Cancer can turn life upside down for many people. The physical struggle is often matched by emotional burdens that seem to show up when least expected. 



A recent study led by Ryan Castle from the <a href="https://wholehealthoncology.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whole Health Oncology Institute</a> is shedding new light on the role of cannabis to treat cancer symptoms. 



Castle's team joined forces with <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250416912635/en/Cancer-Playbook-Powered-by-Whole-Health-Oncology-Institute-Launches-the-Largest-Meta-Analysis-to-Date-on-Medical-Cannabis-and-Cancer-Symptoms">Cancer Playbook</a> to explore whether cannabis can help with typical cancer complaints like pain, appetite loss, and sleeplessness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-may-ease-cancer-symptoms">Cannabis may ease cancer symptoms</h2>



Cancer Playbook is known for bridging research with the experiences of real people. The platform gathers observations from individuals going through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-cancer-cell-death-may-transform-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a>, then combines that data with findings from peer-reviewed publications.



This provides a more complete view of how cannabis interacts with the body, while also revealing what has worked for others.



“We expected controversy. What we found was overwhelming scientific consensus,” said Castle. 



Many studies now suggest that, when properly used, cannabis can be of significant help in addressing cancer symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-stories-shape-cannabis-research">Real stories shape cannabis research</h2>



Technology in healthcare is moving fast, but personal stories can be just as powerful. Cancer Playbook uses <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/patient-reported-outcome" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patient Reported Outcomes</a> to shift the spotlight onto people’s actual experiences. 



Those outcomes transform observations about fatigue and aches into reliable data that clinicians can apply.



Healthcare professionals have started to give these accounts more attention, since large <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trials</a> don't always capture the day-to-day hurdles that real individuals face. 



Focusing on each person’s comfort level, mood, and energy can create a more complete cancer care plan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-may-reduce-cancer-related-pain">Cannabis may reduce cancer-related pain</h2>



Pain can influence every aspect of life for cancer patients. Opioids have been a traditional go-to, but some find limited relief or tough side effects. 



Data from various research efforts suggest that cannabis may ease <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7140/5/1/7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lingering pain</a> for some patients while posing fewer complications.



Users who turn to cannabis for treating cancer symptoms often report fewer problems than they had feared. 



A handful of these studies show promise in helping with neuropathic pain, which is a tricky discomfort that standard drugs can’t always contain.



Not everyone responds in the same way, but many see cannabis as a welcome option for exploring additional approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-appetite-and-nausea">Cannabis, appetite, and nausea</h2>



Nausea is a serious drain on quality of life for people undergoing harsh treatments. Traditional anti-nausea medications help but might not cover the full scope of how patients feel. That’s where medical cannabis steps in, offering another strategy for those dealing with this challenge.



Some <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11409765/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> indicates that cannabis may support better eating patterns by triggering chemical receptors tied to hunger. 



Even modest success can make a difference by preserving energy and mood. It’s not a magic fix, but it could be an added tool in an often-complicated toolbox.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-may-help-reduce-inflammation">Cannabis may help reduce inflammation</h2>



Inflammation can worsen cancer’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-cancer-cell-death-may-transform-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects</a> and lead to other serious problems. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666915323000021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> studying <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/neurotoxin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurotoxins</a> and immune triggers have noticed that cannabinoids might reduce harmful responses at the cellular level. This suggests a targeted benefit that goes beyond just pain or nausea management.



Experts caution that these biological processes are not fully understood, and it’s unclear how inflammation shifts from minor to long-term danger. 



Early patterns, though, point to cannabis as having a role in controlling swelling in tissues, which might be helpful if standard therapies fall short.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patients-need-informed-choices">Patients need informed choices</h2>



“Too often, people turn to cannabis as a last resort. We believe it should be part of the conversation from day one,” said Jim Gerencser, the founder of Cancer Playbook.



By logging real-life feedback and comparing it with existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aspirin-may-prevent-cancer-from-moving-to-other-parts-of-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a>, Cancer Playbook informs patients on treatment approaches that doctors might not always have time to discuss in detail. 



This helps remove guesswork and promotes shared decision-making, which can reduce anxiety when facing critical choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-studies-support-cannabis-use">Large studies support cannabis use</h2>



Interest in cannabis has been sparked by large reviews that merge thousands of peer-reviewed articles. 



Researchers pool results to look for patterns that might be overlooked if only a handful of academic papers is scanned. This approach shapes a big-picture view of what may help many people who are facing cancer diagnoses.



Recent findings suggest that several cannabinoids appear safer and more effective than older assumptions indicated. 



However, some questions remain about recommended doses and timing. Clinical trials still need to define the exact parameters for optimal results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medical-advice-and-safe-cannabis-use">Medical advice and safe cannabis use</h2>



Although the enthusiasm for cannabis is growing, it’s wise to proceed with medical advice. Certain interactions with prescription drugs haven’t been fully studied. There's also the complexity of the plant itself - hemp, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/endocannabinoid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endocannabinoids</a>, and oils vary in chemical content.



Some oncologists suggest choosing formulations that have been tested for purity, which can reduce the risk of additives or inconsistent potency. Safety checks matter. 



Cancer treatment demands careful collaboration between patients and healthcare teams, so speaking openly about cannabis use is key.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-research-across-cancer-fields">Cannabis research across cancer fields </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-could-accelerate-discoveries-in-cancer-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> on cannabis continues to shift. Some of it focuses on how different strains interact with radiation or immunotherapy. Other work tracks its <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/anticarcinogenic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anticarcinogenic</a> capabilities, although that part is still being investigated in labs and patient trials.



Discussions about cannabis today look different from earlier times, when legal barriers limited the scope of studies. The current environment encourages deeper investigations. That leads to a broader acceptance of cannabis as a therapy that is worth exploring.



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



Many updates in oncology come from labs, but the patient perspective is equally valuable. When data from countless personal experiences gets analyzed, fresh patterns can emerge. 



Information about how people handle their side effects or combine treatments can shed new light on possible ways to get results.



Well-designed platforms like Cancer Playbook aim to make sense of these experiences without trivializing the science behind it all. It’s a blend of real-world accounts and measured research, which gives patients a more active role in shaping their own care path.



The study was published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2025.1490621/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Oncology</a>.



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Overwhelming evidence that cannabis significantly helps cancer patients

Cancer can turn life upside down for many people. The physical struggle is often matched by emotional burdens that seem to show up when least expected. A recent study led by Ryan Castle from the Whole Health Oncology Institute is shedding new light on the role of cannabis to treat cancer symptoms. Castle's team joined forces with Cancer Playbook to explore whether cannabis can help with typical cancer complaints like pain, appetite loss, and sleeplessness. Cannabis may ease cancer symptoms Cancer Playbook is known for bridging research...

No system in the human body functions in isolation. The health of any body part has impacts on the well-being of other parts, sometimes in surprising and unexpected ways. 



A recent scientific review has turned attention to the mouth - and how gum disease might be playing a surprising role in liver health.



This review, led by a group of scientists from <a href="https://cie.jlu.edu.cn/info/1137/1681.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">First Hospital of Jilin University</a>, looks at how gum disease, especially advanced periodontitis, may worsen chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and alcohol-related liver disease. 



Though the mouth and liver are far apart in both distance and function, researchers believe they may be more connected than we thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mouth-s-connection-to-liver-disease">Mouth's connection to liver disease</h2>



Gum disease, particularly periodontitis, is a chronic inflammation caused by bacterial infection in the tissues supporting the teeth. 



