It's known as the "boring billion," a murky period in Earth's history between 1.8 billion and 800 million years ago, when life's complexity didn't extend much beyond single-celled organisms.



Apart from the occasional multicellular life form, most of the living species during that time period were simple, unicellular organisms that had minimal requirements for life. 



But don't mistake "boring" for insignificant. This epoch of evolution laid the foundation for the drama of complex multicellularity that would eventually lead to us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-fuel-for-evolution">Energy: Fuel for evolution</h2>



The boring billion period appears to mark a time when the evolution of complex life was delayed and conditions were so stable as to border on stagnant. 



Scientists state that oxygen levels at this time were drastically decreased and conditions were fairly harsh for most forms of life.



A new study by Michael Lynch of <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> has revealed that the transition from unicellular to multicellular life forms would have come at a cost.



Using the water flea, Daphnia, as a <a href="https://phys.org/tags/model+organism/">model organism</a>, the study shows that multicellular organisms require more than a tenfold increase in energy compared with the simpler, unicellular organisms characteristic of the boring billion period. 



"No one doubts that multicellularity can bring substantial advantages to the table, but the privilege of attaining such benefits comes at a steep investment cost," said Lynch, who directs the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fbiodesign.asu.edu%2Fmechanisms-of-evolution%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution</a> at ASU.



The study emphasizes the importance of respiration and other metabolic processes in navigating the transition to more complex life forms. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cost-of-complexity">Cost of complexity </h2>



Every organism, from the smallest bacterium to a human, is driven by energy. Having an entire body made of only one cell reduces the need for energy and nutrients to grow and reproduce. 



But multicellular organisms, like plants, animals, and fungi, have to maintain a multitude of cells in complex tissues, organs and structures. And this places a far higher energy demand on the organism.



As the cell count increases in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular organism</a>, so does the demand on ATP synthase, the molecular machinery in cells that manufactures ATP, the universal energy currency. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/multicelled-organisms_metazoan-daphnia_credit-Marek-Mis_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/multicelled-organisms_metazoan-daphnia_credit-Marek-Mis_1s.webp" alt="A new study shows that multicelled organisms like the metazoan daphnia (pictured) require a tenfold increase in energy compared with protists for their growth, maintenance and survival. The high cost of multicellular existence is offset by the many evolutionary advantages afforded to advanced organisms, from simpler forms like daphnia all the way up to vertebrate species, including humans. Credit: Marek Miś" class="wp-image-1950209"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A new study shows that multicelled organisms like the metazoan daphnia (pictured) require a tenfold increase in energy compared with protists for their growth, maintenance and survival. The high cost of multicellular existence is offset by the many evolutionary advantages afforded to advanced organisms, from simpler forms like daphnia all the way up to vertebrate species, including humans. Credit: Marek Miś</figcaption></figure>



Each new cell in a multicellular body is another mouth to feed in terms of energy, and the cost increases with the number of cells.



The findings of the Daphnia study show that metazoans - the group that includes multicellular creatures - need a lot more ATP synthase complexes in each cell than their simpler, unicellular counterparts.



In fact, for every increment in body mass, these organisms require 30 to 50 times more oxygen than simpler, unicellular creatures. This additional oxygen supports the complex needs for metabolism, cellular communication, and tissue maintenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-comes-at-a-price">Size comes at a price</h2>



Growth isn't cheap, particularly for multicellular organisms. 



While larger, unicellular organisms, like some amoebas, become more efficient as they grow, multicellular organisms face unique challenges that require extra energy to sustain their larger sizes and more complex structures.



Given this steep energy price, why did multicellularity evolve at all? 



The answer seems to be that multicellular life offers evolutionary advantages, such as being able to consume unicellular organisms en masse, evade predators, and live in various environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-energy-barriers">Overcoming energy barriers</h2>



To surmount the energetic challenges presented by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-snowball-earth-conditions-drove-evolution-complex-multicellular-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellularity</a>, organisms have developed remarkable adaptations to utilize their resources efficiently. 



One key adaptation is the division of labor between specialized cells, tissues, and organs; this specialization allows for optimized energy usage where cells perform distinct functions more efficiently than they would if they had to carry out all the different life activities.



For example, mitochondria within eukaryotic cells have evolved highly efficient pathways to generate ATP, thus maximizing the energy harvested from different substrates.



Furthermore, the development of vascular systems in plants and circulatory systems in animals allows for the effective distribution of energy resources, and ensures that all cells have access to the oxygen and nutrients necessary to produce energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-boring-billion">Implications of the "boring billion"</h2>



Understanding the evolutionary narrative of the "boring billion" holds powerful implications for modern scientific research. 



This era not only reflects the energy-centric challenges of the past but also informs the fields of synthetic biology, evolutionary biology, and bioengineering.



By studying the metabolic pathways and energy efficiencies developed during this period, researchers can potentially design bio-inspired systems and organisms with enhanced functionalities and sustainability.



Furthermore, insights gained from this epoch's evolutionary innovations could pioneer future advancements in medical therapies, agriculture, and ecosystem management. 



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



This study primarily focuses on aerobic, animal-like organisms. But there's a vast and varied spectrum of life out there, including plants and fungi, and the researchers plan to extend their investigations to these life forms. 



Future insights could shed light on why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biggest-known-space-cloud-of-life-building-complex-chemicals-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life forms</a> took a considerable time to appear and diversify on our planet.



Multicellular life has high energy demands and this study suggests that the constraints of bioenergy could be a universal phenomenon that is applicable to any carbon-based, oxygen-breathing life, no matter where it exists in the universe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2414742121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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'Boring billion' wasn’t a dull period, it fueled a shift to complex life

It's known as the "boring billion," a murky period in Earth's history between 1.8 billion and 800 million years ago, when life's complexity didn't extend much beyond single-celled organisms. Apart from the occasional multicellular life form, most of the living species during that time period were simple, unicellular organisms that had minimal requirements for life. But don't mistake "boring" for insignificant. This epoch of evolution laid the foundation for the drama of complex multicellularity that would eventually lead to us. Energy: Fuel for evolution The boring billion...

A new study led by the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis has shown how psilocybin, the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, affects the brain. 



“A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic that acutely causes distortions of space-time perception and ego dissolution, produces rapid and persistent therapeutic effects in human clinical trials,” wrote the study authors.



In animal models, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-why-psilocybin-mushrooms-make-you-hallucinate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a> induces neuroplasticity in cortex and hippocampus. It remains unclear how human brain network changes relate to subjective and lasting effects of psychedelics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelics-dissolve-a-key-brain-network-nbsp">Psychedelics “dissolve” a key brain network&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers discovered that psilocybin temporarily disrupts the default mode network, a crucial brain area involved in introspective thinking, such as daydreaming and remembering.&nbsp;



This desynchronization leads to the characteristic psychedelic experience and could explain psilocybin's potential to treat mental illnesses like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-depression-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> and PTSD.



“There’s a massive effect initially, and when it’s gone, a pinpoint effect remains,” said so-senior author Dr. Nico U. F. Dosenbach of <a href="https://medicine.wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WUSTL</a>. “That’s exactly what you’d want to see for a potential medicine.”



