Imagine listening to your favorite song and seeing bursts of color with each note. Or think of a number that tastes like your favorite candy. For individuals with synesthesia, these experiences are not mere flights of fantasy, but their everyday reality.



They inhabit a sensory wonderland where sight meets sound, taste intertwines with touch, and their brain functions as a gifted maestro, skillfully orchestrating this magnificent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-sense-of-smell-can-change-the-colors-we-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symphony of senses</a>.



Each moment becomes an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of their heightened perceptions, allowing them to experience the world in ways that most can only dream of.



Colors resonate with sounds, flavors burst into visual patterns, and the beauty of life unfolds in a brilliant kaleidoscope of sensations that enriches their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-digital-technology-influence-our-sense-of-self/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of existence</a> itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-size-of-synesthesia-does-not-fit-all">One size of synesthesia does not fit all</h2>



Synesthesia, unlike most conditions, is charmingly varied. Synesthesia isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24995-synesthesia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comes in various forms</a>, each with its own intriguing twist:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Grapheme-Color Synesthesia: Ever noticed letters or numbers seem to carry specific colors? For instance, the letter "A" might always appear red to you. </li>



<li>Chromesthesia: This type links sounds to colors. A particular musical note or voice might evoke shades like blue or green. </li>



<li>Lexical-Gustatory Synesthesia: Words or sounds trigger taste sensations. Hearing someone’s name could make you taste chocolate. </li>



<li>Spatial Sequence Synesthesia: Numbers, dates, or sequences form visual patterns in your mind’s eye, like seeing months arranged in a circular layout around you. </li>



<li>Mirror-Touch Synesthesia: Feeling a similar sensation on your body when you see someone else being touched.</li>
</ul>



Each form offers a different lens through which synesthetes experience the world, making their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory interactions</a> uniquely personal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exactly-how-does-it-work">Exactly how does it work?</h2>



Where does this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-sensory-perception-brain-fascinating-interplay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory magic</a> come from? After all, most of us, the 'neurotypical' majority, live in a world where the senses operate independently.



Scientists think synesthesia happens because of extra connections between different areas of the brain, showcasing its amazing plasticity and adaptability. 



These additional neural links let one type of sensory input, like sound or color, trigger another, leading to the fascinating experiences that synesthetes often talk about.



Genetics also play a big role in synesthesia, as this interesting condition tends to run in families, hinting at a hereditary aspect. 



Research shows that people with synesthesia often have family members who also experience it, suggesting that genetic factors might help shape its development.



Plus, advanced studies using brain imaging techniques have found that people with synesthesia have structural differences in various brain regions that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-perception-speed-varies-greatly-among-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process sensory info</a>. 



These differences might include variations in the density of neural pathways or the size of certain brain areas, helping to explain why their brains create these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique sensory experiences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synesthesia-as-a-blessing-and-a-curse">Synesthesia as a blessing and a curse</h2>



For many people with synesthesia, it’s not just a quirky condition -- it’s a fantastic source of creativity and better memory. 



Artists, musicians, and writers often find inspiration in their synesthetic experiences, using their unique perceptions to create rich and multidimensional work. 



Picture a musician who sees colors while composing tunes or a painter who hears sounds as vibrant shades. These mixed senses can lead to art that connects on multiple levels, providing a depth that others might miss.



But living with synesthesia can be a bit tricky sometimes. Some folks feel overwhelmed by their perceptions, especially in busy, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-nose-perceives-the-scent-that-lingers-after-rain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory-filled environments</a>. 



Balancing these heightened experiences can be tough, affecting how synesthetes go about their daily lives. Still, many embrace their unique way of seeing the world, finding strength and inspiration in their sensory connections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-well-known-people-with-synesthesia">Well known people with synesthesia</h2>



Several beloved figures from history have worn their synesthetic experiences proudly.



Renowned author Vladimir Nabokov associated each alphabet and numeral with a unique hue that ultimately seeped into his evocative literary descriptions.



The abstract artist Wassily Kandinsky had a colorful symphony playing in his mind, which found expression in his rhythm-filled paintings.



Today, musician Pharrell Williams blends colors and sounds to create his exuberant music.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-common-is-it">How common is it?</h2>



Synesthesia affects around 4% of people, but that number could actually be higher since some experiences are pretty subtle and might go unnoticed. 



