Different,Types,Of,Non-dairy,Milk

Vegans who replace cow's milk with soy, almond, or other plant-based alternatives may face a higher chance of mental issues like depression and anxiety than individuals who drink cow’s milk regularly.



This finding emerged from a recent investigation of lifestyle patterns and mental health outcomes among hundreds of thousands of adults in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-well-being-of-milk-drinkers">Mental well-being of milk drinkers</h2>



Scientists explored how different milk types might be linked to mental and emotional well-being over more than a decade. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-gmo-plants-make-baby-formula-healthy-as-breast-milk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milk</a> is consumed by <a href="https://www.fao.org/dairy-production-products/products/milk-and-milk-products/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">billions of people</a> worldwide, making it a major part of daily diets.&nbsp;After reviewing participants’ intake habits, researchers noted intriguing contrasts in mental health. 



One group that stood out was semi-skimmed milk drinkers. According to data, they had lower rates of both anxiety and depression when compared to those who either consumed full-fat or plant-based alternatives. 



This observation piqued the interest of <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Chunyan-Wu-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Chunying Wu</a> from <a href="https://portal.smu.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Medical University</a>, who authored the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-to-non-dairy-beverages">Shifting to non-dairy beverages</h2>



In recent years, many individuals have turned to non-dairy beverages. They cite environmental, health, or ethical concerns in their decision to avoid traditional cow’s milk. 



Yet <a href="https://www.mfat.govt.nz/assets/Trade-General/Trade-Market-reports/Milk-alternatives-popularity-growing-in-the-US-February-2022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence</a> suggests some of these milk alternatives may not provide the same mental health benefits. One explanation involves nutritional content.&nbsp;



“Milk is a rich source of nutrients such as lactose, lipids, protein, and minerals, which are essential for maintaining human health,” wrote the scientists from Southern Medical University. 



Plant-based options, on the other hand, often differ in protein levels and might include added ingredients that influence mood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calcium-and-serotonin">Calcium and serotonin</h2>



Researchers found that cow’s milk <a href="https://www.adsa.org/About-ADSA/Media/Serotonin-found-to-be-an-important-factor-in-calcium-homeostasis-in-dairy-cows-November-16-2021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">delivers calcium</a> in a form that supports pathways involved in serotonin production. Serotonin, sometimes called the body’s “feel-good” molecule, helps regulate mood and stress responses.&nbsp;



“Serotonin is a chemical that plays a role in the brain with respect to mood and mental health. The most popular group of antidepressant medications promotes the absorption of serotonin,” the authors explained.&nbsp;



As a result, consistent calcium intake can potentially improve these natural coping mechanisms. Some plant-based milks also offer calcium, but the level and bioavailability may vary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saturated-versus-unsaturated-fats">Saturated versus unsaturated fats</h2>



Milk is rich in saturated fats. Semi-skimmed milk reduces the proportion of these fats but still retains valuable fatty acids that might help protect the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11211382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. 



Compared to the full-fat version, semi-skimmed appears to occupy a middle ground of moderate fat content without the potential drawbacks of excess saturated fat.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, plant-based milk alternatives can sometimes include added sugars or other compounds that may have unexpected effects on mental well-being. 



These additives, while often enhancing taste or texture, may inadvertently interfere with the body's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breast-milk-lowers-asthma-risk-in-babies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural hormone regulation</a>, potentially impacting emotional stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-on-dopamine">Potential impact on dopamine</h2>



In addition to serotonin, <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dopamine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dopamine</a> plays a key part in focus and reward-related behavior. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4850606/#:~:text=Recent%20research%20has%20shown%20that,to%20be%20vulnerable%20to%20dysregulation." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> have suggested that high levels of certain saturated fats can alter dopamine signaling, which may contribute to mood disorders.&nbsp;



Semi-skimmed milk, with its reduced saturated fat, may avoid some of these mental effects and maintain a healthier balance of essential nutrients. 



Scientists suggest this balance could hold the key to the lower rates of depression and anxiety seen among semi-skimmed milk consumers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varied-mental-health-benefits-of-milk">Varied mental health benefits of milk</h2>



While findings point to fewer mood challenges for people who choose semi-skimmed over other varieties, each individual’s mental health picture depends on much more than beverage choice. 



Genetics, life stressors, sleep, and socioeconomic circumstances all contribute.&nbsp;



Researchers emphasize that food-related decisions are just one facet of psychological well-being. They recommend that people remain mindful of their overall habits and consult healthcare professionals when making major dietary shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-considerations">Practical considerations</h2>



Experts often promote a balanced diet that combines fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and moderate dairy. Semi-skimmed milk could fit neatly into many people’s meal plans.&nbsp;



Individuals who prefer plant-based options may benefit from checking labels for calcium and protein levels, as well as added substances. 



Though no single approach will suit everyone, looking at subtle dietary factors might pay off for those hoping to support a healthy outlook.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-milk-s-mental-benefits">Future research on milk's mental benefits</h2>



Additional research may help clarify whether semi-skimmed milk truly provides extra mental health benefits.



Controlled clinical trials could investigate how this option affects depression or anxiety in different subgroups, such as older adults or those with pre-existing conditions.&nbsp;



Researchers also <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7178197/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">note</a> that genetics can make some people more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/raw-milk-could-carry-deadly-flu-viruses-for-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerable</a> to certain dietary impacts. A closer look at these details might inform tailored recommendations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



Many are interested in how small tweaks to daily meals might lift or lower spirits. 



This study urges people to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-raw-milk-health-hazard-pasteurization-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pay attention to milk</a> choice, especially if they already feel down or tense. Substituting semi-skimmed for full-fat or plant-based beverages could make a subtle difference for some.&nbsp;



Experts look forward to future work that explores how simple changes in milk type and eating patterns might support better mental well-being. Further investigation of these connections may help people shape diets that support mental balance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1435435/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Some types of plant-based milk are linked to mental disorders like depression

Vegans who replace cow's milk with soy, almond, or other plant-based alternatives may face a higher chance of mental issues like depression and anxiety than individuals who drink cow’s milk regularly. This finding emerged from a recent investigation of lifestyle patterns and mental health outcomes among hundreds of thousands of adults in the United Kingdom.&nbsp; Mental well-being of milk drinkers Scientists explored how different milk types might be linked to mental and emotional well-being over more than a decade. Milk is consumed by billions of people worldwide,...

A recent study has unveiled a startling revelation that over 56 million Americans - which accounts for more than half of the adult population - have unknowingly been exposed to the harmful effects of secondhand tobacco smoke.&nbsp;



This significant exposure to toxic secondhand smoke was discovered by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a> (UF).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secondhand-smoke-exposure-nbsp">Secondhand smoke exposure&nbsp;</h2>



Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoke, is known to have no safe levels of exposure.&nbsp;



Persistent exposure to it can significantly increase the risk of various chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/40-percent-diseases-genetics/">diseases</a> like coronary heart disease, respiratory disorders, and even certain types of cancers.&nbsp;



“There is no safe level of secondhand smoke exposure, and long term exposure can increase the risk of many chronic conditions, such as coronary heart disease, respiratory disease, and cancers. We want people to be aware of their exposure so they can take protective actions,” said study lead author Ruixuan (Roxanne) Wang, a doctoral candidate in the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions.