Dosenbach went on to explain that "you wouldn’t want people’s brain networks to be obliterated for days, but you also wouldn’t want everything to snap back to the way it was immediately. You want an effect that lasts long enough to make a difference."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelics-and-brain-activity">Psychedelics and brain activity</h2>



The experts utilized functional MRI scans to observe the brain activity of seven healthy adults before, during, and after consuming psilocybin or methylphenidate. The researchers aimed to correlate changes in brain networks with subjective experiences.



“These days, we know a lot about the psychological effects and the molecular/cellular effects of psilocybin,” said first author Dr. Joshua S. Siegel. “But we don’t know much about what happens at the level that connects the two - the level of functional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-share-a-common-network-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain networks</a>.”



Psilocybin caused profound but temporary changes in the brain’s functional networks, particularly the default mode network. 



After the acute effects of the drug wore off, small differences from pre-psilocybin scans persisted for weeks.



“The idea is that you’re taking this system that’s fundamental to the brain’s ability to think about the self in relation to the world, and you’re totally desynchronizing it temporarily,” explained Dr. Siegel.&nbsp;



In the short term, this creates a psychedelic experience. The longer-term consequence is that it makes the brain more flexible and potentially more able to come into a healthier state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-functional-networks-nbsp">Changes in functional networks&nbsp;</h2>



During the experience, participants rated their feelings of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-induces-feelings-of-oceanic-boundlessness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transcendence</a>, connectedness, and awe using the validated <a href="https://www.trippingly.net/lsd-studies/2018/5/22/the-mystical-experience-questionaire-30-questions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mystical Experience Questionnaire</a>. 



The changes in functional networks corresponded with the intensity of each participant’s subjective experience.



“We were able to get very precise data on the effects of the drug in each individual,” said co-senior author Dr. Ginger E. Nicol.&nbsp;



“This is a step toward precision clinical trials. In psychiatry, we often don’t know who should get a particular medicine and how much or how often. By using this approach in clinical trials, we can identify the factors that determine who benefits and who doesn’t, and make better use of the medicines we have.”



However, the researchers caution against self-medicating with psilocybin, which is not FDA-approved and carries risks if taken without professional supervision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-effects-of-psilocybin-nbsp">Understanding the effects of psilocybin&nbsp;</h2>



"The dramatic departure from typical synchronized patterns of co-activity may be key to understanding the acute effects of psilocybin and also its persistent neurotrophic effects,” wrote the researchers.



Changes in resting activity are linked to shifts in glutamate-dependent signaling during psilocybin exposure. 



This phenomenon, shared by ketamine and psychedelics, engages homeostatic plasticity mechanisms, a neurobiological response to large deviations in typical network activity patterns.



Psychedelics rapidly induce synaptogenesis in the hippocampus and cortex, effects that seem to be necessary for rapid antidepressant-like effects in animal models. 



However, understanding the underpinnings of the behavioral effects of psychedelics requires human studies.



Advances in precision functional mapping and individual-level characterization enabled us to identify desynchronization of resting-state fMRI signals, connect these changes with subjective psychedelic effects and localize these changes to depression-relevant circuits (DMN, hippocampus).



These analyses rely on precise characterization of an individuals’ baseline brain organization (for example, individual definition of brain areas, networks and day-to-day variability) to understand how that organization is altered by an intervention.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07624-5?utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=commission_junction&amp;utm_campaign=CONR_PF018_ECOM_GL_PBOK_ALWYS_DEEPLINK&amp;utm_content=textlink&amp;utm_term=PID100052172&amp;CJEVENT=cd59fa7b445011ef804a007a0a82b838" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Psychedelics give the brain flexibility to enter a healthier state

A new study led by the Washington University School of...

New research suggests that taking three-minute resistance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-significantly-lowers-heart-disease-risk-by-reducing-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> breaks every 30 minutes over a four-hour period in the evening may improve sleep length. 



The study, led by researchers who recruited 30 non-smokers aged 18 to 40, found that participants slept an average of 27 minutes longer after incorporating these activity breaks compared to prolonged sitting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resistance-exercise-in-the-evening-nbsp">Resistance exercise in the evening&nbsp;</h2>



Current recommendations discourage intense exercise before bed due to its potential to increase body temperature and heart rate, which can result in poorer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/getting-high-quality-sleep-helps-prevent-depression-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a>. 



However, the study explored whether short, simple exercises could positively impact sleep without these adverse effects.



Participants wore activity trackers to record their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/any-type-of-physical-activity-can-help-protect-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> and sleep patterns. They completed two sessions: one with continuous sitting and another with resistance exercise breaks, including chair squats, calf raises, and standing knee raises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-disruptions-in-sleep-quality">No disruptions in sleep quality</h2>



The results indicated that after the exercise breaks, participants slept longer, averaging 7 hours and 12 minutes compared to 6 hours and 45 minutes after prolonged sitting. Wake times were also later, with participants waking at 8:06 am after exercise breaks versus 7:35 am after sitting.



No significant differences were found in sleep efficiency or the number of awakenings during the night, suggesting that these activity breaks did not disrupt sleep quality.&nbsp;



Additionally, there were no notable differences in activity patterns in the 24 hours following each intervention.



The researchers acknowledged several limitations, such as the small sample size and the controlled laboratory setting, and called for further studies involving larger numbers of people in their normal home environments.



“These results add to a growing body of evidence that indicates evening exercise does not disrupt sleep quality, despite current sleep recommendations to the contrary,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-influence-of-evening-exercise-nbsp">The influence of evening exercise&nbsp;</h2>



The experts highlighted that extending sleep duration, particularly for those who sleep less than the recommended nightly total, may potentially reduce metabolic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crucial-discoveries-will-improve-cardiovascular-disease-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a> risk over the long term. 



The simple resistance exercises used in the study can be easily integrated into daily routines, even while streaming content, which may increase adherence to the routine.



“While existing research indicates that evening exercise may not adversely impact sleep, the mechanisms by which it influences sleep quality remain unclear,” they concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-resistance-exercise-nbsp">More about resistance exercise&nbsp;</h2>



Resistance exercise, also known as strength training or weight training, involves activities that cause your muscles to work against an external resistance. This could be weights, resistance bands, or even your body weight. The main goal is to increase muscle strength, size, and endurance.



When you do resistance exercise, you're essentially creating tiny tears in your muscle fibers. Your body repairs these tears, making the muscles stronger and bigger in the process. It's like giving your muscles a workout to build their resilience.



One of the great things about resistance exercise is that it’s versatile. You can lift weights at the gym, use resistance bands at home, or even do bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats anywhere. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.



Resistance exercise offers numerous benefits beyond just building <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecule-in-coffee-trigonelline-keeps-muscles-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a>. It can improve bone density, boost metabolism, enhance joint function, and even help with weight management. Regular resistance training can also improve your overall physical performance and reduce the risk of injuries.



It's important to start slowly and focus on proper form to prevent injuries. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the resistance or the number of repetitions to continue challenging your muscles.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Open Sport &amp; Exercise Medicine</a>.



