Ever been on horseback, feeling the power of the creature below you and the wind in your hair? Of course, it's a bit hard on the body. But did you ever consider that horseback riding might have the power to change the shape of your skeleton?



It's a complex topic, but researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder are diving in headfirst. Their new study draws from a rich evidence - from modern medical studies of horse riders to records of human remains spanning millennia.



What they've found is that, yes, horseback riding can indeed leave traces on our skeletons, subtly changing the shape of our hip joints. But that doesn't mean you can point to a skeleton and definitively say, "Ah, a horse rider!"



We sit for long periods, we engage in various physical activities - all of which can also transform our bones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-horseback-riding">Impact of horseback riding</h2>



This bone-altering revelation comes from Lauren Hosek, an assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology at the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a>, and the lead author of the study. 



"In archaeology, there are vanishingly few instances in which we can tie a particular activity unequivocally to skeletal changes," said Professor Hosek. 



So, what relevance does this hold? Well, for one, these findings might have major implications for those studying the origins of domesticated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-horse-protection-day-respecting-the-needs-and-rights-of-horses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horses</a>. 



In addition, the research is casting some serious doubt on an archaeology theory that's been standing tall for quite a while - the Kurgan hypothesis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relationships-between-humans-and-horses">Relationships between humans and horses</h2>



According to study co-author William Taylor, curator of archaeology at the CU <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/resources/museum-natural-history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Museum of Natural History</a>, this research is smack dab in the middle of one of archaeology's oldest debates.



The earliest undeniable evidence of humans using horses for transport comes from the region around Russia's Ural Mountains, where scientists have found horses, bridles, and chariots dating back to around 4,000 years ago.



But here comes the Kurgan hypothesis, saying, "Hold your horses!" This theory, originating in the early 20th century, posits that the close relationship between humans and horses started much earlier. 



It suggests that around the fourth millennium B.C., the Yamnaya people living near the Black Sea were the first to gallop on horses across Eurasia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-impacts-of-horseback-riding">Cultural impacts of horseback riding</h2>



A popular belief is that these early horse riders may have spread early versions of languages that eventually evolved into English, French, and other languages.



“For decades, there’s been this idea that the distribution of Indo-European languages is, in some way, related to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horse-miscarriages-offer-insights-into-human-pregnancy-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domestication of the horse</a>,” said Taylor.



It has also been suggested that human remains from the Yamnaya culture, dating back to about 3500 B.C., show evidence of wear and tear from horse riding - which supports the Kurgan hypothesis.



But Hosek and Taylor are here to reign in the speculation. They argue that it's not so straightforward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-skeletal-changes">Complexity of skeletal changes</h2>



Professor Hosek has spent countless hours scrutinizing human bones to glean lessons about the past. She explains that the skeleton isn't fixed in place, but can change shape throughout an individual's lifetime.



Think about it: you pull a muscle, and where that muscle attaches to the bone, a reaction can occur, making the bone more porous or forming raised ridges. But interpreting these clues is a murky business at best.



For instance, let's talk about the hip joint. When you flex your legs at the hip for long periods - like during an extended horse ride - the hip joint's ball and socket may rub together along one edge.



Over time, this rubbing can cause the hip bone's socket to become more oval. But numerous other activities can result in the same elongation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternatives-to-horseback-riding">Alternatives to horseback riding</h2>



As it happens, humans used cattle, donkeys, and even wild asses for transport in certain areas of western Asia centuries before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horses-demonstrate-an-unanticipated-level-of-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horse</a> taming began. 



These ancient people likely attached these animals to carts or even smaller two-wheeled vehicles much like a chariot.



“This repetitive, intense pressure from that kind of jostling in a flexed position could cause skeletal changes,” said Professor Hosek. She has seen similar changes in the skeletons of 20th-century Catholic nuns, who despite never riding horses, took long carriage rides across the American West.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-of-current-evidence">Limitations of current evidence</h2>



In the end, Hosek and Taylor believe that human remains alone can't provide an exact date for when people started horseback riding - not with the current scientific tools anyway.



“Human skeletons alone are not going to be enough evidence,” said Hosek. “We need to couple that data with evidence coming out of genetics and archaeology and by looking at horse remains, too.”



As for the Kurgan hypothesis, Taylor claims that from their research, "none of these lines of evidence suggest that the Yamnaya people had domestic horses.” 



So, next time you go for a horse ride, remember: you're participating in an activity that's been shaping human history - and our very bones - for millennia. And who knows what scholars will uncover next in this fascinating field?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ado9774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Horseback riding changes our skeleton, especially the hip joints

Ever been on horseback, feeling the power of the creature below you and the wind in your hair? Of course, it's a bit hard on the body. But did you ever consider that horseback riding might have the power to change the shape of your skeleton? It's a complex topic, but researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder are diving in headfirst. Their new study draws from a rich evidence - from modern medical studies of horse riders to records of human remains spanning millennia. What they've...

Scientists from Queen Mary University of London have discovered that people may suffer from persistent symptoms, or "long colds," following acute respiratory infections.



The study suggests that there could be long-lasting health impacts following a non-COVID respiratory infections, such as a cold or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-killed-hundreds-of-seals-in-new-england-last-year/">flu</a>, that are currently going unrecognized.



This phenomenon is similar to "long Covid," a condition in which individuals experience lingering symptoms after their initial recovery. However, it is not yet clear whether the symptoms of long colds have the same severity or duration as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-linked-to-persistent-inflammation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long Covid</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-effects-of-respiratory-infections-nbsp">Lasting effects of respiratory infections&nbsp;</h2>



“Our findings shine a light not only on the impact of long Covid on people’s lives, but also other respiratory infections. A lack of awareness - or even the lack of a common term - prevents both reporting and diagnosis of these conditions," said study lead author Giulia Vivaldi.&nbsp;



“As research into long Covid continues, we need to take the opportunity to investigate and consider the lasting effects of other acute respiratory infections.



