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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Finger counting boosts math skills in children

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

The digital age is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the internet and corresponding technological advancements are a blessing, creating a world more interconnected than ever. But on the other, they've paved the way for a pervasive issue - the misinformation and rumors that spreads like nuclear reactions.



In our modern climate of misinformation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-48-million-americans-deny-that-climate-change-is-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">falsehoods, and rumors</a>, distinguishing truth from fiction as data zips around the planet often seems like an uphill battle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-of-misinformation-and-rumors">Spread of misinformation and rumors</h2>



The research was carried out by Wenrong Zheng, a researcher from <a href="https://english.sdnu.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shandong Normal University</a>, and his dedicated team. 



They've been working tirelessly to understand this digital-age phenomenon. And the critical findings of their study were recently published by the American Institute of Physics.



Can we look at rumor propagation in a new light? Yes, indeed! 



Ditching the conventional epidemic models, Zheng's team found inspiration in a somewhat unexpected place: nuclear reactions. 



According to their modified model, rumors act like neutrons, the particles that initiate nuclear fission. When individuals encounter these 'rumor neutrons,' they send them spiraling into other people, sparking a chain reaction. 



“When individuals encounter rumors, they are influenced by their personal interests and decide whether to spread or whether repeated exposure is needed before spreading,” said Zheng. 



“Based on different considerations of uranium fission thresholds, individuals are divided into groups based on the influence of their own interest thresholds, fully considering individual behavior and differences, which is more in line with the reality.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-the-real-world">Implications for the real world</h2>



Did you guess that education plays a crucial role in rumor propagation? 



“The extent of rumor propagation is closely related to the proportion of rational internet users. This reflects the importance of education: the higher the level of education, the easier it is to question rumors when receiving information that is difficult to distinguish between right and wrong,” Zheng corroborates. 



If you're educated, chances are you'll scrutinize the information before accepting it blindly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-avoid-spreading-misinformation">How to avoid spreading misinformation</h2>



So, what can we do about the spread of misinformation? The team's research provides some vital pointers. 



The researchers found that rumors propagate on a smaller scale initially, so monitoring by official platforms is key.



When governmental and official media detect potential rumors, they should verify the content and offer corrections. This would enable rational citizens to prevent further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gossiping-may-actually-be-beneficial-to-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rumor propagation</a> effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-countering-disinformation">Countering disinformation</h2>



The research done by Zheng and his team is a major step in understanding and mitigating rumor propagation. 



Their nuanced, nuclear fission-inspired model offers fresh insights that could guide future strategies to combat disinformation. 



However, the battle against misinformation online is ongoing, and we, as responsible netizens, have a pivotal role to play.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-social-media-algorithms">Role of social media algorithms</h2>



In an era dominated by social media, the algorithms that dictate what content users see play a pivotal role in the dissemination of information. 



These complex systems curate feeds based on user preferences, often prioritizing engaging, sensational content over factual accuracy.



Algorithms are not inherently good or bad; it depends on how we choose to use them. This presents a unique opportunity -- by refining algorithms to promote accountability and accuracy, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomscrolling-threatens-our-mental-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social media platforms</a> could significantly reduce the reach of false information.



If users are consistently provided with a diverse range of reliable sources, they may be empowered to challenge misleading narratives and engage in healthy discourse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-citizens-to-avoid-misinformation">Empowering citizens to avoid misinformation</h2>



As research indicates, empowering individuals with media literacy skills is crucial in the fight against misinformation. 



Educational initiatives aimed at enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills can equip citizens to evaluate information critically.



Workshops, online courses, or community programs can introduce individuals to techniques for fact-checking, recognizing bias, and analyzing sources. 



By fostering these competencies, society cultivates a more informed populace that can navigate the complex landscape of information.



An educated public is less susceptible to the allure of rumors, ultimately cultivating a culture of inquiry and discernment that significantly dampens the spread of disinformation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuclear-reaction-and-spreading-misinformation">Nuclear reaction and spreading misinformation</h2>



In sum, misinformation, like a neutron starting a nuclear reaction, spreads rapidly in today's digital age. But all's not lost. 



Scientific research like Zheng's is helping us understand the spread dynamics better and providing cues for possible mitigation. 



Remember, staying educated, questioning the information we receive, and relying on only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/political-views-change-our-perception-of-the-past-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">credible sources</a> can go a long way in combating this online avalanche of disinformation. After all, don't we all want a truthful, reliable digital world for ourselves?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/adv/article/14/7/075326/3304858/A-rumor-propagation-model-based-on-nuclear-fission" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIP Advances</a>.



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Digital misinformation and rumors spread like nuclear reactions

The digital age is a double-edged sword. On the one...

How often have you rushed out of the door in the morning, skipping the first meal of the day? Recent research reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meal-timing-has-a-major-influence-on-our-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regularity of breakfast</a> may be more significant to our overall happiness than we thought.



The research is the collective brainchild of Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) and <a href="https://www.udla.cl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad de las Americas</a>. 



Study senior author Lee Smith, a renowned professor of public health at ARU, meticulously guided his team through data obtained from nearly 150,000 children across 42 countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skipping-breakfast-vs-life-satisfaction">Skipping breakfast vs. life satisfaction</h2>



According to the study, children who frequently skip breakfast are found to have lower life satisfaction compared to their contemporaries who regularly partake in their morning meal. It's certainly food for thought!



The experts discovered a near-linear relationship between higher frequency of breakfast consumption and greater life satisfaction among children and adolescents aged 10 to 17 years across these nations, including Britain.



The healthiest dollop of life satisfaction was observed in participants who ate breakfast daily. On the flip side, those who never partook in breakfast had the lowest life satisfaction scores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-habits-around-the-world">Food habits around the world</h2>



The cultural diversity of food habits around the globe was evident in this study as well. Notably, Portuguese children who ate breakfast every day reported the highest levels of life satisfaction. 



In stark contrast, the lowest life satisfaction was found among children from Romania who never ate breakfast.



Even among the breakfast-eating population, not all countries fare the same. The study noted that children in England who had breakfast daily, did not score as high, coming in fifth in life satisfaction scores just ahead of Romania, Hungary, Germany, and Austria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-breakfast-and-happiness">Science behind breakfast and happiness</h2>



So, what's prompting this apparent correlation between breakfast and happiness? Professor Smith sheds light on some likely factors. Prior studies have indicated a link between low mood among adolescents who skip breakfast and higher instances of anxiety, stress, and depression.



Adding to this, breakfast sets the tone by providing the necessary energy and nutrients for optimal cognitive functioning. It's like oiling the gears for the day ahead, enhancing crucial functions such as concentration, memory, and learning.



Our daily breakfast also serves a cocktail of essential vitamins and minerals. Skipping these nutrients could potentially lead to lower life satisfaction over time. Plus, the regular routine of having breakfast can bring structure and a positive tone to the rest of your day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakfast-choices-and-their-impact">Breakfast choices and their impact</h2>



The type of breakfast consumed also plays a pivotal role in shaping life satisfaction levels. The study highlighted that the nutritional quality of breakfast can significantly affect both physical and mental health. 



