Tiny plastic fragments have turned up inside human beings, and it has rattled more than a few nerves. Nobody expects to find plastic in their blood or buried in important tissues, but recent <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624005971?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> has done exactly that.



These miniscule particles, often smaller than a grain of sand, have appeared in places once thought safe from contamination.



This poses some uncomfortable questions about the implications for long-term health and whether anyone has been paying attention to this hidden hazard that has been present in the environment for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-is-now-infiltrating-human-tissues">Plastic is now infiltrating human tissues</h2>



Scientists have identified <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022001258" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micro- and nanoplastics</a> (MNPs) in human lungs, gut, reproductive organs, and skin, where they can stick around for far longer than most people would imagine.



Their presence has now been detected in blood, too, making it clear that these tiny, synthetic particles move through our bodies in surprising ways. They do not simply pass through and exit without causing harm, as was once thought. 



Instead, they take up residence. They linger, and they may be associated with some serious health issues.



This research, led by <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bVDTB_gAAAAJ&amp;hl=zh-CN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Yating Luo</a> at the School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, and a team of specialists, has revealed an unsettling new source of environmental exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-links-to-diseases">Potential links to diseases</h2>



Other researchers have begun piecing together how MNPs might be <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624003182" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">involved in a range of health problems</a>.



Studies have linked them to heart and blood vessel conditions, like atherosclerosis and thrombosis, as well as to intestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease.



Some work even connects them to changes in reproductive systems and the risk of conditions like cervical cancer. Nobody wants to consider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-carry-toxic-chemicals-that-are-easily-absorbed-by-skin/">plastic dust</a> as a potential player in such serious illnesses, but the evidence is mounting.



Dr. Luo, lead author of the study, which was published in Environment International, highlighted that the research strongly indicates MNPs are more than environmental contaminants -- they are entering human tissues and may pose significant health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-these-particles-break-through-barriers">How these particles break through barriers</h2>



Laboratory tests have <a href="https://particleandfibretoxicology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12989-020-00358-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> that these particles can cross protective hurdles, including the body’s natural filters. 



For example, the blood-brain barrier has long been thought of as a sturdy shield, but these tiny plastic pieces may pass through it.



This could set the stage for neurological issues. Researchers suspect that if these minute fragments of plastic move along the gut-brain axis, they may influence how nerve cells work. 



Early evidence suggests they might play a role in some degenerative conditions that affect the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wider-implications-for-public-health">Wider implications for public health</h2>



Plastic pollution is not something that stays outside in the ocean or piled up at landfills. Studies show that even remote corners of the planet have tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surging-plastic-levels-found-in-the-north-pacific-garbage-patch/">plastic fragments</a> floating in the air. 



People breathe them in, ingest them through food and water, and may even absorb them through the skin.



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28812686/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Tamara Galloway</a>, a leading expert on microplastics from the University of Exeter, emphasized that this study further supports the increasing evidence of microplastics being widespread in human tissues.



It is not just a problem for one region or for certain groups. It is a global phenomenon that affects everyone, everywhere. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-people-should-pay-attention">Why people should pay attention</h2>



Plastics have found their way into everyday life in a multitude of forms - containers, packaging, clothing, personal care products. 



As these items break down, tiny plastic fibers and fragments spread through land, water, and air. They turn up in fish and shellfish, which then end up <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.9b01517" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on dinner plates</a>.



Waste management <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34492918/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">practices</a> in some places, such as open burning, add more plastic particles to the environment and harm people who live nearby.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-humans-and-the-environment">Plastic, humans, and the environment</h2>



There is growing pressure on governments to enforce stricter rules around plastic manufacturing, recycling, and disposal. 



A shift to responsible materials and less reliance on single-use plastics could help slow the spread of these particles in future.



Public health agencies may need to update guidelines to consider tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/">plastic fragments as contaminants</a>. If MNPs are linked to certain diseases, official policies may need to reflect that. 



Health professionals might soon discuss plastic exposure as they do other known factors like poor air quality.



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



Scientists need to measure the full extent of the problem. More long-term <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34492918/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> could show exactly how much plastic accumulates in human tissues and pinpoint how these particles alter cells and organs at a microscopic level.



Researchers are developing new technology to track these fragments and understand how they behave inside the body. 



Improved tools might help uncover the chemical reactions triggered by plastic fragments. With that information, they could figure out why certain tissues are more at risk than others.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-plastic-danger-to-humans">Reducing plastic danger to humans</h2>



None of this is a reason to give up the fight against plastic pollution. People can reduce their own exposure by avoiding products that shed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-able-to-travel-thousands-of-miles-because-of-their-shape/">plastic fibers</a>, pushing for cleaner water sources, and supporting brands that move away from plastic use.



Communities that suffer from poor waste management can advocate for better facilities, cleaner streets, and safer disposal methods.



Officials can encourage companies to design products with health and the environment in mind. Better filters and barriers could help keep these particles out of water supplies and the foods people rely on every day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay-informed">Stay informed</h2>



Nobody likes to think about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-migrate-from-the-gut-to-other-organs/">foreign particles</a> building up in their body. For many, this may spark frustration or fear. 



The good news is that awareness can help drive action. If people know that these small bits of plastic may affect their health, they might push for meaningful changes.



More funding, better research, and stricter oversight may keep these hidden threats in check. As scientists learn more, the public can stay informed and join conversations that shape future policies.



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Tiny plastic bits are now found hiding deep inside the human body

Tiny plastic fragments have turned up inside human beings, and it has rattled more than a few nerves. Nobody expects to find plastic in their blood or buried in important tissues, but recent research has done exactly that. These miniscule particles, often smaller than a grain of sand, have appeared in places once thought safe from contamination. This poses some uncomfortable questions about the implications for long-term health and whether anyone has been paying attention to this hidden hazard that has been present in the environment for...

When we consider the world around us, it's second nature to categorize and classify. This isn't necessarily a sinister thing. It's simply one way we streamline our understanding and make sense of the complex society in which we live. But what happens when we get it wrong? What happens when our hasty categorizations lead us to misunderstand opinions of the very individuals we're claiming to understand?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-different-opinions">Understanding different opinions</h2>



Most of us are fairly confident about understanding the minds of those with viewpoints opposed to ours. 



But a fascinating new study from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &amp; Neuroscience (<a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IoPPN</a>) at King’s College London, in collaboration with the University of Oxford, shows us that we may be overestimating our abilities.



Our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/political-views-change-our-perception-of-the-past-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">assumptions</a>, even if made confidently, are often incorrect. And that's not to say our confidence is inherently wrong. Confidence can be a great attribute, but like anything else, it may also mislead us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychology-behind-misunderstandings">Psychology behind misunderstandings</h2>



We live in a world filled with diverse views and sometimes misunderstandings. The recent study in Scientific Reports explores the psychology behind these issues.



It asks an important question: Why do we often misjudge others? The study highlights ways we can change our assumptions and opinions to build a more understanding and connected society.