“These ‘long’ infections are so difficult to diagnose and treat primarily because of a lack of diagnostic tests and there being so many possible symptoms. There have been more than 200 investigated for long Covid alone.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-a-long-cold">Symptoms of a long cold</h2>



The experts analyzed data from 10,171 UK adults collected by <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/covidence/about-the-covidence-uk-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVIDENCE UK</a>, Queen Mary University of London’s national study of COVID-19.&nbsp;



The researchers identified common symptoms of the long cold, including coughing, stomach pain, and diarrhea persisting for over four weeks post the initial infection.&nbsp;



The researchers found that the severity of the initial illness plays a crucial role in determining the risk of developing long-term symptoms.&nbsp;



More research is needed to clarify why some individuals suffer from prolonged symptoms while others recover quickly.



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



The team compared the prevalence and the severity of long-term symptoms occurring after COVID-19 infections with those manifesting post non-COVID-19 respiratory infections.&nbsp;



The results showed that individuals recovering from COVID-19 were notably more prone to experiencing light-headedness, dizziness, and problems with taste and smell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-for-long-colds">Future implications for "long colds"</h2>



“Our findings may chime with the experience of people who have struggled with prolonged symptoms after having a respiratory infection despite testing negative for COVID-19 on a nose or throat swab," explained Professor Adrian Martineau, chief investigator of COVIDENCE UK.



“Ongoing research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections is important because it can help us to get to the root of why some people experience more prolonged symptoms than others. Ultimately this could help us to identify the most appropriate form of treatment and care for affected people.”



Victoria King is the director of Funding and Impact at Barts Charity, an organization dedicated to supporting transformative healthcare research.



“Barts Charity swiftly supported COVIDENCE UK in response to the outbreak of COVID-19 to help inform of its risk factors and impacts. These findings highlight not only the long-term symptoms experienced by people after Covid infection, but by people after other acute respiratory infections as well," said King.&nbsp;



"As we learn more about long Covid symptoms and their possible treatments, studies like this help to build greater awareness around other prolonged respiratory infections that may be going unrecognized.”&nbsp;



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Scientists find possibility of "long colds" alongside "long Covid"

Scientists from Queen Mary University of London have discovered that...

A team of scientists led by the University of Bern in Switzerland has found that attending a classical music concert can lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-have-brains-that-synchronize-when-they-socialize/">synchronicity</a> among the audience members in various physiological ways.&nbsp;



The heartbeats of attendees can align, and they might even find themselves breathing in harmony or making similar movements in their seating.



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



The study involved 132 participants in Berlin, ranging from 18 to 85 years of age. The researchers witnessed this synchronization as the audience listened to compositions from renowned artists such as Beethoven, Brahms, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s contemporary composer, Brett Dean.&nbsp;



Monitoring tools showed that the breathing rates of these individuals, captured using sensor-equipped belts, aligned most consistently with the musical performance. Their heartbeats and subtle changes in fingertip sweat, indicating excitement, followed suit.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synchronized-heart-rhythms-nbsp">Synchronized heart rhythms&nbsp;</h2>



Interestingly, those who felt ‘inspired’ or were ‘emotionally moved’ by Brahms and Dean’s pieces showed a higher tendency for synchronized heart rhythms.



“It is fascinating that people at a concert, who do not know each other and do not even speak to each other, seem to have a shared experience, based on measurements like their heart rate,” said lead author Wolfgang Tschacher, a psychologist at Bern.&nbsp;



“When we see synchrony, we know people are really engaged in the music, as they are reacting to it emotionally in the same way.”



Upon further investigation, the researchers discovered that participants who prioritized socializing and interaction with companions during the concert demonstrated less physiological alignment with the music than others.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personality-traits">Personality traits</h2>



Additionally, extroverted and neural traits seemed to correlate with decreased synchronization, specifically in their fingertip sweat. 



On the other hand, those characterized as agreeable and open to novel experiences exhibited a heightened response to the melodies, mirroring the reactions of their fellow attendees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subconscious-immersion-nbsp">Subconscious immersion&nbsp;</h2>



Even under subdued lighting and separated seating, audience members managed to exhibit similar reactions, alluding to a shared, subconscious immersion in the music. The term "synchronization" in this context implies a statistically significant coordination, rather than perfect simultaneity.&nbsp;



Interestingly, Beethoven’s Op. 104 in C minor generated less of this coordinated response compared to Brahms’ Op. 111 in G Major and Dean’s Epitaphs. Past studies have also highlighted that not only audience members but musicians and conductors too can exhibit synchronized physical reactions during performances.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-41960-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Scientific Reports</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-responses-to-classical-music-nbsp">Brain responses to classical music&nbsp;</h2>



Listening to classical music can elicit various responses in the brain, which may include relaxation, improvement in mood, and stimulation of cognitive functions.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relaxation">Relaxation</h3>



Classical music often leads to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and relaxation. Slow tempo and soft dynamics can help lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormone levels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-function">Cognitive function</h3>



Some research suggests that listening to classical music, like that of Mozart, may temporarily improve spatial-temporal abilities and memory in listeners. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the “Mozart Effect.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-quality">Sleep quality</h3>



The soothing quality of classical music can help with insomnia and improve overall sleep quality in some individuals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-regions-nbsp">Brain regions&nbsp;</h3>



Different aspects of music (such as rhythm, melody, and harmony) can engage various areas in the brain, including the auditory cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-responses">Emotional responses</h3>



Classical music can evoke strong emotions and activate areas of the brain associated with emotional processing, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.