Nutrient-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and dairy, are linked to improved mood and cognitive function. In contrast, sugary cereals and processed foods may lead to energy crashes and negatively impact emotional stability. 



As children are increasingly exposed to the lure of convenience foods, prioritizing wholesome breakfast options could serve as a simple yet effective strategy to enhance overall well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-avoid-skipping-breakfast">How to avoid skipping breakfast</h2>



Understanding the profound effects of breakfast on happiness underscores the importance of fostering healthy eating habits from a young age. 



Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">promote the knowledge</a> of the benefits of a nutritious breakfast. 



Schools could play an essential role by incorporating breakfast programs that not only provide healthy options but also educate students about the significance of nutrition in their daily lives. 



By instilling these habits early, we cultivate an environment where children savor the benefits of breakfast, ultimately paving the way for a healthier, happier generation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakfast-is-more-than-just-food">Breakfast is more than just food</h2>



However, there is a caveat. The study found that cultural diversity, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-human-diets-pose-many-risks-health-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyles</a>, and socio-economic factors also had a significant influence, hence the inconsistencies between countries. 



Despite this, the conclusion was unanimous: Regardless of the country, life satisfaction is higher in those who eat breakfast.



So, taking the time to enjoy a morning meal could be a recipe for not just a healthy day, but a happier life too. It's more than just food on the plate; it's nourishment for your body, mind, and perhaps even your happiness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-024-00979-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Nutrition</a>.



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Children who eat breakfast are happier in life

How often have you rushed out of the door in...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/western-diet-identified-as-major-cause-of-colon-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer</a> is a highly complex, multifaceted disease that places a substantial health burden all over the world. Since treatment is many times unsuccessful, especially if cancer is detected late, recent years have witnessed a significant surge in devising prevention strategies.



Many cancer prevention strategies are focused on dietary changes and the consumption of certain dietary supplements. However, the precise role of nutrition in cancer prevention is not yet fully understood.&nbsp;



Now, a review study published in the journal <a href="https://www.xiahepublishing.com/2835-3315/CSP-2023-00001" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer Screening and Prevention</a> has attempted to provide more comprehensive dietary guidelines to prevent this frequently lethal disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-cancer-prevention-nbsp">Diet and cancer prevention&nbsp;</h2>



“Diet and supplements have a significant impact on the causes and prevention of cancer. It is generally accepted that nutrition plays an important part in cancer incidence,” wrote the study authors.



“However, even after decades of epidemiological research, several inconsistencies arise as to how exactly specific dietary factors are linked to cancer prevention, limiting the establishment of firm conclusions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-increasing-cancer-risk">Factors increasing cancer risk</h2>



It is generally agreed in the scientific world that factors such as obesity, or intake of high-calorie foods, sugary beverages, and processed products increase cancer risk.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obesity">Obesity</h3>



Studies have found that obesity is linked to 14 percent of cancer deaths in men and 20 percent in women, with specific products such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-red-meat-risk-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red meat</a>, alcohol, or aflatoxins being related to the development of a variety of cancer types.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruits-and-vegetables-nbsp">Fruits and vegetables&nbsp;</h3>



On the other hand, consuming a high intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains appears to play a major role in cancer prevention.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamins-and-micronutrients">Vitamins and micronutrients</h3>



Moreover, various micronutrients and antioxidants found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-dietary-supplement-proven-to-combat-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary supplements</a>, such as vitamin B12, C, D, selenium, folic acid, and carotenoids have also been shown to prevent the development of carcinogenic tumors and increase overall health. Yet, their indiscriminate use can be dangerous, as many studies attest. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-extracts-and-cancer-prevention-nbsp">Plant extracts and cancer prevention&nbsp;</h2>



Another promising direction of research in cancer prevention has focused on plant extracts such as polyphenols, which were found to prevent cancer emergence and development.&nbsp;



Polyphenols are mostly found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts and can be classified into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-onions-antioxidants-flavonoids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavonoids</a>, phenolic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and other compounds.



“The main polyphenols found in plants are flavonoids and phenolic acids, which make up about 30% and 60% of all naturally occurring polyphenols, respectively,” noted the researchers.&nbsp;



“Some forms of cancer are well-protected against polyphenols: They have toxic effects on cells that can limit the growth of tumors and that cause apoptosis.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-effects-of-polyphenols-nbsp">Protective effects of polyphenols&nbsp;</h2>



According to the study authors, polyphenols appear to be effective chemopreventive drugs due to a number of protective actions they exhibit, including cell cycle signaling modification, activation of antioxidant enzymes, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest.



“The antioxidants (present in fruits, vegetables, and nuts) help to repair cells, have anti-inflammatory properties, and reduce excessive free radical formation in the body, which is the main mechanism of action of cancer cells.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-diet-and-cancer-prevention">Connecting diet and cancer prevention </h2>



The researchers also noted that data from epidemiological, preclinical, and clinical research have made a significant contribution to the knowledge connecting diet and cancer prevention.



However, up to date, there is only a limited understanding of the fundamental relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-improves-health-in-women-with-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> and cancer prevention. 



In addition, as the researchers argued, dietary supplements should not be administered indiscriminately since they may also have negative effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-conclusive-evidence">Lack of conclusive evidence </h2>



“Cancer research is challenging, and it is never easy to determine the true impact of just one of these factors because several lifestyle factors also have an impact on the risk of cancer. This is an important point regarding the efficacy of diet and supplements in the prevention of cancer,” noted the study authors.



“There is currently no conclusive evidence in favor of any one dietary regimen for lowering the risk of cancer.”



Yet, as they repeatedly stress, the findings of various studies indicate that general dietary modification has a positive impact on the prevention of cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The experts concluded that while diet and dietary supplements enable cancer patients to actively participate in their care, it is important to make sure that the patient is aware of the risks associated with forgoing proven conventional treatments.



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Which dietary changes are best for cancer prevention?

Cancer is a highly complex, multifaceted disease that places a...

The humble pot, pan, or vacuum cleaner may pop into our minds when we talk about household work. While the physical aspect of these chores, especially done by mothers, does indeed carry weight, there's an often-overlooked factor. It's something less tangible yet just as taxing – the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-report-excess-burnout-due-to-unrealistic-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive load</a> of household management. Now, what if this mental load of household chores could affect their health?



The research was carried out at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a>, led by Darby Saxbe, a Professor of Psychology, and Lizzie Aviv, a Ph.D. Candidate in Psychology. They have unraveled the 'invisible' aspect of household labour.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-load-of-household-chores">Mental load of household chores</h2>



Physical tasks are a big part of housework. But it turns out there's another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-often-feel-lonely-burnt-out-parenting-demands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sphere of work</a> entailing anticipation, planning, organizing, and delegation.