For the study, 256 participants from the USA with a near-equal split of left and right-leaning political orientations were recruited. 



They were asked to rate various political statements on a 5-point scale. These ranged from strong agreement to strong disagreement.



The participants were then presented with someone else's response to the same statement, forming an 'in-group' or 'out-group' based on the similarity or difference in their opinions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confidence-in-understanding-opinions">Confidence in understanding opinions</h2>



The study found that when the participants shared similar views, they were more likely to predict accurately the other person's response and were highly confident about it. 



But when it came to differing viewpoints, the confidence didn't match the accuracy. Even with additional information about the other person, their predictions didn't quite hit the mark.



“Our study shows that people have a good understanding of people who are similar to themselves and their confidence in their understanding is well-placed. However, our understanding of people with different views to our own is demonstrably poor," explains Dr Bryony Payne, a postdoctoral researcher at King’s IoPPN, and the study’s first author.



"The more confident we are that we can understand them, the more likely it is that we are wrong. People have poor awareness of their inability to understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-opinions-swing-voting-and-elections-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">people that differ</a> from themselves."



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



The implications of these misunderstandings extend beyond our personal circles and into the global sphere. 



"There are clear consequences to this lack of awareness, and we have seen countless real-world examples," Dr. Payne noted. 



The recent UK riots were borne out of a small group of people who were probably very confident in their (mis)understanding of the views and beliefs of Muslims and asylum seekers.



These types of misconceptions are often fueled by disinformation on social media or echoed back to them by others within their in-group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-different-opinions-0">Understanding different opinions</h2>



But it's not all doom and gloom! It turns out, we are capable of change. We can reconsider our biases when our mistakes are brought to light. 



“While there is no quick fix in a real-world setting, if everyone interacted with a more diverse group of people, talked directly to them and got to know them, it’s likely we would understand each other better," suggests Dr Caroline Catmur, a Reader in Cognitive Psychology at King’s IoPPN and the study’s senior author. 



"Conversations with people who hold different beliefs could help challenge our incorrect assumptions about each other,” 



At its core, the solution lies in genuinely connecting with people who see things differently. It’s about challenging our own assumptions and making an effort to understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-xs-attitude-toward-evolution-has-changed-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different opinions</a> rather than jump to conclusions.



Next time you think you grasp someone else's perspective, take a moment to pause. Our brains naturally want to categorize things, but it’s important to push past those oversimplified labels. Only by doing this can we create a more empathetic and understanding society.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-67311-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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People often overestimate their ability to understand others opinion

When we consider the world around us, it's second nature...

Ready to hit the snooze button and sleep for longer this weekend? You just might be doing your heart a favor. 



The hustle and bustle of our daily lives can often lead to a disruption in our sleep patterns. You're not alone if you find yourself perpetually sleep-deprived due to demanding work or school schedules.



But here's the silver lining - you could decrease your risk of heart disease by simply "catching up" on sleep during weekends. A new study reveals that a good weekend snooze could be tied to a 20% reduction in heart disease risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weekend-sleep-to-the-rescue">Weekend sleep to the rescue</h2>



"Sufficient compensatory sleep is linked to a lower risk of heart disease," said Yanjun Song, a co-author of the study from the State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease at <a href="https://www.fuwai.com/Hospitals/Main?type=4#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fuwai Hospital</a> in China.



"The association becomes even more pronounced among individuals who regularly experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sleep-day-2024-the-quest-for-a-well-rested-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inadequate sleep</a> on weekdays."



It is common knowledge that those who miss out on sleep during the week tend to "sleep in" on their off days to make up for it. However, the impact of compensatory sleep on heart health has not been extensively studied.



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



The researchers analyzed data from 90,903 subjects involved in the UK Biobank project. The objective? To decipher the relationship between compensated weekend sleep and heart disease.



Sleep data was meticulously recorded using accelerometers and neatly grouped into quartiles (from most compensated sleep to least). 



Q1 had the least compensated sleep, ranging from -16.05 hours to -0.26 hours. (Yes, it is possible to have negative sleep hours). Q2 ranged from -0.26 to +0.45 hours. Q3 stood at +0.45 to +1.28 hours, and Q4 had the most compensatory sleep, from 1.28 to 16.06 hours.



Approximately 21.8% of participants self-reported as being sleep-deprived, which meant they slept less than the recommended 7 hours per night.



The rest of the cohort could have sporadic inadequate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changing-sleep-patterns-reveal-insights-about-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeping hours</a> too, but their average daily sleep didn't meet the criteria for sleep deprivation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-risk-of-heart-disease">Reducing the risk of heart disease</h2>



How, then, was heart disease diagnosis arrived at? Hospitalization records and cause of death registry information were used to diagnose various heart conditions, including ischaemic heart disease (IHD), heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), and stroke.



Based on almost 14 years of follow-ups, the study revealed that individuals with the most compensatory weekend sleep (quartile 4) were 19% less likely to develop heart disease than those with the least (quartile 1).



Furthermore, among those with daily sleep deprivation, the ones who caught up on sleep most had a 20% lower risk of developing heart disease than those with the least compensatory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>. Interestingly, the study found no gender differences in these associations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-sleep-quantity-and-quality">Improving sleep quantity and quality </h2>



The findings on weekend sleep spark an important conversation about sleep hygiene, especially in our busy lives. By making uninterrupted and sufficient rest a priority during the workweek, we can greatly improve our heart health.



Simple strategies like sticking to a regular bedtime, creating a cozy sleep environment, and cutting down on screen time before bed can make a real difference in how well we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>. 



Even small changes can lead to better sleep quality and quantity. By understanding just how vital sleep is, we can take charge of our health and adopt habits that help us recover from the effects of not getting enough rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-catch-up-sleep-on-the-weekend">Catch-up sleep on the weekend</h2>



"Our results show that for the significant proportion of the population in modern society that suffers from sleep deprivation, those who have the most 'catch-up' sleep at weekends have significantly lower rates of heart disease than those with the least," noted Zechen Liu, another key contributor to the study.



So, guess what? The next time you choose to catch up on sleep over the weekend, remember, you're not just beating fatigue - you could be outsmarting heart disease too. 



The findings of the research will be presented in the session ‘Exploring cardiovascular health: lifestyle, economics, and disparities’ at <a href="https://esc365.escardio.org/ESC-Congress/sessions/11988" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESC - Online Congress Platform</a>.



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Sleeping more on weekends can reduce heart disease risk

Ready to hit the snooze button and sleep for longer...

It's no secret that artificial sweeteners have been gradually replacing sugar in our daily diets, becoming increasingly prevalent in a variety of food and beverage products. One of the most commonly used sugar substitutes is Erythritol, which is often used in your morning coffee, protein bars, and a wide range of low-carb dietary products.



This sugar alternative is often hailed as a miracle solution for individuals looking to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. However, what if I told you that this seemingly harmless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweetener-neotame-has-shocking-effects-on-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial sweetener</a> could actually be increasing our risk of heart attack and stroke?