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Classical music can synchronize the heartbeats of strangers

A team of scientists led by the University of Bern...

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered that the brain undergoes significant rewiring during pregnancy, preparing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-animals-may-acquire-mate-preferences-through-observation/">females</a> for motherhood.&nbsp;



According to the study, pregnancy hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone are instrumental in initiating these brain changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parental-behaviors">Parental behaviors</h2>



The researchers found that these hormones act upon a select group of neurons in the brain, inducing parental behaviors even before the offspring are born.&nbsp;



In mice, the activated neurons led to heightened and selective responses towards pups, which is a crucial aspect of maternal care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormonal-changes">Hormonal changes</h2>



Traditionally, it was believed that the onset of maternal behaviors was primarily triggered by hormones released during childbirth.&nbsp;



However, earlier studies indicated that even rats who underwent Caesarean sections and virgin mice exposed to pregnancy hormones exhibited maternal behaviors.&nbsp;



This observation implied that hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy play a pivotal role in promoting maternal instincts.



The researchers observed enhanced parental behaviors in female mice during late pregnancy. Interestingly, exposure to pups was not a prerequisite for the development of these behaviors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galanin-expressing-neurons">Galanin-expressing neurons</h2>



The study highlighted the role of galanin-expressing neurons situated in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) of the hypothalamus, a region associated with parenting. These neurons were particularly influenced by oestrogen and progesterone.



Oestrogen was found to decrease the baseline activity of these neurons while increasing their excitability.&nbsp;



Progesterone, on the other hand, altered the neurons' inputs by increasing the number of synapses, which are crucial communication points between neurons.&nbsp;



When these neurons were made insensitive to hormones, mice failed to exhibit parental behaviors, highlighting the significance of hormonal influence during pregnancy.



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



The researchers noted that some of these neuronal changes persisted for at least a month post-childbirth, with others potentially being permanent, indicating long-term brain rewiring as a result of pregnancy.



"We know that the female body changes during pregnancy to prepare for bringing up young. One example is the production of milk, which starts long before giving birth. Our research shows that such preparations are taking place in the brain, too," explained study co-author Jonny Kohl.&nbsp;



“We think that these changes, often referred to as ‘baby brain,' cause a change in priority - virgin mice focus on mating, so don’t need to respond to other females’ pups, whereas mothers need to perform robust parental behaviour to ensure pup survival."&nbsp;



"What’s fascinating is that this switch doesn’t happen at birth - the brain is preparing much earlier for this big life change.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-window-of-brain-plasticity-nbsp">Window of brain plasticity&nbsp;</h2>



“We’ve demonstrated that there’s a window of plasticity in the brain to prepare for future behavioral challenges," said co-first author Rachida Ammari.&nbsp;



"These neurons receive a large number of inputs from elsewhere in the brain, so now we’re hoping to understand where this new information comes from.”



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



The team is optimistic that their findings may have implications for understanding pregnancy and motherhood in humans, as similar hormonal changes are expected to influence the same brain regions.&nbsp;



The experts believe that these alterations in brain wiring could work in tandem with environmental and social cues to influence parental behaviors.&nbsp;



With these insights, the study sheds light on the complex interplay between hormonal changes during pregnancy and the onset of maternal instincts and behaviors.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adi0576." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Pregnancy brain: How neurons get rewired to prepare for motherhood

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered that the...

According to Booking.com’s <a href="https://globalnews.booking.com/cost-vs-conscience-bookingcom-delves-into-the-dilemma-dividing-sustainable-travel-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Travel Report 2023</a>, 76% of travelers reportedly aspire to incorporate sustainability into their plans over the coming year. 



This figure represents a notable increase of 16% from the 2021 data and 5% from 2022 data.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prominent-dilemma-nbsp">Prominent dilemma&nbsp;</h2>



The report, which compiled responses from over 33,000 travelers across 35 countries, highlights a prominent dilemma faced by many: the conflict between cost-saving and making eco-conscious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/">travel</a> choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eco-conscious-habits">Eco-conscious habits</h2>



The push toward sustainable travel options reflects a broader trend, with environmentally-conscious habits gaining traction among travelers.&nbsp;



For instance, a significant 67% of respondents now consciously turn off air conditioning in their accommodations when not present - a leap of 29% from last year’s figures.&nbsp;



In addition, there is a 25% increase in travelers reusing towels multiple times, with 60% of participants reporting this practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-constraints-nbsp">Economic constraints&nbsp;</h2>



However, economic constraints pose a significant barrier to the adoption of sustainable travel options.&nbsp;



The report highlights that nearly half (49%) of travelers perceive eco-friendly options as prohibitively expensive - an 11% increase from 2022 data.&nbsp;



These individuals often find themselves at a crossroads, having to choose between managing their expenses and opting for sustainable travel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-travel-options-nbsp">Sustainable travel options&nbsp;</h2>



Despite economic hurdles, there's a segment of travelers, constituting 43%, who express a willingness to pay a premium for certified sustainable travel alternatives.&nbsp;



This group is actively seeking to make an impact through their travel choices, even if it necessitates higher expenditure.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discounts-and-incentives">Discounts and incentives</h2>



The data reveals a demand for initiatives that marry financial and environmental considerations, with 49% of respondents expressing interest in economic incentives or discounts for eco-friendly options (up 12% from 2022).&nbsp;



Additionally, 42% would be encouraged to choose sustainable travel if rewarded with points redeemable for perks and discounts.