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



The researchers relied on the presence of cotinine in the blood to determine exposure to tobacco products. Cotinine, a result of nicotine exposure in recent days, is the standard for such detections.&nbsp;



The team analyzed data from the U.S. National Health and Examination Survey, conducted by the CDC from 2013 to 2020, which encompassed over 13,000 American adults.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered-nbsp">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that the blood of 51% of these individuals contained a byproduct of nicotine, indicating exposure to secondhand smoke.&nbsp;



Astonishingly, less than half of the affected individuals claimed to have been exposed to smoke, revealing a massive gap in awareness about secondhand smoke exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underreported-exposure-nbsp">Underreported exposure&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, it is unclear why the level of underreported exposure was so high. Cotinine measurements are very sensitive and can detect low levels of smoke exposure.



“It could be the case that for low-level exposure, maybe you don’t notice it. You’re in a public setting, and maybe you’re not even aware someone is using tobacco around you. Maybe it’s so minor you forgot,” said study senior author Professor Jennifer LeLaurin.&nbsp;



“There’s also the possibility that some of the respondents were aware of some secondhand smoke exposure but chose not to report it due to the stigma.”



Wang hopes that these revelations will pave the way for targeted interventions for at-risk groups.



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



"Understanding the extent of underreported nicotine exposure is crucial for developing effective public health strategies and interventions," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"It is imperative to bolster public consciousness about the risks associated with secondhand smoke."&nbsp;



"Additionally, surveillance tools should also incorporate measures of exposure to outdoor secondhand smoke and e-cigarette vapor to enhance the quality of data monitoring."



"Findings from this study can guide tobacco control initiatives and inform smoke-free air legislation."



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntad165">Nicotine and Tobacco Research</a>, and was supported by the Florida Health Policy Leadership Academy and the Florida Department of Health.



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Millions of Americans are unknowingly exposed to secondhand smoke

A recent study has unveiled a startling revelation that over...

A new study led by researchers from the <a href="https://ki.se/en">Karolinska Institutet</a> has revealed that treating child obesity at an early stage can produce effective results in both the short and long term. The findings were recently published in the <a href="https://www.nature.com/ijo/">International Journal of Obesity</a>.



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



The experts followed over 170 young Swedish children between the ages of four and six, who were diagnosed with obesity.&nbsp;



The participants were enrolled through children's clinics in Region Stockholm and were randomly assigned to one of three treatment modalities:



<ul>
<li>Standard treatment focusing on diet and exercise with the guidance of healthcare professionals.</li>



<li>A parental support group teaching parents how to encourage healthy lifestyles within their families without causing conflict.</li>



<li>A parental support group paired with follow-up phone support.</li>
</ul>



The children and parents in the standard treatment group had meetings focusing on diet and exercise with a doctor.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parental-support-groups-nbsp">Parental support groups&nbsp;</h2>



The two parental support groups did not involve the children and focused on how the parents could promote healthy lifestyles in the family in a positive way and without conflict.



“Such conversations can center on how to set boundaries, how to teach children new behaviors and how to communicate with preschools, grandmothers, neighbors and other adults in the children’s world,” said principal investigator Paulina Nowicka.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-approach-nbsp">Long-term approach&nbsp;</h2>



She emphasized the importance of their long-term approach. After attending the parental support groups, half of the participants were then randomly assigned a follow-up phone call.&nbsp;



"Studies have been done on children who have been treated for obesity before,” said Professor Nowicka. “But most of them have only been followed up after six months or a year, so we have no data on how the children fared over a longer period than that.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-improvements-nbsp">Lasting improvements&nbsp;</h2>



Remarkably, children across all three groups displayed lasting improvements in their weight statuses and reductions in their obesity degrees.&nbsp;



However, children whose parents participated in the support groups, especially those who also benefited from follow-up phone calls, exhibited the most significant results.&nbsp;



“The children in all three groups improved their weight status and saw a reduction in their degree of obesity,” said Professor Nowicka.&nbsp;



“The children whose parents received parental support had the best results, especially so those who also received follow-up phone calls. We also found that more children in this third group showed a clinically relevant improvement of their weight status associated with better metabolic health, by which I mean better levels of blood lipids and glucose.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relationships-with-food-nbsp">Relationships with food&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Nowicka further emphasized that many parents already have an understanding of proper <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutrition-for-neurons-the-role-of-breast-milk-in-shaping-our-brains/">nutrition</a>, but the real challenge is managing a child's relationship with food.&nbsp;



“They usually know this – but what do you do with a child who loves food and always wants to eat, or one that’s always hungry? How do you go about it without making a taboo of food?”&nbsp;



“You have to try to build a clear structure at home, one that makes the child know that lunch is on its way and know that they’ll be getting supper.”



“But you also need to do things together to strengthen family bonds, like getting the child involved in the cooking, giving the child vegetables if they’re hungry and not rewarding them with food. It’s also important to make sure that food isn’t associated with emotions and achievement.”



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



The evidence strongly suggests that tackling obesity in pre-schoolers can produce fat better outcomes than waiting until the adolescent years.



“Treating children at that age is much more effective than if you start treating them in their teens. Some adolescents are looking at possible bariatric surgery and we hope that this can be avoided with earlier treatment.”&nbsp;



This study was a collaboration between Karolinska Institutet, Uppsala University, Warwick Medical School, and Oxford University, and was funded by the Centrum for Innovative Medicine (CIMED) and the Masonic Home for Children in Stockholm Foundation. 



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Early treatment of child obesity yields lasting results

A new study led by researchers from the Karolinska Institutet...

A recent study published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/14/3181">Nutrients</a> suggests that regular cheese consumption may promote better cognitive health among older adults.&nbsp;



The research is part of a growing collection of evidence that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-lifestyle-linked-to-a-30-percent-lower-risk-of-death/">dietary habits</a> are not just important for physical health, but also for mental well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-intake-and-cognitive-function-nbsp">Food intake and cognitive function&nbsp;</h2>



"In particular, there is increased interest in the relationship between food intake and cognitive function," wrote the researchers.



"Previous studies have shown that a dietary pattern characterized by a high intake of soybean products, vegetables, seaweed, milk, and dairy products, together with a low intake of grain products, is associated with reduced risk of developing dementia; moreover, a high intake of milk and dairy products reduces the risk of developing dementia, especially Alzheimer’s dementia."



However, lead author Hunkyung Kim of the <a href="https://cirb.icar.gov.in/mera-gaon-mera-gaurav/">Gaon Research Center</a> and co-authors noted that further studies are needed to determine the role of dairy intake in cognitive function.&nbsp;



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



The team analyzed data from a broader geriatric survey that the researchers conducted biennially. The study was focused on 1,504 older adults in Tokyo, Japan. 