It shows up in all genders and cultures, though certain types may pop up more in specific groups.



There’s such a wide variety of synesthetic experiences that while some are famous, others are still pretty rare and not as well understood. 



This variety really highlights how complex synesthesia is and how important it is to keep researching its many aspects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-the-synesthetic-life">Living the synesthetic life</h2>



Synesthetes experience a range of reactions towards their condition, some embrace it while others grapple with it. 



For those who experience it, synesthesia shapes normal daily life in both good and bad ways. 



It boosts creativity and memory, helping synesthetes shine in art and intellectual pursuits. Their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aphantasia-research-results-people-who-cant-visualize-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique way of experiencing the world</a> makes learning and creating more vivid and fun.



On the flip side, having senses constantly interacting can feel a bit overwhelming, especially in busy or noisy places. 



Many synesthetes find ways to manage sensory overload, balancing their heightened experiences with everyday demands. 



This balance affects how they connect with the world, influencing everything from personal relationships to work life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-synesthesia-teaches-us">What synesthesia teaches us</h2>



To sum it all up, synesthesia and synesthetes give us a rare glimpse into the brain’s amazing ability to connect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parasomnia-awake-dream-exploring-sleepwalking-deep-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different sensory inputs</a>, showing us that there is no single way to perceive reality. The synesthetic blending of senses can help us understand how our own brain interprets the world.



In addition, studying synesthesia gives us a peek into the incredible world of sensory fusion. It helps us appreciate the diversity of human perception and the nuanced neurological choreography that shapes our reality.



Irrespective of whether you are a synesthete or just fascinated by the human mind, synesthesia reminds us of the richness and complexity of our sensory experiences.



-----



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Synesthesia: How some people taste words and see music in color

Imagine listening to your favorite song and seeing bursts of color with each note. Or think of a number that tastes like your favorite candy. For individuals with synesthesia, these experiences are not mere flights of fantasy, but their everyday reality. They inhabit a sensory wonderland where sight meets sound, taste intertwines with touch, and their brain functions as a gifted maestro, skillfully orchestrating this magnificent symphony of senses. Each moment becomes an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of their heightened perceptions, allowing them to experience...

A new study from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/">Flinders University</a> has examined the relationship between sleep deprivation and mood among teenagers. The experts found that a lack of sleep can quickly cause teens to experience a loss of energy and function during the day, and can even led to feelings of anger and depression.

Sleep plays a major role in maintaining health and well-being. According to previous research, up to 70 percent of teens regularly suffer from a lack of sleep. Stress, late-night studying, and lifestyle choices are some of the biggest contributors to sleep deprivation in teens.

The Flinders team enlisted 34 healthy teenagers between the ages of 15 and 17 to spent 10 days and nine nights in a specially designed sleep center.

The study participants were assigned one of three sleep "doses" - five hours, 7.5 hours, or 10 hours - for five consecutive nights. The following two nights were designated as recovery nights, with up to ten hours available for sleep. 

The experts measured the mood of the volunteers every three hours after waking up, focusing specifically on depression, fear, anger, confusion, and energy levels. 

Among those individuals who had their sleep restricted to five hours, happiness and energy levels were found to decrease significantly. On the other hand, participants who got 10 hours of sleep experienced a noticeable increase in happiness.

The study also revealed that participants in the five-hour group, and not in the 7.5- or 10-hour groups, reported feeling significantly more depressed, angry, and confused during sleep restriction.

"Two nights of recovery sleep was not sufficient to recover from increased negative mood states for the five-hour group, although recovery occurred for positive mood states," said study lead Dr. Michelle Short.

"Given the prevalence of insufficient sleep and the rising incidence of mood disorders and dysregulation in adolescents, our findings highlight the importance of sufficient sleep to mitigate these risks."

The researchers emphasize that sufficient sleep is crucial to protect against mood deficits in otherwise healthy adolescents. The results of the study confirm that sleep deprivation is associated with a substantial deterioration of mood in teens. 

"Given the prevalence of insufficient sleep and the rising incidence of mood disorders and dysregulation in adolescents, these findings highlight the importance of sufficient sleep to mitigate these risks,' explained the researchers.

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article-abstract/44/5/zsaa253/6007670?redirectedFrom=fulltext">Sleep</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Sleep deprivation linked to quickly deteriorating mood in teens

A new study from Flinders University has examined the relationship...

