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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

'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...

While the ozone layer has been successfully healing over the past decades - thanks to international environmental policies like the Montreal Protocol - it is now facing a complex and yet unforeseen challenge.



New research has uncovered a paradoxical impact of large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-massive-amounts-of-methane-gas-spews-from-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> on this protective layer of the atmosphere, throwing a fresh spotlight on the complex interaction between natural events and atmospheric dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-smoke-charged-vortex">The smoke-charged vortex</h2>



In an attempt to understand the impact of wildfires on the ozone layer, the researchers turned their attention to the smoke-charged vortex (SCV). This powerful, smoke-laden whirlpool, formed as a result of wildfires, pulls smoke into the middle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-has-left-a-metal-mark-on-earths-stratosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stratosphere</a>, reaching altitudes up to 35 kilometers.



This phenomenon was observed during the 2019/20 Australian wildfires, which resulted in a staggering increase in stratospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosols-have-an-underestimated-effect-on-clouds-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a>.



"By combining satellite observations with numerical model calculations, we investigated the transport process of the 2019-2020 Australian mega-bushfire to the stratosphere and its impact on aerosol burden and chemistry in the middle stratosphere, focusing on the role of SCVs that have been largely overlooked in the past," wrote the researchers.



Study co-author Hang Su, a professor in the <a href="http://www.iap.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Atmospheric Physics</a> at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, described the impacts of the smoke-charged vortex.



"This process led to at least a doubling of the aerosol burden in the southern hemisphere’s middle stratosphere. Once reaching such high altitudes, these aerosols initiated a series of chemical reactions at their surface that impacted ozone concentrations," noted Professor Su.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-induced-aerosols-and-the-ozone-layer">Wildfire-induced aerosols and the ozone layer</h2>



These wildfire-induced aerosols seem to be a double-edged sword when it comes to the ozone layer. While they hastened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-depletion-in-the-arctic-leads-to-weather-anomalies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone depletion</a> in the lower stratosphere, they also contributed to an increase in ozone in the middle stratosphere.



Professor Yafang Cheng, a study co-author from the <a href="https://www.mpic.de/2285/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Chemistry</a>, elaborated on the implications of this phenomenon.



"Our study uncovers a mechanism by which absorbing aerosols in wildfire smoke, such as black carbon, can induce and sustain enormous smoke-charged vortices spanning thousands of kilometers, fundamentally changing the stratospheric circulation," said Professor Chang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnectedness-of-earth-s-systems">Interconnectedness of Earth's systems</h2>



Study first author Dr. Chaoqun Ma, a postdoc researcher in Cheng’s team at the MPIC, expressed his fascination with the interconnectedness of the Earth's systems.



“I love this study because it once again demonstrates how closely different parts of the Earth system are connected," said Dr. Ma.



"Smoke from a forest fire can significantly change the wind and circulation tens of kilometers above the ground, which allows the smoke to modify the ozone layer, influencing life on our planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasingly-intense-wildfires">Increasingly intense wildfires </h2>



The ozone layer's role is critical for shielding all life forms on Earth from harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-exposes-wildlife-to-harmful-uv-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UV radiation</a>. 



While the Montreal Protocol's success in curbing ozone-depleting substances was a colossal achievement, these new findings pinpoint natural events - intensified by climate change - as additional threats to this crucial atmospheric layer.



With rising temperatures driving an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires, the formation of SCVs and their impact on the stratosphere could become more prevalent, posing a potential hazard to the ozone layer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-ozone-layer">Protecting the ozone layer</h2>



The global community has long recognized the importance of protecting the ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, is a testament to international cooperation, successfully phasing out the use of many ozone-depleting substances (ODS).



This landmark agreement has led to significant recovery of the ozone layer, with scientists predicting a full restoration by the middle of the 21st century.



However, as new research reveals, natural phenomena like wildfires pose unforeseen challenges that require adaptive strategies. 



Governments, scientists, and environmental organizations must continue to work together to address both man-made and natural threats to the ozone layer. This includes monitoring ozone concentrations, regulating emissions that contribute to climate change, and developing innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of wildfires.



Public awareness and education on the importance of the ozone layer are also crucial. Individuals can contribute by supporting policies that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making environmentally conscious choices, and by staying informed about the latest scientific findings.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn3657" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Wildfires threaten the recovery of the ozone layer

While the ozone layer has been successfully healing over the...

The vast and astounding diversity of nature remains largely unexplored, especially when considering the countless species of insects and fungi still unknown to science.



This hidden biodiversity holds secrets that could revolutionize our understanding of ecosystems and offer solutions to some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-racing-against-time">Racing against time </h2>



However, as the alarming rate of nature's loss accelerates due to factors like climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, researchers find themselves in a race against time. 



This race is not merely about cataloging new species; it is about understanding the intricate web of life that sustains our planet, deciphering the complex interactions within ecosystems, and devising effective strategies for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a>.



Every undiscovered species represents a potential key to unlocking new knowledge about ecological balance, resilience, and sustainability. 