The dietary habits of the participants were meticulously assessed, with cheese consumption being the focal point. Cognitive capabilities were evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), a popular tool for gauging cognitive function in older adults.&nbsp;



For this study, an MMSE score below 24 was considered a marker for diminished cognitive functioning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered-nbsp">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



Once variables such as age, physical activity, and overall diet were accounted for, it became apparent that participants who consumed cheese regularly were less likely to score 23 or below on the MMSE.&nbsp;



The data also showed that cheese consumers generally had more varied diets. Still, this dietary diversity did not invalidate the link between cheese consumption and cognitive health.



"In the present study, the cheese intake group had significantly higher dietary variety scores than the non-cheese intake group," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"This result may suggest that the inverse association between cheese intake and lower cognitive function may be due to the likelihood that subjects with cheese intake had a dietary habit of consuming a wide variety of foods rather than the specific nutrients contained in cheese."&nbsp;



"However, multiple logistic regression analysis uncovered that dietary variety score was not distinguished as a significant independent variable for lower cognitive function, indicating that the possibility that cheese contains specific nutrients which support cognitive function still cannot be denied."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dairy-products">Dairy products</h2>



The researchers detected no association between the frequency of milk consumption and MMSE scores of 23 or less. "On the other hand, cheese intake was found to be a factor that was inversely associated with lower cognitive function," they said.&nbsp;



"A previous study using logistic regression analyses showed that a 30 g increase in Dutch cheese intake was associated with a 33% lower probability of poor information processing speed, whereas dairy intake was not associated with attention and working memory or episodic memory."



The experts also noted that a large cohort study of community-dwelling older adults showed that cheese, among other dairy products, was positively associated with the executive function domain.



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



The study isn't without its limitations. Its cross-sectional nature means it captured data at only one specific time, making it hard to deduce cause-and-effect relationships.&nbsp;



The reliance on participants self-reporting their cheese intake also raises concerns about potential inaccuracies or recall biases. Moreover, the MMSE score threshold used to indicate reduced cognitive function might differ from other research standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preliminary-findings">Preliminary findings</h2>



In their conclusion, the researchers stressed the preliminary nature of their findings:



“Although the present study was an analysis of cross-sectional data of Japanese community-dwelling older adults, the results suggest that cheese intake is inversely associated with lower cognitive function even after adjusting for multiple confounding factors."



The experts note that dementia prevention has become an urgent issue as the proportion of the older population with dementia continues to rise.



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Cheese may contain nutrients that prevent cognitive decline

A recent study published in the journal Nutrients suggests that...

As wildfires rage across Canada, a looming threat hangs over families in both Canada and the United States — deteriorating air quality. According to a new national survey conducted by the <a href="about:blank">University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital</a>, many parents worry about the impact of air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-pollution-disorients-monarch-butterflies/">pollution</a> on their children’s health.&nbsp;



The poll revealed that two out of three parents have been confronted by at least one day of poor air quality in their area over the past two years. But what is more unsettling is the widespread uncertainty about how to combat these invisible threats.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-actions">Protective actions</h2>



Although a majority of parents instinctively shut their windows and limit their children’s outdoor exposure in response to poor air quality alerts, many seem to falter when it comes to further, more organized protective actions.&nbsp;



For instance, fewer parents thought about restricting rigorous outdoor activities, fewer still considered the use of home air filters, and an alarmingly small fraction opted for preventive measures like masks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks">Health risks</h2>



“Our report suggests poor air quality is a common issue for families. Local news and weather reports may help parents gauge their community’s air quality, but many seem unsure about how to protect their child when air quality worsens,” said poll co-director Susan Woolford, a pediatrician at U-M Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.



“Children's organs are still developing, making them more susceptible to health risks from exposure to polluted air caused by wildfire smoke and other pollutants. This makes it essential to take precautions to protect their well-being when the air is unhealthy,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-information-sources">Information sources</h2>



The survey revealed that parents associate poor air quality predominantly with wildfires, with fewer attributing it to factors like excessive heat, pollen, or industrial pollution.&nbsp;



This perspective underscores the role of timely and accurate information dissemination. Over 90 percent of parents, as it stands, lean on news or weather reports as their primary air quality information sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-action-policies">Action policies</h2>



Yet, information is just one part of the equation. Preparedness and action policies at community hubs like schools are also crucial. A concerning finding was that only 21 percent of parents are aware of any such policies in their children’s schools.&nbsp;



Highlighting the importance of outdoor activities for children’s holistic development, the experts underlined the balancing act parents and educators must perform. While exposure to the outdoors fosters both physical and mental growth, the perils of pollution cannot be dismissed.



“Being outdoors is generally good for children’s physical and mental health but parents must also consider the risks of exposure to pollution,” Woolford said.&nbsp;



“When air quality problems are expected to be temporary, moving activities indoors or planning outdoor events for early in the day when air quality tends to be better may be warranted to prevent high levels of exposure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zoning-policies-nbsp">Zoning policies&nbsp;</h2>



According to Woolford and her colleagues, local and state policymakers are not exempt from responsibility.&nbsp;



Thus, measures such as zoning policies to divert heavy traffic away from schools or the provision of filters to purify the air in educational and community spaces are also necessary to protect children’s health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guidelines-for-parents">Guidelines for parents</h2>



The report offers specific guidelines for parents worried about their community’s air quality, including:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understand-the-short-and-long-term-risks-of-exposure-to-air-pollution">Understand the short- and long-term risks of exposure to air pollution</h3>



Since children breathe faster than adults, their lungs are exposed to more pollution per pound of body weight than adults, making air quality particularly important for their health. Moreover, children usually spend more time outdoors than adults and their developing bodies are more susceptible to the long-term impact of pollution.&nbsp;



Although for children without a history of respiratory issues in their family, the threat might seem distant, small particles from pollution can still penetrate their lungs deeply, opening the door to severe health risks, such as childhood cancer and cardiovascular problems later in life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay-informed-and-being-watchful-for-symptoms">Stay informed and being watchful for symptoms</h3>



Staying updated on local air quality reports and wildfire alerts are crucial for making informed decisions about children’s outdoor activities. Parents should also engage in dialogue with healthcare providers, keeping an eye out for worrisome symptoms like wheezing or persistent coughing, which are hallmarks of conditions like asthma and bronchitis exacerbated by poor air quality.