Ever wondered who's responsible for remembering when to get more dish soap? Or who decides which vegetables need to be chopped for that stew? That is cognitive housework.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unequal-burden-of-chores-for-mothers">Unequal burden of chores for mothers</h2>



In their study, Saxbe and Aviv reveal how this cognitive part of housework is split even more unequally between partners than the physical part.



And the impact? Women, especially, mothers, who bear the brunt of this cognitive load tend to experience higher levels of depression, stress, relationship dissatisfaction, and burnout.



In their research, the researchers asked 322 mothers of young children about who handled 30 common household tasks. Intriguingly, on average, mothers reported performing about 73% of all cognitive household work and 64% of physical work in contrast to their partners' 27% and 36% respectively.



"Our study is one of the first to investigate the cognitive dimension of household labor and its effects on maternal mental health. Cognitive labor may be particularly taxing for women because it often runs behind the scenes and goes&nbsp;unacknowledged or unappreciated by others. It also pulls mental energy away from other priorities," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chores-and-mothers-health">Chores and mothers' health</h2>



Such disparities in the division of household work are not just about who does the dishes or laundry. They play an important role in global gender equality, affecting women's participation in paid work, as well as their health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-top-concerns-of-parents-as-kids-return-to-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">well-being</a>.



While this research is certainly eye-opening, it does rely heavily on self-reported data from mothers in heterosexual relationships. Future studies could include both partners and explore diverse relationship configurations. 



Plus, the long-term effects of this unequal cognitive labor division on women's mental health and cognitive functioning are still largely unknown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-mental-load-of-chores">Addressing the mental load of chores</h2>



To address the cognitive labor imbalance, both individuals and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/maternal-mortality-the-overlooked-needs-of-mothers-after-childbirth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">families</a> can adopt practical strategies that foster equality in household responsibilities. 



Open communication between partners is essential; discussing expectations and dividing tasks based on personal strengths and preferences can alleviate the mental load shouldered by one individual. 



Additionally, implementing shared planning tools, such as family calendars or task management apps, can serve as a visual cue that encourages collaboration and accountability. 



By actively engaging both partners in housework planning, the invisible burden of cognitive labor can be more evenly distributed, leading to better mental health outcomes and relationship satisfaction.



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



As we strive for a more equitable division of household responsibilities, raising awareness about the nuances of cognitive labor is crucial. Educational initiatives that highlight the unseen aspects of household management can empower individuals to recognise and discuss their experiences. 



Moreover, societal changes - such as advocating for policies that support work-life balance and promote shared parental responsibilities - are essential to foster an environment where both partners can contribute to household tasks equally.



Raising this collective consciousness can ultimately shift cultural perceptions around gender roles in domestic settings, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced future for families everywhere.



Next time you see a mom, remember there's likely a whole load of unseen work she's responsible for - and this "mental load" can be a major stress factor. 



As Saxbe and Aviv suggest, it's high time we acknowledged this issue. From couples therapists to premarital relationship educators, everyone needs to pay attention to this under-recognized aspect of domestic work.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00737-024-01490-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archives of Women s Mental Health</a>.



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Moms are more worried about chores, and it's a heavy mental load

The humble pot, pan, or vacuum cleaner may pop into...

Chrononutrition is rapidly gaining attention among established and budding health enthusiasts who have long been concerned with the age-old question: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-not-overeating-but-what-we-eat-that-causes-weight-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What should we eat</a>?



However, recent advancements in nutrition science suggest that we may need to broaden our perspective beyond "what" to include "when."



Emerging research supports the idea that the timing of our meals, in relation to our circadian rhythm and metabolism, can substantially influence our general health and well-being.



In a special publication dedicated to the field of chrononutrition, the complex interplay between temporal eating patterns, circadian rhythms, and metabolism is dissected to ascertain the optimal dietary practices for health. 



The reports, published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics</a>, delve into the impact of various fasting regimes, safety guidelines, and practical advice for the everyday individual.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chrononutrition-a-growing-area-of-interest">Chrononutrition: A growing area of interest</h2>



Chrononutrition is undoubtedly a growing area of interest, and the <a href="https://www.uic.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Chicago</a> is at the helm of exploring this pioneering field. 



Dr. Krista Varady is an influential scholar in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition with over 15 years of research experience.



"Intermittent fasting has emerged as one of the most popular diets for weight loss in recent years. The diet can be defined, in basic terms, as periods of eating, alternated with periods of not eating," said Dr. Varady.



This honorable guest editor is known for her expertise in intermittent fasting for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-protein-with-intermittent-fasting-better-weight-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight loss</a> and lowering the risk of metabolic diseases in obese adults. 



Dr. Varady simplifies complex dietary regimes including time-restricted eating, alternate day fasting, and the 5:2 diet. She has meticulously explored the effects of these dietary patterns on body weight, disease risk, and sleep and exercise performance in human subjects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clinical-implications-of-chrononutrition">Clinical implications of chrononutrition</h2>



Linda G. Snetselaar, a distinguished professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the <a href="https://uiowa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a>, serves as editor-in-chief of the journal. 



"The findings presented in this special issue have important clinical implications. I believe the timing of eating will become increasingly important as we address dietary interventions related to chronic disease risk factors," noted Professor Snetselaar.



The journal issue includes a pioneering study that scrutinized the feasibility of eating within an 8-hour window as a strategy for weight loss and glucose management among adolescents with obesity and new-onset type 2 diabetes.



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



In addition to its impressive array of scientific studies, the special publication also features valuable insights from early-career investigators. A standout example is an enlightening paper exploring correlations between meal <a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timings</a> and sleep health among young adults.



Another compelling read in the <a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issue</a> investigates the diverse factors that can influence adherence to time-restricted eating practices. This particular study was led by Sydney G. O’Connor from the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research at the National Institutes of Health.



"Dietary adherence is the strongest predictor of successful weight loss and maintenance; therefore, identifying dietary strategies that facilitate adherence is a priority in the field of behavioral weight management," said O’Connor.



As more people grow weary of traditional calorie-restrictive diets, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/intermittent-fasting-could-be-the-key-to-better-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intermittent fasting</a> regimes provide a refreshing alternative that allows participants to "watch the clock."



"Many people stop adhering to standard diets that restrict calories because they become frustrated with having to regularly monitor food intake day in and day out," said Dr. Varady.



She noted that although fasting regimens are no more effective than other diet interventions for weight management, these protocols offer individuals an alternative, straightforward approach to addressing obesity by omitting the need for calorie counting. 



"While weight loss is important, having a diet with a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes is paramount in maintaining a replete nutritional status. These foods can be both inexpensive and culturally appropriate."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-technology-in-chrononutrition">The role of technology in chrononutrition</h2>



As the field of chrononutrition continues to evolve, technology is playing an increasingly vital role in helping individuals track their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-eating-patterns-reduce-the-risk-of-premature-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating patterns</a> and optimize their dietary habits. 



Mobile apps designed for meal timing and intermittent fasting are gaining popularity, enabling users to monitor their food intake with ease and precision. These tools not only remind users when to eat but also provide insights into how meal timing affects their energy levels and overall well-being.