A new study led by Dr. Stanley Hazen, a well-known expert in cardiovascular and metabolic sciences, suggests that this sweetener might not be as harmless as it seems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-artificial-sweeteners">Defining "artificial sweeteners"</h2>



Artificial sweeteners serve as substitutes for sugar in various foods and beverages, providing a sweet taste without the added calories. These substances are often significantly sweeter than sugar, which means that only a small quantity is needed to achieve the desired flavor profile. 



Common examples include aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, which have gained popularity in "sugar-free" or "diet" products. This appeal is particularly relevant for individuals aiming to lower their sugar intake for health reasons, such as managing weight or controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes.



The use of artificial sweeteners has ignited debate regarding their safety and potential long-term health effects. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA have classified these sweeteners as safe when consumed within established limits. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-erythritol">Understanding erythritol</h2>



Erythritol is a popular pick for anyone trying to cut back on sugar. You’ll find it in lots of low-calorie, low-carb, and "keto" products. It’s about 70% as sweet as sugar, but with way fewer calories.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-artificial-sweeteners-safe-the-debate-is-heating-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unlike sugar</a>, erythritol isn’t really processed by the body, so it just passes into the bloodstream and gets flushed out through urine.



On the surface, it seems harmless enough, especially since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA</a>) and the European Food Safety Authority (<a href="https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EFSA</a>) have labeled it as "generally recognized as safe" (<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRAS</a>). This means it can be used in food products without any restrictions.



Here's the catch: while erythritol does naturally occur in fruits and veggies and is produced in small amounts during glucose metabolism, the levels we get from artificial sweeteners are much higher. This difference is what has scientists, like Dr. Hazen, taking a closer look.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-erythritol-and-sugar-substitutes">Risks of erythritol and sugar substitutes</h2>



A recent study by Dr. Hazen’s team at the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a> looked into how erythritol affects blood clot formation, adding to a larger set of questions about the physiological effects of common sugar substitutes.



The results were surprising. Healthy volunteers who consumed erythritol at levels typically found in a "sugarless" soda or muffin experienced a staggering spike in blood erythritol levels to well over 1,000 times the baseline.



More concerning, this consumption was accompanied by a significant increase in blood clot formation.



To put these findings into context, when the same participants consumed glucose, their blood didn't show the same tendency to clot.



This difference is important because it emphasizes that erythritol itself -- not just any artificial or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-sugar-sources-are-key-to-preventing-childhood-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural sweetener</a> -- could be a unique risk factor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-this-mean-for-consumers">What does this mean for consumers?</h2>



These findings have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-linked-to-higher-risk-of-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serious implications</a>, particularly for individuals at high cardiovascular risk -- those with conditions like obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.



"Many professional societies and clinicians routinely recommend that people at high cardiovascular risk consume foods that contain sugar substitutes rather than sugar," says Dr. Hazen. But with evidence mounting against erythritol, it's time to reconsider that advice.



Dr. Hazen’s research isn't the first to cast doubt on the safety of erythritol. A previous study published last year in Nature Medicine revealed that cardiac patients with high erythritol levels were twice as likely to experience a major cardiac event within three years.



Moreover, adding erythritol to blood samples increased clot formation, a finding that was confirmed in pre-clinical studies.



These consistent results suggest that erythritol, even in amounts typically consumed, may not be as safe as once thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expert-urge-caution">Expert urge caution</h2>



Given the potential risks, experts are urging caution. "This research raises some concerns that a standard serving of an erythritol-sweetened food or beverage may acutely stimulate a direct clot-forming effect," says Dr. W. H. Wilson Tang, a co-author of the study and research director for <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/heart/depts/heart-failure-transplantation-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation Medicine</a> at Cleveland Clinic.



He emphasizes the importance of more research, especially long-term studies, to really get a handle on the cardiovascular safety of erythritol and other sugar substitutes.



Adding to the worry is that xylitol, another popular artificial sweetener, has shown similar effects in studies.



Just like erythritol, xylitol was linked to higher plasma levels and impacted platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. The similarities between these sweeteners hint that the risks might not be exclusive to erythritol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erythritol-and-the-future-of-sugar-substitutes">Erythritol and the future of sugar substitutes</h2>



So, where does that leave us? Right now, it's smart to be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/startling-connection-between-soda-and-liver-disease-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cautious about artificial sweeteners</a>, especially for those at high risk for heart disease.



Research by Dr. Hazen and his team is still ongoing. We can expect more findings in the coming years.



As Dr. Hazen concludes, "Cardiovascular disease builds over time, and heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. We need to make sure that the foods we eat aren't secretly contributing to this crisis."



This hints that the food industry and regulators might need to rethink their stance on erythritol and other sugar substitutes.



To sum it all up, while the convenience and low-calorie perks of these sweeteners are definitely appealing, we should think about their potential impact on our long-term health.



The discussion around these products goes beyond personal choices. The use of artificial sweeteners, like erythritol, xylitol, also has broader and concerning implications for public health.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology</a>.



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Artificial sweeteners like Erythritol directly linked to blood clots and heart disease

It's no secret that artificial sweeteners have been gradually replacing...

Forgetting is often seen as a flaw or failure of the human memory system, something that happens when our brains can't keep up. However, recent research offers a different, more nuanced perspective.



Neuroscientists now suggest that forgetting might not just be an accidental glitch or a sign of cognitive decline, but could actually be a beneficial, deliberate function of the brain, enhancing our ability to navigate complex environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forgetting-to-adapt-to-the-world">Forgetting to adapt to the world</h2>



This new understanding challenges the conventional view of memory as merely a storage system and shows how our brains may strategically use forgetting to adapt to the ever-changing world around us, improving our decision-making and cognitive flexibility.



The research was led by Dr. Tomás Ryan, an associate professor in the School of Biochemistry and Immunology and the Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience at <a href="https://www.tcd.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity College Dublin</a>.



Supported by Dr. Livia Autore, an Irish Research Council Postgraduate Scholar, this research is gaining traction in the scientific community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forgetting-as-a-learning-mechanism">Forgetting as a learning mechanism</h2>



Dr. Ryan and his team have brought a unique proposition to the table. They suggest that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-memory-how-we-remember-traumatic-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> not only adapts by storing information but also by selectively forgetting it.



This, they theorize, is the brain's strategic response to the unpredictable and ever-changing environment around us. 



"In a changing world like the one we and many other organisms live in, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgetting-things-is-a-natural-part-of-the-memory-process/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forgetting some memories</a> would be beneficial, as this can lead to more flexible behavior and better decision-making," said the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-what-where-and-how-of-forgetting">The what, where, and how of forgetting</h2>



The researchers investigated a specific form of forgetting called retroactive interference. This occurs when different experiences happening around the same time cause the brain to forget some newly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formed memories</a>.