“If your child has preexisting respiratory conditions like asthma, consult their healthcare provider for advice on managing their condition during events that increase their risk of pollutant exposure,” Woolford said.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limit-outdoor-activities-and-using-masks">Limit outdoor activities and using masks</h3>



On days with poor air quality – particularly during wildfires – outdoor activities should be reduced or even completely halted. However, if such activities are inevitable, reducing strenuous activities and using KN95 masks are advised.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-create-a-safe-indoor-environment">Create a safe indoor environment</h3>



Parents should keep windows closed during periods with poor air quality in order to prevent pollutants from entering the home, and use filters and air purifiers to help reduce indoor pollution. Moreover, when air quality is severely compromised, they should also consider evacuating to an area with better air quality until conditions improve.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-school-and-youth-sports-policies">School and youth sports policies</h3>



On high pollution day, schools should take into consideration and implement guidelines to manage students’ exposure to pollutants based on the color-coded <a href="https://www.airnow.gov/aqi/aqi-basics/">Air Quality Index</a>. In addition, school officials could ask parents not to idle during their drop-off and pick-up times. Finally, youth sports programs and other similar organizations should consider rescheduling or even canceling outdoor events.



“Schools play an important role in protecting children from the adverse effects of poor air quality. We found that most parents are supportive of protective actions, such as moving recess and physical education indoors,” Woolford concluded.



The full report can be found <a href="https://mottpoll.org/reports/protecting-children-poor-air-quality">here</a>.



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Parents worry about poor air quality, but don't know how to protect their children

As wildfires rage across Canada, a looming threat hangs over...

A new virtual reality study reveals that humans can feel empathic embarrassment for robots that are in embarrassing situations. The results also suggest that humans have cognitive empathy - the ability to understand another's feelings - for humiliated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-humans-react-to-coexisting-with-robots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robots</a>.&nbsp;



The research offers a deeper understanding of the emotional dynamics that characterize our interactions with artificial entities.



The study was conducted by researchers at <a href="https://www.tut.ac.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toyohashi University of Technology</a>, including Harin Hapuarachchi and Professor Michiteru Kitazaki.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The goal was to discern if humans showcase empathic reactions towards robots in situations of discomfort or embarrassment.



"Humans feel empathic embarrassment by witnessing others go through embarrassing situations. We examined whether we feel such empathic embarrassment even with robot avatars," explained the researchers.



<h2 id="h-humans-empathize-with-robot-pain">Humans empathize with robot pain</h2>



The experts noted that previous studies have provided evidence of humans’ ability to empathize with pain experienced by robots.



"These studies suggest that during painful scenarios or mistreatment, people do show a tendency of showing empathy for robots as well even though it is lower compared to the level of empathy felt with other humans," wrote the researchers.



"Since these previous studies on empathy for robots are focused on mistreatment or pain, in this study we focused on another emotion, 'empathic embarrassment' felt with robots compared to humans."



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



For the current study, participants were placed in virtual environments where they observed both human and robot avatars navigating either mildly embarrassing or non-embarrassing scenarios.&nbsp;



These situations were meticulously crafted to induce feelings of discomfort or the sense of making a mistake.



"We utilized virtual reality (VR) to simulate a virtual environment in which participants were immersed with a robot character or a human character going through embarrassing situations among a crowd of people (virtual human avatars)," wrote the researchers.



"As a control condition, we also created non-embarrassing scenes for the same situations and compared with the subjective ratings and skin conductance responses collected in the embarrassing condition."



<h2 id="h-empathic-responses">Empathic responses&nbsp;</h2>



To capture the participants' genuine reactions, the study integrated both subjective ratings on a 7-point Likert scale and physiological measurements via skin conductance responses - a known indicator of emotional arousal.&nbsp;



The participants were required to gauge their own feelings of empathic embarrassment and also estimate the avatar's feelings in each situation.



The results were intriguing. The study participants reported experiencing empathic embarrassment and cognitive empathy for both human and robot avatars.&nbsp;



Notably, these empathic feelings spiked in embarrassing contexts, regardless of whether the protagonist was a human or a robot.



<h2 id="h-self-embarrassment">Self-embarrassment&nbsp;</h2>



"The empathic embarrassment was not only cognitive inference, but also felt as self-embarrassment," noted the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"Thus, humans can empathize with robots in embarrassing situations, suggesting that humans assume the robots can be aware of being witnessed and have some degree of self-consciousness based on self-reflection and self-evaluation."



<h2 id="h-cognitive-empathy">Cognitive empathy&nbsp;</h2>



When the researchers compared responses towards human and robot avatars, they found that cognitive empathy was stronger when the antagonist was human.&nbsp;



This divergence in cognitive empathy levels indicates that while humans can empathize with robots, our understanding of their emotions might not mirror that of our fellow humans.



<h2 id="h-valuable-insights">Valuable insights&nbsp;</h2>



"Our study provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of human-robot relationships. As technology continues to integrate into our daily lives, understanding the emotional responses we have towards robots is crucial," said Hapuarachchi, the lead researcher.



"This research opens up new avenues for exploring the boundaries of human empathy and the potential challenges and benefits of human-robot interactions."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-41042-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Humans feel empathic embarrassment for humiliated robots

A new virtual reality study reveals that humans can feel...

People can recall death experiences for up to an hour after their hearts have stopped beating, according to new research from the <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/our-community/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Grossman School of Medicine</a>.&nbsp;



Some patients revived by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) had clear memories of experiencing death. While unconscious, these individuals had brain patterns linked to thought and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-sexual-satisfaction-linked-to-rapid-memory-decline/">memory</a>, the researchers found.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The study, known as the AWAreness during REsuscitation (AWARE)-II, was focused on 567 cardiac arrest patients in hospitals between May 2017 and March 2020.&nbsp;



The standardized conditions, which included CPR and resuscitation methods, were carefully monitored to ensure accuracy. Only 10% of the patients recovered sufficiently for discharge after receiving in-hospital CPR.&nbsp;



The experts also analyzed insights from 126 community survivors of cardiac arrest with self-reported memories. The goal was to better understand the themes linked to the vivid experience of death.



<h2 id="h-some-degree-of-consciousness">Some degree of consciousness&nbsp;</h2>



Remarkably, 40% of survivors recalled some degree of consciousness during CPR, an experience that previously went unnoticed by conventional measures.



Among a subset of patients who underwent brain monitoring during CPR, nearly 40% displayed brain activity that revived to almost normal states from a "flatline" status, sometimes as long as an hour into CPR.&nbsp;



Using EEG technology, experts observed notable spikes in gamma, delta, theta, alpha, and beta waves associated with higher mental functions.



<h2 id="h-death-experiences">Death experiences&nbsp;</h2>



Survivor accounts of heightened awareness, powerful experiences, and a perception of separation from the body have long been reported.&nbsp;



These experiences include observing events without pain or distress and a profound evaluation of their actions and relationships.&nbsp;



Crucially, the study distinguished these death experiences from dreams, hallucinations, and other similar states.



<h2 id="h-new-dimensions-of-reality">New dimensions of reality</h2>



According to the researchers, death experiences might be linked to the disinhibition process, where the dying brain removes natural inhibitory systems.&nbsp;



The researchers suggest that this type of disengagement might allow access to "new dimensions of reality," potentially including clear recollection of all memories from early childhood to death, as seen from a moral perspective.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-electrical-recovery">Electrical recovery&nbsp;</h2>



Study senior author Dr. Sam Parnia is an associate professor in the Department of Medicine at NYU Langone Health and director of critical care and resuscitation research at NYU Langone.