Emerging research suggests that wearable devices can also contribute to our understanding of chrononutrition by tracking biological markers related to circadian rhythms, such as sleep patterns and activity levels. 



By combining data from these technologies, individuals can gain a comprehensive view of how their eating habits align with their body's natural rhythms, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective dietary strategies.



The future of chrononutrition may well be intertwined with advancements in technology, paving the way for improved dietary interventions. As we gain access to these tools, we can empower individuals to make informed choices about when to eat, enhancing their journey toward optimal health and wellness.



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Meal timing has a major influence on our health

Chrononutrition is rapidly gaining attention among established and budding health...

A recent study reveals that losing close family members, such as a parent, partner, sibling, or child, can accelerate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological aging</a>. The results suggest that losing multiple loved ones has an even more profound influence on health and aging.



The research was conducted by experts at the <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health</a> and the <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/centers/robert-n-butler-columbia-aging-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Butler Columbia Aging Center</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-loved-ones-and-the-aging-process">Losing loved ones and the aging process</h2>



The study indicates that individuals experiencing such losses exhibit signs of older biological age compared to those who have not.&nbsp;



Biological aging refers to the gradual decline in cellular and organ function, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. This aging process is measured using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetic clocks</a>, which are DNA markers.



“Few studies have looked at how losing a loved one at different stages of life affects these DNA markers, especially in study samples that represent the U.S. population,” said Allison Aiello, PhD, the James S. Jackson professor of health longevity in epidemiology and the study's lead author.&nbsp;



“Our study shows strong links between losing loved ones across the life course from childhood to adulthood and faster biological aging in the U.S.”



The research, which was conducted in collaboration with the <a href="https://www.cpc.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Population Center</a> at UNC Chapel Hill, suggests that the effects of loss on aging manifest well before middle age and may contribute to health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups. 



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



The researchers analyzed data from the <a href="https://addhealth.cpc.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health</a>, which began in 1994-95. This study has tracked participants from adolescence into adulthood.



To assess familial loss during childhood or adolescence, Aiello and her colleagues followed participants through several data collection waves. The initial wave surveyed 20,745 adolescents aged 12-19, with follow-ups continuing through Wave V, which took place from 2016 to 2018.&nbsp;



In the latest wave, around 4,500 participants provided blood samples for DNA testing to measure biological aging markers.



The researchers examined losses experienced up to age 18 (childhood or adolescence) and from ages 19 to 43 (adulthood). They also considered the cumulative number of losses.&nbsp;



Biological aging was evaluated using epigenetic clocks, including the DunedinPACE clock, developed by Aiello’s Aging Center colleague Dan Belsky and collaborators at <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-losing-loved-ones">Effects of losing loved ones</h2>



The study revealed that nearly 40 percent of participants experienced at least one significant loss in adulthood between the ages of 33 and 43. Loss of a parent was more common during adulthood (27 percent) compared to childhood and adolescence (6 percent).&nbsp;



Notably, a higher proportion of Black (57 percent) and Hispanic (41 percent) participants reported experiencing at least one loss compared to White participants (34 percent).



Those who experienced two or more losses showed signs of accelerated biological aging according to multiple epigenetic clocks. The study highlighted that experiencing multiple losses in adulthood was more closely associated with accelerated biological aging than experiencing just one or no losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-stages-of-life-are-more-vulnerable-nbsp">Some stages of life are more vulnerable&nbsp;</h2>



“The connection between losing loved ones and health problems throughout life is well-established,” Aiello said. “But some stages of life might be more vulnerable to the health risks associated with loss, and the accumulation of loss appears to be a significant factor.”



The study emphasizes that loss during any life stage can have profound health implications. However, losses during critical developmental periods, such as childhood or early adulthood, may have more severe consequences.&nbsp;



The trauma from losing a close family member can lead to mental health issues, cognitive problems, increased risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-diet-may-save-your-life-six-key-foods-lower-the-risk-of-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, and a higher likelihood of premature death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-loved-ones-during-formative-years">Losing loved ones during formative years </h2>



Aiello and her co-authors stress that while loss at any age can have enduring health impacts, the consequences may be more pronounced during formative years.&nbsp;



“We still don’t fully understand how loss leads to poor health and higher mortality, but biological aging may be one mechanism as suggested in our study," said Aiello.



"Future research should focus on finding ways to reduce disproportionate losses among vulnerable groups. For those who experience loss, providing resources for coping and addressing the trauma is essential."



The findings underscore the need for comprehensive support systems to help individuals cope with significant losses, aiming to mitigate the adverse health effects associated with accelerated biological aging. This study provides critical insights into the intersection of psychological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-can-cause-muscle-decline-adult-life/">trauma</a>, aging, and public health.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.21869">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Losing loved ones can speed up biological aging

A recent study reveals that losing close family members, such...

Selection,Of,Food,High,In,Sugar,,Written,Sugar

Do the foods we eat affect how young or old we feel or look? Researchers at the <a href="https://www.ucsf.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, San Francisco</a>, have had a riveting revelation. They found a critical link between a nutrient-rich, low-sugar diet and a younger biological age at the cellular level.&nbsp;



The research was led by Dr. Dorothy Chiu, a postdoctoral scholar at the <a href="https://osher.ucsf.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Health</a>.&nbsp;



"The diets we examined align with existing recommendations for preventing disease and promoting health and highlight the potency of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients in particular. From a lifestyle medicine standpoint, it is empowering to see how heeding these recommendations may promote a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/true-biological-age-hidden-blood-markers-newly-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">younger cellular age</a> relative to chronological age," said Dr. Chiu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugary-diet-and-biological-age">Sugary diet and biological age</h2>



The crux of this research aimed to see how different measures of healthy eating affected the "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetic clock</a>." This biochemical test can estimate both health and lifespan. The exciting discovery was, the healthier the diet, the younger the cells appeared.



However, there was also a correlation between added sugar and cellular aging. Even with a health-conscious diet, every gram of added sugar consumed was associated with an increase in the epigenetic age. The study deepens our understanding of why sugar is detrimental to health.



"We knew that high levels of added sugars are linked to worsened metabolic health and early disease, possibly more than any other dietary factor," said Professor Elissa Epel, a co-senior author of the study.



"Now we know that accelerated epigenetic aging is underlying this relationship, and this is likely one of many ways that excessive sugar intake limits healthy longevity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-added-sugar-consumption">Added sugar consumption</h2>



The women in the study reported consuming an average of 61.5 grams of added sugar per day.&nbsp;



To put this in perspective, a bar of milk chocolate has about 25 grams of added sugar, while a 12-ounce can of cola packs about 39 grams.&nbsp;



The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults consume no more than 50 grams of added sugar per day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-diet-on-age">Impact of diet on age</h2>



The researchers thoroughly analyzed the food records of 342 women with an average age of 39. The individual diets were compared with epigenetic clock measures, which were derived from saliva samples.