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Resistance exercise in the evening can improve sleep

New research suggests that taking three-minute resistance exercise breaks every...

A new study led by the <a href="https://www.uga.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> (UGA) has revealed that one in five U.S. farmers binge drink when under high stress. The research highlights the link between farmers using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-amounts-of-alcohol-have-big-impacts-on-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> to manage stress, driven by the intense and risky nature of their work.&nbsp;



“Alcohol is the most acceptable way to deal with that stress versus actually going to talk to somebody about that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turn-stress-productive-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, or it’s a way to be able to talk about that stress with friends,” said lead author Christina Proctor, a clinical associate professor at UGA’s College of Public Health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-as-a-coping-mechanism-nbsp">Alcohol as a coping mechanism&nbsp;</h2>



Unique barriers to healthcare for farming communities include not just the usual rural issues like distance and lack of specialists, but also stigma and distrust of healthcare providers.&nbsp;



Farmers fear that seeking mental health care might be seen as an inability to manage their operations. This often leads to increased alcohol consumption as a coping mechanism.



“Farming is a high-risk, physically challenging occupation. Considering farmers report high stress and barriers to seeking healthcare, it is important to understand factors influencing alcohol use to tailor interventions and healthcare resources for alcohol use in rural areas,” wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farming-and-mental-health-nbsp">Farming and mental health&nbsp;</h2>



Proctor and her co-author, Noah Hopkins, surveyed 1,045 farmers and found that almost all farmers drink, with over one-third consuming multiple drinks per week. These drinking habits are concerning due to the stigma around mental health care and the associated risk of suicide.



“Knowing the stigma that exists within rural farming populations about seeking care and then looking at death by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suicide-rate-increases-during-the-week-of-a-full-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suicide</a> numbers, it really is a public health issue because there are drastic, traumatic outcomes associated with not being able to ask for that care, using alcohol to cope and then feeling hopeless,” Proctor said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-for-stressed-farmers">Support for stressed farmers</h2>



The study found that farmers who could rely on community support and peers were less likely to drink excessively. Proctor emphasizes the need for community-based support and training for various rural professionals to facilitate open conversations about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.



“If the networks don’t exist, we’ve got to train our bankers. We’ve got to train, you know, farm bureau agents; we’ve got to train feed store managers. Everyone in rural areas has to be willing to have those open and honest conversations about mental health. It starts so basic, but it’s so big.”



The researchers noted that interventions to address stress and alcohol consumption should focus on promoting resilience, reducing stigma, and encouraging peer support to address cultural norms around mental health and alcohol use.&nbsp;



“Rural practitioners should develop cultural competence to better serve agricultural communities to prevent alcohol use disorders. To discuss ways to reduce stigma and encourage peer support to address alcohol and mental health disorders in rural farming populations.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-stress-of-farming">The stress of farming</h2>



Farming is an inherently demanding occupation, often subjecting farmers to significant stress due to a combination of environmental, economic, and personal factors.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-pressures-nbsp">Economic pressures&nbsp;</h3>



The unpredictability of weather and the impacts of climate change can drastically affect crop yields and livestock health, leading to financial instability.&nbsp;



Market fluctuations, trade policies, and changing consumer demands further compound the economic pressures farmers face, making it challenging to maintain a consistent income.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensive-labor">Intensive labor</h3>



Additionally, farming is a labor-intensive job that requires long hours and physical exertion, which can lead to physical fatigue and health issues.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isolation">Isolation</h3>



The isolation associated with rural living can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and mental strain, as farmers often work alone or with limited social interaction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-pressures-nbsp">Cumulative pressures&nbsp;</h3>



The necessity to make quick decisions in response to unforeseen problems, such as pest infestations or equipment failures, adds another layer of stress.&nbsp;



These cumulative pressures can lead to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-networks-nbsp">Support networks&nbsp;</h3>



Despite these challenges, many farmers find resilience and strength in their connection to the land, their community, and their passion for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>.&nbsp;



Support networks, including family, friends, and agricultural organizations, play a crucial role in helping farmers manage stress and maintain their well-being.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/1059924X.2024.2374737" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Agromedicine</a>.



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Stressed out farmers are turning to alcohol to cope

A new study led by the University of Georgia (UGA)...

A recent discovery led by <a href="https://www.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caltech</a> scientist Kareem El-Badry has left the scientific community buzzing. The researchers have uncovered an astonishing 21 neutron stars orbiting Sun-like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birth-sun-like-star-hp-tau-captured-by-hubble-space-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>.



Neutron stars, the dense remnants of exploded massive stars, are inherently very faint and virtually undetectable on their own. 



But here's the twist - when they circle around a Sun-like star, these neutron stars create a tug, which causes the Sun-like star to wobble in space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gaia-the-star-revealer">Gaia: The star revealer</h2>



The European Space Agency's Gaia mission was instrumental in helping the astronomers detect these subtle starry wobbles, unveiling a whole new population of these elusive dark neutron stars.



"Gaia is continuously scanning the sky and measuring the wobbles of more than a billion stars, so the odds are good for finding even very rare objects," noted El-Badry. This breakthrough is a testimony of the power of Gaia.



The research had significant contributions from various stellar scientists around the globe. Data from several ground-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-habitable-worlds-observatory-hwo-telescope-aims-find-inhabited-planets-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">telescopes</a> were used to study in-depth about the masses and orbits of the hidden neutron stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-characteristics-of-neutron-stars">Fascinating characteristics of neutron stars</h2>



El-Badry's findings showed that these neutron stars are much farther from their Sun-like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-earth-like-planet-discovered-in-big-dipper-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companions</a> than previously found pairings, making them too distant to steal material from their partner Sun-like stars. Due to this, they stay dormant and dark.



"These are the first neutron stars discovered purely due to their gravitational effects," noted El-Badry.



However, this discovery presents an intriguing question - how does an exploded star wind up next to a star like our Sun?



The mystery still remains. "We still do not have a complete model for how these binaries form," said El-Badry.



The discovery of these new systems indicates that some binaries survive explosive processes, even though existing models struggle to elaborate how.



"The formation history of these objects is puzzling: it is unclear both how the binaries escaped a merger or dramatic orbital shrinkage when the neuron star progenitors were red supergiants, and how they remained bound when the neuron stars formed," wrote the study authors.



El-Badry expressed his interest in locating dormant black holes in orbit with Sun-like stars. With the help of Gaia data, he has already found two such quiet black holes hiding in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunspot-region-ar3664-blasted-earth-mars-may-2024-still-very-active/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a>.



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



El-Badry’s team is poised to delve even deeper into the realms of binary star systems with the continuous influx of data from the Gaia mission. 



This discovery is just the beginning, as future observations will likely reveal even more hidden neutron stars and dormant black holes. 



The enhanced understanding of these systems will provide crucial insights into stellar evolution and the lifecycle of massive stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-discovering-sun-like-stars">Implications of discovering sun-like stars</h2>



The discovery of these 21 neutron stars orbiting Sun-like stars has profound implications for the field of astrophysics. It challenges existing theories about the formation and evolution of binary systems, particularly those involving neutron stars. 