It’s extremely common worldwide and tends to worsen with age, smoking, alcohol use, and poor dental care, which are the same risk factors seen in people with liver disease. Because of this overlap, oral health often gets overlooked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-mediterranean-diet-reduces-fatty-liver-disease-by-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in these patients</a>.



But this could be a serious mistake. 



The review explains how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-your-mouth-multiply-in-a-very-unique-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria from the mouth</a> might reach and affect the liver. One key route is through what scientists call the "oral-gut-liver axis."



Harmful oral bacteria can be swallowed or enter the bloodstream during everyday actions like brushing or chewing. Once in the gut, they may disrupt the gut microbiome, causing an imbalance and weakening the gut lining. 



This so-called “leaky gut” allows bacterial toxins to escape into the bloodstream and reach the liver, where they can trigger inflammation and scarring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-models-add-weight">Animal models add weight</h2>



Animal studies support this idea.



Researchers have shown that introducing periodontal bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis into the mouths of mice with metabolic disease can make their liver conditions worse. 



In some cases, the bacteria or their toxins have even been detected in liver tissue, suggesting that the trip from mouth to liver is not just possible, but biologically real.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-as-a-common-thread">Inflammation as a common thread</h2>



The immune system plays a big role too. 



Periodontal inflammation releases molecules like TNF-alpha and IL-6, which are well-known culprits in liver disease.



The review also points to Th17 cells, a type of immune cell triggered by oral bacteria, that may travel to the liver and worsen any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-causes-liver-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damage</a>.



It creates a vicious cycle: poor oral health contributes to liver disease, and this makes oral health harder to manage.



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



Though the research is still developing, clinical findings are beginning to show a pattern. 



People with cirrhosis often have much worse oral health than others, with issues like gum overgrowth, bone loss, and tissue breakdown. In fact, up to 72 percent of people waiting for liver transplants may have periodontitis. 



Studies also show that severe gum disease can raise the risk of death in cirrhosis patients.



For MASLD - the most common chronic liver disease - the pattern continues.



Large-scale studies show that people with advanced gum disease are more likely to have MASLD, even when adjusting for obesity, diabetes, and other shared factors. 



In a small clinical trial, treating gum disease actually improved liver enzyme levels in the short term. It’s not proof, but it’s a hopeful sign.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-questions-to-answer">More questions to answer</h2>



The scientists behind the review are careful to note that the research is still in its early stages. 



Most of the data comes from observational studies, which can't prove cause and effect. It’s also difficult to untangle lifestyle and economic issues that may impact both oral and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liver health</a>.



Still, the combination of biological plausibility, consistent results, and early trial data makes a strong case. Gum health might deserve a bigger consideration when managing liver disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-liver-disease-with-a-toothbrush">Preventing liver disease with a toothbrush</h2>



The review ends with a clear recommendation: doctors and dentists need to work together. 



Liver specialists may not ask about oral health, and dentists may not know that their patients’ livers are at risk. Better collaboration between the two could mean earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.



In the meantime, one message is clear. Good <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-dental-hygiene-is-directly-linked-to-decrease-in-brain-volume-and-mental-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dental hygiene</a> - brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits - is more than just a routine. It may be a small but important step in protecting liver health.



Researchers are now pushing for large-scale trials to see if treating gum disease can actually slow the deterioration of the liver, or at least reduce complications.



If proven, the toothbrush could become a powerful tool in an unexpected battle - the fight against liver failure.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://egastroenterology.bmj.com/content/3/1/e100140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eGastroenterology</a>.



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Brushing your teeth regularly can prevent deadly liver disease

No system in the human body functions in isolation. The...

Alzheimer,Blood,Test,Diagnostics,And,Dementia,Screening,For,Early,Detection

Over 55 million people across the globe are living with Alzheimer’s, according to recent statistics from the <a href="https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550543" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a>, and many struggle to access the right diagnostic test early on.



Symptoms can be subtle at first, and many folks only receive clarity on their condition well after harmful changes have already taken root.



<a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en/news/news/marc-suarez-calvet-head-bbrc-group-biomarkers-fluids-and-translational-neurology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Marc Suárez-Calvet</a>, a neurologist at Hospital del Mar and researcher at the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (<a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBRC</a>), has spent years focused on ways to measure Alzheimer’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stopping-alzheimers-before-it-starts-early-treatment-shows-potential/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">markers</a> in routine clinical settings. 



Recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03622-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> by his team and others suggests that a streamlined blood test may be able to show whether someone is at risk, even in the presence of mild forgetfulness or general cognitive changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-early-detection-matters">Why early detection matters</h2>



Alzheimer’s is notorious for hiding behind familiar signs of aging, and that overlap can be confusing for families. 



Many older adults dismiss <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-can-track-the-progression-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory slips</a> as nothing unusual, but doctors now caution that missing an early diagnosis can limit treatment options.



Studies highlight that advanced <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ana.20009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, including positron emission tomography (<a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/positron-emission-tomography-pet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PET</a>) scans, can confirm Alzheimer’s pathology with fair accuracy. 



Yet these scans can be expensive, inconvenient for those living in remote areas and limited by availability in many regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-test-identifies-alzheimer-s">How the test identifies Alzheimer’s</h2>



The promising test zeroes in on a biomarker in the blood, called <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-024-03084-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phospho-tau217</a> (p-tau217). Scientists have discovered that unusual shifts in this <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2784411" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marker</a> might be tied to the Alzheimer’s process well before pronounced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-air-pollution-fuels-alzheimers-and-brain-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory issues</a> emerge.



“This development may allow us to determine who needs to undergo further tests, such as a lumbar puncture or a PET scan, and who doesn’t,” stated Dr. Suárez-Calvet. 



Experts believe that routine labs could run the p-tau217 test on fully automated platforms, making advanced evaluation more accessible to smaller clinics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-test-is-easier-and-faster">Blood test is easier and faster</h2>



Blood tests are generally easier on patients than procedures like a spinal tap, which draws cerebrospinal fluid (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519007/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSF</a>). Some people hesitate to get a lumbar puncture because of discomfort, cost or personal fears.



“Our results, combined with the ease of use and implementation of this type of test, could facilitate its integration into clinical practice,” said BBRC researcher <a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en/news/news/federica-anastasi-receives-juan-de-la-cierva-fellowship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Federica Anastasi</a>. Researchers also note that blood-based tests can be done at many local labs.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-test-limits-over-age-80">Alzheimer’s test limits over age 80</h2>



Doctors caution that accuracy decreases slightly in individuals past the age of 80 if only a single cutoff measure is used. 



That doesn’t mean the test fails; it just suggests the need for an additional step to ensure that results line up with each patient’s full health profile.



Older patients might have other changes that affect test readings, such as chronic kidney disease (<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11837363/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CKD</a>) or coexisting conditions that overlap with cognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/targeting-the-gut-might-be-key-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a>. 



By factoring these elements into the analysis, clinicians can keep the test from overestimating or underestimating risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-cutoffs-for-extra-clarity">Two cutoffs for extra clarity</h2>



Scientists recommend using two separate thresholds for p-tau217. In many cases, a higher value points toward clear Alzheimer’s risk, and a lower value suggests an all-clear.



People who land in the middle range are flagged for more detailed evaluation. This avoids confusion and ensures those on the borderline get an extra look using other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-disruptions-could-signal-the-onset-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diagnostic tools</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-advantages">Economic advantages</h2>



Costs linked to diagnosing Alzheimer’s can add up quickly, due to extra imaging tests and possible prolonged hospital stays. 