The results of the analysis showed a strong correlation between adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components, and a lower epigenetic age. In essence, consuming lesser added sugar led to a slow-down in biological aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-health-through-diet">Revolutionizing health through diet</h2>



Barbara Laraia, a co-senior author of the study, provided an interesting proposition.&nbsp;"Given that epigenetic patterns appear to be reversible, eliminating 10 grams of added sugar per day is akin to turning back the biological clock by 2.4 months, if sustained over time," noted Laraia.



"Focusing on foods that are high in key nutrients and low in added sugars may be a new way to motivate people to eat well for longevity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-nutritional-education">Role of nutritional education</h2>



Understanding the complex link between diet and cellular aging requires solid nutritional education. When people are knowledgeable, they can make informed choices such as prioritizing nutrient-dense foods and avoiding processed options that are high in added sugars.



This educational approach could be crucial in changing dietary habits. It fosters a culture that values healthy eating. Ultimately, this contributes to a broader societal shift towards longevity and well-being.



Initiatives to integrate nutritional lessons into schools and community programs are essential, as they lay a foundation for lifelong healthy eating practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-age-and-the-way-forward">Food, age, and the way forward</h2>



The findings from this unique research provide valuable insights into the role of diet in influencing our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological age</a>. Eliminating sugars from our diets can potentially roll back the years and allow us to maintain our vitality and vigor.



So, next time you reach for that sugary treat, remember, you might be stealing a little youth from your future self. Can we sustain a diet rich in necessary nutrients and low in added sugars?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/article-abstract/2821611" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Want to reverse your age? Take sugar out of your diet 

Do the foods we eat affect how young or old...

There is a prevalent myth about drinking echoing through the corridors of our society, one that suggests a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-single-glass-of-wine-a-night-could-lead-to-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glass of wine</a>&nbsp;a day keeps the doctor away.&nbsp;Despite the popularity of this "conventional wisdom" on alcohol drinking, it is based on flawed scientific research - according to a recent report.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-myth-of-drinking-alcohol">Myth of drinking alcohol</h2>



Numerous studies over time have revealed an intriguing possibility. Moderate drinkers may lead longer, healthier lives (including lower risks of heart disease and other chronic ailments) compared to those who abstain. This suggests that moderate alcohol consumption could be beneficial for overall health.



The consequence of such suggestions? An unfounded belief that alcohol is somewhat of a magical health potion.



Nonetheless, several other reports have painted a less rosy picture of the effects of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moderate-alcohol-intake-offers-no-protection-against-obesity-or-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moderate alcohol consumption</a>. A new analysis has illuminated why this discrepancy exists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questionable-research-on-drinking-alcohol">Questionable research on drinking alcohol </h2>



Researchers at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uvic.ca/research/centres/cisur/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Victoria's Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research</a>&nbsp;have identified significant design flaws in studies linking moderate drinking to health benefits.&nbsp;



The main issue with these studies lies in their focus group - older adults. These studies have failed to consider the lifetime drinking habits of these individuals.



Consequently, moderate drinkers were compared to a group of "abstainers" and "occasional drinkers" comprising older adults.&nbsp;



Some of these individuals had quit drinking or reduced their alcohol intake due to the onset of various health concerns.



These flawed comparisons have skewed the appearances, making moderate drinkers look ostensibly healthier. However, as the researchers note, appearances can be quite deceiving in this context.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revisiting-the-data">Revisiting the data</h2>



The research team reviewed 107 published studies exploring the relationship between drinking habits and longevity.&nbsp;



Following a review of the accumulated data, it seemed as if light to moderate drinkers had a 14% lower risk of dying during the study period compared to abstainers.



Things took a dramatic turn when the researchers explored further. The studies deemed "higher quality" included younger participants.



The studies differentiated between former drinkers and lifelong abstainers, revealing no connection between moderate alcohol drinking and increased longevity.



It was only the "lower quality" studies that established such a correlation. "If you look at the weakest studies, that’s where you see health benefits," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-myth-of-moderate-drinking-and-longevity">Myth of moderate drinking and longevity</h2>



The belief that moderate drinking can lead to a longer, healthier life isn't something new - it's an idea that has existed for decades.&nbsp;



One example is the French paradox. This theory, popularized in the 1990s, proposed that red wine was the secret behind the relatively low rates of heart disease in France, despite rich, fatty diets. This perspective of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-has-a-hidden-impact-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a>&nbsp;as a health tonic still seems to be deeply ingrained in the public's imagination.



However, the stark reality is that moderate drinking likely does not prolong life. Instead, it potentially invites health risks, including an increased likelihood of certain cancers. Hence, no major health organization has ever posited a risk-free level of alcohol consumption.



"There is simply no completely ‘safe’ level of drinking," concluded lead researcher Tim Stockwell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-factors-and-drinking-habits">Social factors and drinking habits</h2>



Beyond the scientific debate about the health implications of moderate drinking, it's essential to consider the social factors that shape drinking habits and perceptions. Cultural norms, peer influences, and social settings often play significant roles in how individuals approach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetics-behind-different-levels-alcohol-consumption-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol consumption</a>.



Many people drink to socialize, celebrate, or relax after a long day. This makes moderate drinking seem normal. However, the pressure to fit in can cause some to drink more than they plan. This blurs the line between moderation and excess.



Studies indicate that the context of alcohol consumption affects its health impacts. For instance, social drinking can result in larger quantities consumed quickly, potentially undermining the benefits of moderate drinking.



Additionally, the impact of alcohol on mental health cannot be overlooked. While some may turn to alcohol as a means of relaxation or coping with stress, it can contribute to anxiety and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seven-healthy-lifestyle-habits-that-prevent-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>&nbsp;over time.



This cyclical relationship complicates the narrative around moderate drinking. The context and purpose behind consumption are crucial. They matter just as much as the quantity consumed.



Understanding the social aspects of drinking is crucial. It helps individuals make informed choices about their alcohol consumption. This knowledge can lead to healthier lifestyles. Moreover, prioritizing well-being over social pressures is essential.



Exploring myths about alcohol drinking needs a balanced view, looking at both science and social factors.



The study is published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jsad.com/doi/10.15288/jsad.23-00283" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs</a>.



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Drinking alcohol in moderation does not prolong life

There is a prevalent myth about drinking echoing through the...

Ask anyone around you - "Do you believe you have control over your actions?" The chances are high you'll hear a resounding "Yes." Most people cherish the idea that they are the architects of their destiny, exercising sovereignty over their personal decisions and their own free will.



This concept of control, commonly referred to as free will, is a fundamental premise that profoundly shapes our identity and influences how we navigate the world. 



It instills a sense of responsibility for our choices and actions, and it becomes a cornerstone of our moral and ethical frameworks.



However, what if, in reality, we're not the ones truly calling the shots? What if our decisions are influenced by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simulation-hypothesis-are-humans-living-in-a-simulated-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors beyond our awareness</a>?



This unsettling yet thought-provoking idea is the bold hypothesis explored in Robert Sapolsky's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Determined-Science-Life-without-Free/dp/0525560971" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest book</a>, "Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will."