The data could eventually lead to a paradigm shift in our understanding of stellar dynamics, gravitational interactions, and the end stages of stellar evolution. These findings may also impact other areas of research, such as the study of gravitational waves and the search for exoplanets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-beyond-sun-like-stars">Research beyond sun-like stars</h2>



The implications of these discoveries extend beyond our own galaxy. By studying these neutron star and Sun-like star binaries, scientists can gain insights into similar systems in other parts of the universe. 



This research helps build a more comprehensive picture of how stars and their remnants interact across different cosmic environments.



As Gaia continues to provide unprecedented amounts of data, the hope is that it will unlock more secrets of the universe, enhancing our understanding of the cosmos and our place within it.



"We don't know for sure how these black hole binaries formed either," noted El-Badry.



Indeed, there are gaps in our models for the evolution of binary stars. However, the continued effort to find more of these dark companions will play an essential role in bridging these gaps.



The study is published in <a href="https://astro.theoj.org/article/121261-a-population-of-neutron-star-candidates-in-wide-orbits-from-gaia-astrometry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Open Journal of Astrophysics</a>.



Image Credit: Caltech/R. Hurt (IPAC)



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Discovery: Sun-like stars with secret companions

A recent discovery led by Caltech scientist Kareem El-Badry has...

Polar bear conservation has leaped forward with the introduction of a novel and less invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-using-technology-to-protect-our-natural-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> tracking technology.



This innovative tool, which adheres to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-unravel-the-secrets-of-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fur</a> of the animals, provides a promising outcome from trials on wild polar bears. Its design mimics the hair-clinging capabilities of burrs, earning it the name “Burr on Fur.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-force-behind-the-innovation">Driving force behind the innovation</h2>



The Burr on Fur concept was driven by several key players. Researchers from <a href="https://www.yorku.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">York University</a>, the <a href="https://www.ualberta.ca/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alberta</a>, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Manitoba Sustainable Development, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and Polar Bears International, all had a hand in this innovative project.



The Burr on Fur initiative began as a challenge posed by Polar Bears International to scientists at 3M, a leading global science and manufacturing company behind inventions such as Post-It notes.



The task was to devise a simple, temporary method for attaching small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/big-data-technologies-reveal-how-animals-survive-in-a-changing-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracking units</a> to polar bear fur.



Three different Burr on Fur prototypes were put to the test in the wild on polar bears along the coast of Hudson Bay, Canada. The trackers were compared side-by-side with traditional ear tag transmitters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-of-traditional-tracking-methods">Limitations of traditional tracking methods</h2>



The current radio collar tracking methods are suitable only for female polar bears, leaving a significant portion of the population unaccounted for, but the introduction of Burr on Fur tags is set to change this.



These new devices not only deliver credible data but also can be used to track both male and female polar bears of nearly all ages.



The tags are designed to be temporary and minimally invasive. They fill an important niche for researchers, enabling them to study adult male and subadult polar bears effectively.



Traditional satellite collars are not effective for studying these groups due to their growth and body structure.



“Successfully attaching telemetry tags to polar bear fur has never been done before, and we’re excited to share the results of this innovative work,” said Tyler Ross, lead author of the paper and researcher at York University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evaluating-tag-designs-for-polar-bears">Evaluating tag designs for polar bears</h2>



The study evaluated three distinct fur tag designs, along with traditional ear tags, on 58 wild polar bears. 



The goal was to compare the time the tags remained active while attached to the bears and how accurate the trackers were. The research spanned from 2016 to 2021, with the bears being handled near Churchill, Canada.



The most successful fur tag proved to be the SeaTrkr Tag, remaining attached to the bears for an average of 58 days and showcasing superior accuracy with the use of GPS/Iridium technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-polar-bear-behavior">Understanding polar bear behavior </h2>



The Burr on Fur tags have proven effective for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/footprint-dna-helps-scientists-monitor-elusive-animals-like-polar-bears/">monitoring bear behavior</a>, with great promise for future use, especially for bears that must be relocated after coming uncomfortably close to communities.



These new trackers grant scientists an enhanced tool for managing human-bear interactions and conducting applied research. 



“Our results are an important step in better understanding the movements and behavior of polar bears, especially adult male bears, which are difficult to track because they can’t be fitted with satellite collars," said study co-author Gregory Thiemann.



"Temporary, fur-mounted tags could also help track the movements of bears relocated after potentially coming into conflict with people, making these tags an important tool for conserving polar bears and keeping northern communities safe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-polar-bear-conservation">Future of polar bear conservation</h2>



The Burr on Fur tags will gather critical data, including insights into the behavior of polar bears on land during the ice-free period in Hudson Bay.



“This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to improving Arctic wildlife research and conservation technology,” said Geoff York, senior director of research and policy at Polar Bears International.



“These advancements will have tangible implications for wildlife management, aiding in tracking polar bears and promoting improved human-bear coexistence.”



The findings coincide with Arctic Sea Ice Day, an annual event aiming to ignite conversations and actions about the rapidly melting Arctic ecosystem. 



Polar Bears International invites people to access the full report and consider its implications for further research and application in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-struggling-to-survive-longer-summers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> and coexistence efforts.



The study is published in the journal Animal Biotelemetry.



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Polar bear conservation leaps forward with new tracking technology

Polar bear conservation has leaped forward with the introduction of...

Creativity strikes us in those unexpected moments when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-may-literally-be-a-state-of-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain offers solutions</a> to problems we weren't actively considering.



This spontaneous and valuable trait is a uniquely human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rebooting-the-brain-experts-can-transform-cells-into-neurons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">characteristic</a>, shrouded in mystery and unpredictability. Often arriving unbidden, creativity's neurological origins remain an elusive puzzle to unravel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neuroscience-meets-trailblazing-creativity">Neuroscience meets trailblazing creativity</h2>



An innovative research team led by the <a href="https://healthcare.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah Health</a> and working out of <a href="https://www.bcm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baylor College of Medicine</a> has begun to unravel creativity's enigmatic threads.



The researchers used pioneering brain imaging techniques to uncover the interconnected brain sections that collectively yield innovative thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-creativity-at-the-forefront">Brain creativity at the forefront</h2>



This groundbreaking study could ultimately give birth to interventions that catalyze creative thinking or assist individuals grappling with mental disorders that impede the functioning of these brain segments.



Higher cognitive functions like creativity often pose significant challenges to study. Unlike motor function or vision, creativity is not beholden to a single specific brain location. 



“There's not a creativity cortex,” said Dr. Ben Shofty, assistant professor of neurosurgery in the <a href="https://medicine.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine</a> and senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nurturing-grounds-of-creativity-in-the-brain">Nurturing grounds of creativity in the brain</h2>



Even so, creativity is undeniably a unique brain function. Prior discoveries showing that localized brain injury induced by a stroke can lead to fluctuations in creative ability (both enhancing and diminishing it) indicate the feasibility of encrypting creativity's neurological fundamentals.



Dr. Shofty speculated that innovative thought might heavily rely on brain parts activated during meditation, daydreaming, and other intrinsically focused thought types.



Such a network, dubbed the default mode network (DMN), is associated with the "default" thought patterns that emerge without any specific mental effort. 