To investigate, the experts conducted an experiment with mice, where the mice were made to associate a specific object with a particular context or room. The mice then had to recognize when that object was displaced from its original context.



However, when the first memory was interrupted by other experiences, the mice seemed to forget these associations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-memory-and-optogenetics">Light, memory, and optogenetics</h2>



To examine the impact of forgetting on memory itself, the researchers employed a potent mix of genetics and optogenetics, a technique that uses light to control cells in living tissue.



The experts genetically labeled a contextual "engram" or a group of brain cells that store a specific memory, within the mice's brain. Then, they observed the activation and functioning of these cells after forgetting occurred.



The researchers discovered that stimulating these cells with light could retrieve the seemingly lost memories. Additionally, when the mice experienced something related to the forgotten memories, these "lost" engrams were naturally revived.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forgetting-a-double-edged-sword">Forgetting: A double-edged sword</h2>



Through this research, the team has given us a peek into the remarkable dynamics of memory. "It’s as if the memories are stored in a safe but you can’t remember the code to unlock it," said Dr. Ryan. 



In other words, our forgotten memories are not erased; they are merely inaccessible due to lack of reactivation of their respective engrams.



The implications of this research extend beyond our everyday forgetting. Understanding these "natural forgetting" processes could provide valuable insights into disease states where these processes may be mistakenly activated, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-why-some-brains-resist-alzheimers-disease-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's Disease</a>.



The study was supported by the European Research Council, the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, the Irish Research Council and the Science Foundation Ireland.



The findings bring us closer to explaining how our brains selectively choose what to remember and what to forget, and how this function impacts our overall cognitive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-frontier-for-memory-research">A new frontier for memory research</h2>



The study by Dr. Ryan and his team opens up exciting new avenues for research into memory and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-for-the-aging-brain-mediterranean-diet-protects-cognitive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive health</a>.



By understanding how natural forgetting works, scientists can explore innovative ways to prevent or mitigate conditions where memory loss becomes harmful, such as Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. 



These insights may lead to novel therapeutic approaches, potentially unlocking the brain's capacity to manage and retrieve lost memories, offering hope for millions affected by memory disorders.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211124723010100" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Forgetting may actually be a beneficial form of learning

Forgetting is often seen as a flaw or failure of...

Music, a universal language that speaks to our soul, holds more power than you might imagine. It transcends cultural boundaries and has the ability to stir our deepest emotions. But did you know that music is also a potent tool for boosting brainpower, productivity, and performance?



A recent study suggests that curating the right musical playlist tailored to your mood and tasks can be a valuable asset in your quest for a more productive and fulfilling day, helping to boost focus, enhance creativity, and improve overall cognitive performance.



It's not just about the soothing melodies or heart-thumping beats; it's about the perfect harmony of neuroscience, psychology, and your daily activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-brainpower-and-century-old-psychology">Music, brainpower, and century-old psychology</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://engineering.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York University Tandon School of Engineering</a> have begun to show how the principles of cognitive enhancement through music and emotional regulation might work together.



Rose Faghih, an associate professor of biomedical engineering, explained: "Maintaining a proper level of cognitive arousal (also known as 'intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-inspired-by-music-shape-our-most-enduring-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotion</a>') may result in being more productive throughout daily cognitive activities."



This conclusion stems from the new study, which analyzed how different types of music could influence productivity. Faghih and her colleagues discovered that exciting music led to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groove-music-enhances-cognitive-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher performance on cognitive tasks</a> in five out of six participants.



The study draws its inspiration from the Yerkes-Dodson law, a psychological principle developed over a century ago by Robert Yerkes and John Dodson. 



The law suggests that a certain level of arousal or stress is necessary for optimal performance, where too little leads to boredom and too much to a decrease in productivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-music-oriented-productivity">The power of music-oriented productivity</h2>



Participants in the NYU study were asked to select two types of music: one calming, to simulate a low arousal environment, and one exciting, to create a high arousal setting. 



Throughout the experiment, physiological data - including skin surface temperature, respiration, and electrocardiogram, as well as behavioral signals like facial expressions - were monitored.



Interestingly, while exciting music generally led to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">better cognitive performance</a>, the results also aligned with the Yerkes-Dodson law.



"Several factors, such as the learning effect, the nature of the task, the participant's baseline, and the type of applied music, can impact the outcome," noted the researchers.



Nonetheless, the study's findings suggest that music might be a tool for enhancing cognitive performance by shifting arousal levels appropriately.



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



This recent study is a continuation of previous neuroscience research exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music's impact on emotions</a> and task performance. 



For instance, in 2020, neuroscientists using magnetic resonance imaging found that "happy and high-arousing music" correlated with faster response times and increased brain activity in specific areas. 



Similarly, a 2010 study revealed that listening to Mozart improved the speed and accuracy of cognitive tasks among university students.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-you-benefit">How can you benefit?</h2>



So, how does all of this connect to you and your efforts to boost productivity? If you find parts of your work becoming monotonous, consider creating a playlist that starts with calming tunes and gradually transitions to more stimulating ones.



This approach allows you to move along the Yerkes-Dodson curve, optimizing your arousal levels and, consequently, your productivity. 



"It might be feasible to enhance cognitive performance and shift one's arousal from either the left or right side of the curve using music," noted the researchers.



Music, tested by neuroscientists and psychologists alike, may indeed be your secret weapon to unlock a world of enhanced cognitive performance.



Design your playlist, touch your emotions, find your flow, and prepare for a surge in productivity and performance like never before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-your-optimal-playlist">Creating your optimal playlist</h2>



To maximize your productivity through music, consider crafting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">playlist</a> that aligns with your daily tasks.



Start with soothing tracks to ease into focus, followed by high-energy songs during peak work hours. As you wind down, return to calming tunes to maintain balance. 



Experiment with different genres and tempos to identify what best enhances your cognitive function and keeps you engaged. With this approach, you can harness the full power of music to drive both creativity and efficiency.



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Music can boost brainpower and productivity

Music, a universal language that speaks to our soul, holds...

In an unprecedented revelation, a recent study has overturned the traditional stereotype that video gaming is detrimental to mental health. 



This belied was challenged by a ground-breaking research that changes our understanding of gaming and well-being.



But, can video gaming and mental well-being really go hand in hand? In the most comprehensive study of its kind, a team of relentless researchers have set out to explore this very question.&nbsp;



The study, aptly titled “Causal effect of video gaming on mental well-being in Japan 2020-2022,” has rattled common assumptions and stereotypes, painting a radically different picture of the effects of gaming on our mood and mindset.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survey-on-video-gaming-and-mental-health">Survey on video gaming and mental health</h2>



Researchers journey into the data starts with an analysis of a whopping 97,602 survey responses collected from Japanese residents aged 10 to 69, during the COVID-19 period.&nbsp;



The evidence pointed towards a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gaming-can-boost-well-being-and-life-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improvement in mental well-being</a> associated with game console ownership and increased gameplay.