In it, Sapolsky delves into the intricate interplay of biology, environment, and psychology, challenging our conventional understanding of autonomy and prompting readers to reconsider the essence of human agency.



The book invites us to question the very foundations of how we perceive ourselves and our choices in an increasingly complex world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-s-robert-sapolsky">Who’s Robert Sapolsky?</h2>



A neurobiologist serving <a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, Robert Sapolsky is no stranger to the intricate secrets of the human mind and the biological mechanisms that underpin our behavior.



With over four decades of dedicated research studying both human and primate behavior, his journey has taken him through diverse environments, from the jungles of Africa observing wild baboons to the labs of academia delving into the neurological processes that drive our actions.



Throughout his extensive career, he has explored the interplay between genetics, environment, and neurobiology, leading to a controversial revelation: we may not have control over our behavior any more than we do over a seizure or the rhythmic throb of our heartbeats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paradigm-shift-from-common-belief">Paradigm shift from common belief</h2>



The notion seems counter-intuitive, doesn't it? We've always been taught to believe that we control our actions, that our choices define our destinies.



However, the mind-boggling research conducted by <a href="https://profiles.stanford.edu/robert-sapolsky" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Sapolsky</a>, traversing various scientific disciplines such as neuroscience, psychology, and genetics, paints a significantly different picture.



His findings suggest that everything we do, whether it's the most trivial decision or a choice that has transformative consequences, isn’t really a matter of personal choice.



Instead, our actions could be sculpted and influenced by complex neurological processes and environmental factors that operate beneath our conscious awareness, making us mere bystanders in our own lives.



Sapolsky throws down the gauntlet with a stern reality check, stating, "The world is really screwed up and made much, much more unfair by the fact that we reward people and punish people for things they have no control over. We've got no free will. Stop attributing stuff to us that isn't there."



This powerful statement challenges our long-held beliefs about moral responsibility and accountability, urging us to reconsider the implications of our choices in a world where free will may not exist in the way we’ve always imagined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-free-will-is-handcuffed-by-genetics">Free will is handcuffed by genetics</h2>



On one end of the spectrum, we have large swathes of the population who perceive free will as an undeniable reality, believing that individuals possess the power to make choices that shape their destinies.



This perspective champions the idea that personal agency and decision-making are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simulation-hypothesis-are-we-living-in-a-computer-simulation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fundamental to human experience</a>.



In stark contrast, the viewpoint articulated by Sapolsky suggests that our actions are not solely a product of our own volition but rather the result of an intricate dance of genetics, environmental conditions, and neurochemistry.



This perspective posits that factors such as our genetic makeup, the circumstances of our upbringing, and even the chemical reactions occurring within our brains significantly influence our decisions and behaviors.



As a result, our failures and successes appear less like achievements or shortcomings of our own doing and more like byproducts of these external elements, challenging the notion of personal responsibility and prompting deeper reflection on the complexities of human behavior.



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



Sapolsky's new book, "Determined", builds on the solid foundation laid in his previous bestseller, "Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst".



This thought-provoking book delves deeply into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-is-a-virtual-world-and-humans-play-the-roles-of-its-characters-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intricate and mysterious elements</a> that influence our behavior, offering readers a comprehensive exploration of the forces at play.



Sapolsky sweeps across the vast panorama of time, examining everything from the immediate moments leading up to decision-making to the centuries-old evolutionary processes that have shaped our brain and behavior.



"Determined" meticulously discusses how genetic, environmental, and social factors intertwine, collaborating to steer our actions in ways we may not even consciously recognize.



With a mix of scientific rigor and engaging storytelling, Sapolsky invites readers to reflect on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/science-behind-predicting-and-changing-human-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complexities of human behavior</a> and the myriad influences that guide us every day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconciling-free-will-with-reality">Reconciling free will with reality</h2>



The concept of dismissing free will significantly rattles the fundamental principles of morality and justice, causing us to question the very foundation upon which our legal and ethical systems are built.



After all, if our choices and actions are not truly within our control, how can society justly hold individuals accountable for them?



This dilemma raises profound questions about responsibility and accountability. Philosopher Gregg Caruso, a faculty member at SUNY Corning, echoes Sapolsky's perspective, suggesting that recognizing our lack of control over our actions could ultimately lead to a fairer and more equitable justice system.



Caruso argues, "Who we are and what we do is ultimately the result of factors beyond our control, and because of this we are never morally responsible for our actions in the sense that would make us truly deserving of praise and blame, punishment and reward."



His vision for justice highlights the need to prevent future harm instead of just pointing fingers or handing out punishments.



By focusing on rehabilitation and exploring the root causes of behavior, Caruso supports a system that prioritizes community safety and personal growth over revenge. This approach creates a more positive environment for individuals and benefits society overall.



As we dive into these concepts, it’s clear that rethinking our justice system could lead to important insights and real change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-divide-among-critics">Great divide among critics</h2>



Not everyone’s on board with Sapolsky's conclusions regarding the nature of free will and the influence of external factors on our behavior.



According to Peter U. Tse, a prominent neuroscientist at <a href="https://www.dartmouth.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a>, our brain's remarkable capacity for variable responses leaves ample room for the concept of free will, even in the face of significant external influences.



Tse argues that this variability is crucial, as it suggests that individuals can make choices that are not entirely dictated by their environment or biology.



Some critics express concern that eradicating the belief in free will could weaken personal responsibility, potentially leading to a society where accountability diminishes and anarchy could ensue.



Saul Smilansky, a noted philosopher at the <a href="https://www.haifa.ac.il/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Haifa</a>, emphasizes the importance of finding a delicate balance between acknowledging the various influences on human behavior and maintaining a robust sense of agency and personal accountability.



He suggests that it is vital for societal cohesion that individuals feel empowered to make choices and are held responsible for those choices, as this fosters a sense of moral integrity and social order.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interplay-of-science-and-society-in-free-will-debate">Interplay of science and society in free will debate</h2>



The debate about free will goes beyond academic discussions; it’s woven into our personal relationships, social interactions, and public policies.



This conversation raises important questions about human autonomy and moral responsibility, influencing how we see and treat each other in everyday life.



By recognizing the many factors that affect behavior -- like genetics, environment, and social context -- we can move towards a kinder, fairer society.



For example, understanding how trauma impacts brain development can help us adopt more compassionate and forgiving approaches to mental health care and crime.



When we realize that people are often shaped by their experiences, we can create policies that focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment and develop support systems that encourage healing and growth, ultimately building a more empathetic and just society for everyone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-down-to-the-heart-of-the-matter">Getting down to the heart of the matter</h2>



Sapolsky's work wraps up on a touching note of compassion. He emphasizes the importance of understanding our limits of personal control while also acknowledging the strong impact of external factors on our lives.



"It's not about letting people off the hook; it's about recognizing the shared humanity that connects us all," he concludes, which underscores the need for empathy, especially during tough times.



As we explore the complexities of the brain and what drives human behavior, the debate over free will keeps challenging our traditional views.