Therefore, the urgency to uncover and study these hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oldest-organisms-ever-discovered-show-dazzling-diversity-and-complexity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organisms</a> has never been greater, as the window of opportunity to protect and preserve our planet's rich natural heritage is rapidly closing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-secrets-are-in-the-air">Nature's secrets are in the air</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vast-amounts-of-edna-captured-in-air-quality-monitoring-stations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air</a> we breathe bristles with unimagined possibilities. "Air is a real treasure trove for nature research. It is full of DNA from plants, fungi, bacteria, insects, mammals and other organisms," noted study lead author Nerea Abrego from the <a href="https://www.jyu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Jyväskylä</a>.



The DNA of these organisms floats around us, creating opportunities for deeper scientific explorations.



Abrego and her team embarked on a study that led to unprecedented knowledge about the world's fungi. They analyzed air samples from around the globe, using DNA sequencing to identify known and unknown fungi.



This research has shed light on the climatic and evolutionary factors that affect the occurrence and seasonal variation of different fungal species.



"Understanding where and when different fungal species thrive, and predicting their fate under ongoing global change is essential," said Abrego.



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



Professor Otso Ovaskainen firmly believes in the revolutionary potential of these novel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racing-boat-collects-edna-samples-on-a-round-the-world-sailing-competition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> sampling techniques, predicting they will dramatically reshape how we monitor and forecast biodiversity.



“There are more than million insect species in the samples already collected, which is many more species than have been described by science so far,” said Professor Ovaskainen. 



“The enormous size of the data set makes analysis challenging. We have more than a hundred years of sound, millions of camera trap images, and billions of DNA sequences.”



This vast array of data presents exciting challenges for statistical modeling, bioinformatics and artificial intelligence, as these tools will be critical for accurate forecasting of biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-key-indicators-of-ecosystem-health">Fungi: Key indicators of ecosystem health</h2>



The implications of the study extend far beyond academic curiosity to practical applications.



Most types of fungi, including boletes, russulas, lichens, bracket fungi, molds, and yeasts, are spread through the air. 



“One particularly interesting subject for further research is a more detailed review of the sequences for fungi that are important to humans,” said Abrego. 



“These include fungal diseases of humans, crops and production animals, as well as fungi that indicate the progress of the loss of nature and the weakening of natural ecosystem processes.” 



Abrego's current project, funded by the Finnish Ministry of the Environment, aims to implement <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-vacuumed-animal-dna-from-a-forest-and-the-results-are-amazing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air sampling</a> and other novel research methods as part of the Finnish national forest inventory coordinated by the Natural Resources Institute Finland.



The ultimate goal is to provide comprehensive information on natural diversity - especially about the lesser-known fungi and insects - to be used in decision-making processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungi-in-urban-environments">Fungi in urban environments</h2>



Urban fungi, which thrive in parks, gardens, and even buildings, play a crucial role in urban ecology. Researchers are now exploring how these fungi interact with urban wildlife and plants, potentially offering natural solutions to pollution and waste management.



Understanding the dynamics of urban fungi can provide insights into maintaining healthier, more resilient urban ecosystems. Moreover, studying fungi in cities can reveal how these organisms adapt to human-made environments, offering clues about their evolutionary flexibility and resilience.



This pioneering work takes us a step closer in our quest to fully understand and preserve the rich biodiversity of our planet. 



 The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07658-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Secrets of fungi diversity can be pulled out of thin air

The vast and astounding diversity of nature remains largely unexplored,...

Are you familiar with the exhausting battle millions of people worldwide are fighting against dementia? If so, you'll agree that one of the most pressing challenges they face is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early detection</a> of diseases such as Alzheimer's, where AI can play a crucial role.



A team of <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge</a> scientists has knitted together tech threads to provide a ray of hope in this fight. They've created an artificially intelligent tool for predicting whether people with early dementia signs will develop Alzheimer's disease or remain stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-purpose-and-promise-of-the-ai-tool">Purpose and promise of the AI tool</h2>



Did you know that Alzheimer's disease is at the root of 60-80% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dementia-was-extremely-rare-in-ancient-times-so-why-is-it-now-so-prevalent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia cases</a>? The catch is that early detection carries the promise of more effective treatments. 



Yet, it's a catch-22 situation: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early diagnosis</a> often hinges on expensive or invasive tests which many memory clinics can't offer. Hence, the grim reality of misdiagnosis or late diagnosis. Enter the AI tool.



The team, led by Professor Zoe Kourtzi from the University of Cambridge's <a href="https://www.psychol.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Psychology</a>, conceived an advanced machine learning model. 



According to their research, this model outperforms current clinical diagnostic tools in predicting Alzheimer's progression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanics-of-the-alzheimer-s-ai-tool">Mechanics of the Alzheimer's AI tool</h2>



The ingenious prediction power of this model relies on non-invasive, low-cost patient data. Cognitive tests and structural MRI scans, showing grey matter atrophy from over 400 individuals, provided the backbone for the AI model. 



The model didn't stop at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pupil-size-reveals-hidden-cognitive-fatigue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theoretical potential</a>. It confronted real-world conditions, with patient data from a further 600 US cohort participants and longitudinal data from 900 people from UK and Singapore memory clinics.