Travelers are contending with major concerns, notably the escalating cost of living and the ongoing climate crisis, which significantly influence their travel and spending plans.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adopting-more-sustainable-practices-nbsp">Adopting more sustainable practices&nbsp;</h2>



As a result, there's an apparent urgency and commitment among travelers to act promptly in adopting more sustainable practices to preserve the planet for future generations, as voiced by 74% of participants in the study.



This sentiment is further echoed by 53% of respondents who acknowledge that recent developments and news on climate change have galvanized them to adopt more sustainable travel practices.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-dilemma">Growing dilemma</h2>



Nevertheless, there is looming apprehension about the deteriorating environmental conditions, which are expected by 49% to worsen in the next six months.&nbsp;



In addition, 64% of travelers anticipate a worsening cost of living crisis, leaving them with a dilemma over their priorities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-travel-sustainable-badge">Travel Sustainable badge</h2>



In response to these findings, Booking.com continues to take strides in promoting sustainable travel. The company's Travel Sustainable badge, launched in 2021, facilitates easier identification of sustainable accommodations for travelers.&nbsp;



This badge is awarded to various types of properties, including apartments, hotels, and even treehouses, that have successfully implemented a blend of sustainable practices meeting the requisite impact threshold for their specific destinations.



Booking.com has notably expanded its range of recognized third-party certifications and labels, allowing more properties to qualify for the Travel Sustainable badge.&nbsp;



Currently, over 500,000 properties worldwide are spotlighted for their sustainability efforts on Booking.com, bearing the Travel Sustainable badge.&nbsp;



The badge is not only indicative of Booking.com’s commitment to fostering sustainable travel but also serves as a crucial tool for travelers navigating the economic and environmental challenges outlined in the report.



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Travelers are ready for more affordable eco-friendly options

According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2023, 76% of travelers...

Portrait,Of,A,Young,Cheerful,Woman,Eating,Salad,At,The

The global trend of reducing meat consumption has been picking up pace, as initiatives such as "Meatless Mondays" gain popularity. Yet, the decision to go vegetarian might not just be a matter of personal or ethical choice, it may be genetic.



A fascinating study from <a href="https://www.nm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern Medicine</a> posits that a person's genetic composition might significantly influence their ability to commit to a strict vegetarian diet.



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



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetarianism</a> is lauded for its potential health benefits and ethical considerations, there's a conundrum that has puzzled many. Why do a significant number of self-proclaimed vegetarians continue to consume fish, poultry, or red meat? 



<a href="https://www.pathology.northwestern.edu/faculty/profile.html?xid=14114" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Nabeel Yaseen</a> is professor emeritus of pathology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He stated that nearly 48 to 64% of vegetarians admit to occasionally consuming meat. This stat implies that external environmental factors or internal biological constraints might be at play.



"It seems there are more people who would like to be vegetarian than actually are, and we think it’s because there is something hard-wired here that people may be missing,” Dr. Yaseen noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-and-vegetarians">Genetics and vegetarians</h2>



To delve into the genetic underpinnings of vegetarianism, researchers at Northwestern Medicine undertook a comprehensive study. They analyzed UK Biobank genetic data, comparing 5,324 strict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-stigma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetarians</a> with 329,455 control subjects. 



Notably, all participants were of white Caucasian descent to ensure a uniform sample and eliminate potential ethnic biases.



The findings were illuminating. Three genes were found to have a significant correlation with vegetarianism, with an additional 31 genes showing potential association. Intriguingly, two of the three primary genes identified, namely NPC1 and RMC1, play roles in lipid metabolism and brain function.



Dr. Yaseen hypothesized that certain lipids, present in meat but not in plant products, might be essential for some people. "Maybe people whose genetics favor vegetarianism can naturally produce these lipid components," he speculated, though he emphasized that this remains a theory, and further studies are required..



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-trends-and-implications">Global trends and implications</h2>



Despite the burgeoning interest in plant-based diets, the majority of the global population continues to consume meat. In the U.S., vegetarians constitute only 3 to 4% of the populace. Similarly, the U.K. reports that only <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey-results-from-years-1-to-4-combined-of-the-rolling-programme-for-2008-and-2009-to-2011-and-2012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.3% of adults and 1.9% of children</a> identify as vegetarians. 



This prevalent preference for meat prompts further investigation into its underlying reasons. Dr. Yaseen posits that, akin to one's initial reaction and subsequent acclimatization to alcohol or coffee, there might be a component in meat, possibly a lipid, that individuals might inherently crave or need.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-and-religious-beliefs">More and religious beliefs</h2>



Furthermore, if genetics is a determinant in one's vegetarian inclinations, what implications does it hold for individuals abstaining from meat due to religious or moral beliefs? 



Dr. Yaseen explains, "While religious and moral considerations certainly play a major role in the motivation to adopt a vegetarian diet, our data suggest that the ability to adhere to such a diet is constrained by genetics.”



Concluding his thoughts, Dr. Yaseen expressed hope that future research would shed more light on the physiological differences between vegetarians and non-vegetarians. This knowledge, he believes, can pave the way for more tailored dietary recommendations and better meat alternatives. His ultimate goal is to cater to the genetic predispositions of both vegetarians and meat eaters.



This pivotal study has the distinction of being the first peer-reviewed study examining the relationship between genetics and strict vegetarianism.



This full study, titled “<a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0291305" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetics of Vegetarianism: A Genome-Wide Association Study</a>,” was published in the journal PLOS ONE.



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Being a vegetarian is genetic and could explain why some people can’t give up meat

The global trend of reducing meat consumption has been picking...