Poor sleep and little to no exercise independently increase a person’s risk of heart disease, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-lowers-the-overall-risk-of-stroke/">stroke</a> and cancer. A new study published by <a href="https://www.bmj.com/">BMJ</a> is one of the first to look at how sleep and exercise may relate to each other. 

For the investigation, scientists collected data from 380,055 people averaging 55 years old participating in the UK Biobank program. 

The individuals were rated on their physical activity levels based on metabolic equivalent of task (MET) minutes, which is an estimate of calories burned per minute of exercise. Next, the participants' sleep patterns were analyzed and categorized in three different ratings. 

Sleep and activity levels were correlated to look at how they related to the risk of death from heart disease, stroke and any type of cancer - most specifically lung cancer. Monitoring lasted for an average of 11 years per person.

Among the 15,503 subjects who passed away during the study period, 4,095 died of cardiovascular disease and 9,064 died of cancer. Unsurprisingly, the worse a person scored on sleep, the more likely they were to die from any cause. For those with poor exercise habits and poor sleep, the risk of death was 57 percent higher. People with poor sleep and poor exercise were also 67 percent more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, 45 percent more likely to die from cancer, and 91 percent more likely to die from lung cancer in particular. 

A lack of exercise seemed to make the problems associated with poor sleep worse. Likewise, exercise seems to possibly make up for sleeping less than is usually healthy. 

It is important to note that, as always, correlation is not causation and the mechanism behind all of this is not yet known. Still, getting a good night’s rest and some vigorous exercise might just help you live longer.   

"Physical activity levels at or above the WHO guideline (600 metabolic equivalent task mins/week) threshold eliminated most of the deleterious associations of poor sleep with mortality," explained the study authors.

"As emerging evidence supports a synergistic effect of sleep and [physical activity] on health outcomes, future trials concurrently targeting both behaviors are warranted."

The study is published in the <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/">British Journal of Sports Medicine</a>.

---

By <a href="http://zachfitzner@yahoo.com">Zach Fitzner</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Good exercise habits may make up for lost sleep

Poor sleep and little to no exercise independently increase a...

Eating milk chocolate in the morning may lead to unexpected health benefits, such as burning fat throughout the day, according to a new study from <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/">Brigham and Women's Hospital</a>. 

The researchers found that consuming milk chocolate during a specific time of the morning may help prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-loss-can-be-achieved-at-any-age-with-simple-lifestyle-changes/">weight</a> gain and decrease blood sugar levels.

In collaboration with investigators at the University of Murcia in Spain, the team conducted a randomized trial. A group of postmenopausal women consumed 100 grams of chocolate either in the morning within an hour after waking time or at night within an hour before bedtime. 

After two weeks, the researchers measured weight gain and other effects and compared the health outcomes with that of participants who did not consume chocolate during the study period. 

The investigation revealed that morning or nighttime chocolate consumption did not lead to weight gain, despite an increase in caloric intake. The experts also found that eating chocolate in the morning or in the evening can influence hunger and appetite, microbiota composition, and sleep quality. 

"Our findings highlight that not only 'what' but also 'when' we eat can impact physiological mechanisms involved in the regulation of body weight," said study co-author Dr. Frank A. J. L. Scheer.

The researchers determined that a high intake of chocolate during the morning hours could help to burn fat and reduce blood glucose levels.

"To investigate why volunteers didn’t gain significant body weight, we explored different aspects of energy intake and expenditure. Results show that chocolate reduced ad libitum energy intake, consistent with the observed reduction in hunger, appetite and the desire for sweets shown in previous studies," explained the study authors. 

"While the volunteers had an increase of energy intake due to chocolate’s extra calories as compared to the non-chocolate condition, they spontaneously reduced their ad libitum energy intake by 16% when eating chocolate in the morning." 

"This happened even though females consumed milk chocolate that has been shown to have less of an effect in decreasing appetite than dark chocolate."

"The study was limited to postmenopausal females. Therefore, further studies should be performed in men and younger females, to confirm these results."

The study is published in the <a href="https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/15306860">FASEB Journal</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Eating chocolate in the morning may help you lose weight

Eating milk chocolate in the morning may lead to unexpected...