The captivating world of consoles didn't escape the researchers' scrutiny. Using machine learning, they discovered that different consoles had varying impacts on mental health.&nbsp;



PlayStation 5 showed smaller benefits for adolescents and females, while Nintendo Switch painted a brighter picture for adolescents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-the-console-effect">Quantifying the console effect</h2>



The numbers speak for themselves. Owning a Nintendo Switch <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gaming-actually-improves-brain-functions-at-any-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improved mental health</a> by 0.60 standard deviations, while PlayStation 5 ownership led to an improvement of 0.12 standard deviations. PlayStation 5 ownership also bumped up life satisfaction by 0.23 standard deviations.



Their unique experimental design using game console lotteries during COVID-19 supply shortages establishes a causal link between gaming and improved mental health. 



“Our findings challenge common stereotypes about gaming being harmful or merely providing temporary euphoria.” stated Hiroyuki Egami, PhD., Assistant Professor at <a href="https://www.nihon-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nihon University</a>.&nbsp;



“Our natural experimental design allows us to confidently say that gaming actually leads to improved well-being, rather than just being associated with it.”



Shafiur Rahman, PhD., Senior Assistant Professor at <a href="https://www.hama-med.ac.jp/uni-e/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hamamatsu University School of Medicine</a>, offered his own perspective.



“As an epidemiologist, I’ve often seen concerns about gaming’s negative impacts. However, this study’s robust methodology challenges those preconceptions. It highlights the need for a more nuanced approach in studying digital media’s effects on health," Rahman concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-video-games-improve-mental-health">Not all video games improve mental health</h2>



This study not only argues against the negative stigma attached to gaming, but also emphasizes the notion that not all games and gaming platforms affect individuals equally.&nbsp;



The Nintendo Switch appears to offer larger psychological benefits, particularly for children, contradicting the stereotype that games are universally harmful to the younger population.



While the data for this study was collected during the COVID-19 period, the authors highlight the need to confirm these findings in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gamers-may-be-at-risk-of-irreversible-hearing-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other contexts</a>.&nbsp;



Notwithstanding, there’s no denying that this robust methodology provides compelling evidence for the positive correlation between video gaming and improved mental well-being.



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



This study uncovers essential insights into gaming culture and how society perceives digital entertainment. 



While stigma persists around video games, it's crucial for parents, educators, and policymakers to acknowledge the mental health benefits gaming offers. 



Shifting our perspective allows for more balanced discussions that highlight gaming's positive aspects.



By promoting healthy gaming habits, we can cultivate a more inclusive and innovative gaming industry that prioritizes well-being alongside entertainment, promoting creativity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-gamers-help-advance-gut-microbiome-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">community engagement</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-gaming-and-mental-well-being">Understanding gaming and mental well-being</h2>



This significant research paves the way towards a more nuanced understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-violent-video-games-impact-the-human-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital media consumption</a>, providing crucial evidence for policymakers and international organizations such as WHO and UNICEF.&nbsp;



Emphasizing balance in screen time, along with educational content, can further empower individuals to engage responsibly in their digital lives. 



So next time you pick up your controller or handheld device, remember, you're not just playing a game - you might just be boosting your mental health too. Keep on gaming.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01948-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



-----



The team who breathed life into this research, hail from renowned institutions like <a href="https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka University</a>, <a href="https://www.hama-med.ac.jp/uni-e/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hamamatsu University School of Medicine</a>, <a href="https://gllp.hess.gunma-u.ac.jp/ghkg-shushokusokushin/english/html/guide/tcue_01.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Takasaki City University of Economics</a>, the <a href="https://www.grips.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies</a>, and <a href="https://www.nihon-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nihon University</a>. 



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Shock study: Video gaming positively impacts mental well-being

In an unprecedented revelation, a recent study has overturned the...

Babies bubbling with laughter and toddlers on their unsteady feet are the essence of joy. But, are we providing babies with an adequate amount of nutritional nourishment in their food? The answer might unsettle you.



A recent study reveals that a whopping 60% of infant and toddler foods do not meet the desired nutritional standards. What's more baffling? None of these foods meet the promotional standards outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrition-guidelines-for-baby-food">Nutrition guidelines for baby food</h2>



Scientists at The George Institute for Global Health embarked on a journey to scrutinize how baby foods match up with international standards.



"Despite growing concerns over the increasing popularity and health impact of commercial foods for infants and toddlers, no nutrition or promotional guidelines currently exist for the United States," noted the researchers.



The team analyzed data from 651 infant and toddler food products retailed across the top ten US supermarket chains. The startling revelation? A significant majority of these products failed to meet <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crucial nutritional benchmarks</a>.



Overall, 70% of these products did not meet protein requirements; 44% surpassed the sugar limits, and a quarter of these foods did not satisfy calorie requirements. The salt content didn't fare any better, with one in five products overshooting the stipulated sodium recommendations.



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



The study was led by Dr. Elizabeth Dunford, a research fellow at The George Institute and an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition at the <a href="https://www.unc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a>.



“Early childhood is a crucial period of rapid growth and when taste preferences and dietary habits form, potentially paving the way for the development of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and some cancers later in life,” said Dr. Dunford.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convenience-foods-lack-nutrients">Convenience foods lack nutrients </h2>



Our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-welfare-biggest-concern-people-making-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taste preferences and dietary habits</a> are formed during early childhood, potentially paving the way for chronic maladies like obesity, diabetes, and even some cancers as we age. The root cause?



“Time-poor parents are increasingly choosing convenience foods, unaware that many of these products lack key nutrients needed for their child’s development and tricked into believing they are healthier than they really are,” noted Dr. Dunford.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-false-claims-on-baby-food-packages">False claims on baby food packages</h2>



Baby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-choices-have-a-major-impact-on-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> pouches are gaining momentum within this sector. Within a mere span of 13 years, sales from these pouches have vaulted by a staggering 900 percent. However, these products ranked among the unhealthiest ones evaluated, with a dismal 7% meeting sugar recommendations.



What about the packaging? Dr. Daisy Coyle, a research fellow and dietitian at The George Institute, noted that a whopping 99.4% of products sported at least one illicit claim on their packaging. Some baby food products even showcased as many as 11 false claims.



These crafty claims give rise to a "health halo" illusion, painting these products to be healthier than they are. “The lack of regulation in this area leaves the door wide open for the food industry to deceive busy parents,” said Dr. Coyle. She also pointed out that deceptive product names are often used that do not mirror the main ingredients listed.



“For example, snack and finger foods often referred to fruit or vegetables in the product name, despite primarily being made of flour or other starches,” said Dr. Coyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-epidemic-childhood-obesity">Hidden epidemic: Childhood obesity</h2>



Childhood obesity in the US has more than doubled since the 1970s, with about 13% of preschool children grappling with obesity. The COVID-19 pandemic has only fueled this issue.



“While reducing childhood obesity was a priority under the Obama administration, the issue appears to have fallen by the wayside in recent years,” said Dr. Dunford.