“Unlike most of the functions that we have in the brain, it's not goal-directed. It's a network that operates all the time and maintains our spontaneous stream of consciousness,” noted Dr. Shofty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-web-of-creativity">Unraveling the web of creativity</h2>



The default mode network is a complex web sprawled across several scattered brain regions. This made it challenging to track the DMN's activity in real time.



The team employed a sophisticated brain activity imaging method to grasp the network's operations during moments of creative thought.



Coupled with the unique opportunity to use patients already undergoing seizure monitoring, the research team could measure brain activity during creative thinking. 



A detailed image of creativity's neural basis emerged. “We could see what's happening within the first few milliseconds of attempting to perform creative thinking," said Dr. Shofty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-creative-ideas-are-sparked">Where creative ideas are sparked</h2>



The team noted that during creative thinking tasks, the DMN was initially activated. Its activity then synchronized with other brain regions responsible for complex problem-solving and decision-making. 



This observation led Dr. Shofty to believe that creative ideas originate in the DMN before being appraised by other regions.



Study co-first author Dr. Eleonora Bartoli, an assistant professor of neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine, said the research shows that creativity is not just associated with the default mode network but fundamentally depends on it.



“We moved beyond correlational evidence by using direct brain stimulation,” said Dr. Bartoli. “Our findings highlight the causal role of the DMN in creative thinking.”



This research also has profound implications for mental health. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-3d-map-of-human-brain-created-by-harvard-and-google/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">network's activity</a> is altered in several disorders like ruminative depression, where the DMN is overactive, potentially leading to increased dwelling on negative, internally directed thoughts.



“Eventually, the goal would be to understand what happens to the network in such a way that we can potentially drive it toward being more creative,” said Dr. Shofty.



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



The advancements in understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-brain-processes-visual-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural basis</a> of creativity open up numerous exciting possibilities for future research and practical applications.



One promising avenue is the development of targeted brain stimulation techniques to enhance creative thinking. 



By precisely modulating the activity of the DMN and its interconnected regions, scientists may be able to foster creativity in individuals with cognitive impairments or those seeking to boost their innovative potential.



This pioneering work not only expands our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/odors-prompt-brain-cells-to-make-decisions-before-you-know-whats-happening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">knowledge of the brain</a> but also holds the promise of transforming how we approach creativity, learning, and mental health in the years to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/brain/advance-article/doi/10.1093/brain/awae199/7695856" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain</a>.



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Where does creativity start in the brain?

Creativity strikes us in those unexpected moments when the brain...

A longitudinal study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjph-2024-001295" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Public Health</a> has recently found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/51-percent-of-the-world-relies-on-car-commutes-every-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commuters</a> who choose to cycle or walk to and from work have lower risks of developing physical and mental issues. Although both types of activity appeared to be beneficial, cycling had the highest advantages.



Active commuting is one of the most practical and sustainable ways to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-67-minutes-daily-outdoors-boosts-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improve health</a>, as scientists have long argued. Yet, previous studies had many limitations, including short monitoring periods, narrow age groups, and limited health outcomes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-vs-inactive-commuting-nbsp">Active vs. inactive commuting&nbsp;</h2>



In this new study, the scientists collected and analyzed data from the <a href="https://sls.lscs.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scottish Longitudinal Study</a>, which is based on five percent of Scotland’s population derived from Census returns in 1991, 2001, and 2011. 



First, the respondents had to select which mode of travel they use for the longest part of their commute. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-is-a-powerful-tool-to-boost-brain-health-and-overall-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walking</a> and cycling were defined as active travel, all the other methods were deemed “inactive.” 



The experts then connected these responses to data regarding hospital admissions, deaths, and use of mental health drugs like antidepressants, sedatives, and anxiolytics.&nbsp;



Other factors, such as age, sex, socioeconomic factors, distance to work, and pre-existing health issues have also been taken into consideration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-of-the-study">Key findings of the study</h2>



The analysis revealed that between 2001 and 2018, 4,276 participants died (half of them from cancer), and 52,804 were admitted to hospital (12 percent for cardiovascular issues, seven percent for cancer, and three percent after traffic accidents). Moreover, 38.5 percent were prescribed heart medicines, and 41 percent mental health drugs.



Compared to those who did not engage in active commuting, individuals who walked to work were more likely to be younger females who worked shifts, lived in cities, commuted for shorter distances, and had lower incomes and educational attainment.&nbsp;



Cyclists shared some similarities, being more likely to be younger males who worked shifts, lived in urban areas, and were less likely to own homes or have caregiving responsibilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-health-benefits-of-active-commuting-nbsp">Clear health benefits of active commuting&nbsp;</h2>



However, active commuting was clearly linked to reduced risks of death and mental and physical health issues compared to inactive commuting.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cycling-to-work">Cycling to work</h3>



Respondents who cycled to work had a 47 percent lower risk of death from any cause, a 10 percent lower risk of any hospital admission, and a 24 percent lower risk of hospital admission for cardiovascular disease.&nbsp;



Cycling was also associated with a 30 percent lower risk of needing cardiovascular medication, a 51 percent lower risk of dying from cancer, a 24 percent lower risk of hospitalization for cancer, and a 20 percent lower risk of needing mental health medications. 



Nevertheless, cyclists were twice as likely to be hospitalized due to road traffic collisions compared to inactive commuters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-walking-to-work-nbsp">Walking to work&nbsp;</h3>



On the other hand, walking to work was linked to an 11 percent lower risk of hospital admission for any cause, a 10 percent lower risk of hospital admission for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, a 10 percent lower risk of needing cardiovascular drugs and a seven percent lower risk of requiring mental health medications.



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



Since the study was observational, it cannot definitively establish cause and effect. Moreover, the researchers identified other limitations, including the fact that census responses only captured a single point in time and did not account for overall physical activity levels or multimodal trips.



According to the authors, despite such limitations, the study strengthens the evidence that active commuting has population-level health benefits and can contribute to reduced morbidity and mortality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-commuting-and-mental-health">Active commuting and mental health</h2>



“That cyclist and pedestrian commuting is associated with lower risks of being prescribed medication for poor mental health is an important finding.”



“These findings provide direct evidence of the health benefits of active commuting in a Scottish context, supporting current policy. This study has wider global relevance to efforts to reduce carbon emissions and to shift to more active and sustainable travel modes.”&nbsp;



However, the experts concluded that the “finding that cyclist commuters have twice the risk of being a road traffic casualty compared with non-active commuters reinforces the need for safer cycling infrastructure.”



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Active commuting: Cycling to work linked to enormous health benefits

A longitudinal study published in the journal BMJ Public Health...

Ever noticed how, in the face of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-world-will-have-half-as-many-farms-by-the-end-of-the-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crisis</a>, we tend to rethink our choices, scrutinize our practices, and reassess the impact of our actions on the world around us? The COVID-19 pandemic has instigated a worldwide introspection. One area that has come under the microscope recently is industrialized or intensive farming.



A team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> has carefully examined the relationship between intensive farming and the risk of future pandemics. The team was led by Professor Steve Hinchliffe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-double-edged-sword-of-intensive-farming">Double-edged sword of intensive farming</h2>



The typical narrative around industrialized farming is that it actually helps curb the risk of zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that jump the species barrier from animals to humans. 