By offering a blood-based evaluation, doctors and patients may reduce the need for more expensive scans in many situations.



Estimates show that a simple lab draw for Alzheimer’s markers can cut typical diagnostic costs by more than half. 



Although further confirmation might be needed for some, the savings could be a big deal in large-scale healthcare planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-test-improves-small-town-access">Alzheimer’s test improves small-town access</h2>



Primary care offices rarely have the specialized equipment or staff needed for advanced imaging. With a user-friendly blood analysis, people in smaller towns might not have to travel several hours to major medical centers.



This shift can also ease overcrowding at specialized hospitals, allowing neurologists and geriatricians to focus on complex cases. 



The blood test, in combination with standard exams, can give family doctors a reliable starting point without the wait times that often plague bigger clinics.



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



Experts caution that this test isn’t meant to replace clinical judgment. They emphasize that doctors who see potential warning signs still have to look at a patient’s history, neurological exams and overall health.



Researchers plan more studies to understand how factors like diabetes and advanced age can skew results. Some teams aim to fine-tune the test so that even borderline cases get a more precise reading within standard blood panels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staying-one-step-ahead">Staying one step ahead</h2>



Many caregivers say that when Alzheimer’s is confirmed sooner, they can plan better for therapy, lifestyle adjustments and family support. 



Catching things <a href="https://www.nice.org.uk/Media/Default/About/what-we-do/HTA%20Lab/HTA-lab-dmdt.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early</a> also opens the door for experimental treatments aimed at slowing disease progression.



A widely accessible test for Alzheimer’s risk holds promise for bridging the gaps in rural and underserved communities. 



Even so, professionals emphasize the need for continued innovation to improve reliability for every age bracket and health background.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03622-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



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Breakthrough: New blood test for early detection of Alzheimer's disease

Over 55 million people across the globe are living with...

Seasonal allergies used to follow a fairly stable schedule. People would brace for symptoms in the spring and sometimes in the fall, but those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> have been more difficult to predict lately.



Many now notice that their noses start running before the usual first bloom of the season. Others find that their watery eyes and sneezing continue for weeks past the time they expected relief. A recent study links these intensifying seasonal allergies to climate change. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-seasons-are-getting-longer">Pollen seasons are getting longer</h2>



The <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.32124" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> suggests that warmer climate conditions can lengthen pollen seasons in various parts of the world. The study was led by Alisha R. Pershad, a third-year medical student at the George Washington University <a href="https://smhs.gwu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Medicine and Health Sciences</a>.



The researchers looked at data published between the years 2000 and 2023. They found 30 studies that examined how global warming seems to affect the timing and amount of pollen released. 



Sixteen of those studies observed a link between rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-constantly-reshuffling-earths-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> and longer pollen seasons, adding to the concerns of allergy sufferers.



Some researchers <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1014107108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">project</a> that total pollen production in the United States might climb by as much as 40% by the close of the century. They also anticipate an earlier start to the sneezing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-therapy-may-help-reduce-peanut-allergies-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">season</a>, with shifts in temperature patterns possibly adding up to 19 extra days of pollen in certain regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-allergy-seasons-affect-daily-life">Longer allergy seasons affect daily life</h2>



<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538186/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allergic rhinitis</a> is a reaction that involves itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and repetitive sneezing. It affects about 19.2 million adults across the nation.



Many who struggle with this condition describe fatigue, disrupted sleep, and trouble focusing at work or school. Beyond the personal inconvenience, extended pollen exposure may lead to frequent doctor visits and a need for stronger medications which both require financial assistance.



A few studies note that climate conditions can influence the spread of new types of pollen into places not used to seeing them. This shift sometimes catches residents off guard, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oak-trees-show-that-allergy-season-is-becoming-longer-and-more-intense/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergic</a> flare-ups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-access-to-allergy-treatment">Improving access to allergy treatment </h2>



The researchers observed a pattern of increased healthcare usage for <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6705e1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergy-related problems</a> in areas with limited resources. Clinics in these neighborhoods reported more symptoms such as congestion from patients seeking help with various symptoms attributed to allergies.



Four of the studies in the recent review highlighted how low-income residents are especially affected by the higher frequency of allergic rhinitis complaints. This situation highlights a need for improved access to allergy treatment and more awareness campaigns at the community level.



Two of the studies indicated that medical workers themselves would like better training on the ways that climate patterns can influence allergic conditions. They stressed the importance of bridging knowledge gaps so professionals can advise patients about upcoming shifts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-peanut-consumption-could-prevent-100000-allergy-cases-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollen levels</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-future">Preparing for the future</h2>



“Physicians are uniquely positioned to witness the impact of allergic rhinitis on patient outcomes and can adapt their practice as climate change intensifies. As trusted voices in the community, they should leverage their frontline experience to advocate for meaningful change in addressing the climate crisis,” said Pershad.



Experts suggest that those who struggle with runny noses, sneezing fits, and nasal itching could benefit from practical solutions. Some rely on checking local pollen forecasts, while others start preventive medications a few weeks before their typical allergy window.



Public health officials note that these problems may grow if temperatures keep fluctuating and plant cycles become more erratic. 



Long-term planning could involve bolstering healthcare infrastructure and expanding research into allergy triggers that might spread into previously unaffected areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-allergies-in-a-changing-climate">Managing allergies in a changing climate</h2>



People suffering from nasal stuffiness or red and itchy eyes might want to discuss personalized strategies with a healthcare provider. 



Over-the-counter products offer quick fixes, but medical advice can clarify dosage and confirm the best treatment plan for individual needs.



Ongoing research on allergies and climate change will continue to provide valuable clues for the future. Many hope that strong communication between healthcare teams, scientists, and the public will reduce the frustration that can come with these ever-shifting allergy seasons.



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.32124" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Laryngoscope</a>.



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Climate change is making allergy season worse and longer-lasting

Seasonal allergies used to follow a fairly stable schedule. People...

Between 2 and 2.9 billion people worldwide cannot afford what they need to live a healthy life. These individuals do not fit traditional definitions of extreme poverty, yet they still face hardship in accessing food with enough nutrients for long-term well-being.



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306919225000533?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> from the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a> shows that most conventional yardsticks miss a key point: many people live above the typical “extreme poverty” threshold but cannot buy what experts call a basic healthy diet. 



The study was led by Jonas Stehl, a PhD researcher at Göttingen University’s Development Economics Research Group, who collaborated with the aid agency Misereor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-people-need-more-than-calories">People need more than calories</h2>



Basic living needs go beyond mere survival calories. People also require vitamins, minerals, and proteins to avoid illnesses linked to poor diets. Many policy discussions still focus on strict income cutoffs that do not include the cost of diverse foods.



This broader perspective introduces a different headcount of global poverty. By one calculation, at least 2.3 billion people fall below a new line that factors in both food variety and other essentials. 



A large chunk of humanity faces health risks simply because they cannot purchase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-and-diet-nutrition-helps-lower-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritious foods</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-high-cost-of-healthy-food">The high cost of healthy food</h2>



Researchers argue that current methods fail to reflect the price of fruits, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetables</a>, legumes, and other necessary foods. Studies by the <a href="https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/67b1e9c7-1a7f-4dc6-a19e-f6472a4ea83a/content" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food and Agriculture Organization</a> show that nutrient-rich diets often cost more than low-quality staples alone. This gap means many working families end up short on daily vitamins.



Some in wealthier nations may spend less overall on daily necessities, but they can still purchase balanced meals. Others in low-income regions might manage cheap starches yet cannot add proteins or produce. 