“Our findings highlight the urgent need for better regulation and guidance in the infant and toddler foods market in the United States - the health of future generations depends on it.”



So, what's next? As conscious consumers, it's important to remember that while convenience is appealing, our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microwaving-baby-food-containers-releases-billions-of-nanoplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food choices</a> can lay the groundwork for our baby's future health. 



We must scrutinize the products we purchase and the claims decorating them. As for the food manufacturers, it's time to put nutritional value before profits.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/16/2782" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrients</a>.



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Most baby food isn't nutritious despite what the label says

Babies bubbling with laughter and toddlers on their unsteady feet...

Europe's fascinating history is no stranger to tales of exotic indulgences, and the latest findings add an unexpected layer to this narrative - cocaine use that dates back as far as the 17th century.



This revelation is not just a footnote in history but provides significant insights into the lifestyles and cultures of ancient Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fully-immersive-exploration">A fully immersive exploration </h2>



In the heart of Italy, researchers at the <a href="https://www.unimi.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Milan</a> are expanding our understanding of Europe's past substance use.



Together with colleagues from Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, the research team embarked on a journey to uncover the hidden stories of those who walked the streets of Europe centuries ago.



The study was not merely an attempt at investigating history, but a fully immersive exploration of preserved brains found in a crypt in Milan.



This crypt, lying in the shadows of the historical Ospedale Maggiore, served as the final resting place of many who took their last breath in the famed hospital.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-origins-of-cocaine">Tracing the origins of cocaine</h2>



Before we dig in further into the findings, it's important to understand the history of cocaine use itself.



For thousands of years, inhabitants of South America's western regions relied on the coca plant for its stimulating effects. 



Fast forward to the 19th century, scientists discovered that processing the leaves produced cocaine hydrochloride salts, thus making the euphoric and mind-altering impacts more potent. 



This led to the drug's rise in popularity throughout Europe as a recreational substance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-cocaine-use">Early cocaine use</h2>



The Milan team discovered that Europe's rendezvous with the coca plant started much earlier than previously assumed.



Buried beneath the grounds of the Ca’ Granda crypt, a revelation awaited the research team: Europeans were using this drug to experience its mind-altering effects almost 200 years prior to the 19th-century boom.



During their excavation, the researchers came across the remains of two individuals whose bodies had undergone natural mummification. This presented the team with an unprecedented chance to probe deeper into Europe's past.



Remarkably, active components of the coca plant were found in the preserved brains of both mummies - a clear indication that these individuals were partaking in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rosemary-compound-offers-hope-in-combating-cocaine-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habit</a> of chewing coca leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pharmacological-past">The pharmacological past</h2>



Exploring the historical medical records of Ospedale Maggiore, the researchers found no evidence of medical use of cocaine or the coca plant, dismissing the possibility that the two individuals were using these leaves for medicinal purposes. 



Instead, it suggests that the reason behind their consumption was purely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recreational</a>. Evidence also suggested that these two individuals were of modest means, as their burial site and method indicated poverty.



This leads us to imagine a time when coca leaves were not only cheap and abundant, but also served as a readily available recreational outlet for the less fortunate.



The study not only uncovers an intriguing aspect of Europe's past but also poses fascinating questions about the socio-cultural nuances of the time.



It’s an eye-opening reminder that the roots of today's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-maltreatment-triples-the-risk-of-substance-use/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance use</a> issues trace back much further than we might imagine.



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



The discovery of early cocaine use in Europe invites us to reconsider the cultural exchanges between continents during the 17th century. 



It highlights the profound impact of trade routes that were not just conduits for goods but also for ideas, customs, and substances that shaped societies. 



The research prompts a re-evaluation of the socio-cultural dynamics of the time, revealing how global interactions influenced personal habits and leisure activities across different classes.



Furthermore, the study raises questions about the perception and regulation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychoactive-drug-relieves-symptoms-of-traumatic-brain-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychoactive</a> substances throughout history. It challenges the notion that modern society's struggles with drug use are solely a contemporary issue, instead suggesting a longstanding human curiosity and relationship with mind-altering substances.



As researchers continue to unearth the layers of Europe’s past, this fascinating glimpse into early cocaine use serves as a witness to the complexity and interconnectedness of human history. The findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary research in unveiling hidden chapters that challenge our understanding of historical narratives.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0305440324001080" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Archaeological Science</a>.



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Cocaine use detected in the brains of 17th century mummies

Europe's fascinating history is no stranger to tales of exotic...

Microplastics have infiltrated our food, water, and even the air we breathe, and they are increasingly being found in our bodies, from testicular tissue to brain matter.



In response to this growing concern, researchers at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a> have developed an affordable, portable device that can accurately measure the microplastic particles released from everyday items like disposable cups and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-thousands-of-nanoplastics-found-in-bottled-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water bottles</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-detection-devices">Microplastic detection devices</h2>



“The accumulation of micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) in ecosystems poses tremendous environmental risks for terrestrial and aquatic organisms. Designing rapid, field-deployable, and sensitive devices for assessing the potential risks of MNPs pollution is critical,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;



‘However, current techniques for MNPs detection have limited effectiveness. Here, we design a wireless portable device that allows rapid, sensitive, and on-site detection of MNPs, followed by remote data processing via <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-revolutionize-drug-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a> algorithms for quantitative fluorescence imaging.”



This new device, which works in conjunction with a smartphone app, uses fluorescent labeling to detect plastic particles ranging in size from 50 nanometers to 10 microns - far too small to be seen with the naked eye. The results are provided within minutes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanoplastics-and-human-health-concerns">Nanoplastics and human health concerns</h2>



“The breakdown of larger plastic pieces into microplastics and nanoplastics presents significant threats to food systems, ecosystems, and human health,” said Tianxi Yang, an assistant professor in the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, who developed the tool. “This new technique allows quick, cheap detection of these plastics, which could help protect our health and ecosystems.”



Nano- and microplastics are the result of degrading <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-plastic-materials-do-not-biodegrade-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic materials</a> like lunchboxes, cups, and utensils. Due to their tiny size and large surface area, nanoplastics are particularly concerning for human health because they can more easily absorb toxins and penetrate biological barriers within the human body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-microplastic-detection-device">Fast microplastic detection device</h2>



Detecting these tiny plastic particles traditionally requires specialized skills and expensive equipment. Yang’s team aimed to make detection faster, more accessible, and more reliable.



They created a compact, biodegradable, 3D-printed device that includes a wireless digital microscope, a green LED light, and an excitation filter. To measure the plastic particles, they customized MATLAB software with machine-learning algorithms and combined it with image capture software.



The result is a portable tool that works with a smartphone or other mobile devices to detect the presence of plastic particles in a sample. The tool requires only a tiny liquid sample - less than a drop of water - and makes the plastic particles fluoresce under the green LED light in the microscope, allowing them to be visualized and measured.&nbsp;



The results are easy to interpret, whether by a technician in a food processing lab or by someone curious about the microplastic content in their coffee cup.