"Although doctors have long thought that the brain suffers permanent damage about 10 minutes after the heart stops supplying it with oxygen, our work found that the brain can show signs of electrical recovery long into ongoing CPR," said Dr. Parnia.



"This is the first large study to show that these recollections and brain wave changes may be signs of universal, shared elements of so-called near-death experiences."



"These experiences provide a glimpse into a real, yet little understood dimension of human consciousness that becomes uncovered with death. The findings may also guide the design of new ways to restart the heart or prevent brain injuries and hold implications for transplantation."



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers emphasize that the findings neither validate nor negate the experiences' reality or meaning associated with death and call for further research on the subject.&nbsp;



They say the recalled experience surrounding death merits further empirical investigation and plan to conduct studies that more precisely define biomarkers of clinical consciousness and that monitor the long-term psychological effects of resuscitation after cardiac arrest.



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

People reporting near-death experiences have often been "dead" for an hour

People can recall death experiences for up to an hour...

Young,Smiling,Happy,Woman,Wearing,Casual,Clothes,Shopping,At,Supermaket

In a landmark environmental move, multinational retailer <a href="https://www.marksandspencer.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marks &amp; Spencer</a> (M&amp;S) has announced the discontinuation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-dropped-into-the-ocean-can-travel-hundreds-of-miles-while-sinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic carrier bags</a>. Instead, the retailer is set to introduce eco-friendlier paper bags.



Developed in collaboration with the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a>, these new bags are designed to be both strong and sustainable. With a capacity to hold as much as six four-pint bottles of milk, M&amp;S claims that the bag can be reused up to 100 times. 



What makes these bags stand out is the method of their production. They are manufactured at a Scandinavian paper mill powered entirely by hydroelectricity, ensuring that their production leaves a minimal carbon footprint.



<h2 id="h-environmental-impact-of-paper-bags">Environmental impact of paper bags</h2>



The university team assessed the environmental impact of these bags, and the results appear promising. Besides being produced using renewable energy, the bags incorporate natural resin which provides a waterproofing quality. Moreover, their eco-friendly attributes have been endorsed by the <a href="https://fsc.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Stewardship Council</a> (FSC).



Customers can expect a sturdy bag for their groceries, while those shopping from the Clothing and Home departments of M&amp;S will receive a slightly simpler version of the bag.



Victoria McKenzie-Gould, the Director of Corporate Affairs at M&amp;S, expressed her optimism about this shift in a blog post. She remarked, "We now have a solution that is better environmentally and which helps customers looking to make small changes to reduce their environmental footprint. For most who reuse their own bags – which remains the most sustainable option – not much will change. But when the need for an extra bag arises, we’re pleased to be offering a more sustainable choice.”



This isn’t M&amp;S’s maiden voyage into eco-friendliness. Earlier, the company introduced recyclable paper bags and boxes for its rice, pulses, and grains range.



<h2>Many retailers switching to paper bags</h2>



M&amp;S isn’t alone in this pursuit. Morrisons transitioned from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-plastic-pollution-increases-with-depth-and-near-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> to paper bags in 2021 after a successful trial run. Sainsbury’s claimed to be the pioneer in eliminating plastic bags for vegetables, pastries, and unpacked fruits in 2019. Tesco also ditched plastic bags for its online orders in the same year.



The shift away from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-dropped-into-the-ocean-can-travel-hundreds-of-miles-while-sinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> has become a significant trend in the UK retail sector. According to data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), there has been a whopping 98% decline in the use of single-use plastic bags since 2015 when English stores initiated a charge for them. Remarkably, seven of the largest grocery chains saw their annual distribution of plastic carrier bags plummet from 7.6 billion in 2014 to just 133 million in 2022.



Minister for Environmental Quality and Resilience, Rebecca Pow, lauded the policy, stating it has prevented billions of single-use carrier bags from polluting the environment or ending up in landfills.



With these efforts, it's evident that British retailers are heeding the call to promote sustainability, aligning their business strategies with global environmental goals.



<h2>Benefits of paper bags over plastic bags</h2>



Switching from plastic to paper bags, as M&amp;S did recently, offers numerous advantages, both for the environment and for society. Let's examine the myriad benefits of making this environmentally conscious choice.



<h3>Biodegradability</h3>



Paper bags break down naturally within weeks or months, while plastic bags can take hundreds of years to decompose. By choosing paper, we significantly reduce the longevity of litter in our environment.



<h3>Paper bags are easy to recycle</h3>



People can easily recycle paper bags. Many municipalities and cities include paper bags in their curbside recycling programs. In contrast, only a few recycling centers accept plastic bags, which often end up clogging machinery.



<h3>Renewable resource</h3>



Manufacturers make paper bags from trees, a renewable resource. With sustainable forestry practices, we can ensure an endless supply of paper, whereas plastic bags come from petroleum, a non-renewable resource.



<h3>Reduces plastic pollution</h3>



When we opt for paper bags, we directly reduce the amount of plastic entering our environment. This helps prevent plastic from harming marine life, birds, and other animals that often mistake plastic fragments for food.



<h3>Consumes less energy in production</h3>



Producing paper bags requires less energy compared to plastic bags. Reduced energy consumption means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, leading to a lesser carbon footprint.



<h3>Paper bags are less toxic</h3>



Plastic bags undergo a production process that involves many toxic chemicals. These toxins can leach into the environment when plastic bags break down, poisoning water and soil. Paper bags don't have this issue, as their manufacturing involves fewer harmful chemicals.



<h3>Economic benefits</h3>



The rising demand for eco-friendly paper bags opens up new avenues for job creation in the paper industry. This growth not only helps local economies but also encourages sustainable practices.



<h3>Encourages reusability</h3>



Although paper bags have a limited life compared to heavy-duty reusable bags, many consumers reuse them for a variety of purposes, such as organizing, crafting, or as compostable waste liners.



<h3>Improved waste management</h3>



Unlike plastics, which can remain in landfills for centuries, paper bags will decompose and reduce landfill clutter. This also means reduced costs for waste management in the long run.



<h3>Consumer preference</h3>



With growing environmental awareness, consumers prefer businesses that prioritize sustainability. Offering paper bags can enhance a brand's image, showing commitment to environmental responsibility.



In summary, while the best option remains reusable cloth or heavy-duty bags, paper bags offer a far more sustainable alternative to plastic bags. Embracing paper bags not only supports the environment but also aligns with consumer preferences and global sustainability goals.



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

Large retailers are replacing plastic bags with eco-friendly paper bags

In a landmark environmental move, multinational retailer Marks &amp; Spencer...

Cat,&amp;,Vegetables.,Colorful,Close,Up,Photo,With,Cat,And

Cats, carnivorous by nature, have had their diet choices evolve over the years as human understanding of nutrition has advanced. Recently, the topic of vegan diets for feline friends has sparked debate amongst cat owners and veterinarians. 



