatoes</h2>



The research was focused on 24 individuals, all with well-managed Type 2 diabetes. Participants in the study group were given a pre-prepared baked potato with the skin, portioned to 100g, with a hand-sized 20 grams of carbohydrates to integrate as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/potato-chips-and-fries-will-now-be-a-healthy-snack-with-new-cooking-method/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily snack</a> or side dish. A control group consumed an equivalent serving of white rice.



The study extended over 12 weeks, which is the minimum duration required to observe changes in glycemic control and cardiometabolic health indicators.



The participants were allowed to flavor the potatoes with herbs, spices, or up to ½ tbsp of butter, with the only restriction being against frying the potato.



Akhavan’s study is believed to be the first of its kind to scientifically measure the cardiovascular benefits of potatoes for adults with diabetes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potatoes-for-heart-health">Potatoes for heart health</h2>



The results painted a positive picture for potatoes. Those participants who consumed potatoes noticed a modest decrease in fasting blood glucose levels, improvements in body composition, waist circumference, and a reduction in resting heart rate.



“The results from our study provide evidence that white potatoes can be healthfully incorporated in the diet of individuals with Type 2 diabetes when substituted for other foods with a high glycemic load, such as long-grain white rice,” said Akhavan. 



“Additionally, there were no harmful effects on measured health outcomes, and some cardiometabolic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/potatoes-are-packed-with-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health benefits</a> were shown, which aligned with what we expected to see. Therefore, diabetics should not shy away from potatoes.”



Akhavan emphasized the importance of moderation and preparation methods. “Potatoes are a very versatile food and can be eaten with most types of cuisines, but you want to make sure to incorporate them into a well-rounded diet." 



"For those tight on time, consider making a large batch of baked or roasted potatoes and meal prep to last you a while. I’m not against boiling potatoes, but you want to keep as much of the potassium from the skin as you can, and you lose some of that when you boil them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-source-of-dietary-potassium">Source of dietary potassium </h2>



Potatoes are the richest source of dietary potassium in Western diets, and high-potassium diets have been shown to prevent high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes development. 



Additionally, potato skins contain a type of fiber called "resistance starch," which has been shown to improve glucose control, lipid profiles, and satiety. Because of these added health benefits, Akhavan recommends eating potatoes with the skin.



So, the next time you want to reach for a banana, she suggests, reach for that potato instead. “A lot of people are shocked to learn that a potato has a higher level of potassium than a banana,” noted Akhavan. 



“Believe it or not, a baked potato is one of the most satiating foods consumed within the Western diet. And, when it is consumed baked, it increases our ability to feel fuller throughout the day.”



Looking ahead, Akhavan intends to expand the study to include a larger and more diverse participant population, as well as to explore the role of potato consumption within a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-keeps-the-brain-sharp-even-in-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean dietary pattern</a> and its effects on dietary patterns and related health benefits.



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Potatoes are an unexpected ally for heart health

Potatoes may have long been overshadowed by their less starchy...

As we stagger under a blazing sun, racing towards unbeaten high temperatures, not everyone is aware of or understands the symptoms of heat-related illnesses or knows where to find a cooling center for relief.



With the increasing connection between scorching heat and climate change, it is crucial to arm ourselves with knowledge and resources. 



The Annenberg Public Policy Center (<a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APPC</a>) from the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a> has been working tirelessly to fill this knowledge gap.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperatures-continue-to-rise">Temperatures continue to rise</h2>



Powered by NASA data, the APPC reveals that a record-shattering day took place on July 22, 2024, that could potentially mark July as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-earths-hottest-day-ever-was-recorded-on-july-22-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hottest month ever witnessed</a>.



The mid-July survey sheds light on startling insights about public awareness, or the lack thereof, regarding heat-related illness and cooling center locations.



A major chunk of people, precisely 67%, reported not knowing the whereabouts of their nearest cooling center. The need for improved public awareness, especially among the most vulnerable, cannot be overstated. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closer-look-at-cooling-centers">Closer look at cooling centers</h2>



Cooling centers, such as libraries, community and senior centers, and schools, serve as a haven of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeling-the-heat-rising-temperatures-push-the-limits-of-the-human-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relief during extremely hot days</a>. 



Despite city governments' efforts to publicize these locations, the APPC's survey reveals a significant knowledge gap.



Interestingly, the survey also shows a sharp rise in public awareness linking climate change to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, respiratory diseases, and insect-borne diseases. 



From November 2023 to the present, there has been a significant uptick in this awareness, with 67% of respondents now holding this view, compared to 58% previously.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-heat-related-illness">Signs of heat-related illness</h2>



Although public awareness about cooling centers is lacking, most people are aware of three <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/billions-of-people-endured-an-extra-month-of-extreme-heat-in-the-past-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">telling signs</a> of heat-related illnesses. They include dizziness (89%), nausea (83%), and hot, red, dry, or damp skin (72%).



Looking at the bigger picture, 58% of the survey's respondents believe people in their community are more prone to heat stroke caused by extreme heat waves in the coming decade. 



This is a significant increase from the November 2023 survey, which recorded just over half (52%) holding this view.



In contrast, only a meager 30% recognize that a pregnant person in the U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-reality-extreme-heat-worsens-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposed to extreme heat</a> is more likely to deliver their baby prematurely. This is a crucial piece of information that needs broader dissemination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-centers-and-heat-related-illness">Cooling centers and heat-related illness</h2>



The APPC's study also indicates a broad awareness among respondents that heat-related deaths are most common among older adults, aged 65 or older. 



Nearly all respondents (92%) also know that drinking water is better for preventing heat-related illnesses than drinking sugary drinks.



This treasure trove of information comes from the 20th wave of a nationally representative panel of 1,496 U.S. adults, first empaneled in April 2021 and conducted for the APPC by SSRS, an independent market research company. 



The APPC's team, now three years into tracking American public's knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-temperatures-directly-linked-to-severe-vision-impairment-in-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical health issues</a>, continues its tireless work on this knowledge survey panel.



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



Education plays a pivotal role in enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-attribute-extreme-heat-and-wildfires-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public awareness</a> about heat-related illnesses and the associated risks. 



Schools, community organizations, and local governments can implement educational campaigns to inform individuals about the symptoms of heat-induced health issues and the importance of staying hydrated. 



Workshops, flyers, and social media campaigns can serve as effective tools in this initiative, ensuring that vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and outdoor workers, receive critical information about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-temperature-threshold-can-the-human-body-handle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat safety</a>.



Establishing clear communication channels for sharing updates about heat advisories and cooling centers will also foster a more informed community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-engagement-initiatives">Community engagement initiatives</h2>



To bridge the awareness gap highlighted by the APPC survey, communities can launch engagement initiatives that encourage action and collaboration. 



“Communities must do a better job of making the public, especially the most vulnerable, aware of these centers,” said Ken Winneg, managing director of survey research at APPC.



Partnering with local businesses and healthcare providers, community leaders can organize outreach programs that provide resources and support during heat waves. 



Events such as "Cooling Center Days," where community members are invited to visit cooling centers and learn about heat safety, can foster a proactive approach to combating heat-related illnesses. 



Additionally, trainings for staff at local institutions can equip them to assist individuals in distress, ensuring that communities are prepared to face extreme heat together.



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Recognizing symptoms of heat-related illness as temperatures rise

As we stagger under a blazing sun, racing towards unbeaten...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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