Verbal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-abuse-animals-abused/">abuse</a> towards children by adults, such as shouting, belittling, or making threats, can be as harmful to their growth as physical or sexual mistreatment, according to a recent study published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106394">Child Abuse Neglect</a>.&nbsp;



By analyzing 166 previous studies, offering a comprehensive overview of the existing data on the subject, the scientists argued that verbal abuse during childhood should receive its own maltreatment category in order to bolster prevention and intervention efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-child-maltreatment-nbsp">Child maltreatment&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, child maltreatment falls into four main groups: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse - with verbal abuse being a subset - and neglect.&nbsp;



Different from other emotional abuse types like indifference, silent treatment, or exposure to domestic violence, verbal abuse should be considered as more overt and thus warranting special attention, according to the experts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curbing-verbal-abuse-nbsp">Curbing verbal abuse&nbsp;</h2>



Sponsored by <a href="https://wordsmatter.org/">Words Matter</a>, a UK-based charity focusing on enhancing children’s well-being by curbing verbal abuse, the research was conducted by specialists at Wingate University in North Carolina and University College London (UCL).



“Childhood verbal abuse desperately needs to be acknowledged as an abuse subtype because of the lifelong negative consequences,” said lead author Shanta Dube, the head of Wingate University’s Master of Public Health Program.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-impacts">Long-term impacts</h2>



Examining the ramifications of adults - like parents, educators, and coaches - raising their voices, the scientists cited a variety of previous studies indicating that the long-term impacts of verbal abuse during childhood cause mental distress.&nbsp;



The consequences of this distress can lead to issues such as depression, anger, criminal behavior, substance abuse, inflicting abuse, and health issues including obesity or respiratory diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-true-scale-and-impact-nbsp">Understanding the true scale and impact&nbsp;</h2>



Jessica Bondy, the founder of Words Matter, emphasized the need to understand “the true scale and impact of childhood verbal abuse.”



“All adults get overloaded sometimes and say things unintentionally,” she said. “We have to work collectively to devise ways to recognize these actions and end childhood verbal abuse by adults so children can flourish.”



Interestingly, this study suggests that the nature of child abuse may be evolving. While rates of physical and sexual abuse appear to be on the decline, emotional abuse seems to be on the rise, as pointed out by the World Health Organization in 2014 and four other research papers highlighted in the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-establishing-effective-interventions-nbsp">Establishing effective interventions&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, there is a “need for consistency” in how childhood verbal abuse is defined in order to measure its prevalence and aftermath accurately and to establish effective interventions.



Words Matter’s online resources advise adults to steer clear of shouting, derogatory comments, belittling remarks, or name-calling when addressing children. They also recommend reflecting before speaking and making amends with the child if hurtful words are used.



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



Furthermore, Elizabeth Gershoff, a scholar in Human Development and Family Sciences at the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/">University of Texas at Austin</a>, has stressed that when raising one’s voice, one should avoid criticizing. 



Moreover, she argued that the age of the child is significant too: while toddlers might only register the anger and not the message, children’s reactions to shouting can vary.



However, further research is needed to clearly understand all the ramifications of verbal abuse and to devise specific strategies to combat this type of abuse in order to ensure children’s wellbeing and healthy development.



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Verbal abuse can be as harmful to children as physical abuse

Verbal abuse towards children by adults, such as shouting, belittling,...

Researchers at the University of Bristol have unveiled a cutting-edge robot designed to conduct clinical breast examinations (CBE).&nbsp;The technology represents a significant stride toward improved monitoring ands early breast cancer diagnosis.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-manipulator-nbsp">The manipulator&nbsp;</h2>



The robot, known as "the manipulator," was developed at the <a href="https://www.bristolroboticslab.com/medical-robotics">Bristol Robotics Laboratory</a>. The machine stands out for its ability to administer specific forces comparable to those applied by human examiners during breast exams (see <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/1000519">image</a>).&nbsp;



Notably, its advanced sensor technology is adept at identifying lumps at greater depths than previously possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-breast-health">Monitoring breast health</h2>



The introduction of this robotic device may ultimately transform women's approach to monitoring their breast health.&nbsp;



It offers an innovative method for safe, electronic breast exams that can be strategically positioned in accessible locations like pharmacies and health centers.&nbsp;



The robot is the brainchild of a diverse team comprising both postgraduate and undergraduate researchers, all operating under the supervision of Dr. Antonia Tzemanaki from the Bristol Robotics Laboratory.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effectiveness-of-breast-exams">Effectiveness of breast exams</h2>



According to study lead author George Jenkinson, there's a range of opinions regarding the effectiveness of clinical breast examinations.



“There are conflicting ideas about how useful carrying out clinical breast examinations are for the health outcomes of the population," said Jenkinson. “It’s generally agreed upon that if it is well performed, then it can be a very useful and low risk diagnostic technique.



“There have been a few attempts in the past to use technology to improve the standard to which healthcare professionals can perform a CBE by having a robot or electronic device physically palpate breast tissue."&nbsp;



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



"But the last decade or so of technological advances in manipulation and sensor technology mean that we are now in a better position to do this."



“The first question that we want to answer as part of this is whether a specialized manipulator can be demonstrated to have the dexterity necessary to palpate a realistic breast size and shape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-the-robot">Creating the robot</h2>



The team's manipulator prototype was created using 3D printing and computer numerical control techniques. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="yOEDKTB1jc-3040080-12187" type="single"]</div>



The development process incorporated a series of laboratory experiments and simulated trials, all conducted on a silicone breast and its digital twin.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulations-and-experiments-nbsp">Simulations and experiments&nbsp;</h2>



Through simulations, the researchers could execute thousands of palpations and evaluate numerous hypothetical scenarios. This included efficiency analysis while using varying numbers of sensors, ranging from two to four, concurrently.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the team conducted actual experiments on the silicone breast in the lab. This approach was crucial to validating the accuracy of the simulations and empirically determining the forces required by the real equipment.