This ongoing discussion pushes us to rethink our judgments and encourages a kinder approach toward others, helping us better understand the many influences that shape our choices and actions.



In a time when we're gaining more scientific insights into behavior, the conversation around free will is a crucial way to evaluate how we interact with each other and our society.



The LA Times contributed to this report.



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"Humans don't have free will," according to decades of research by Stanford scientist

Ask anyone around you - "Do you believe you have...

Ever hit a wall with your fitness routine, feeling it's not quite filling your needs? Or are you among those who wheel their carts down the supermarket aisles, clueless about meal planning for your dietary needs? The good news is, artificial intelligence (AI) is set to transform the way that we approach health and fitness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-s-role-in-different-fields">AI's role in different fields</h2>



AI is changing the rules of the game in health and fitness. The central premise of AI lies in computer systems performing tasks that usually require human intelligence.



Think learning, reasoning, decision-making -- the whole nine yards. AI scans enormous amounts of data, identifies patterns, and makes intelligent decisions based on these findings.



Traditional health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cardiorespiratory-fitness-cuts-early-death-risks-by-53-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fitness methods</a> often adopt a generic approach, a square peg for all round holes. But AI flips this on its head, providing custom-fit solutions tailored to individual needs, preferences, and goals. 



The result? Fitness routines that hit the spot, keeping it exciting and productive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-as-a-workout-buddy-and-personal-trainer">AI as a workout buddy and personal trainer</h2>



Sure, an exercise partner can be a fantastic motivator. They can push you to go that extra mile and hold you accountable for your fitness goals. 



However, some of us find tranquility and focus in a solo jog, where we can listen to our thoughts or enjoy a podcast.



AI offers a solution to this dilemma. Virtual trainers have your back, ensuring your planks and sprints are up to the mark with real-time feedback and personalized routines. They can adapt to your progress, offering tailored advice that evolves with your fitness level.



The age of expert fitness guidance for everyone is here, thanks to these digital comrades, making high-quality training accessible anytime, anywhere.



Much like when choosing a human personal trainer, quality is key. Fortunately, high quality options are already out there. 



If you’re on an iPhone, <a href="https://fitnessai-w2a.onelink.me/nwoz/em3xjt4n" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FitnessAI gives you the power of a personal trainer</a> in your pocket for a fraction of the cost. 



Android users fear not, <a href="https://www.bodbot.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BodBot</a> and <a href="https://www.future.co/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future</a> are good options too.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-for-health-metrics">AI for health metrics</h2>



AI serves beyond your workout needs; it's an all-day health sentinel. AI-enabled wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers keep an eagle eye on your health metrics, tracking everything from your pulse to your sleep quality.



They can monitor your heart rate during intense exercises. They analyze your daily activity levels and can even detect irregularities in your heartbeat.



These devices offer insights into your sleep patterns, helping you understand and improve your sleep quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictive-analysis-with-ai">Predictive analysis with AI</h2>



One ace that AI holds up its sleeve is predictive health analysis. Picture a crystal ball that can spot potential health issues before they escalate.



AI's data analysis plays this role, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-alert-doctors-when-patients-might-get-sicker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting health problems</a> like diabetes, heart disease, or sleep disorders.



AI continuously monitors health metrics. It analyzes patterns in large datasets that allows it to identify subtle signs of impending issues. These signs might go unnoticed by human eyes.



So, early detection? Check. Timely intervention? Check.



This not only helps in managing diseases more effectively but also in tailoring personalized healthcare plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-nutrition-with-ai-help">Diet and nutrition with AI help</h2>



Crave a personal nutritionist but can't stomach the cost? AI bridges this gap with personalized nutrition plans. Based on your dietary needs, preferences, and health goals, AI brews up tailor-made meal plans just for you.



These plans take into account a variety of factors such as allergies, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diet-positively-influences-the-brains-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritional deficiencies</a>, and even your daily activity level.



With these AI-assisted apps, you can easily track your meals. They provide recommendations for healthier food choices. You can even receive reminders to stay hydrated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-for-mental-health-care">AI for mental health care</h2>



The connection between stress management and overall health is rock solid. Chronic stress can lead to numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.



From custom meditation plans that guide you through calming exercises, to virtual therapists that offer 24/7 support, AI provides a wealth of resources. These tools are invaluable for those battling stress or mental health challenges.



These advanced tools help individuals develop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-ai-algorithm-can-predict-a-persons-attitude-towards-vaccines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coping strategies</a>, track their progress, and ultimately improve their well-being.



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



Fitness, though often a solo journey, thrives on community and support. AI steps in here, connecting folks with fellow fitness enthusiasts through online platforms and social media.



These AI-crafted connections foster a sense of belonging and motivation, encouraging individuals to share triumphs, trials, and tips. The result? A fortified commitment to health and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-s-expanding-role-in-fitness-and-health">AI’s expanding role in fitness and health</h2>



The role of AI in the fitness landscape is set for a growth spurt. Future promises include virtual reality workouts and augmented reality coaching, all set to revolutionize our fitness experiences. 



With AI's continued integration, we can anticipate a more personalized approach to health management, making fitness more accessible, enjoyable, and long-lasting for all.



AI dons many hats - a personal fitness trainer, health monitor, diet strategist, and mental health ally. As we stride into the future, welcoming us is the prospect of better health and contentment. 



AI continues to evolve and integrate further into our healthcare systems. So, are you ready to let AI navigate you towards a healthier life?



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How AI is changing the way we approach health and fitness

Ever hit a wall with your fitness routine, feeling it's...

Have you ever wondered if the answer to hair loss could be as simple as a sugar cube? Well, you might not be too far off. 



A recent study has revealed that a specific sugar compound, known as 2-deoxy-D-ribose (2dDR), may hold the key to treating male pattern baldness or androgenic alopecia as it's scientifically referred to.



Now, that's sweet news for the millions of men around the world affected by this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-anti-aging-drug-interleukin-11-boosts-lifespan-prevents-cancer-gray-hair/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common condition</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2ddr-sugar-vs-male-baldness">2dDR sugar vs. male baldness</h2>



This surprising discovery comes from the dedicated efforts of Professor Sheila MacNeil, Emeritus Professor of Tissue Engineering at the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a>, and her team of international scientists from <a href="https://www.comsats.edu.pk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COMSATS University</a> in Pakistan.



Their joint research has brought this naturally occurring sugar into the spotlight, thanks to its ability to promote angiogenesis - the growth of new blood vessels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-2ddr-sugar-works">How the 2dDR sugar works</h2>



2dDR isn't your run-of-the-mill table sugar; it's a molecule that has a profound role in various biological processes in both animals and humans.



When applied to the skin of bald mice, the researchers noted a substantial regrowth of hair. Interestingly, this was akin to the effects seen with minoxidil, one of the only two FDA-approved drugs for treating baldness.



"Male pattern baldness is such a common condition, affecting men all over the world", says Professor MacNeil. 