New research from the <a href="https://www.winchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Winchester, UK</a>, delves into the health outcomes associated with feeding cats vegan diets in comparison to traditional meat-based diets. The study, led by Andrew Knight and his team, looked at the health reports of 1,369 cats fed either vegan or meat-based diets.



While the primary protein source in many pet foods is cooked meat, there's a rising trend in alternative protein sources, including plants and fungi. But is this trend justified, especially when it concerns the health of our furry companions?



<h2>Vegan diets for cats: Healthful or harmful?</h2>



Critics argue that vegan diets, which lack meat, eggs, and dairy, may not meet the essential nutritional needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/okay-how-do-cats-purr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>. After all, felines in the wild are obligate carnivores. Nonetheless, there's limited scientific research validating these concerns.



Knight's research aimed to bridge this gap. His team analyzed survey responses from cat owners, all of whom had fed their cats a specific diet (vegan or meat-based) for at least a year. Interestingly, only about 9 percent of respondents reported giving their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/domestic-cats-do-not-usually-roam-too-far-from-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a> a vegan diet.



After adjusting for external factors like the cat's age or neutering status, it was found that vegan diets were associated with some seemingly positive health indicators. Vegan-fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-will-hunt-less-wildlife-if-you-feed-them-meat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>, for instance, seemed to require fewer vet visits, less medication, and their veterinarians often perceived them as healthier.



However, a crucial point to note is that none of these differences between vegan and meat-fed cats were statistically significant. Essentially, the study didn't find any robust evidence to suggest one diet was superior to the other.



Further insights were revealed when the study examined specific health disorders. It was reported that 42 percent of meat-fed cats had at least one health disorder, slightly more than the 37 percent reported for vegan-fed cats.



<h2>A Conclusion…with caveats</h2>



The researchers' findings seem to tentatively support the healthfulness of vegan diets for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-have-a-better-quality-of-life-if-you-play-with-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>. However, Knight and his colleagues caution that they didn’t analyze the nutrient content of these diets. It is possible that some vegan diets, if well-formulated, might be meeting the cats’ nutritional requirements, while others might not.



The bottom line? While this study provides some insights, it doesn't conclude the debate on vegan diets for cats. For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cat-noses-and-nasal-structure-function-better-than-high-tech-chemical-analysis-equipment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cat</a> owners considering or already feeding their cats a vegan diet, it underscores the importance of ensuring the nutritional adequacy of the chosen diet, preferably in consultation with a veterinarian.



The conversation around vegan diets for cats is a long way from over, and further research will be pivotal in guiding informed decisions for the welfare of our feline friends.



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-dietary-needs-of-cats">More about the dietary needs of cats</h2>



Cats have specific dietary needs, distinct from other domestic animals. When we dive into the nutritional requirements of these obligate carnivores, we discover why certain components are crucial for their health. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cats-bonded-with-humans-after-a-single-domestication-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a> may exhibit good health on a vegan diet, there are many other things to consider when planning your pet's diet. Here's a closer look.



<h3>Animal-based proteins</h3>



Cats derive essential amino acids from animal tissues. They particularly rely on taurine, an amino acid predominantly found in meat. 



A deficiency in taurine can lead to serious health issues, including heart and eye problems. Thus, providing cats with a sufficient amount of animal-based proteins ensures they obtain these vital amino acids.



<h3>Cats need fats not found in vegan diets</h3>



While fats primarily supply cats with energy, they also aid in the absorption of certain vitamins. Cats require arachidonic acid, an essential fatty acid found mainly in animal fats. This fatty acid plays a pivotal role in numerous body functions, including inflammation responses and skin health.



<h3>Carbohydrates: Less is more</h3>



Cats have evolved to consume a diet with minimal carbohydrates. Though they can process some carbs, a high-carb diet is unnatural for them and can contribute to health issues like obesity. Therefore, it's best to keep carbohydrate content low in a cat's diet.



<h3>Cats on vegan diets may be vitamin deficient</h3>



Cats need direct sources of certain vitamins, especially A, D, and B12. Unlike other animals, cats can't convert plant-based beta-carotene into vitamin A. They rely on obtaining these vitamins from animal tissues, emphasizing the importance of meat in their diet.



<h3>Minerals: Building blocks of health</h3>



Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium rank among the vital minerals for cats. They often source these from the bones and tissues of their prey. These minerals play critical roles, from bone health to nerve function.



<h3>Hydration: Not just about drinking water</h3>



While cats might not frequent the water bowl as often as their canine counterparts, they still need regular hydration. Wet cat food offers a good hydration source, given its high water content, often around 80%.



In summary, meeting the unique dietary needs of cats ensures they lead a healthy and vibrant life. Always prioritize animal-based proteins and fats, and consult with a veterinarian for the best dietary choices for your feline friend.



This study was published in the open-access journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0284132" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

Cats are going vegan, and the results may surprise you

Cats, carnivorous by nature, have had their diet choices evolve...

Elephant,And,Giraffe,Stands,On,Thin,Branch,Of,Withered,Tree

It's that time of the year again, when scientists gather to celebrate the unusual, quirky, and downright weird. This year's 33rd <a href="https://improbable.com/ig/2023-ceremony/?amp=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ig Nobel Prize ceremony</a>, held virtually on September 14, did not disappoint.



<h2 id="h-rock-licking-and-geology">Rock licking and geology</h2>



The Ig Nobel Prizes are renowned for honoring research that makes people both "LAUGH and THINK." Leading the pack this year was the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a>’s Jan Zalasiewicz.&nbsp;



He secured both the Chemistry and Geology Prizes for his intriguing exploration of why scientists have a penchant for licking rocks.&nbsp;



In his essay “Eating Fossils,” Zalasiewicz enlightens us that wetting a rock's surface with a lick can highlight fossil and mineral textures. A simple yet ingenious way to bypass the confusing maze of intersecting micro-reflections and micro-refractions on a dry rock surface.



<h2 id="h-smart-toilets-and-public-health">Smart toilets and public health</h2>



On the innovative end of the spectrum, <a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a> urologist Seung-min Park received the public health prize for inventing the "Stanford toilet."&nbsp;



This isn't just any toilet, but a smart one. It assesses a user's health by scrutinizing their waste.&nbsp;



From checking for infections and diabetes using a dipstick test strip to employing a computer vision system that quantifies urine, it does it all. And the cherry on top? It recognizes users by their unique “analprint."



<h2 id="h-the-mystery-of-jamais-vu">The mystery of "jamais vu"</h2>



The literary award went to a team exploring the puzzling phenomenon of jamais vu. Opposite to déjà vu, this is when familiar things suddenly seem strange.&nbsp;



Akira O’Connor from the <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St. Andrews</a> explained that it’s possible to induce this sensation in a laboratory by having subjects repeat a single word many, many, many, many, many times, until the word starts to sound unrecognizable.