The logic is simple: intensive farming utilizes better control mechanisms, implements stringent biosecurity measures, and separates livestock from the wild, which in theory limits disease transmission. But, is this really the case?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-intensive-farming">Risks of intensive farming</h2>



After meticulously scrutinizing a variety of social and economic factors that usually get side-stepped in conventional risk assessments, the findings presented by Professor Hinchliffe's team shed a different light.&nbsp;



Far from alleviating the risk, industrialized farming might be inadvertently cranking up the odds of an emerging infectious disease (EID), possibly unleashing new pandemics upon us.



"The risks of emergence and transmission of diseases depend on multiple factors, including contact between humans and animals, and how we use land. Livestock farming plays a potentially significant role in those risks, shaping landscapes and providing hosts that can act as the source or amplifiers of emerging pathogens," said Professor Hinchliffe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disease-more-than-just-pathogens-nbsp">Disease: More than just pathogens&nbsp;</h2>



Disease is a multifaceted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phenomenon</a>. The narrative cannot just revolve around pathogens, transmission vectors, or the microbiological aspects. It's a chain reaction set into motion by a nexus of social, economic, and political factors along with ecological and biological elements.



"The founding myth in intensive farming is that we separate livestock from wildlife and thereby shut off the risk of diseases passing between them," noted Professor Hinchliffe.



"But these farms exist in the real world – so buildings and fences can get damaged, wildlife like rats or wild birds can get in, and workers move around."



"In short, there will always be accidents. Once social, economic, and political factors are taken into account, the pandemic risk posed by intensive farming is concerning."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-bag-of-intensive-farming">Mixed bag of intensive farming</h2>



Intensive farming often leads to the creation of a “mixed landscape” – a hodgepodge of farming practices and types, which inadvertently creates an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-shaped-plant-biodiversity-for-thousands-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> conducive to EID risk.&nbsp;



Variations in regional farm structures, cost implications, and subtropical housing conditions can all contribute to a far-from-contained biosecurity environment.



The team also observed closely entwined relationships between large food corporations and national authorities, which, in some cases, resulted in “regulatory capture… and the difficulty of decoupling interests.”



“Increasing on-farm biosecurity, standardization, and efficiency in farm animal production is not the panacea for achieving a disease-free environment," noted co-author Dr. Kin Wing (Ray) Chan.



“Rather we need to reconsider the socio-cultural impacts of intensifying farm animal production on planetary health, environmental sustainability and animal welfare issues.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-perspective">Shift in perspective</h2>



Reevaluating our farming practices is imperative to reduce the pandemic risks posed by intensive farming.



This means promoting sustainable, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-friendly methods</a> that consider all factors involved. A multi-faceted approach is needed to ensure a safer, healthier future for both people and the planet.



This research was a collaborative effort with scholars from <a href="https://www.tufts.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tufts</a> University, <a href="https://www.rau.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Agricultural</a> University, University of <a href="https://www.uow.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wollongong</a>, <a href="https://www.clarku.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clark</a> University, Cambridge Conservation Initiative, and the Institute of <a href="https://www.ids.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Development Studies</a>.&nbsp;



Additionally, funders of the study included the Wellcome Centre for Cultures and Environments of Health and the Wellcome Trust.



It’s time for us to assess our farming practices. It's not just about producing more efficiently. It's also about understanding the far-reaching implications of our choices. So, are we ready for a change?



The paper titled "“Understanding the roles of economy and society in the relative risks of zoonosis emergence from livestock,” is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.231709" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Intensive farming raises pandemic risks

Ever noticed how, in the face of a crisis, we...

Earth, the lovely blue marble we call home, is changing. The culprit? Climate change. On top of warming weather and rising seas, it's causing the ice masses in Greenland and Antarctica to melt, slowing Earth's rotation and slowly lengthening our days. 



How could climate change possibly alter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our planet's rotation</a>, you ask? As the polar ice continues to melt at an ever-increasing pace, water from these typically frosty regions is rushing into the world's oceans. 



And guess where most of it is headed? Right smack into the girth of our planet, the equatorial region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rotation-and-earth-s-changing-climate">Rotation and Earth's changing climate</h2>



The phenomena unfolding due to climate change's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-natural-process-is-making-antarcticas-ice-melt-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice melt</a> at both poles can be better appreciated through the insights of a seasoned expert. 



Enter Benedikt Soja, a distinguished Professor of Space Geodesy at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at <a href="https://baug.ethz.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>. 



According to Soja, this shift in mass affects the Earth’s rotation. How so?



“This means that a shift in mass is taking place, and this is affecting the Earth’s rotation,” explains Soja. “It’s like when a figure skater does a pirouette, first holding her arms close to her body and then stretching them out,” Soja says. 



The spinning pace slows down when the skater’s arms move away from the rotation axis, adding to the physical inertia. 



This same principle -- the law of conservation of angular momentum -- governs the Earth's rotation as well. Days on Earth <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-timekeeping-climate-change-has-slowed-earths-rotation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">are growing longer</a>, albeit minimally, due to climate change slowing our planet's spin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-each-passing-day-is-a-bit-longer">Each passing day is a bit longer</h2>



With the backing of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, Soja's group from ETH Zurich has put forth two compelling studies, published in Nature Geoscience and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), discussing how climate change tugs at the Earth's polar movement and alters the day’s length.



Contrary to popular belief, the moon's gravitational pull isn't the only force influencing the length of our days. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is sneaking its hand on the clock as well. 



According to the PNAS study, every passing day is marginally longer than its previous because of the water moving from the poles to lower latitudes, and thus halting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-ice-caps-changing-earths-rotation-need-negative-leap-second/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pace of rotation</a>. 



Soja warns, "We humans have a greater impact on our planet than we realize, and this naturally places great responsibility on us for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-arctic-ice-changing-global-climate-warm-arctic-cold-eurasia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future of our planet</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-earth-s-rotation">Climate change and Earth's rotation</h2>



As the ice continues melting, it's not just about a slower Earth spin or extended days. The researchers show that the melting ice also alters the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's rotation axis</a>, causing the points where the rotation axis meets the Earth's surface to shuffle around.



This movement, termed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pumping-too-much-groundwater-affects-earths-spin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar motion</a>, spans some ten meters per hundred years. The causes are not solely surface changes, but deep-seated movements within the Earth's mantle and the heat flows in the liquid metal of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-ancient-ocean-floor-surrounds-the-earths-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s outer core</a>.



By using physics-informed neural networks, this team has put together the most extensive model to date, presenting a comprehensive explanation for the causes of long-period polar motion. 



“For the first time, we present a complete explanation for the causes of long-period polar motion,” says Mostafa Kiani Shahvandi, one of Soja’s doctoral students and lead author of the study. 



“In other words, we now know why and how the Earth’s axis of rotation moves relative to the Earth’s crust.”