This imbalance can spell the difference between meeting basic nutrient targets or lacking them for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-poverty-lines-miss-real-needs">Old poverty lines miss real needs</h2>



<a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/measuringpoverty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The World Bank</a> sets a widely used cut-and-dried income line to count extreme poverty. It is useful for simpler global comparisons but leaves out dietary requirements beyond raw calorie intake. The new findings say health must be a central factor in assessing need.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-your-secret-weapon-against-aging-and-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Healthy diets</a> cost more than a single universal figure can capture. Prices change based on location, food availability, and purchasing power. Diet-related disease burdens also vary, making a single yardstick less effective in reflecting true welfare.



“There are billions of people who are not classified as extremely poor by current standards, yet they cannot afford food for adequate nutrition and other basic needs, overlooking the long-term health consequences of malnutrition,” said Stehl. He added that traditional measures should be reconsidered to direct resources more precisely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-food-harms-people-and-society">Poor food harms people and society</h2>



Health impacts stretch far beyond the individual. Research published in <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(19)30041-8/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a> found that undernutrition and diet-linked illnesses contribute to high medical expenses, reduced labor output, and stunted childhood development. Societies bear additional burdens when large groups cannot afford the cost of healthy food.



Food assistance projects, micronutrient fortification programs, and cash transfers often aim to tackle these problems. However, efforts can fall short if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diets-linked-to-education-and-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poverty lines</a> fail to identify who needs help with healthy diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-non-food-essentials">Role of non-food essentials</h2>



The same study highlights that the expense of meeting non-food basics is also crucial. People need more than food - they also require housing, electricity, school fees, and healthcare.



A new poverty benchmark should account for both food and these other core needs to give a more accurate picture of deprivation.



If a household’s income only covers calories from cheap staples, they may still face undernutrition and struggle to pay for medicine or transportation. That shortfall harms productivity and can lock future generations into hardship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policies-must-reflect-real-costs">Policies must reflect real costs</h2>



Policymakers often rely on conventional international poverty lines to plan social support. 



The researchers’ findings suggest that billions of people remain overlooked because their incomes sit above outdated baselines. Officials could fine-tune global and local programs by adding a healthy-diet cost to official thresholds.



Certain governments have already started adjusting their calculations. Specialists hope more will follow, especially where malnutrition persists despite moderate overall growth. Shifting the conversation could help spark new investment in farm output, market efficiency, and safety nets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-healthier-diets-help-economies">Why healthier diets help economies</h2>



Balanced nutrition is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33343003/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">linked</a> with stronger immune systems, better brain function, and improved school performance for children. Workers become more productive and health expenses often drop. 



Recognizing the real cost of these diets can steer governments, charities, and donors toward more impactful solutions.



A person might be working multiple jobs yet still remain food-insecure if healthy items are priced out of reach. That reality calls for creative policy, such as subsidizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient-rich foods</a> or offering direct financial support to low-income families.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-cost-of-healthy-food">Reducing the cost of healthy food </h2>



Experts say updating poverty metrics to include the cost of a balanced diet aligns with the human right to adequate food. Focusing only on a single daily dollar amount does not capture the real gap that blocks better health and fuller lives.



Governments and aid groups can use this knowledge to push for market policies that reduce prices on nutritious staples, boost local production, or provide direct income programs. Measures of economic well-being can shift to something that covers more than a limited food basket.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306919225000533?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Policy</a>.



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Billions of people can't afford healthy food despite not being 'poor'

Between 2 and 2.9 billion people worldwide cannot afford what...

Coffee

Coffee is more than just a drink. It’s a daily ritual, a cultural symbol, and for many, a necessity. We pour it in the morning to wake up, share it with friends to connect, and rely on it through long work hours. Globally, people consume tens of billions of kilograms of coffee each year.



Yet, this love for coffee faces serious challenges. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-civet-day-2025-reveals-the-dark-side-of-a-luxury-coffee/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coffee</a> grows in narrow climate zones and depends on very specific conditions. As climate change disrupts weather and soil patterns, it threatens the future of this cherished crop. 



To meet rising demand without increasing the pressure on production, scientists are turning to an unexpected solution: the physics of brewing. 



A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania offers insights on how changing how we pour coffee could improve its quality and reduce waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pour-height-changes-coffee-strength">Pour height changes coffee strength</h2>



The team explored one of the most beloved brewing methods - pour-over coffee. The researchers focused not on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-aging-drinking-coffee-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> chemistry, but on how water interacts with coffee grounds. They aimed to find a better way to extract more flavor from fewer beans.



“What we recommend is making the pour height as high as possible, while still maintaining a laminar flow, where the jet doesn’t break up when it impacts the coffee grinds,” said Ernest Park, the study's lead author.



This may seem like a small detail, but the study revealed it’s significance. By carefully adjusting the height and shape of the water stream, the researchers were able to improve the entire brewing process.



Water poured from a greater height with steady flow digs into the coffee bed more effectively, stirring up the grounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-jet-strength-matters">Why jet strength matters</h2>



The researchers found that gooseneck kettles - a favorite among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-flavor-can-be-improved-with-a-simple-trick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> lovers - produce the ideal kind of stream.



These kettles create a thick, focused jet that avoids splashing or breaking into droplets. When this strong stream hits the coffee bed, it creates a controlled avalanche of motion. The grounds rise and fall in a wave-like pattern, allowing deeper mixing.



This movement improves the interaction between water and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a>. The deeper the water penetrates and stirs, the more flavor it pulls out. As a result, stronger coffee can be made using fewer grounds, a win for both taste and sustainability.



“If you have a thin jet, then it tends to break up into droplets,” said co-author Margot Young from the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>. 



“That’s what you want to avoid in these pour-overs, because that means the jet cannot mix the coffee grounds effectively.”



Thin jets lose their shape before they reach the coffee bed. This weak flow lacks the power to stir the grounds properly. Without movement, much of the flavor stays trapped in the unused layers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shining-a-light-on-coffee-pour-and-flow">Shining a light on coffee pour and flow</h2>



One challenge in studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/morning-coffee-drinkers-have-a-lower-risk-of-heart-disease-and-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> is that it’s naturally dark. You can’t see how water moves through the grounds during brewing. To solve this, the team turned to a creative method. 



The experts used transparent particles instead of actual coffee and placed them in a clear glass funnel. Then, they illuminated the setup with lasers to track the motion of the water.



This allowed the researchers to directly observe how different streams affected the mixing. They saw how laminar jets dug into the grounds, circulated particles, and created whirlpool-like patterns.



The trial confirmed what the pour-over experiments suggested: stronger, steady jets produce better mixing and more complete extraction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pouring-trick-to-make-stronger-coffee">Pouring trick to make stronger coffee</h2>



The researchers don’t plan to continue with coffee-specific studies, but they believe this work opens the door for more everyday science.



There are still many brewing factors to explore - grind size, temperature, pouring technique - that shape the final cup. These are not just culinary questions but scientific ones too.



“We can really learn something from both the chemistry and physics point of view by looking at the kitchen,” said co-author Arnold Mathijssen. “It leads to new science where you didn’t expect it.”



The researchers' advice? Try it at home. 



Pour your coffee from a higher point, using a thick, steady stream. Watch the results. You might get a stronger, smoother brew - without needing more beans.



Sometimes, even in something as ordinary as a morning cup of coffee, physics has the final word.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pof/article-abstract/37/4/043332/3342795/Pour-over-coffee-Mixing-by-a-water-jet-impinging?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics of Fluids</a>.