Geckos and lizards can sever their tails as a self defense mechanism to distract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-tyrannosaurs-displaced-medium-sized-predators/">predators</a>. In a new study from <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/">UC Riverside</a>, experts have discovered that geckos are still successful hunters even after they have lost their tails. 

Since the tail vertebrae are perforated, some lizards can drop their tails without injury or loss of blood. Despite the advantages of tail loss, however, this defensive strategy comes at a cost. 

"Other studies have documented the negative effects of tail loss on lizards' ability to run, jump, mate, and reproduce," said study lead author Marina Vollin. "However, few have examined their ability to capture food when they lose their tails, which is critical for regenerating the tail and for overall survival."

To investigate, Vollin collaborated with Professor Tim Higham to observe geckos - some with their tails intact and others who had lost their tails - while they were in the prowl.

The researchers found that geckos successfully captured crickets about 77 percent of the time regardless of whether or not they still had their tail. According to the experts, this level of accuracy was surprising in tailless geckos considering thar tails help stabilize their body positions during and after a strike.

At the same time, the geckos were much slower without tails, and their attack strikes were much more awkward, explained Vollin.

"It is very possible that geckos suffer a loss in feeding performance and success following autotomy in nature given the complexity of the habitat and more room for the prey to escape," said Professor Higham.

Going forward, the researchers plan to study whether geckos are able to fully regain their agility once their tails have regenerated, which can take up to a month.

"It's important to get a sense of how they operate in nature, where additional elements could affect whether they have more difficulty capturing prey," said Vollin.

While geckos and other lizards eat a variety of different insects, they also serve as a key source of food for birds, snakes, and other mammals.

"I've heard them referred to as 'nature's popcorn,' because other animals can eat a bunch of them at once, they're abundant, and easy to acquire," said Vollin. "They're a big part of the base of the food chain."

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/icb">Integrative and Comparative Biology</a>

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Geckos are skilled hunters even after they lose their tails

Geckos and lizards can sever their tails as a self...

Ocean circulation is key to climate change  In a new study from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/">University of Copenhagen</a>, researchers have found that atmospheric changes are not the biggest contributor to the uncertainty that arises in global climate change projections. The experts report that such uncertainties are primarily associated with changes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-losing-oxygen-much-faster-than-oceans/">ocean</a> circulation in the North Atlantic.

There are 30 state-of-the-art IPCC climate models that predict dramatically different climates for the <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north%20america&amp;qs=n&amp;form=QBRE&amp;sp=-1&amp;pq=&amp;sc=0-0&amp;sk=&amp;cvid=2A486C7EEB7F4DC9A48B1971A274D39A">Northern</a> Hemisphere, especially Europe. Variables such as atmospheric pressure, cloud cover, and ocean surface temperatures interact differently in each model. 

An international team of researchers set out to understand what is driving the major differences in climate projections from the IPCC models.  Ocean circulation is key to climate change. 

"We want to understand the differences among these models. Why does one model project an overall global temperature change of two degrees while another one of four degrees? Our objective is to narrow down this inter-model uncertainty," explained study lead author Dr. Katinka Bellomo. "We also want to understand the differences in these models in terms of regional climate change."

Among the climate models, the researchers found disagreement on the rate of the decline in the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC). This is a large network of ocean currents in the North Atlantic that plays a crucial role in the distribution of heat from the tropics to the Northern Hemisphere.

"To see how this difference was reflected in projections of the future climate, we grouped together the top ten models (from a total of thirty) in which the AMOC decline is smaller. We then compared the group with the average of the 10 models that have the largest decline," said Bellomo.

Two distinct climate patterns emerged from the study. In models where the AMOC decline is large, Europe is predicted to warm only slightly, but wind patterns in Europe and precipitation patterns in the tropics are predicted to change dramatically. 

On the other hand, in models where the AMOC decline is smaller, the Northern hemisphere heats up considerably. This leads to a well-known pattern in which wet regions get wetter and dry regions get dryer.

Ultimately, the research suggests that future climate predictions should be largely focused on how models account for changes in ocean circulation in the North Atlantic. 

"This is important because it points to the AMOC as one of the largest sources of uncertainties in climate prediction," said Dr. Bellomo. "I am excited about this research, because there is so much more that can be done in addition to this." 

"We need to investigate the processes leading to the inter-model differences in the ocean circulation response, the link between the ocean circulation response and precipitation change, and we also need to compare this with near-future projections of climate change."