This research uncovers the connected and reciprocal nature of the processes occurring both on and inside Earth. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is affecting the very spin and movement of our home planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humanity-needs-to-wake-up">Humanity needs to wake up</h2>



Climate change's impact on Earth's rotation is also anticipated to alter the actual dynamics and mechanics of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solid-metal-ball-discovered-within-earths-inner-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s internal core</a>. 



Kiani Shahvandi adds, “Ongoing climate change could therefore even be affecting processes deep inside the Earth and have a greater reach than previously assumed.”



But these shifts, while fascinating, are not reason enough for panic. The effects are minor, and it's unlikely that they pose a significant risk. 



What's crucial, however, is the reminder that we, as a species, have a significant impact on the very essence and workings of our planet.



Even a slight deviation of just one centimeter on Earth can grow to a deviation of hundreds of meters over the huge distances involved in the orbital mechanics of space travel.



A tiny nudge off-course here can lead to a giant leap of a miscalculation beyond our world. As Soja warns, it might just be the difference between landing in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lake-sediments-found-in-jezero-crater-hint-at-past-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbe-filled crater on Mars</a> and missing it completely.



“If the Earth’s rotation is changing only slowly, this effect has to be taken into account when navigating in space -- for example, when sending a space probe to land on another planet,” Soja says. 



So, next time you look up at the sky, spare a thought for how our actions are subtly altering Earth's dance in space. This is our world, our responsibility. How will we choose to lead the dance?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2406930121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.</a>



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Our days are getting longer at an 'unprecedented rate' due to Earth's spin

Earth, the lovely blue marble we call home, is changing....

Today, we explore another fascinating discovery about WASP-39b and its atmosphere, which has recently been exciting astronomers worldwide. This distant planet, 700 light-years from Earth, is unlike anything astronomers have seen before.



Dr. James Kirk from the Department of Physics at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a>&nbsp;has been pivotal in this discovery.&nbsp;



"There is no planet like this in our Solar System. Now, we have been able to directly measure an exoplanet's morning and evening side over a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-weather-exoplanet-wasp-121-b-has-a-dynamic-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide wavelength range</a>," he states.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasp-39b-s-atmosphere">WASP-39b's atmosphere</h2>



WASP-39b has a radius larger than Jupiter. However, its mass is similar to Saturn. The planet orbits its star so closely that it experiences a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-predicts-weather-forecast-exoplanet-wasp-43-b/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface temperature</a> of over 1000°C (1832°F).



A day on this planet, due to its proximity to the star, is as swift as its orbit. Fascinatingly, this planet is 'tidally locked.' 



This implies that the same side of the planet always faces its star, similar to our Moon's relationship with the Earth.



This synchronization creates a constant 'day' side always exposed to the star's heat and a 'night' side in perpetual darkness. 



But here's where things get tricky. There's also a 'morning' and 'evening' side to the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-morning-and-evening-side-of-wasp-39b">Morning and evening side of WASP-39b</h2>



This remarkable analysis led by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stsci.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Telescope Science Institute</a>&nbsp;and Dr. James Kirk revealed unusual atmospheric conditions on WASP-39b. The 'morning' side was much cloudier than the 'evening' side.&nbsp;



Notably, astronomers examine the atmospheres of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-exoplanet-hd189733b-glass-rain-hydrogen-sulfide-smells-rotten-eggs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a> by analyzing the light that filters through the planet's atmosphere as it passes in front of its star. 



This analysis generally assumes a uniform atmosphere across the planet. But WASP-39b begs to differ.



“This analysis is also particularly interesting because you’re getting 3D information on the planet that you weren’t getting before," explained Néstor Espinoza, an exoplanet researcher at the Space Telescope Science Institute and lead author on the study.



"Because we can tell that the evening edge is hotter, that means it’s a little puffier. So, theoretically, there is a small swell at the terminator approaching the nightside of the planet.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasp-39b-atmospheres">WASP-39b atmospheres</h2>



On WASP-39b, the day side, always basking in the star's warmth, is much hotter than the night side. This extreme temperature difference generates a powerful wind at the equator.&nbsp;



Now, picture this -- the 'morning' side is where the cooler night wind moves into the scorching day side, while the 'evening' side is where the sizzling day wind carries over to the night side. It creates a tantalizing duality.



This unique atmospheric condition reveals a distinct change in temperature from the morning to the evening side, with the evening registering as a blistering 800°C (1472°F), while the morning remains relatively cooler at 600°C (1112°F).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clouds-data-and-theories">Clouds, data, and theories</h2>



This temperature difference also impacts the way clouds form, leading the team to hypothesize different amounts of cloud cover on the morning and evening sides. 



The data aligned with their hypothesis, revealing a cloudier morning side than the evening.



Dr. Kirk's analysis technique focused on the light received as the planet began and ended its pass across the star's surface. 



The results matched well with the analyses completed by other team members, lending credibility to the finding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-study-of-wasp-39b">Future study of WASP-39b</h2>



With the efficacy of the method and the precision of JWST demonstrated, the team now plans to analyze more data from the JWST, which could reveal more about the differences in WASP-39b atmospheres.



“Now we’ve demonstrated the feasibility of this method with JWST, and the precision of JWST is so immense, it really opens up a new avenue into understanding and measuring atmospheric circulation for exoplanets that we were previously largely insensitive to,” Dr Kirk said.&nbsp;



“It’s really stunning that we are able to parse this small difference out, and it’s only possible due Webb’s sensitivity across near-infrared wavelengths and its extremely stable photometric sensors,” added Espinoza. 



“Any tiny movement in the instrument or with the observatory while collecting data would have severely limited our ability to make this detection. It must be extraordinarily precise, and Webb is just that.”



As we delve deeper into the mysteries of these distant worlds and continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge, who knows what other secrets the universe holds?



Will discoveries like these change our understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sulfur-dioxide-found-on-distant-exoplanet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>? Time will certainly tell. 



The study is recently published in the journal&nbsp;Nature.



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'Morning' and 'evening' detected on an exoplanet, WASP-39b, for the first time

Today, we explore another fascinating discovery about WASP-39b and its...

Considering the fact that there's always a downpour of information on discoveries here on Earth, it's easy to forget about the mysteries that are yet to be uncovered in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-predicts-weather-forecast-exoplanet-wasp-43-b/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant universe</a>, such as the weather and temperatures on brown dwarfs.



Today, we will take a step towards these celestial bodies to delve into the discoveries of a team of globally acclaimed astronomers who recently prepared the most detailed weather report for two distant worlds that exist far beyond our own solar system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-into-the-unknown">Peeking into the unknown</h2>



The study in question, which is the first of its kind, sheds light on the extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitable-exoplanet-gliese-12-b-only-40-light-years-away-earth-like-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric conditions</a> of celestial objects, painted with swirling clouds of flaming hot sand and a staggering temperature of 950 C (1742F). 



The researchers turned their attention to the brown dwarfs, using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to delve into the atmospheric conditions of these fascinating cosmic bodies.



The lead of this revealing study was none other than Professor Beth Biller, Personal Chair of Exoplanet Characterization at the Institute for Astronomy, <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>.



Our exploration into these findings will help you understand the significance of this research and what it means for the future of space sciences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-brown-dwarfs">Fascinating brown dwarfs</h2>



Now, if you are wondering what brown dwarfs are - they're the cosmic bodies that are larger than planets but smaller than stars. 