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How you pour coffee changes its strength and flavor

Coffee is more than just a drink. It’s a daily...

A,Fake,News,Warning,Notification,Appearing,On,The,Phone,While

Fake news is everywhere, and in a world flooded with information, sorting fact from fiction has never been more difficult - or more important. 



A new study based on over 66,000 participants across 96 countries sheds light on who struggles most to spot fake news and who might not be as good at identifying misinformation as they think they are.



The research, conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a> and the University of Cambridge, used a tool called the Misinformation Susceptibility Test (MIST). 



The tool allows scientists to uncover both how well different groups can identify fake news and how accurately they judge their own abilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gen-z-and-fake-news-challenges">Gen Z and fake news challenges</h2>



It’s a common assumption that younger generations - especially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/generation-z-stressed-vote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Generation Z</a>, those born between 1997 and 2012 - are better equipped to navigate digital content. But the study suggests otherwise.



Participants in this age group performed worse than average in detecting fake headlines. However, they were honest with themselves about it.



“There’s still this widespread misconception that digital natives are better at navigating these environments,” said Dr. Friedrich Götz, senior author of the study. “That has been debunked in the academic world for quite a few years, but I don’t think it has translated into public consciousness.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-helps-to-an-extent">Education helps to an extent</h2>



People with university degrees or higher education were more likely to correctly identify fake news. Still, this group often overestimated their own skill. In contrast, those with only a high school diploma were more modest - but also less accurate.



“No matter who you are, no matter what you think you know, none of us is immune to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-misinformation-rumors-spread-like-nuclear-reactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">misinformation</a>,” said Dr. Götz. “People should realize that all of us are exposed to misinformation on a regular basis, and all of us are likely to fall for it at some point.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-politics-and-gender-differences">Politics and gender differences </h2>



One of the clearest trends in the findings was the link between political leaning and susceptibility to misinformation. People with more conservative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-trust-news-that-matches-their-political-views-even-when-its-fake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">political views</a> were more likely to believe fake headlines.



The lowest scores came from individuals at the far-right end of the political spectrum. Most conservatives, however, were fairly accurate in judging their own ability to detect misinformation - though this self-awareness dropped off among those with the most extreme views.



The data also showed that women were slightly more likely than men to fall for misinformation. At the same time, women were better than men at assessing their own ability to spot fake news. Men, by comparison, were more likely to show overconfidence in their skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-misunderstanding">Measuring misunderstanding</h2>



Participants in the study were presented with a mix of real and fake news headlines and asked to determine which were accurate. 



Some of the false headlines included <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-may-be-hardwired-to-believe-lies-and-conspiracy-theories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conspiracy theories</a> such as “A Small Group of People Control the World Economy by Manipulating the Price of Gold and Oil” and “The Government Is Conducting a Massive Cover-Up of Their Involvement in 9/11.” Another fake headline claimed “Left-Wingers Are More Likely to Lie to Get a Good Grade.”



In contrast, real headlines such as “About a Quarter of Large US Newspapers Laid off Staff in 2018” were also included in the test. 



By comparing how participants scored with how confident they felt about their answers, the researchers were able to identify gaps between perceived and actual skill.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-fake-news-requires-political-will">Fighting fake news requires political will</h2>



The research suggests a need for better education and public awareness campaigns focused on identifying fake news. But implementing these solutions requires a political will that may not always be present.



“My sense is that not all democracies right now are really trying to address this problem,” said Dr. Götz. “Worse yet, in the polarized world we live in, some actors, including politicians, may deliberately weaponize it." 



"But if a government acts in good faith and wants to solve this problem in society, then I think they could use this study to raise awareness and move to more intervention-based research.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fake-news-affects-everyone">Fake news affects everyone</h2>



Fake news is not just a digital nuisance - it’s a risk to democracy and informed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quick-decisions-are-often-biased-and-misleading/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decision-making</a>. This global study reminds us that misinformation affects everyone, regardless of age, gender, education, or beliefs.



And perhaps the most important takeaway? The first step to avoiding misinformation is accepting that you, too, might be fooled.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0191886925001394?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Personality and Individual Differences</a>.



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Who’s most likely to fall for fake news? A new study has the answer

Fake news is everywhere, and in a world flooded with...

Alleppey,,Kerala,india,-,August,24,2018:,Rescue,Team,Help,People

Recent findings have sparked intense discussion among health experts around the globe. A new multi-country project reveals that flooding may pose serious problems to human well-being, with the potential to send more people to the hospital for unexpected health issues.



Led by Professors <a href="https://www.monash.edu/msdi/about/affiliates-program/affiliates/yuming-guo#:~:text=Dr%20Yuming%20Guo%20is%20Professor,Quality%20Research%20(CARE)%20Unit." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yuming Guo</a> and <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=8yGPu9gAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanshan Li</a> from <a href="https://www.monash.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monash University</a>, the team examined more than 300 million hospitalization records across eight flood-prone regions. This makes the study one of the largest ever undertaken in the world.



Researchers reported an overall increase of 26% in diseases requiring hospital care after a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shorter-storms-bigger-impact-rising-flood-risks-in-a-warmer-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> event, and this effect lasted for up to seven months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floods-cause-lasting-health-problems">Floods cause lasting health problems</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Floods</a> can damage buildings, roads, and power grids. They can also contaminate local water supplies in ways that can bring about unexpected illnesses.



Poorly treated water boosts the risk of <a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive diseases</a>, and spreads pathogens that wreak havoc on communities without ready access to clean water.



<a href="https://floodobservatory.colorado.edu/Archives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stagnant water</a> can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other vectors, which can worsen <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17724-infectious-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infectious diseases</a>, such as dengue and malaria, and other ailments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floods-increase-disease-rates-nbsp">Floods increase disease rates&nbsp;</h2>



The study results highlighted elevated rates of cancer, diabetes, and mental health disorders after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/once-in-a-thousand-years-extreme-storms-are-becoming-much-more-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> events. For example, the incidence of diabetes showed one of the bigger increases at 61%, while mental health diagnoses increased by 11%.



These problems are not limited to initial injuries like drowning or electrocution. When roads are damaged, people miss important appointments for dialysis, chemo, and follow-up checkups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-sanitation-restricts-recovery">Poor sanitation restricts recovery</h2>



Shortages of shelter space often lead to cramped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flood-fatalities-experts-reveal-the-hidden-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a>. This situation can worsen breathing difficulties and heighten the chance for infections, especially when sanitation is compromised.



Temporary housing set up in haste can complicate access to medications. That includes prescriptions for <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular diseases</a> or therapies that cancer patients rely on to stay stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-from-floods-weakens-health">Stress from floods weakens health</h2>



Authorities have observed a increased strain on people's mental health in flood-ravaged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-directly-linked-to-flood-disasters-in-mountain-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">areas</a>. Emotional distress from property loss or relocation can hinder sleep and erode immune responses, which sets the stage for various health complications.



Unexpected costs can also drive people to put health on the back burner. Delays in routine checkups can escalate a minor ailment into a hospital-worthy issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-is-most-at-risk">Who is most at risk</h2>



Older adults struggle with reduced mobility, and they often need ongoing treatment that floods can disrupt. Children face extra risks too because their developing bodies are more sensitive to environmental changes.



Even so, the study noted that high population density amplifies health impacts across all age groups. When many individuals live close together, conditions that speed up disease transmission can take hold more easily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-climate-factors-in">How climate factors in</h2>



“An escalation in the severity, duration and frequency of floods [is expected] due to the more frequent extreme precipitation events and rising sea levels due to global warming,” said Professor Guo.