O’Connor and his colleagues were initially hesitant about the Ig Nobel recognition. O'Connor said this was due to the risk their research appearing “quirky and frivolous,” and therefore easily dismissed. Now, he hopes the award will bring more attention to their study.



<h2 id="h-nostril-hair-earns-an-ig-nobel">Nostril hair&nbsp;earns an Ig Nobel</h2>



Other notable mentions include a team from the <a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Irvine</a>, who ventured into the unknown territory of counting human nostril hairs.&nbsp;



The goal was to determine whether there are an equal number of hairs in each nostril. “The information we needed was not available in anatomy texts, so we decided to find out on our own,” said team lead Natasha Mesinkovska.



The findings have significant implications for alopecia patients, who often lose nasal hair, which defends against allergens and infections.



<h2 id="h-zombie-spiders">Zombie spiders</h2>



Furthermore, in the eerily fascinating realm of "necrobotics," a team was awarded for their attempts to reanimate dead spiders as mechanical tools.&nbsp;



The researchers converted the corpses of wolf spiders into mechanical grippers that can manipulate objects.



Faye Yap, a mechanical engineer at <a href="https://www.rice.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a> in Houston, said the study was born out of a simple question: Why do spiders curl up when they die? Yap said that the next big step is to individually control the spider's legs.



In the end, the Ig Nobel Prizes remind us that sometimes, the simplest and quirkiest questions lead to the most profound discoveries.



As is tradition, all winners received a humorous fake $10 trillion Zimbabwean bill and a 3D trophy diagram.&nbsp;



Marc Abrahams, the founder of the awards, concluded, “If you didn’t win an Ig Nobel Prize tonight - and especially if you did - better luck next year.”



<h2>More about the Ig Nobel Prize</h2>



In the world of scientific recognition, one award ceremony stands out not for lauding groundbreaking discoveries, but for celebrating the most eccentric and unusual scientific endeavors. Enter the Ig Nobel Prize awards, a unique and often humorous event that honors achievements that make people laugh and then think.



<h3>Origins and purpose</h3>



As mentioned above, Marc Abrahams, the co-founder and mastermind behind the awards, started the Ig Nobel Prize ceremony in 1991. Unlike its more prestigious counterpart, the Nobel Prize, the Ig Nobel's purpose is not to celebrate the most revolutionary contributions to humanity, but instead to highlight research that at first glance seems bizarre, amusing, or even outright ridiculous. 



However, upon closer inspection, these research topics often encourage a deeper level of contemplation, questioning, and sometimes even awe.



<h3>The award ceremony</h3>



Every year, at <a href="https://ofa.fas.harvard.edu/harvard-box-office/ticketing-services/sanders-theatre" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University's Sanders Theatre</a>, a lively and entertaining ceremony unfolds. Genuine Nobel laureates often present the awards to the Ig Nobel winners, emphasizing the intersection of genuine respect and playful mockery that the event embodies. The ceremony includes a variety of comic sketches, operatic performances, and other light-hearted segments, all centered around science.



Each award recipient gets 60 seconds to explain their research. If they exceed this time, a young girl, affectionately known as "Miss Sweetie Poo," repeatedly cries out, “Please stop, I’m bored,” ensuring that speeches remain concise and to the point.



<h3>Notable winners and research topics</h3>



Over the years, the Ig Nobel Prize has recognized a wide array of curious research. Some notable examples include:



Physics (2000): Awarded to David Schmidt for answering the question of why shower curtains billow inwards.



Peace (2006): Granted to Howard Stapleton for inventing an electromechanical teenager repellant – a device that makes an annoying sound only audible to teenagers.



Biology (2016): Awarded to Charles Foster for living in the wild as several different animals, including a badger, an otter, and a deer.



<h3>Reception and impact</h3>



The Ig Nobel awards often walk a fine line between mockery and admiration. While critics argue that the awards may trivialize science, many in the scientific community see the value in humor and believe that the awards highlight the creativity and curiosity inherent in scientific endeavors.



These awards underscore the fact that science isn't always about grand revelations or world-changing technologies. Sometimes, it’s about asking odd questions and following one's curiosity, no matter how quirky it may seem.



In summary, the Ig Nobel Prize awards serve as a reminder that science is as much about exploration and curiosity as it is about serious research. They emphasize the joy of discovery, the humor inherent in the scientific process, and the idea that every question, no matter how seemingly absurd, has its place in the vast landscape of human knowledge.



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

Ig Nobel Prize: Honoring the most ludicrous research studies of the year

It's that time of the year again, when scientists gather...

Scientists at <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a> have exposed what could be the most significant vulnerability of the COVID virus. The experts have determined that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cdc-only-a-fraction-of-covid-deaths-directly-attributed-to-the-virus/">virus</a> relies heavily on certain human proteins to replicate itself.&nbsp;



This discovery may pave the way for treatments that can prevent the COVID virus from causing illness in people.



<h2 id="h-covid-virus-replication">COVID virus replication&nbsp;</h2>



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/v15071600" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Viruses</a>, the research paper highlights the key role of the protein named "N" in the COVID virus.&nbsp;



This protein, responsible for the virus's replication process, cannot function independently. It requires the support of human cells to achieve its purpose.



<h2 id="h-biological-process">Biological process</h2>



The significance of this finding involves a basic biological process. In humans, genetic information stored in DNA gets transcribed into messenger RNA.&nbsp;



This RNA then gets translated into functional proteins, essential for various cellular activities like growth and inter-cellular communication. After this, proteins undergo post-translational modifications, further refining them for their specific roles.



<h2 id="h-sumoylation-and-the-covid-virus">SUMOylation and the COVID virus</h2>



This is where the COVID virus gets clever. It utilizes a specific human post-translation process, termed SUMOylation. The process directs the N protein of the virus to an appropriate location inside human cells.&nbsp;



Once positioned correctly, the protein starts replicating the virus's genes, creating new infectious particles, and propelling the invasion.



<h2 id="h-proteomics-core-laboratory">Proteomics core laboratory&nbsp;</h2>



“In the wrong location, the virus cannot infect us,” said study co-author Quanqing Zhang, the manager of the proteomics core laboratory at UCR’s Institute for Integrative Genome Biology.&nbsp;



Proteomics is the study of all the proteins that an organism makes, how they are modified by other enzymes, and the roles they play in a living organism.&nbsp;



“If someone gets an infection, maybe one of his or her proteins will appear differently than it was before. That’s what we’re looking for in our facility,” Zhang said.



<h2 id="h-interactions-between-proteins">Interactions between proteins&nbsp;</h2>



Using innovative techniques involving fluorescent glow, the researchers were able to visually track interactions between the virus and human proteins.



“We used fluorescent glow to show us where the virus is interacting with human proteins and making new virions - infectious viral particles,” explained study co-author Professor Jiayu Liao.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“This method is more sensitive than other techniques and gives us a more comprehensive view of all the interactions between the human and viral proteins."