"Our research suggests that the answer to treating hair loss might be as simple as using a naturally occurring deoxy ribose sugar to boost the blood supply to the hair follicles to encourage hair growth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sweet-side-of-science">Sweet side of science</h2>



We're all aware of the crucial role hair follicles play in producing hair. These tiny skin organs require a robust blood supply to perform their function correctly. 



By encouraging the formation of new blood vessels around these follicles, the sugar compound creates an environment conducive to hair growth, prolonging the active growth phase of the hair cycle in baldness. 



This method directly contrasts with existing treatments like minoxidil and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finasteride-regrows-hair-heals-prostate-boosts-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">finasteride</a>, which work by widening blood vessels or blocking hormones involved in hair loss.



The researchers stumbled upon 2dDR's potential while studying how the sugar could aid wound healing through the formation of new blood vessels.



They observed accelerated hair growth around the healing wounds when compared to untreated areas. This realization spurred them to explore 2dDR's potential for hair loss treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2ddr-sugar-compound-for-baldness">2dDR sugar compound for baldness</h2>



While the results are indeed promising, it's crucial to remember this study was conducted on mice. Human trials still need to be undertaken to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of 2dDR for hair regrowth in people. 



Nevertheless, the researchers are hopeful about this sugar compound's potential to offer a fresh approach to treating hair loss.



"This pro-angiogenic deoxy ribose sugar is naturally occurring, inexpensive and stable", notes Muhammed Yar, an associate professor at COMSATS University Pakistan. "This makes it an attractive candidate to explore further for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finally-a-cure-for-baldness-scientists-regrow-hair-using-stem-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment of hair loss</a> in men."



Should these studies stand the test of further experiments, 2dDR could provide a unique option for struggling men worldwide, offering hope for an effective solution potentially free from the side effects associated with current treatments.



"The research we have done is very much early stage, but the results are promising and warrant further investigation", adds MacNeil. "This could offer another approach to treating this condition which can affect men's self-image and confidence."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-baldness-treatment">New chapter in baldness treatment</h2>



This study indeed opens up fresh avenues for hair loss treatment. The advantages of 2dDR, if it can be established in humans, are many. It could be as effective as minoxidil but with potentially less side effects. 



Its mechanism to promote blood vessel growth stands distinct from existing treatments, which could make it beneficial for individuals who do not respond to existing options. 



As it is naturally occurring, it may prove safer and more tolerable. Additionally, the affordability and stability of the sugar compound might make it more accessible than current baldness <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fat-injection-therapy-offers-hope-for-reversing-baldness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatments</a>.



However, a good deal more research is necessary to fully understand 2dDR’s potential as a hair loss treatment. The next crucial step is human trials to determine its effectiveness and safety.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1370833/full">Frontiers in Pharmacology</a>.



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Reversing male baldness is closer to reality with natural new treatment

Have you ever wondered if the answer to hair loss...

Have you ever wondered about the cooking methods of Neanderthals, our sturdy, ancient relatives? Specifically, how they managed to feast on birds -- a fare far removed from their infamous big-game hunting repertoire? 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthal-food-processing">Neanderthal food processing</h2>



The guide on this prehistoric gastronomical tour is Dr. Mariana Nabais of the <a href="https://www.iphes.cat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social</a> in Spain, lead author of this intriguing study.



Dr. Nabais offers an enlightening perspective on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-provides-insights-into-the-lives-of-neanderthals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuanced world of Neanderthal</a> food processing and cooking.



“Using a flint flake for butchering required significant precision and effort, which we had not fully valued before this experiment. The flakes were sharper than we initially thought, requiring careful handling to make precise cuts without injuring our own fingers," Dr. Nabais explained.



"These hands-on experiments emphasized the practical challenges involved in Neanderthal food processing and cooking, providing a tangible connection to their daily life and survival strategies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-cuisine-and-neanderthals-cooking">Bird cuisine and Neanderthals cooking</h2>



Despite the well-known big-game hunting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-and-humans-had-multiple-waves-of-contact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">practices of Neanderthals</a>, their taste for winged meals remains a facet under a shroud of mystery.



However, thanks to recent discoveries and new techniques, we are now able to delve into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-and-humans-lived-side-by-side-45000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">secrets of prehistoric</a> bird hunting and butchering methods.



Scientists embarked on a culinary journey into the past, replicating the cooking methods that our Neanderthal ancestors might have used. 



This resulted in an experimental database, providing key insights when compared with actual archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthals-cooking-nbsp">Neanderthals cooking&nbsp;</h2>



For their experiment, the scientists chose five birds similar to the prehistoric species that the Neanderthals hunted. 



Armed with archaeological evidence and ethnographic data, they brought these ancient culinary arts back to life.



After defrocking the birds, they roasted three over hot coals, and butchered two raw using a flint flake.&nbsp;



“Roasting the birds over the coals required maintaining a consistent temperature and carefully monitoring the cooking duration to avoid overcooking the meat,” Dr. Nabais explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-the-past">Clues from the Past</h2>



Upon inspection, the scientists discovered intriguing traces of their prehistoric cooking experiment. The raw birds processed with the flint flake offered considerable evidence, including half-moon scars on the tool’s edge and cut marks on the bones.



Roasting turned out to be a double-edged sword. Although it made the meat more accessible, it also increased the brittleness of the bones, leading to their breakage and subsequent loss from the archaeological record.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthal-cooking-diversity">Neanderthal cooking diversity</h2>



The findings from this culinary experiment suggest that the Neanderthal diet was far more diverse than previously assumed.&nbsp;



They didn't solely rely on large mammals; instead, they incorporated a variety of birds into their meals, which indicates adaptability and a more intricate understanding of their environment.&nbsp;



Birds provided not only a source of protein but also essential nutrients that were critical for survival. This dietary flexibility may have allowed Neanderthals to thrive in diverse habitats, showcasing their resourcefulness in the face of changing climates and landscapes.



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



The implications of these ancient butchering methods extend beyond historical curiosity; they resonate with contemporary cooking practices.&nbsp;



Learning about the precision required in flint flaking and the careful roasting techniques used by Neanderthals can inspire modern chefs to appreciate traditional methods of food preparation.&nbsp;



By reconnecting with these fundamental skills, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the food we consume and the efforts that go into sourcing and preparing it.&nbsp;



Emphasizing a return to simpler, more intentional cooking methods provides not only a culinary challenge but also a meaningful way to honor our ancient ancestors.



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



While this pilot study provides a fascinating look into the diet of Neanderthals, there's plenty more to unearth.&nbsp;



"Further research with larger samples, varied species, and more diverse experimental conditions is necessary to expand upon these results,” Dr. Nabais notes.



As we continue to explore Neanderthal dietary practices, integrating innovative technologies with archaeological methodologies could reveal even more about their culinary heritage. 



This could lead to a deeper understanding of their survival strategies and cultural practices.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-archaeology/articles/10.3389/fearc.2024.1411853/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology</a>.



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Eat like a Neanderthal: Unpacking ancient cooking methods

Have you ever wondered about the cooking methods of Neanderthals,...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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