<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> say rising seas and more frequent storms point to bigger flood threats in the coming years.



Communities in certain climate zones will be hit harder when infrastructure is weak or health systems are ill-prepared. These areas may see longer recovery times because of slower medical responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-flood-related-health-emergencies">Reducing flood-related health emergencies</h2>



Providers can identify high-risk patients early. They can prepare mobile clinics and bolster medication supplies to head off complications when evacuations happen.



Local governments can maintain reliable transportation routes so that ambulances and rescue teams can operate smoothly. Without a plan for these disruptions, hospital visits may spike unnecessarily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-socioeconomic-status-matters">Why socioeconomic status matters</h2>



Places with limited resources often lack the capacity for large-scale evacuations or robust shelter. People in those areas may delay or skip care entirely, resulting in underreported hospitalization numbers.



Better disaster response systems, stronger buildings, and well-maintained roads can help all communities ride out a flood with fewer complications. 



These measures may seem basic, but they serve as key steps toward reducing the number of health emergencies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-systems-and-flood-complications">Health systems and flood complications</h2>



Authorities should update flood risk maps and invest in early warning protocols. This keeps both residents and frontline workers ready for incoming storms.



Clinics in flood-prone areas might partner with volunteer groups to bring care directly to those in need. 



Furthermore, minor interventions, like ensuring backup power, can help dialysis or oxygen-dependent patients avoid critical setbacks.



Hospitals alone cannot handle the challenges that follow widespread floods. Public health agencies, local governments, and community volunteers must all act in unison.



Everyone has a role in preventing health crises after floods. Coordinated approaches keep the worst outcomes at bay and help support those who are most vulnerable.



The study was published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44221-025-00425-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Water</a>.



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Floods cause long-lasting health issues on top of all the structural damage

Recent findings have sparked intense discussion among health experts around...

A glass of wine with dinner or a beer at a party may seem harmless. But when drinking alcohol becomes regular and heavy, its effects on the brain can go far beyond a momentary buzz. 



A new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, reveals that heavy alcohol consumption is linked to serious signs of brain damage. These changes could impair memory and thinking, especially as people grow older.



The researchers examined the brains of older individuals after death. The analysis linked consistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-americans-now-link-alcohol-consumption-to-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy drinking</a> - defined as eight or more drinks per week - to a condition called hyaline arteriolosclerosis.



This condition damages small blood vessels in the brain, leading to lesions. Though the study does not prove that drinking directly causes these injuries, it shows a clear association.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-damages-brain-blood-vessels">Alcohol damages brain blood vessels</h2>



Hyaline arteriolosclerosis is a form of vascular damage in which small blood vessels become stiff and narrow. These damaged vessels struggle to carry enough blood to brain tissue.



Over time, this lack of proper blood flow leads to tissue damage, which appears as lesions in the brain. These lesions are associated with cognitive issues such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating.



Dr. Alberto Fernando Oliveira Justo of the <a href="https://fm.usp.br/en/institucional/the-fmusp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo Medical School</a> in Brazil is the study’s lead author.



“Heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-makes-fruit-flies-look-sexy-and-boosts-mating-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol consumption</a> is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death,” said Dr. Justo.



“We looked at how alcohol affects the brain as people get older. Our research shows that heavy alcohol consumption is damaging to the brain, which can lead to memory and thinking problems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-autopsies-reveal-alcohol-s-effects">Brain autopsies reveal alcohol’s effects</h2>



The experts studied the brains of 1,781 individuals who died at an average age of 75. All participants had donated their brains for autopsy.



The team collected lifestyle information through interviews with family members, focusing on alcohol use. Each brain was assessed for vascular lesions, tau tangles, brain weight, and other physical indicators of cognitive health.



The participants were placed into four categories based on their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-has-a-hidden-impact-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> habits: those who never drank, those who drank in moderation, current heavy drinkers, and former heavy drinkers who had quit.



A “standard drink” in the study contained 14 grams of alcohol. This amount equals about 350 milliliters of beer, 150 milliliters of wine, or 45 milliliters of distilled spirits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-brain-damage-behind-the-habit">Hidden brain damage behind the habit</h2>



Among those who never drank, 40% had vascular lesions in their brain tissue. That number rose to 45% for moderate drinkers and 44% for current heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-small-amounts-of-alcohol-increase-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinkers</a>. 



Former heavy drinkers had the highest percentage, with 50% showing signs of vascular damage.



After adjusting for other health factors such as age, smoking, and physical activity, the researchers found a strong association between heavy alcohol use and brain damage.



Heavy drinkers had 133% higher odds of developing vascular brain lesions compared to those who never drank. Former heavy drinkers had 89% higher odds, while moderate drinkers had 60% higher odds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-linked-to-brain-shrinkage">Alcohol linked to brain shrinkage</h2>



The experts also examined tau tangles -abnormal protein accumulations in the brain that are a key marker for Alzheimer’s disease.



The researchers found that current heavy drinkers had a 41% higher chance of having tau tangles. Former heavy drinkers had 31% higher odds. These tangles interfere with the brain’s ability to send and receive signals, contributing to cognitive decline.



Former heavy drinkers also showed a reduced brain mass ratio - the proportion of brain weight compared to body weight. This measure suggests physical shrinkage of the brain.



Lower brain mass has been associated with poorer cognitive abilities. Interestingly, this link was seen only in people who had stopped heavy drinking, not those who still drank heavily at the time of their death.



Justo noted that, in addition to brain injuries, impaired cognitive abilities were observed only in former drinkers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heavy-drinking-and-early-death">Heavy drinking and early death</h2>



Beyond brain health, the study revealed a striking trend in life expectancy. Heavy drinkers died an average of 13 years earlier than people who never drank. 



This difference reflects alcohol’s wide impact on the body, including liver damage, increased risk of cancer, heart problems, and now, possible brain deterioration.



“We found heavy drinking is directly linked to signs of injury in the brain, and this can cause long-term effects on brain health, which may impact memory and thinking abilities,” said Dr. Justo.



"Understanding these effects is crucial for public health awareness and continuing to implement preventive measures to reduce heavy drinking."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-limitations-leave-some-questions">Study limitations leave some questions</h2>



Despite its scale, the study had some limitations. It did not follow participants while they were alive, so the researchers had to rely on reports from family members to estimate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-alcohol-in-moderation-does-not-prolong-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> use.



Also, they had no data on how long people had consumed alcohol or how their cognition changed over time. These gaps make it harder to draw firm conclusions about cause and effect.



However, the findings carry an important message: the damage linked to alcohol - especially heavy use - can remain hidden for years. It can slowly alter the brain's structure and function, even if people quit drinking later in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reliable-information-about-brain-health">Reliable information about brain health</h2>



This research was supported by <a href="https://fapesp.br/en/about?TSPD_101_R0=08fe110688ab2000baed373c08cc10b8cbb2d14ac157355685375b8621d6cfb977d251d840c8216808d0770047143000078e9f4cd6617498531a22feb2e530404bdf82fd28db1d38e99e0d72554ee716d4d47e894de789e9c727ffd09cc995b0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The São Paulo Research Foundation</a>. For those seeking reliable information about brain health, <a href="https://www.brainandlife.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BrainandLife.org</a> offers helpful resources. The site's magazine, podcast, and books connect the public with experts in neurology.



The American Academy of Neurology is the world’s largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals. With more than 40,000 members, the AAN works to improve brain health and patient care.