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/ncomms/">Nature Communications</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Ocean circulation is key to climate change

Ocean circulation is key to climate change  In a new...

A growing collection of research suggests that physical activity can delay or prevent the development of Alzheimer's disease. In older adults, aerobic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-some-people-benefit-more-from-exercise-than-others/">exercise</a> training improves memory, enhances blood flow, and increases gray and white matter volume.

The ability to measure the effects of exercise on memory biomarkers could advance efforts to prevent Alzheimer's disease or to effectively treat it. However, there is a lack of knowledge on which specific biomarkers can measure the effects of exercise on cognitive function.

To investigate, researchers at the <a href="https://www.fau.edu/">Florida Atlantic University</a> Schmidt College of Medicine and Brain Institute tested the theory that three specific biomarkers associated with learning and memory would increase in older adults following exercise training. The experts also theorized that these biomarkers correlate with cognition and metabolomics markers of brain health. 

The research was focused on myokine Cathepsin B (CTSB), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and klotho. The team also used metabolomics, or the large-scale study of metabolites, which has become increasingly utilized to understand biochemical pathways that may be affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The metabolomics analysis was conducted using blood samples of 23 asymptomatic older adults with a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease. The participants were divided into two groups: usual physical activity (UPA) and enhanced physical activity (EPA). The EPA group participated in 26 weeks of treadmill training. 

Blood samples showed that plasma CTSB levels were increased following the aerobic exercise training. The experts found that learning and memory correlated positively with change in CTSB but was not related to BDNF or klotho. 

The study also revealed that multiple lipid metabolites relevant to Alzheimer's disease were modified by exercise in a manner that may be neuroprotective. "Our findings position CTSB, BDNF, and klotho as exercise biomarkers for evaluating the effect of lifestyle interventions on brain function," said study co-author Dr. Henriette van Praag. 

"Human studies often utilize expensive and low throughput brain imaging analyses that are not practical for large population-wide studies."

"Systemic biomarkers that can measure the effect of exercise interventions on Alzheimer's-related outcomes quickly and at low-cost could be used to inform disease progression and to develop novel therapeutic targets."

After exercise, CTSB is secreted from muscle into circulation and is associated with memory function and adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Older adults with cognitive impairment have lower serum and brain CTSB levels. 

"The positive association between CTSB and cognition, and the substantial modulation of lipid metabolites implicated in dementia, support the beneficial effects of exercise training on brain function and brain health in asymptomatic individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease," said Dr. van Praag.

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology">Frontiers in Endocrinology</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Exercise protects older adults from the onset of Alzheimer's disease

A growing collection of research suggests that physical activity can...

In a new study from the <a href="https://nutrition.org/">American Society for Nutrition</a>, researchers have taken a look at dietary trends among Americans during the Great Recession. The findings confirm the idea that dietary quality is sacrificed when the economy is bad.

The experts found that overall, adults ate more refined grains and solid fats and children consumed more added sugar during the recession. The impacts on dietary quality were the greatest in food-insecure households, where protein and dark green vegetables were largely replaced by sugary foods.

Study lead author Dr. Jacqueline Vernarelli is an associate professor of Public Health at Sacred Heart University,

"Overall, we found that the Great Recession had a negative impact on dietary behaviors in both adults and children," said Dr. Vernarelli. "This adds to a robust body of evidence that economic downturn impacts household income, employment status and subsequent household food security levels."

According to the researchers, the findings are likely relevant to today's economic environment.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented increases in food insecurity, and a dramatic increased need for emergency food resources and other types of food assistance," said Dr. Vernarelli. "By identifying key intake patterns during the previous recession, we can identify areas that may need intervention now and during the (pandemic) recovery years."

The study was focused on data from a nationally representative sample of over 60,000 U.S. adults and children. The team analyzed dietary habits and household food security before, during, and after the Great Recession. Households that are food insecure have limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate foods.

The findings suggest that nutritional quality deteriorates as families substitute cheaper foods in place of healthier options. 

The researchers explained that while the overall quantity of food may not be lower in many food-insecure households, the quality, desirability and variety of the diet is often reduced.

During the recession, children in households with low food security were found to consume about 200 more calories per day on average. They ate higher levels of solid fat and added sugars compared to the time period before and after the recession.