Ultimately, the robot's dexterity in palpating realistic breast sizes and shapes will be under scrutiny as the team progresses with their work.&nbsp;



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



“We hope that the research can contribute to and complement the arsenal of techniques used to diagnose breast cancer, and to generate a large amount of data associated with it that may be useful in trying to identify large scale trends that could help diagnose breast cancer early," said Jenkinson.



“One advantage that some doctors have mentioned anecdotally is that this could provide a low-risk way to objectively record health data. This could be used, for example, to compare successive examinations more easily, or as part of the information packet sent to a specialist if a patient is referred for further examination.”



“So far we have laid all of the groundwork,” said George. “We have shown that our robotic system has the dexterity necessary to carry out a clinical breast examination – we hope that in the future this could be a real help in diagnosing cancers early.”



This research was a part of project ARTEMIS, funded by Cancer Research UK and supported by EPSRC.



Image &amp; Video Credit: George Jenkinson



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New robot could revolutionize breast cancer diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Bristol have unveiled a cutting-edge...

A study from the University of Southern Denmark is shedding new light on the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, the active compound found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-can-treat-depression-by-restructuring-the-brain/">psychedelic mushrooms</a>. The researchers have found that "microdosing" psilocybin may have a beneficial effect on mental disorders.



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



The study explored the effects of psilocybin microdosing on rats, offering promising insights into its possible advantages for human mental health.&nbsp;



Led by Professor Mikael Palner and PhD student Kat Kiilerich, the research focused on administering repeated low doses of psilocybin to rats, significantly lower than the amounts commonly used in therapeutic contexts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-medication-technique-nbsp">Self-medication technique&nbsp;</h2>



Microdosing has recently gained traction as a popular self-medication technique.&nbsp;



"Microdosing is a phenomenon popularized within performance culture, notably in areas like Silicon Valley, California, and has subsequently spread through stories and anecdotes on the internet as a form of self-medication for various challenges," explained Professor Palner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-microdosing">Psilocybin microdosing </h2>



The results of the study suggest that rats can tolerate repeated psilocybin microdosing without signs of anxiety, reduced pleasure (anhedonia), or altered locomotor activity.&nbsp;



The low doses of psilocybin also increased the rats' resilience to stress, reduced their compulsive behaviors, and notably enhanced connectivity to their brain's thalamus region. This part of the brain plays a crucial role in decision-making and managing concerns.



"The change in connectivity to the thalamus may contribute to our enhanced resilience to stress factors and could explain why so many people report positive effects on their well-being from small doses of psychedelic mushrooms," explained the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-treatment-approaches-nbsp">Innovative treatment approaches&nbsp;</h2>



The findings offer a scientific foundation for the potential benefits of psilocybin microdosing as a therapeutic intervention. This opens avenues for further research and the development of innovative treatment approaches for various mental disorders.



"The increased anxiety and stress in society currently have placed a strong focus on microdosing, leading to a surge in the trade of mushrooms. Countries such as the Netherlands, Australia, the USA, and Canada have either legalized or are in the process of legalizing psilocybin for therapeutic treatment" said Professor Palner.



"It is, therefore, crucial that we understand the effects and side effects of these substances, which are already widely used by people around the world."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-and-performance-enhancement">Mental health and performance enhancement</h2>



Inspired by the surge in self-improvement practices in Silicon Valley, Professor Palner has dedicated years to researching the beneficial impacts of microdosing psychedelics on mental health and performance enhancement.



"Some books were published that popularized the concept of using small doses of psychedelics to address both mental issues and enhance performance. This motivated me to launch the project I've been devoted to for the past six years," said Professor Palner.



"Now, we can determine the appropriate dosage in rats, enabling us to investigate the effects of microdosing, which could significantly advance our understanding of the brain and mental challenges. This benefits both the field of science and society at large."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41380-023-02280-z">Nature - Molecular Psychiatry</a>.



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Psilocybin microdosing may improve mental health by boosting stress resilience

A study from the University of Southern Denmark is shedding...

In an ever-busy world, achieving sufficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/getting-high-quality-sleep-helps-prevent-depression-and-anxiety/">sleep </a>has become a formidable challenge. Now, a team of scientists from the Channing Division of Network Medicine of Brigham and Women’s Hospital (affiliated with the Mass General Brigham healthcare system), has highlighted the health implications of proper sleep.&nbsp;



The research indicates a connection between insufficient sleep and a heightened risk of hypertension in women.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-insomnia-nbsp">Symptoms of insomnia&nbsp;</h2>



“These findings suggest that individuals who struggle with symptoms of insomnia may be at risk of hypertension and could benefit from preemptive screening,” said lead author Shahab Haghayegh, a research associate at the Brigham and Harvard Medical School.&nbsp;



“Hypertension is associated with many other physical and mental health complications. The sooner we can identify individuals with high blood pressure and treat them for it, the better we can mitigate future health issues.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-adequate-sleep-nbsp">Lack of adequate sleep&nbsp;</h2>



The rising trend of both hypertension and sleep-related issues is concerning for adults across the United States. Disturbingly, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that over 35 percent of US adults are deprived of adequate sleep.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine points out that nearly 30 percent of Americans are battling with insomnia. Even more alarmingly, 45 percent of US adults appear to be grappling with high blood pressure.