Neurologists diagnose and treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease, playing a key role in managing the aging brain.



This study reminds us that the choices we make today echo through the brain’s future. For those who drink alcohol regularly, it may be time to ask: is the cost to the brain worth the buzz?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000213555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>.



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Alcohol's hidden toll on the brain revealed

A glass of wine with dinner or a beer at...

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure - at least in the short term - but the longer term effects are unclear, according to a recent analysis of existing research.&nbsp;



However, the study also concludes that the current body of evidence is at risk of bias, highlighting the need for more rigorously designed and extended follow-up studies to verify whether these methods can play a meaningful role in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-linked-to-high-blood-pressure-and-heart-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high blood pressure</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-blood-pressure-a-global-concern">High blood pressure: A global concern</h2>



High blood pressure affects roughly one-third of people aged 30 to 79 and stands among the top causes of death globally. Although medications exist to manage high blood pressure, many people struggle with consistent use.&nbsp;



This reality has spurred interest in alternative strategies, such as relaxation-based techniques that aim to reduce stress - a major factor contributing to high blood pressure. Yet which approach, from breath control and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> to yoga, Tai Chi, or biofeedback, may be most effective is still up for debate.



In an effort to expand the evidence base, the researchers searched for English-language studies published up to February 2024, looking at relaxation’s potential in individuals with high blood pressure (140/90 mm Hg or above) or elevated blood pressure (120/80 mm Hg or above).&nbsp;



The review ultimately included 182 studies, of which 166 involved participants with high blood pressure and 16 involved those with elevated readings. Where applicable, the team used network meta-analysis, a statistical method that allows comparison of multiple treatments at once.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-term-effects-and-relaxation-techniques">Short-term effects and relaxation techniques</h2>



From 54 pooled studies, the analysis found that most relaxation techniques appeared to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with high blood pressure, at least over a span of three months or less.&nbsp;



These short-term interventions ranged from breath control to yoga and meditative movement, as well as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-therapy-reduces-distress-in-people-with-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music therapy</a>, progressive muscle relaxation, and psychotherapy.&nbsp;



Yet after three to twelve months, the data provided no clear evidence that any single relaxation practice continued to exert a significant impact. And in the small number of studies extending beyond a year, autogenic training offered a hint of benefit, but with low certainty.



“The results of our systematic review and network meta-analysis indicate that relaxation or stress management techniques might result in meaningful reductions in blood pressure at up to three months of follow-up,” the researchers wrote.&nbsp;



“Uncertainty exists about this effect, however, because of the risk of bias in the primary studies, the potential for publication bias in this area, and imprecision in the effect estimates, meaning that the observed changes in blood pressure might be too small to affect cardiovascular or cerebrovascular outcomes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vague-data-on-relaxation-techniques">Vague data on relaxation techniques</h2>



Additionally, the data analyzed by the team often lacked detail on costs, cost-effectiveness, and whether or not these interventions decreased the incidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular events</a>. Another point of concern is that many studies’ descriptions of relaxation methods were vague or inconsistent, making it difficult to interpret or replicate their techniques and results.



“Hypertension is a chronic condition, likely to require long term drug treatments or behavioral changes. As such, interventions that are used for a brief period, or provide only short term benefits, are unlikely to be clinically useful,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;



Because the available research seldom tracks participants beyond a few months - and does not always confirm if they maintained their relaxation practice - it remains unclear if any early reductions in blood pressure might last over time.



“Too few studies exist, however, to assess whether the beneficial effects of relaxation are maintained when the techniques are practiced for longer than three months,” noted the experts.&nbsp;



“Future studies must clearly report whether participants were still using relaxation methods at the time of the outcome assessment, with details on adherence to the relaxation schedule. These factors might strongly influence the effectiveness of the different relaxation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> management techniques.”



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



In short, while the analysis offers cautious optimism that approaches such as mindful breathing, meditation, and yoga may help manage blood pressure in the short run, the current evidence does not confirm significant or lasting benefits beyond that window.&nbsp;



Until more definitive, long-term research is carried out - preferably with rigorous designs and standardized reporting - clinicians and patients may want to view these relaxation methods as potentially supportive, but not standalone, tools for addressing chronic high blood pressure.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://bmjmedicine.bmj.com/content/4/1/e001098" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Medicine</a>.



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Relaxation techniques can lower high blood pressure - at least temporarily

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure - at...

Six years after cannabis legalization in Canada, scientists are still mapping its long-term health effects. While social and medical benefits remain under review, emerging neuroscience now highlights a key concern - psychosis linked to dopamine changes in the brain.



A new study led by Canadian researchers has found biological evidence linking frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medicinal-cannabis-helped-patients-feel-better-for-a-full-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis use</a> to changes in brain chemistry that resemble those seen in early psychosis.



Using a cutting-edge brain scan called neuromelanin-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the experts observed elevated dopamine activity in people with cannabis use disorder (CUD).



This increase occurred in the same brain areas previously tied to hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms of psychotic disorders. The findings appeared in JAMA Psychiatry, in a study titled “Convergence of Cannabis and Psychosis on the Dopamine System.”



The study, spanning five years and several institutions, marks a turning point in how clinicians and researchers understand cannabis’ psychiatric risks. The analysis bridges the gap between clinical symptoms and underlying brain activity - something long sought but rarely demonstrated so clearly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-builds-dopamine-in-key-brain-areas">Cannabis builds dopamine in key brain areas</h2>



Dopamine helps the brain regulate mood, motivation, learning, and motor control. It also plays a central role in psychosis. High dopamine activity, especially in the striatum and midbrain, has been linked to schizophrenia and related disorders. What remained uncertain was how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-reduces-the-unwanted-side-effects-of-thc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> fit into that picture.



The researchers used neuromelanin-MRI - a non-invasive method that visualizes dopamine activity indirectly by tracking neuromelanin, a vital compound in the brain.



Neuromelanin is a dark pigment that accumulates as dopamine breaks down over time. The more dopamine activity, the more neuromelanin remains behind. In brain scans, this pigment shows up as darkened regions, especially in two key midbrain areas: the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area.



“In people partaking in excess cannabis use, those spots are blacker than what they should be for their age compared to healthy individuals,” said Lena Palaniyappan, professor at McGill University and senior author of the study. 



“This indicates they have high levels of dopamine, and in some cases are showing pigments someone 10 years older would have.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-elevates-dopamine-signals">Cannabis use elevates dopamine signals</h2>



The study was focused on 61 individuals aged 18 to 35 from London, Ontario. Participants included people with CUD, those with early psychosis, some with both conditions, and healthy controls. The researchers tracked changes in neuromelanin-MRI signals across the groups.



They found that those with CUD - regardless of schizophrenia diagnosis - had elevated neuromelanin signals in a subregion of the midbrain tied to psychosis. This was not a temporary spike. Even after one year, the signal remained high, suggesting that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-related-anxiety-may-be-reduced-with-citrus-based-oil-d-limonene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>-related dopamine changes may have a lasting effect.



This finding was dose-dependent. Individuals with more severe CUD symptoms showed stronger signal intensity, confirming that frequency and severity of cannabis use matter. 



“We now have evidence that shows a straight line linking cannabis with dopamine and psychosis that has never been shown before, and it's crucial that clinicians, patients, and families work together to break this line," said Palaniyappan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-increases-the-risk-of-psychosis">Cannabis increases the risk of psychosis </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-impacts-working-memory-and-brain-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cannabis</a>’ effects on dopamine have long been disputed. Previous PET scans often showed mixed results - some indicating lowered dopamine synthesis, others showing a spike only after THC administration.