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



For their study, the scientists tested disposable polystyrene cups by filling them with 50 mL of distilled, boiling water and allowing it to cool for 30 minutes.&nbsp;



The results showed that these cups released hundreds of millions of nano-sized plastic particles, each roughly one-hundredth the width of a human hair or smaller.



“Once the microscope in the box captures the fluorescent image, the app matches the image’s pixel area with the number of plastics,” explained co-author Haoming (Peter) Yang, a master’s student in the Faculty of Land and Food Systems. “The readout shows if plastics are present and how much. Each test costs only 1.5 cents.”



The device is currently calibrated to measure polystyrene, but the machine-learning algorithm can be adjusted to detect other types of plastics, such as polyethylene or polypropylene.



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



The researchers' next goal is to commercialize the device and expand its use to analyze microplastics in various real-world applications.



The long-term effects of ingesting plastic from food, beverages, and airborne particles are still being studied, but early findings indicate cause for concern.



“To reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-microplastic-ingestion-levels-mapped-across-109-countries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic ingestion</a>, it is important to consider avoiding petroleum-based plastic products by opting for alternatives like glass or stainless steel for food containers,” said Yang.



“The development of biodegradable packaging materials is also important for replacing traditional plastics and moving towards a more sustainable world.”



The development and findings of this tool are detailed in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acssensors.4c00957" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Sensors</a>.



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Are you drinking microplastic? A new device can tell you

Microplastics have infiltrated our food, water, and even the air...

Emotional intelligence, often overshadowed by traditional measures of intelligence, may hold the hidden key to academic success.



While cognitive ability has long been considered the most significant factor in educational achievement, recent research by a consortium of international experts suggests otherwise. 



The study provides evidence that emotional intelligence is just as crucial in shaping a student's academic journey as brain intelligence.



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



Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and influence your own emotions and the emotions of others. 



This type of intelligence involves being aware of how emotions affect behavior, using emotional awareness to guide thinking and actions, and managing emotions to achieve personal and interpersonal effectiveness.



Emotional intelligence is often broken down into four key components: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-intelligence-and-academics">Emotional intelligence and academics</h2>



The research was jointly led by Dr. Margherita Malanchini at <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a> and Dr. Andrea Allegrini at <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a>. The experts determined that non-cognitive skills, such as motivation and self-regulation, are critical determinants of academic success.



These skills become increasingly influential throughout a child's education, highlighting the importance of supporting both cognitive and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noncognitive-skills-contribute-as-much-to-success-as-cognitive-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-cognitive abilities</a>.



"Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr. Malanchini. 



"We’ve found compelling evidence that non-cognitive skills - such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-who-play-sports-have-more-grit-to-succeed-as-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grit</a>, perseverance, academic interest, and the value attributed to learning - are not only significant predictors of success but that their influence grows stronger over time."



The research journey involved following over 10,000 children from age 7 to 16 in England and Wales. By utilizing twin studies and DNA-based analyses, the researchers were able to examine the complex interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-cognitive-genetics-a-powerful-influence">Non-cognitive genetics: A powerful influence</h2>



One of the most notable outcomes of the study is the escalating role of genetics in shaping non-cognitive skills and their impact on academic achievement. 



The researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills by analyzing DNA, essentially creating a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/focusing-on-your-strongest-skills-can-improve-your-outlook/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skills</a>.



"We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years. In fact, their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," explained Dr. Allegrini. 



"By the end of compulsory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/formal-education-is-not-linked-to-greater-job-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">education</a>, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success."



The findings challenge the traditional view that intelligence is the primary driver of educational achievement. They suggest instead that a child's emotional and behavioral makeup, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, plays a crucial role in their academic journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-the-environment-in-academic-success">Role of the environment in academic success </h2>



Despite the extensive influence of genetics on non-cognitive skills, the environment also holds a valuable place in a child's academic development. 



By comparing siblings, researchers were able to isolate the impact of shared family environment from genetic factors.



"We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Dr. Allegrini. 



"This suggests that children may actively shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions, and abilities, creating a feedback loop that reinforces their strengths."



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



The findings of this study have profound implications for education. By recognizing the critical role of non-cognitive skills, schools can develop targeted interventions to support students' emotional and social development alongside their academic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>.



"Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr. Malanchini. "It's time to rebalance that focus and give equal importance to nurturing non-cognitive skills. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students."



Further research into the complex interplay of genes, environment, and education will be a crucial step going forward.



By understanding these factors, educators and policymakers can develop more effective strategies to support students' overall development and achieve better educational outcomes.



"This study is just the beginning," said Dr. Malanchini. "We hope it will inspire further research and lead to a transformation in how we approach education."



The research was generously supported by the Medical Research Council (MRC) of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01967-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Emotional intelligence may be the secret to academic success

Emotional intelligence, often overshadowed by traditional measures of intelligence, may...

The sun's surface may be in for a minor to moderate flare-up from new sunspots, according to the most recent weekend space weather solar forecast by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 



They suggest that a few R1 and R2 solar flares may erupt from active sunspots, causing our celestial father to glow with unusual intensity.



While the weekend forecast doesn't quite predict a Northern Lights display, remember that solar flares are a major cause of this phenomenon. 



Given it takes a few days for solar material to become visible on Earth, we may be in for a surprise aurora showing sometime next week.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-flares-and-sunspots">Solar flares and sunspots</h2>



An area of the Sun, identified as 'Region 3796', that has been quite active lately, appears to have slowed down. Nonetheless, the NOAA remains suspects to see more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-peak-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storm-expected-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar storms</a> from sunspots as soon as this weekend.



This optimism stems from the fact that this region produced an R2 flare Wednesday morning, indicating its "flare potential."



As of last Thursday, there were 12 distinct sunspot groups covering over 2 billion miles. That's more than 11 times the land area of our home planet! 



With Region 3796 currently facing Earth, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunspot-region-ar3664-blasted-earth-mars-may-2024-still-very-active/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspots</a> should be visible with the right equipment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spot-the-sunspots">Spot the sunspots</h2>



<a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a> suggests using solar eclipse glasses to view the spots while the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-geomagnetic-storm-alert-issued-sun-begins-erupting-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun</a> is still in the sky. However, do not forget to inspect your glasses for any scratches, marks, or holes -- these could potentially diminish the protective ability of your spectacles.



The sun rotates around 13 degrees every day, allowing us to observe how the sunspots evolve each day as they grow, potentially trigger solar flares, fade away, or rotate out of sight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-solar-eclipse-glasses-work">How solar eclipse glasses work</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experience-wildlife-shadow-total-solar-eclipse-april-8th/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar eclipse</a> glasses serve a vital purpose when viewing auroras, as they effectively filter out harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. 



While auroras may not radiate as intensely as the sun, their brightness can still be striking, particularly during powerful displays.



By reducing brightness, these glasses allow observers to appreciate the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the auroras without straining their eyes. Proper eye protection is essential for a clear and enjoyable viewing experience.