<h2 id="h-similar-dependency-in-influenza">Similar dependency in influenza</h2>



Remarkably, earlier research from the same team identified a similar dependency in Influenza A and Influenza B viruses. Both of these common flu strains also rely on the SUMOylation process for replication.



This recent study reaffirms the idea that blocking COVID's access to these human proteins can empower our immune systems to neutralize the virus.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-covid-virus-study-implications">COVID virus study implications&nbsp;</h2>



Currently the most effective treatment for COVID is Paxlovid, which inhibits virus replication. But patients need to take it within three days following infection.&nbsp;



“If you take it after that it won’t be so effective,” said Liao. “A new medication based on this discovery would be useful to patients at all stages of infection.”



The similarities between viruses may enable a whole new class of antiviral medication. With sufficient support, Liao estimates these can be developed within five years.



“I think other viruses might work this way as well,” Liao said. “Ultimately, we would like to block the flu as well as COVID, and potentially other viruses such as RSV and Ebola. We are making new discoveries to help make this happen."



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

COVID has a weakness, and this could be a game-changer

Scientists at UC Riverside have exposed what could be the...

Researchers recently revealed that the psychedelic drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, has the potential to ease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/assistance-dogs-improve-mental-health-of-veterans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PTSD</a>). 



Published on Thursday, this study offers a fresh perspective on treating PTSD, a condition that has seen little innovation in therapeutic approaches over the past two decades. The work was sponsored by <a href="https://mapsbcorp.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MAPS Public Benefit Corporation</a>.



<h2 id="h-possible-us-approval">Possible US approval&nbsp;</h2>



The research could revolutionize PTSD treatment. Amy Emerson, CEO of MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, expressed her optimism.&nbsp;



“It’s the first innovation in PTSD treatment in more than two decades. And it’s significant because I think it will also open up other innovation," said Emerson.



The company is set to approach U.S. authorities later this year to obtain approval for marketing MDMA in combination with talk therapy as a viable treatment for PTSD.



<h2 id="h-global-acceptance">Global acceptance</h2>



This is not the first instance of psychedelic drugs gaining traction in medical circles. Earlier in the year, Australia set a precedent by authorizing psychiatrists to prescribe both MDMA and psilocybin, which is the psychoactive component in magic mushrooms.&nbsp;



This move, alongside the proactive endeavors of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, a nonprofit advocacy group, has driven a broader cultural acceptance of such drugs in the U.S.



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



For the current study, 104 PTSD patients were observed. The participants were randomly designated to receive either MDMA or a placebo pill across three sessions spaced a month apart, with all participants receiving talk therapy.



While there were some side effects noted in the MDMA group – including muscle tightness, nausea, decreased appetite, and sweating – only one participant from this group opted to withdraw from the study.



<h2 id="h-encouraging-results">Encouraging results</h2>



Post-treatment, a notable 86% of participants in the MDMA group exhibited improvement on a standard PTSD assessment.&nbsp;



This was significantly higher than the 69% improvement rate observed in the placebo group. The assessment gauged symptoms characteristic of PTSD, such as nightmares, flashbacks, and insomnia.



Perhaps the most promising outcome was that by the conclusion of the study, 72% of the participants in the MDMA group no longer fit the diagnostic criteria for PTSD. This was a marked contrast to the roughly 48% in the placebo group.



<h2 id="h-a-new-horizon">A new horizon&nbsp;</h2>



This research holds immense promise for the future of PTSD treatment. With MDMA's potential benefits, combined with talk therapy, many patients may soon have a renewed hope for a life without the debilitating effects of PTSD.&nbsp;



As the world moves towards greater acceptance of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes, this study serves as a significant stepping stone.



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—-



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

Psychedelic drug MDMA shows promise for reducing post traumatic stress

Researchers recently revealed that the psychedelic drug MDMA, commonly known...

Woman,Hand,Holds,A,Glass,To,Filing,It,With,Water

Researchers at the <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Bank</a> have presented evidence which suggests that lead exposure may be a deadlier culprit for heart disease deaths than even smoking or poor diets.



The analysis was based on data from the 2019 <a href="https://www.healthdata.org/research-analysis/gbd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Burden of Disease</a> study, including estimates of blood lead levels in 183 countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deadly-numbers">Deadly numbers</h2>



The study simulated the number of heart disease deaths attributable to lead, concluding that approximately 5.5 million deaths worldwide could be linked to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elevated-levels-of-toxic-metals-detected-in-popular-drinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic metal</a>. This number starkly contrasts the 2 million deaths attributed to smoking and the 2.6 million from high cholesterol.



"Although global lead exposure has declined substantially since the phasing out of leaded gasoline, sources of lead exposure remain plentiful, especially in low-income and middle-income countries," wrote the study authors.&nbsp; "Lead is one of WHO's ten chemicals of major public health concern."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lead-and-water-in-america">Lead and water in America</h2>



Lead finds its way into our drinking water from aging infrastructure. Service pipes connecting homes to water mains made out of the heavy metal primarily cause this. Houses in Florida, followed by Illinois and Ohio, are at the highest risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastating-health-impacts">Devastating health impacts</h2>



Lead is notorious for its cumulative toxicity. Over time, it can cause an array of heart problems by instigating high blood pressure and interfering with nerve functions leading to arrhythmias.&nbsp;



It does this by causing blood vessels to constrict and by impairing kidney function. High blood pressure then exacerbates heart problems by putting additional strain on the heart and contributing to arterial damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-and-infants">Children and infants</h2>



For young children and infants, the risks are even greater. Lead can severely impact brain and central nervous system development. This results in issues like speech problems, language difficulties, and developmental delays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-economic-impacts">Global economic impacts</h2>



"Our findings suggest that global lead exposure has health and economic costs at par with PM2·5 air pollution," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



For example, lead exposure is causing children in developing nations to lose an average of six IQ points. This alarming number is six times higher than previous estimates. The epidemic carries an estimated global economic toll of $6 trillion annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-extent-of-lead-water-contamination">Shocking extent of lead water contamination</h2>



The research has ignited varied reactions. Environmental economist and study lead author Bjorn Larsen expressed his astonishment at the figures.&nbsp;



Larsen told AFP that when the researchers first saw the figure their model calculated, "we didn't even dare to whisper the number" because it was so "enormous."



Richard Fuller, president of <a href="https://www.pureearth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pure Earth</a>, said that in developing countries, previous surveys had mostly found higher blood lead levels than what has been estimated by World Bank. He emphasized that the study is a dire "wake-up call" to the global community.



Yet, skepticism remains. Notably, Dr. Roy Harrison from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> raised concerns regarding the model's applicability on a global scale. He told AFP the research is "interesting, but subject to many uncertainties."



The revelations from this study have spurred essential discussions about the quality of drinking water and the potential dangers. Health officials hope that authorities will take the necessary steps to address this global threat to human health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(23)00166-3/fulltext#%20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Planetary Health</a>.



---



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



---



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.

Lead exposure kills more people than smoking

Researchers at the World Bank have presented evidence which suggests...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...