"Using historical data to understand and anticipate potential nutrient needs and areas of concern may better help public health nutritionists serve communities faced with food insecurity, as well as help inform decisions related to food assistance policy," said Dr. Vernarelli. 

Emma Turchick, a graduate student in Vernarelli's lab, will present the research at <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/meetings/nutrition/2021/about/">NUTRITION 2021 LIVE ONLINE</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Dietary quality suffers in a bad economy

In a new study from the American Society for Nutrition,...

A study from <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/">CU Boulder</a> is shedding new light on the link between sleep timing and mental health. The experts report that waking up just one hour earlier could reduce a person's risk of major depression by 23 percent.

In collaboration with researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, the team has uncovered some of the strongest evidence yet that chronotype - a person's propensity to sleep at a certain time - influences depression risk.

The investigation, which was focused on 840,000 people, is among the first of its kind to quantify just how much, or little, change is required to influence mental health.

The findings could have important implications as many people emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic with later sleep schedules.

"We have known for some time that there is a relationship between sleep timing and mood, but a question we often hear from clinicians is: How much earlier do we need to shift people to see a benefit?" said study senior author Professor Celine Vetter. "We found that even one-hour earlier sleep timing is associated with significantly lower risk of depression."

Previous observational studies have shown that night owls are up to twice as likely to suffer from depression as early risers, regardless of sleep duration. However, considering that mood disorders can disrupt sleep patterns, it is difficult to establish which is the cause and which is the effect. 

In 2018, Vetter conducted a long term study of 32,000 nurses which established that "early risers" were up to 27 percent less likely to develop depression over the course of four years. This research prompted the question - what does it mean to be an early riser?

To investigate whether an earlier sleep time is truly protective, as well as how big of a shift is required, study lead author Dr. Iyas Daghlas used data from the DNA testing company 23 and Me and the biomedical database UK Biobank. He applied a method called "Mendelian randomization" to help decipher cause and effect.

"Our genetics are set at birth so some of the biases that affect other kinds of epidemiological research tend not to affect genetic studies," said Dr. Daghlas.

An individual's chronotype is influenced by more than 340 common genetic variants, including variants in the so-called "clock gene" PER2. As much as 42 percent of our sleep timing preference can be attributed to genetics. 

The researchers analyzed genetic data on these variants from up to 850,000 individuals, many of whom had worn wearable sleep trackers for 7 days or filled out sleep-preference questionnaires. This helped to show - down to the hour - how variants in genes influence when we sleep and wake up.

About one third of the participants who were surveyed self-identified as morning larks, 9 percent as night owls, and the rest were in the middle. Overall, the average sleep timing was from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Next, the researchers turned to a different sample which included genetic information along with medical records and surveys about major depressive disorder. They found clear evidence that people with genetic variants which predispose them to be early risers also have lower risk of depression.

For each one-hour earlier sleep midpoint, which is halfway between bedtime and wake time, there was a corresponding with a 23 percent lower risk of major depressive disorder. In other words, if someone who normally goes to bed at 1 a.m. goes to bed at midnight and sleeps the same duration, they could cut their risk by 23 percent. Furthermore, if the individual went to bed at 11 p.m., they could cut the risk of depression by about 40 percent.

One explanation for the results could be greater light exposure during the day, which leads to a cascade of hormonal impacts that can influence mood.

"We live in a society that is designed for morning people, and evening people often feel as if they are in a constant state of misalignment with that societal clock," said Daghlas. 

He emphasized that a large randomized clinical trial is needed to confirm that going to bed early can reduce depression. 

"Keep your days bright and your nights dark. Have your morning coffee on the porch," said Vetter. "Walk or ride your bike to work if you can, and dim those electronics in the evening."

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry">JAMA Psychiatry</a>.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Waking up one hour earlier cuts depression risk by 23 percent

A study from CU Boulder is shedding new light on...

A study led by investigators at <a href="https://www.bidmc.org/">Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center</a> (BIDMC) is providing new insight into why the benefits of the same exercise can vary among individuals. The research could be helpful for identifying new therapeutic targets for diseases related to metabolism.

"While groups as a whole benefit from exercise, the variability in responses between any two individuals undergoing the very same exercise regimen is actually quite striking, explained study senior author Dr. Robert E. Gerszten, Chief of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at BIDMC.