Neuromelanin-MRI offers a longer-term view, revealing cumulative dopamine activity, not just momentary shifts.



Participants with CUD had consistently higher neuromelanin signal across multiple scans, even when researchers accounted for nicotine use and other variables. 



Interestingly, participants with first-episode schizophrenia (FES) did not show significant changes unless they also had CUD, which suggests cannabis itself may play a more central role than previously thought.



“This could help explain why cannabis use increases the risk of hallucinations and delusions, key symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders,” said Jessica Ahrens, a PhD student at McGill University and lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-induced-psychosis-is-rising">Cannabis-induced psychosis is rising </h2>



Canadian emergency departments have reported more cases of cannabis-induced psychosis since legalization. Psychiatrists working with young adults are observing troubling patterns. Brief episodes are turning into more severe psychotic breaks over time.



“In the last several years since legalization, we're seeing adolescents who have two or three brief cannabis-induced episodes of psychosis and then have a much more major episode,” said Dr. Julie Richard, psychiatrist and physician lead at PEPP, a specialized early psychosis program. 



“So, we're trying to counsel adolescents within that first episode that they're pushing their brain towards a major episode and show them the areas in the brain that are impacted.”



The new imaging data now offers a visual tool that can support those conversations. Showing young people their own brain scans could help clinicians explain the risks more clearly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-changes-persist-after-one-year">Dopamine changes persist after one year</h2>



Importantly, the experts found no evidence that continued cannabis use beyond a certain point further increased dopamine activity. This suggests that dopamine-related changes may plateau after repeated exposure.



Yet, this stability does not mean the brain returns to normal. Elevated neuromelanin signals remained even a year later, indicating lasting effects.



“Increased dopamine functioning in the SN/VTA may be associated with the risk of psychosis in people with cannabis use disorder,” the authors wrote. This midbrain region - the source of dopamine projections to other brain areas - appears central to how cannabis affects mental health.



The absence of a “recovery effect” raises new questions: Can these changes be reversed with abstinence? Do they set the stage for future psychiatric illness? Larger, long-term studies will be needed to explore these questions further.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guiding-public-health-and-prevention">Guiding public health and prevention</h2>



The authors emphasized that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-potency-cannabis-use-linked-to-epigenetic-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> alone does not cause psychosis in every user. But it raises the risk, especially in those with family histories or early symptoms. By linking cannabis use to measurable brain changes, this study helps move the discussion from speculation to science.



“The lack of clear biological evidence linking cannabis to psychosis has made it harder to persuade young people with psychotic symptoms to reduce their use,” said Palaniyappan. 



“Our findings could help doctors and mental health professionals better educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis use.”



“I hope these findings lead patients and health-care providers to better understand the implications and for the health-care providers to give patients resources for options other than cannabis to help them cope,” Jessica Ahrens added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-and-dopamine-help-explain-psychosis">Cannabis and dopamine help explain psychosis</h2>



This study does not aim to demonize cannabis but to understand its effects better. With its use becoming more socially accepted and legally accessible, especially among youth, understanding its neurological footprint is urgent.



Cannabis use disorder is now more than a behavioral diagnosis. It is increasingly linked to real, visible changes in the brain’s dopamine system that may shape vulnerability to psychosis. 



For clinicians, families, and users themselves, this information could lead to more informed decisions and safer outcomes.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2832297" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Psychiatry</a>.



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Dopamine changes from cannabis are linked to psychosis

Six years after cannabis legalization in Canada, scientists are still...

Babies are curious little learners with a knack for noticing things in their world. In a new study, researchers have discovered that even the rhythms inside babies' bodies are on their radar from an early age.



The research suggests that infants as young as 3 months old can tune in to their own heartbeat.



"The babies must have recognized that the figures moved simultaneously with their heartbeat or breathing, and then they paid more attention," study lead author Markus Tünte from the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-babies-notice-heartbeats-and-body-signals-nbsp">Babies notice heartbeats and body signals&nbsp;</h2>



Parents often focus on changes in crying or facial expressions when they want to figure out what a baby needs. Under the surface, there are inner clues that may help shape a baby’s sense of who they are and how they feel.



<a href="https://thewomens.r.worldssl.net/images/uploads/fact-sheets/Reading_your_babys_body_language.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Body signals</a> can include a steady heartbeat and the rise and fall of the chest during breathing. These signals give the infant brain helpful information. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439117/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Experts</a> believe they can support self-awareness and emotional development.



"Several recent theoretical accounts have posited that interoception, the perception of internal bodily signals, plays a vital role in early human development," wrote the researchers. "Yet, empirical evidence of cardiac interoceptive sensitivity in infants to date has been mixed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-babies-respond-to-heartbeat-rhythm">Babies respond to heartbeat rhythm</h2>



The researchers tested whether babies noticed when a fun animated figure moves in sync with their heartbeat. If the figure was out of sync, many babies seemed to lose some interest.



Scientists say this heartbeat sensitivity appears surprisingly stable during the first two years of life. Observing that kind of steadiness suggests that internal rhythms guide babies’ earliest social and emotional experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-awareness-in-infancy">Breathing awareness in infancy</h2>



The team also looked at how infants track their own breathing. Results indicated that babies pick up on the rise and fall of their chest, although this appears to become clearer in the second year.



Interestingly, the ability to sense the heartbeat and breathing did not overlap much. That separation might be similar to what researchers find in adults, who sometimes excel in sensing one body rhythm but not the other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animations-and-eye-tracking">Animations and eye tracking</h2>



Studying babies isn’t easy - especially when they can’t talk.



To understand how infants respond to body rhythms, the team used <a href="https://www.insightplatforms.com/the-top-15-eye-tracking-platforms-for-market-user-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eye-tracking tools</a> while showing animated shapes that moved either in sync or out of sync with the babies’ heartbeat or breathing.



If the figure moved in time with the infant’s internal signals, the babies tended to watch longer. This response helped scientists conclude that the infants were noticing a connection between the animation and their own body rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heartbeat-awareness-and-baby-development">Heartbeat awareness and baby development</h2>



The results open the door to exploring how early body awareness might support emotional understanding. Since <a href="https://www.kelly-mahler.com/what-is-interoception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interoception</a> is tied to mental health in older kids and adults, recognizing these patterns early might one day help prevent problems before they start.



<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8416769/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> are especially interested in whether differences in body awareness during infancy could explain why some children are more emotionally sensitive or socially attuned than others. That line of research could lead to new strategies for early support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-early-body-perception">Supporting early body perception </h2>



Babies likely show these abilities during everyday routines, even though parents may not notice. As caregivers respond to fussiness that might be linked to hunger or discomfort, infants gain more experience connecting signals from inside and outside.



Some <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3594730/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> think that early awareness of internal rhythms might be linked to how babies develop emotional and social abilities later on. Supporting such early body perception could play a part in promoting healthy self-awareness.



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



New studies on babies might ask whether parents can encourage awareness of breathing or heartbeat. Experts also wonder how these early body signal patterns might relate to mental wellness in older children.



The researchers suggest that by exploring early sensitivity to internal rhythms, it may be possible one day to help kids who struggle with anxiety. For now, the team plans to expand on these findings through long-term observations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/91579" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a>.



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Even before they crawl, babies can feel their own heartbeat

Babies are curious little learners with a knack for noticing...

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-bioelectronic-medicine">Future of bioelectronic medicine</h2>



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



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The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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