The particular brown dwarfs that the researchers focused on, collectively named as WISE 1049AB, are the closest and brightest of their kind to Earth, resting at a distance of just about six light years away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-weather-on-brown-dwarfs">Changing weather on brown dwarfs</h2>



The researchers measured the light waves emitted from their surfaces to track the atmosphere of each brown dwarf. This tracking was possible as the light waves fluctuated when more or less cloudy regions revolved in and out of view. 



The researchers visualised this data through light curves, which essentially is a plot of how the brightness of light from each object changes over time. 



These plots allowed the team to generate a detailed 3D picture of how the weather of the brown dwarfs changed over the course of a complete rotation, which is between five to seven hours.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-step-closer-to-understanding-the-universe">Step closer to understanding the universe</h2>



Along with mapping the dynamic weather, the researchers also plotted how the light from each object varied by wavelength. 



This analysis demonstrated the presence and intricate interaction of gases such as water, methane, and carbon monoxide in their atmospheres.



These insights could potentially bridge the gap in our understanding of brown dwarfs as the missing link between stars and planets - a promising step towards gaining new insights into both. 



Furthermore, the JWST’s ability to observe the infrared part of the light spectrum, which is usually blocked by Earth's atmosphere, has opened new frontiers in the study of the early universe, star formation, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-exoplanet-hd189733b-glass-rain-hydrogen-sulfide-smells-rotten-eggs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a> such as brown dwarfs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leap-into-the-future">Leap into the future</h2>



The latest study sets a solid base for future studies of brown dwarfs and other far-off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearby-exoplanet-lhs-1140-b-best-chance-yet-finding-alien-ocean-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial bodies</a>, building on previous studies which only managed to capture static snapshots of their atmospheres on one side. 



This was quite limiting, considering brown dwarfs are known to rotate relatively quickly and their weather can vary greatly over time.



“Our findings show that we are on the cusp of transforming our understanding of worlds far beyond our own. Insights such as these can help us understand the conditions not just on celestial objects like brown dwarfs, but also on giant exoplanets beyond our solar system," Professor Biller explained.



"Eventually, the techniques we are refining here may enable the first detections of weather on habitable planets like our own, which orbit other stars.



In essence, the research points us towards a future where we can look beyond our own planet and explore the weather of distant habitable planets. 



So, the next time you check the weather report, just imagine the possibility of checking the weather of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-85-new-exoplanets-that-could-harbor-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">another world</a>. 



The study is published in the <a href="http://10.1093/mnras/stae1602" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a>.



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Scorching temperatures and storms measured on distant brown dwarfs

Considering the fact that there's always a downpour of information...

3d,Rendering,,Meteor,Shower,,Aseroids,Burning,In,Earth,Atmosphere,Cinematic

It's been said that stars hold our untold stories, keeping them safe in their twinkling light. But have you ever wondered what happens if these stars decide to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/double-meteor-shower-delta-aquarids-alpha-capricornids-light-up-night-sky-july-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">take a flight</a>? Get ready for the Perseids, the most awaited meteor shower of the year



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-countdown-for-perseids-meteor-shower">Countdown for Perseids meteor shower</h2>



Starting today, the most awaited celestial event of the year, the Perseid meteor shower, begins its splendid show.



Running from July 14 until September 1, 2024, the shower will be at its peak on the night of Sunday, August 11 through Monday, August 12.&nbsp;



You can catch the showers on any clear night right through to September. Your best bet is to check them out on peak night.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prime-time-for-perseid-meteor-shower">Prime time for Perseid meteor shower</h2>



So, when exactly will these shooting stars grace us with their best performance?&nbsp;



According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://amsmeteors.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Meteor Society</a>, the prime time for the show would be around 04:00 UTC on August 12, which translates to 12 a.m. (midnight) EDT on August 12.



However, the Perseids are a bit like your favorite band, the ambiance leading up to their performance, teases an exciting crescendo.&nbsp;



You are guaranteed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-sightings-nasa-skywatching-guide-for-may-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great show</a>&nbsp;eight hours before and after the peak, with a good number of shooting stars per hour. The anticipation begins to build up as soon as it gets dark on August 11.



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



Mother Nature knows how to set up the perfect stage for her grand events. The moon, our friendly celestial neighbor, will be in perfect coordination.&nbsp;



On the night of peak viewing, a 43%-lit waxing crescent will recede into the southwestern horizon just before midnight in the Northern Hemisphere.



This cosmic maneuvering will leave the vast night sky devoid of moonlight, making it an ideal canvas for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eta-aquarids-see-up-to-50-shooting-stars-per-hour-this-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">display of the meteor shower</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plan-ahead-for-the-perseid-meteor-shower">Plan ahead for the Perseid meteor shower</h2>



If you're still pondering your plans for the Perseids in 2024, my advice is simple. Request for Monday off, pack your camping gear, and head towards an area graced with a dark sky.&nbsp;



Make sure you have a clear view of the night sky, free from the city's neon distractions. Prepare yourself for a couple of hours of spellbinding celestial showcase starting from 11 p.m. till dawn.



To make the most of this experience, consider bringing a telescope or binoculars. They aren't necessary to enjoy the meteors. Lay on a comfortable blanket. Sip on some hot cocoa. Cherish the awe-inspiring sight of meteors darting across the cosmos.&nbsp;



Keep an eye out for fireballs. These are larger, brighter meteors that add a dramatic flair. Sharing this moment with friends and family can make it unforgettable. It fosters a sense of wonder and connection with the universe.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perseid-meteor-shower-interesting-facts">Perseid Meteor Shower interesting facts</h2>



The Perseid meteor shower is named after the constellation Perseus, from which the meteors appear to radiate.



Interestingly, the Perseids are known for their fireballs -- larger explosions of light and color that can last longer than an average meteor streak. 



This makes the Perseid meteor shower not only one of the most prolific but also one of the most spectacular meteor displays.



These meteors are also notable for their fast and bright characteristics, often leaving persistent trails that can be visible for several seconds. 



The combination of numerous meteors, including fireballs, coupled with the warm summer nights, makes the Perseid meteor shower a beloved event for both amateur and seasoned astronomers alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shower-of-stars">Shower of stars</h2>



We often come across varying estimates of the Perseids' numbers. Some say it's around 150 per hour around its peak while others propose 100. 



In reality, these ‘zenithal hourly rates’ are an estimate of what one would notice if they could observe the entire night sky all at once.



Practically, expect around 50 shooting stars per hour—a spectacular show in its own.



The Perseids are no ordinary stars; they are our annual visitors from a faraway world. When they dance across the sky at their peak, they leave us humans with a sense of joy, awe, and a reminder of the grandeur of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-happen-small-asteroid-hit-earth-nasa-ai-simulation-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.&nbsp;



So, this year, don't let this opportunity pass you by. Make the most of the Perseids meteor shower!



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Everything you need to know about the Perseid meteor shower this week

It's been said that stars hold our untold stories, keeping...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&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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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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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.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features 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

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features 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://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&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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How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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