Moreover, by blocking excessive light, the glasses enhance the contrast between the auroras and the dark sky, resulting in a more comfortable and visually captivating experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-solar-cycles">Understanding solar cycles</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-next-solar-cycle-26-has-already-begun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun goes through a cycle</a> approximately every 11 years, and we’re currently in 'Solar Cycle 25'. This cycle has been the source of solar flares and geomagnetic storms, resulting in recent sightings of the Northern Lights. 



NASA predicts that this cycle will continue into the next year.



Commencing in December 2019, Solar Cycle 25 is anticipated to reach its maximum -- when solar flares and activity are expected to peak -- between late 2024 and early 2026. 



The projected peak comes with 115 sunspots, which are notorious for birthing geomagnetic storms.



Although this maximum phase hasn't yet arrived, our sun's activity has been livelier than scientists expected, leading to the possibility of more geomagnetic storms leading up to 2026. 



However, predicting the exact timing of these storms can be tricky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-solar-flares-on-earth">Effects of solar flares on Earth</h2>



Solar flares, resulting from increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-solar-cycle-25-highest-number-sunspots-activity-seen-since-2001/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspots</a>, can significantly impact both technology and daily life on Earth. 



When solar flares erupt, they release immense bursts of energy and charged particles that can disrupt communication systems, navigation satellites, and even power grids.



 These disturbances can lead to radio blackouts, GPS navigation inaccuracies, and in extreme cases, widespread electrical outages. 



Scientists and engineers continually monitor solar activity to mitigate these effects, employing advanced models that help to predict solar storms and their potential consequences. 



Awareness of solar activity is vital, especially for those in fields heavily reliant on technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-sunspot-activity-impact-solar-flares">High sunspot activity impact solar flares</h2>



To provide some context, around 299 sunspots were observed on August 8, as predicted by NOAA. This remarkable figure marks the highest sunspot count recorded since the beginning of Solar Cycle 25 and is also the most significant number of sunspots seen since at least July 2002. 



Sunspots, which are temporary phenomena on the Sun's photosphere, indicate areas of magnetic activity and can significantly influence solar radiation output. 



The increase in sunspots and solar flares can have various effects on space weather, affecting satellite operations and even power grids on Earth. 



The official count and analysis of these sunspots will be released by NOAA on September 1, providing further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rare-g5-level-geomagnetic-storm-highest-level-hits-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insights into solar activity</a>.



As we marvel at the mysteries of the cosmos, we continue to be awestruck by the happenings of our neighboring celestial bodies. 



Each day brings new discoveries and new questions. The best we can do is enjoy the ride, appreciate the discoveries, and never stop asking, "What's next?".



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NOAA: Wear eclipse glasses to see aurora-causing sunspots

The sun's surface may be in for a minor to...

Ever caught your child engrossed in a seemingly harmless play session with a smart toy? What if this cute, interactive play buddy is a bit nosier than it appears to be? 



Smart toys, such as Toniebox, Tiptoi, and Tamagotchi, are gaining momentum in many households worldwide. 



Unfortunately, these highly interactive playmates might be harboring a lesser-known secret -- they might be prying into your child's behavioral data, raising serious privacy concerns.



Now, that's a playdate you didn't sign up for.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smart-toys-keeping-track">Smart toys keeping track</h2>



The Toniebox, as an example, is especially popular among our little ones. It's an innovative toy that beautifully simplifies music and audio playback for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infants-show-creativity-skills-even-before-they-can-talk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small children</a>. 



Just imagine -- a plastic figurine of Peppa Pig mounted on this box, and Voila! You have Peppa narrating her own story.



The kid has the command -- if they want to stop, they can just remove the figurine. For rewinding or fast-forwarding, tilting the box in respective directions does the trick. What a lavish setting for an uninterrupted playtime, right?



But should parents get too excited about this? 



This fun box is meticulously taking notes -- tracking when it's activated and by which figurine, when the child stops the play and where they rewind or fast-forward. 



Once the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-scientifically-proven-steps-for-thriving-infant-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">playtime</a>'s over, it promptly reports back to its maker with all the collected data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-data">Analyzing the data</h2>



Professor Isabel Wagner of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the <a href="https://www.unibas.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Basel</a> led a team of researchers to study this area.



The Toniebox was just one of the many smart toys that went under the radar. The team left no stone unturned - from the Tiptoi smart pen, the Edurino learning app, the Tamagotchi virtual pet to less popular ones like the Moorebot and Kidibuzz, all had to face this scrutiny.



The team focused primarily on security measures taken by these toys' manufacturers. They investigated how well the data traffic is encrypted. 



Moreover, they checked these toys for data protection and transparency, and if they're in compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (<a href="https://gdpr-info.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GDPR</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smart-toy-chronicles">Smart toy chronicles</h2>



The Toniebox and Tiptoi smart pen led the find. The findings weren't really in favor of them when it came to security. The data traffic in both toys wasn't adequately encrypted. 



However, Toniebox did stir up a privacy storm by collecting data and sending it to the manufacturer, while Tiptoi played it safe in this regard.



Professor Wagner also made an unsettling revelation that even if these toys are operated offline temporarily, they can store the data locally and transmit it whenever they get the chance. 



Many manufacturers argue that the collected data helps them optimize their devices. However, with some toys demanding unnecessary access rights, like a smartphone's location or microphone, it puts the users in a tight spot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-privacy-first">Privacy first</h2>



“Children’s privacy requires special protection,” emphasizes Julika Feldbusch, first author of the study.



According to her, toy manufacturers must prioritize privacy and product security more than they currently do, keeping in mind their young target <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-to-babies-in-parentese-boosts-their-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">audience</a>.



The researchers propose that a standard compliance label on the packaging, akin to nutritional information on food items, would help parents make an informed choice. 



At present, it's quite a task for parents to gauge the security risks these smart toys pose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note-to-parents">Note to parents</h2>



“We’re already seeing signs of a two-tier society when it comes to privacy protection for children,” says Feldbusch. 



“Well-informed parents engage with the issue and can choose toys that do not create <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-need-quick-responses-to-their-babbling-to-learn-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavioral profiles</a> of their children. But many lack the technical knowledge or don’t have time to think about this stuff in detail.”



However, it's crucial to recognize that even though individual children may not experience immediate negative effects, continuous monitoring can hinder their personal growth and self-reliance. 



Striking a balance between supervision and independence is essential for healthy development. Encouraging children to explore and learn from their experiences will ultimately foster resilience and confidence, which are vital for their future success.



So, it's high hour we raise the curtain on these covert operations and advocate for stricter safety standards for smart toys. After all, when it comes to our kids, it's always better safe than sorry!



The study is published in&nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-68024-3_11" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lecture Notes in Computer Science</a>.



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Smart toys are secretly collecting data from children

Ever caught your child engrossed in a seemingly harmless play...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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> (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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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> 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



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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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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...