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



In their comprehensive study, Haghayegh and his team monitored 66,122 participants, aged 25-42, from the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHS2) cohort. None of these participants had hypertension at the beginning of the study, which took place between 2001 until 2017.&nbsp;



The researchers examined diverse variables, including age, lifestyle habits, sleep patterns, and health history. Regular assessments were conducted to determine the onset of hypertension among participants, factoring in their sleep durations and any challenges related to sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-risk-of-hypertension-nbsp">Increased risk of hypertension&nbsp;</h2>



The results painted a clear picture: women with compromised sleep often exhibited higher BMI, indulged in unhealthy lifestyles, including smoking and alcohol consumption, and many had undergone menopause.



In the collected data, 25,987 instances of hypertension were identified. Strikingly, women who managed less than the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep displayed an increased likelihood of developing hypertension.&nbsp;



Those who faced challenges in initiating or maintaining sleep also exhibited a heightened risk. However, waking up early did not correlate with this risk. Crucially, these connections were evident even after adjusting for the participants’ work schedules and natural sleep-wake cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiological-changes-nbsp">Physiological changes&nbsp;</h2>



The exact dynamics between sleep disturbances and hypertension risk remain elusive. Yet, the experts have argued that disruptions in sleep might trigger a sequence of physiological changes potentially leading to hypertension.&nbsp;



This includes factors like sodium retention, arterial rigidity, and variations in cardiac output. Additionally, any imbalance in the sleep/wake cycle can interfere with the vascular tone regulation.



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



Though the study centered on women, the researchers aim to broaden their focus to include male and non-binary participants in future studies. Another limitation was the intermittent data collection on sleep quality during the study. However, the extensive participant base and the lengthy follow-up period bolster the study’s credibility.



Haghayegh highlighted the non-causal nature of these findings. He is keen on delving deeper to comprehend the link and ascertain if addressing one condition might alleviate the other. His future research aims to investigate whether sleep medications can influence blood pressure positively.



“I hope these findings further underscore the crucial role of quality sleep in our overall well-being. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends sleeping seven or more hours a night, and if you cannot fall or stay asleep, it might be worth exploring why that is. This study highlights yet another reason why getting a good night's sleep is so important,” he concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.123.2135">Hypertension</a>.



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.

Study reveals link between insomnia and hypertension in women

In an ever-busy world, achieving sufficient sleep has become a...

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as long as you compliment your co-workers too, according to a new study published in the <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-96750-001">Journal of Personality and Social Psychology</a>.&nbsp;



The researchers suggest that this type of "dual promotion" strikes the proper balance of competence and warmth, whereas self-promotion does not typically make the best impression.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-credit-to-others">Giving credit to others</h2>



"To create favorable impressions and receive credit, individuals need to share information about their past accomplishments," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Broadcasting one’s past accomplishments or claiming credit to demonstrate competence, however, can harm perceptions of warmth and likability."&nbsp;



"In fact, prior work has conceptualized self-promotion as a hydraulic challenge: tactics that boost perceptions along one dimension (e.g., competence) harm perceptions along other dimensions (e.g., warmth)."&nbsp;



"In this work, we identify a novel approach to self-promotion: We show that by combining self-promotion with other-promotion (complimenting or giving credit to others), which we term “dual-promotion,” individuals can project both warmth and competence to make better impressions on observers than they do by only self-promoting."



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



The researchers - from Vanderbilt, George Mason University, and the University of Pennsylvania - emphasize the distinction between dual-promotion and ingratiation, which is when an individual speaks highly of someone in their presence to get in their good graces.



Dual-promotion, on the other hand, is when an individual praises the achievements of another person whether or not he or she is present for the conversation.&nbsp;



"With dual-promotion, the goal isn't directly about improving relationships with the person being complimented, but rather about demonstrating that you care about this other person to a third party to demonstrate your own warmth and competence," said study co-author Dr.&nbsp; Eric VanEpps, an associate professor of Marketing at Vanderbilt University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-promotion-dilemma">Self-promotion dilemma</h2>



The researchers suggest that dual promotion is a good strategy to use at a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/money-job-matches-personality/">job</a> interview, but most people don't.&nbsp;



They said that previous studies have identified "so many behaviors" people use to self-promote that academics have coined the term the "self-promotion dilemma."



The team initiated the research with surveys targeting hiring managers. These employers reported that the majority of job candidates they interviewed used only self-promotion (69.1 percent), while the vast minority (12.6 percent) used dual-promotion.



"It seems like people either don't think of talking positively about others in the moment, or they're worried that they would look worse by comparison," said Dr VanEpps.&nbsp;



"But we find over and over that it's good to compliment your colleagues, especially - this is the 'dual' part of dual-promotion - alongside claiming credit for your own abilities and achievements."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-favorable-impressions-nbsp">Favorable impressions&nbsp;</h2>



The team also completed seven experiments involving 1,488 participants.



"In seven preregistered studies, including analyses of annual reports from members of Congress and experiments using social network, workplace, and political contexts, we show that individuals who engage in dual-promotion create more favorable impressions of warmth and competence than those who only engage in self-promotion," wrote the researchers.



"The beneficial effects of dual-promotion are robust to both competitive and noncompetitive contexts and extend to behavioral intentions."



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Dual promotion: Bragging on your co-workers makes a good impression

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as...