"For example, some may experience improved endurance while others will see improved blood sugar levels. To date, no aspects of an individual's baseline clinical profile allow us to predict beforehand who is most likely to derive a significant cardiorespiratory fitness benefit from exercise training."

To investigate how the effects of exercise may differ from one person to the next, the researchers analyzed the blood levels of approximately 5,000 proteins in 650 sedentary adults before and after a 20-week physical fitness program.

"We were particularly interested at looking at proteins in the blood to study the effects of exercise because there is a growing body of evidence showing that exercise stimulates the secretion of chemicals into circulation that can impart their effects on distant organs," said study first author Dr. Jeremy Robbins.

Initially, 147 proteins in the blood indicated an individual's cardiorespiratory fitness, or VO2max. Another set of 102 proteins indicated an individual's change in VO2max after completing the exercise program.

"We identified proteins that emanate from bone, muscle, and blood vessels that are strongly related to cardiorespiratory fitness and had never been previously associated with exercise training responses," said Dr. Gerszten.

"Even though prior studies have shown that an individual's baseline fitness level is unrelated to their response to exercise training, it was fascinating to see that there was minimal overlap between the protein profiles of baseline VO2max and its response to the exercise training intervention," said Dr. Robbins.

Based on their findings, the researchers developed a protein score that predicts an individual's trainability, or change in VO2max. This score could be used to pinpoint individuals who are unable to significantly improve their cardiorespiratory fitness. 

"Baseline levels of several proteins predicted who would respond to the exercise training protocol far better than any of our established patient factors," explained Dr. Gerszten.

In a separate trial, the experts discovered that some of these proteins were associated with an elevated risk of premature death. This highlights the link between cardiorespiratory fitness and long-term health outcomes.

"We now have a detailed list of new blood compounds that further inform our understanding of the biology of fitness and exercise adaptation, and predict individual responses to a given exercise regimen," said Dr. Gerszten. 

"While no pill is ever likely to recapitulate the diversity of benefits from exercise, our study has helped create a roadmap to further explore potential interventions and provides an important step in individualizing exercise as a therapy." 

Dr. Gerszten noted that additional research is needed to better understand the precise effects of the different proteins before and after exercise.

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/natmetab/">Nature Metabolism</a>.

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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

Why do some people benefit more from exercise than others?

A study led by investigators at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical...

A new study from <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/">Rutgers University</a> has linked the excessive use of entertainment-related technology to lower educational aspirations among young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-use-linked-to-binge-eating-among-preteens/">teens</a>. The researchers found that middle-school aged children who use social media or video games for more than an hour each day during the school week have significantly lower grades and test scores.

According to the experts, the findings provide parents with a threshold for the moderate use of entertainment-related technology. The study indicates that this limit would be no more than one hour on school days and four hours a day on weekends.

"Interactive technology is widely used to promote children's educational access and achievement," said lead author Professor Vivien Anthony. 

"During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has been essential to facilitating remote learning. At the same time, there is a growing concern that excessive technology use, particularly for entertainment, may adversely affect children's educational development by facilitating undesirable study habits and detracting from time spent on learning activities."

The researchers analyzed the China Education Panel Survey data, a national study that followed 10,000 first-year middle school students with an average age of 13.5 years.

The results of the analysis showed that children who used entertainment-related technology four or more hours daily were four times more likely to skip school than those who did not. Compared to girls, boys used this technology significantly more, showed lower engagement levels, and performed worse in school overall.

"Such findings are critical, particularly in light of the recent movement toward online learning in countries throughout the world," said Professor Anthony. 

"In a learning environment that integrates the internet, it is easy for children to move across educational and entertainment platforms during learning without alerting teachers or adults to alternate activities."

Professor Anthony noted that children in the study who used technology in moderation experienced less boredom at school - potentially due to the positive effects of participation in social media, video games and video streaming such as peer bonding and relationship building. A moderate amount of entertainment-related technology was found to advance children's cognitive development.

The findings suggest that placing time limits on children's interactive technology use could have major benefits. The study also indicates that parents and teachers should help children develop effective time management skills to reduce their reliance on technology.

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.journals.elsevier.com/computers-in-human-behavior">Computers in Human Behavior</a>.

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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

Teens should use entertainment-related technology in moderation

A new study from Rutgers University has linked the excessive...

Yoga and breathing exercises can improve attention and decrease hyperactivity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A team of psychologists at <a href="https://urfu.ru/en/">Ural Federal University</a> also found that after special exercise training, children with ADHD could engage in complex activities for longer without getting tired. 