In a new study from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/study-introduces-new-internet-addiction-spectrum-where-are-you-scale">University of Surrey</a>, researchers have introduced an internet addiction spectrum, classifying internet users into five specific categories based on their behavior and dependency levels.&nbsp;



The goal of the study was to distinguish between problematic internet use and actual addiction, providing critical insights that could guide future digital services and AR application design.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-snapshot-of-online-behavior">A snapshot of online behavior</h2>



The research data shows that younger individuals, those aged 24 and below, spend an average of six hours a day online, with the primary device of choice being their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-spend-nearly-5-hours-a-day-on-smartphones/">smartphones</a>.&nbsp;



By contrast, those aged 24 and above reported spending approximately 4.6 hours on the internet daily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-spectrum">Breaking down the spectrum</h2>



The study, which was focused on data from 796 participants, divided internet users into the following categories:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-casual-users-14-86">Casual users (14.86%)</h3>



Represented primarily by older users with an average age of 33.4 years, this group utilizes the internet for specific purposes and doesn't hang around. Notably, these individuals are not interested in exploring new apps and exhibit no signs of addiction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-initial-users-22-86-nbsp">Initial users (22.86%)&nbsp;</h3>



With an average age of 26.1 years, these users tend to spend more time online than they initially plan to. While these individuals might neglect some household chores, they don't label themselves as addicted and have a moderate interest in new apps.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimenters-21-98">Experimenters (21.98%)</h3>



Falling within the age range of 22.8 to 24.3 years, this category is characterized by individuals who experience uneasiness or anxiety when not online. Their connection to the internet is a relief, and they are quite open to exploring new apps and technology.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-in-denial-17-96">Addicts-in-denial (17.96%)</h3>



These users exhibit clear signs of addiction, such as prioritizing online relationships over real-world commitments but deny feeling any discomfort when not connected. Their confidence in using mobile technology is apparent.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-22-36">Addicts (22.36%)</h3>



This segment openly acknowledges their internet addiction and the consequent negative impacts on their lives. These individuals show the most confidence in using and experimenting with new technology and apps. Their online presence is considerably greater than that of casual users.



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



"Our main aim was to clarify the difference between using the internet in a problematic way and being addicted to it. We found that the younger you are, the more likely you are to be addicted to the internet, and this tendency decreases with age," said study lead author Dr. Brigitte Stangl.



"We also wanted to explore how the severity of internet addiction affects users' experience with new, high-tech applications like augmented reality."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-notable-findings">Notable findings</h2>



The study revealed that emotional experiences, such as feelings derived from app use, predominantly predicted future behavior across all groups when it came to augmented reality interactions.&nbsp;



On the other hand, action experiences, like navigating websites or gaming, were found to be largely inconsequential for the addict group.



Interestingly, gender did not influence online behavior. However, the study established a direct correlation between high levels of internet addiction and confidence in using mobile technology.



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



"Our study underscores the need for tailored interventions and support for individuals at various stages of internet addiction," said Dr. Stangl.



"The findings will certainly influence the design and development of digital services and AR applications, ensuring they cater to the diverse needs of users in the current digital environment."



This research underscores the growing need to understand and address internet addiction in today’s digital age.



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Internet addiction: Where do you fall on the spectrum?

In a new study from the University of Surrey, researchers...

A young child’s body and <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/anatomy-of-the-brain">brain</a> are literally designed to be playful, and this is crucial for neural development, says Dr. Jacqueline Harding, a renowned early childhood expert at Middlesex University and the director of <a href="https://www.tomorrowschild.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tomorrow’s Child</a>.



In her new book, "The Brain that Loves to Play," Dr. Harding emphasizes the indispensable role of play in fostering the holistic development of young children.



“Children are naturally wired to play and any sustained deviation from this masterful design comes at a price."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-play-and-learning">Play and learning</h2>



Dr. Harding challenges the long-standing dichotomy between play and learning, highlighting play's pivotal function in the educational spectrum of early childhood.&nbsp;



“At this very moment, his brain also starts to 'jump' and light up with joy as connections between neurons make impressive progress. Does this experience count as learning? Absolutely yes."



The book signifies joyous moments of play as monumental instances of cognitive progression. Dr. Harding advocates for the essential and inseparable integration of play into the learning processes of children ranging from birth to five years old.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neuroscientific-foundations">Neuroscientific foundations</h2>



Dr. Harding provides insightful observations on how a child's brain inherently yearns and optimally flourishes through play.&nbsp;



She notes that engaging in playful activities and sensory experiences significantly facilitates the creation of new neural pathways, establishing a robust foundation for future learning and growth.&nbsp;



These neural pathways, carved through play before reaching six years of age, significantly influence the child's future learning capacities and opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-perspectives-on-play">Traditional perspectives on play</h2>



The book invites readers to reassess and discard the outdated belief that dismisses play as a trivial recreational activity.&nbsp;



Instead, Dr. Harding supports a holistic perspective, asserting play as a fundamental element of a child's developmental architecture.



"There is no doubt, according to all the latest research, that the brain loves to play - and it is time that as adults we got on board with this notion too.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-induced-challenges">Pandemic-induced challenges</h2>



Dr. Harding’s book explores the acute challenges precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly its detrimental effects on children's mental health.&nbsp;



In navigating through these unprecedented challenges, she emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing play and early intervention strategies to effectively support the children who have weathered through the storm of the pandemic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-children-through-play">Supporting children through play</h2>



By simplifying complex terminologies and offering illustrative case studies, Dr. Harding empowers adults with practical knowledge and tools to seamlessly incorporate play into their daily interactions with children.



“As we emerge from a pandemic which has significantly impacted all our lives, there can be no better place to begin than considering how we can rewrite the narrative through support in the early years,” she says.



Dr. Harding also emphasizes that the book is not an exhaustive compilation of scientific findings but rather a practical guide for adults seeking to better understand the value of play in young children’s development.&nbsp;



“It is my belief that a greater awareness of how we can support children is vital for all who care for young children,” she says.



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Lighting up the brain: The power of play in child development

A young child’s body and brain are literally designed to...

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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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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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



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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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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

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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

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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