Study lead author Sergey Kiselev is the head of the Laboratory of Brain and Neurocognitive Development at UrFU. "We have revealed that body-oriented training has positive effect on executive abilities in children with ADHD," wrote Kiselev. 

ADHD is associated with the impaired development of a child's nervous system. The symptoms of ADHD, including inattention, excessive activity, and impulsive behavior, often emerge at the age of seven or at the beginning of regular education.

"For children with ADHD, as a rule, the part of the brain that is responsible for the regulation of brain activity - the reticular formation - is deficient," said Kiselev. "This leads to the fact that they often experience states of inadequate hyperactivity, increased distraction and exhaustion, and their functions of regulation and control suffer a second time." 

"We used a special breathing exercise based on the development of diaphragmatic rhythmic deep breathing - belly breathing. Such breathing helps to better supply the brain with oxygen and helps the reticular formation to better cope with its role. When the reticular formation receives enough oxygen, it begins to better regulate the child's state of activity."

In addition to breathing exercises, the experts focused on exercises with polar states "tension-relaxation." The children were trained three times a week for two to three months.

"Exercise has an immediate effect that appears immediately, but there is also a delayed effect," explained Kiselev. "We found that exercise has a positive effect on regulation and control functions in children with ADHD and one year after the end of the exercise." 

"This happens because the child's correct breathing is automated, it becomes a kind of assistant that allows better supply of oxygen to the brain, which, in turn, has a beneficial effect on the behavior and psyche of a child with ADHD."

The training method was developed by the Russian neuropsychologist Anna Semenovich as part of a neuropsychological correction technique, and the UrFU team tested how well this approach helps children with ADHD. Kiselev noted that while the study showed that yoga and breathing exercises have a positive effect, further research is needed. 

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.biologicalpsychiatryjournal.com/">Biological Psychiatry</a>.

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By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer

Breathing exercises improve focus in children with ADHD

Yoga and breathing exercises can improve attention and decrease hyperactivity...

A new study from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/">University of Exeter</a> describes why fairness is not enough to make people feel valued in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/workplace-burnout-disease/">workplace</a>. The researchers found that individuals need "distinctive treatment," or recognition of their unique talents and qualities, to gain a sense that they are appreciated.

While the importance of fairness is widely accepted, distinctive treatment is often overlooked, explained the researchers.

"Organizations and other groups often recognize the importance of members treating each other fairly - with dignity and without bias," said study lead author Dr. Christopher Begeny.

"In six studies of workplaces and other groups, we find that this is indeed key to fostering individuals' sense of belonging. However, individuals also need to be shown that they have some distinct value to the group."

"When colleagues or fellow group members show interest and appreciation for an individual's more distinguishing qualities, that individual benefits."

Dr. Begeny said that this kind of distinctive treatment has real benefits for mental health too, including less anxiety and depression.

"To be clear, fair treatment is a must - but our studies show it's also woefully insufficient on its own."

"Individuals need to feel more than inclusion. As well as 'fitting in,' they need to 'stand out' - to feel that they have some distinct value and worth that they bring to the group."

The results of the study suggest that not only is there is no conflict between "fitting in" and "standing out" in groups, but that the two actually complement each other.

In order for organizations to incorporate distinctive treatment in the workplace, Dr Begeny said it helps to have supervisors with the time and energy to recognize and tap into the special skills and knowledge of the individuals on their team.

"Another method is to create well-developed systems of mentorship, allowing people to share their experience and expertise."

"This can also foster a workplace culture that is not just inclusive, but value-affirming - where people regularly seek each other out for advice, which is beneficial to both parties."

"Expressing distinctive treatment does not simply mean sending out a mass email saying 'if anyone has any ideas about this project, please let me know'.

"It's about going to an individual, or small group of individuals, and saying, 'hey, I really think your insights and perspectives could be an asset to this project. Would you be willing to offer your thoughts?'

Dr. Begeny explained that distinctive treatment is not a passive process of hearing people when they have ideas to share, but involves taking the initiative to learn what an individual has to offer and showing recognition and appreciation for it.

The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/">PLOS ONE</a>.

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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

Distinctive treatment is needed to show people their value

A new study from the University of Exeter describes why...

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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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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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 



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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