And how did it fare? With flying colors. The algorithm could tell apart people with stable mild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifestyle-choices-in-young-adulthood-impact-cognitive-ability-in-midlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive</a> impairment and those progressing to Alzheimer's disease within three years. 



The AI tool identified people developing Alzheimer's correctly in 82% of cases and identified those who didn't in 81% of cases from cognitive tests and MRI scans alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accuracy-and-patient-wellbeing">Accuracy and patient wellbeing</h2>



“We’ve created a tool which, despite using only data from cognitive tests and MRI scans, is much more sensitive than current approaches at predicting whether someone will progress from mild symptoms to Alzheimer’s – and if so, whether this progress will be fast or slow," noted Prof. Kourtz.



“This has the potential to significantly improve patient wellbeing, showing us which people need closest care, while removing the anxiety for those patients we predict will remain stable. At a time of intense pressure on healthcare resources, this will also help remove the need for unnecessary invasive and costly diagnostic tests.”



The implications are far-reaching. Significantly reduced misdiagnosis rates, improved patient wellbeing, and avoidance of unnecessary invasive and costly diagnostic tests are all on the table.



The model also proved to be a crystal ball, forecasting the course of Alzheimer's progression in patients. Who would remain stable? Who would slowly progress? And who would deteriorate rapidly? The model could tell, and its predictions rang true when cross-verified with follow-up data over six years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-face-of-ai-for-alzheimer-s">Human face of AI for Alzheimer's</h2>



As Prof. Kourtzi points out, the AI tool shines by being sensitive yet straightforward, using only cognitive tests and MRI scans to predict Alzheimer's progression. 



The tool promises to work as a guide, showing which patients need the most care and calming those predicted to remain stable. To those familiar with the intense pressure on healthcare resources, it's a sight for sore eyes.



And there's more. The model distinguishes people who have memory loss symptoms but remain stable. This differentiation, as Prof. Kourtzi points out, helps redirect them to a different clinical pathway since their symptoms may stem from other causes, such as anxiety or depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-lab">Beyond the lab</h2>



The team's algorithm isn't an ivory-tower innovation. It faced the real-world test with nearly 900 individuals from UK and Singapore memory clinics. And it successfully passed. 



“Memory problems are common as we get older. In clinic I see how uncertainty about whether these might be the first signs of dementia can cause a lot of worry for people and their families, as well as being frustrating for doctors who would much prefer to give definitive answers," expressed Dr. Ben Underwood, assistant professor at the Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge.



The fact that we might be able to reduce this uncertainty with information we already have is exciting and is likely to become even more important as new treatments emerge.” 



Importantly, the team trained and tested the AI model on routinely-collected data from patients in actual memory clinics. As Prof. Kourtzi underscores, this proves that the model can generalize to a real-world setting.



The team's vision doesn't stop here. They plan to stretch their AI tool to other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia, and to integrate different data types, like markers from blood tests. 



It's clear: the team's mission to tackle the growing health challenge presented by dementia is just starting to gather steam.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00304-3/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EClinicalMedicine</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

AI tool is better at predicting Alzheimer’s disease than current tests

Are you familiar with the exhausting battle millions of people...

Can you think of a narcissistic character who etched a profound mark on your memory? Regina George from Mean Girls or Nate Jacobs from Euphoria, perhaps? Teenagers, aren't they? Narcissism can manifest at any age, making these characters unforgettable.



Deftly conducted by researchers from none other than the reputable <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bern</a>, this intriguing study presents some captivating insights. The seasoned scientist leading the troop was Dr. Ulrich Orth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-narcissism-and-age">Narcissism and age</h2>



The researchers endeavored to understand if narcissism, a personality trait rather notorious, ebbs, flows, or remains static with age. 



Roping in data from an impressive selection of 51 previous studies involving a whopping 37,247 patients between the tender age of eight and a ripe old 77, they examined three different types of narcissism closely - agentic, antagonistic, and neurotic.



Agentic narcissism showers feelings of grandiosity, superiority, and a high need for admiration. 



Antagonistic narcissism is characterized by arrogance, entitlement, and low empathy, while neurotic narcissism involves emotional hypersensitivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-factor-shows-a-declining-curve">Age factor shows a declining curve</h2>



The crunch point is here. The team's efforts bore fruit in revealing that all three types of narcissism decline with age. 



However, there's a twist in the tale. People's narcissism relative to their peers doesn't significantly metamorphose over time. 



To put it in a nutshell, if you were Mr. or Ms. Narcissistic among your peers as a child, chances are high you'd continue holding that title well into adulthood.



"This was true even across very long periods of time, which suggests that narcissism is a stable personality trait," Dr. Orth shared.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-and-how-of-it-all">‘Why’ and ‘how’ of it all</h2>



Now, you might be wondering why or how this happens. Well, you're not alone. While the University of Bern researchers didn't delve into the possible reasons behind these findings, they hope their study will kindle the flames for future research.



"One theory posits that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-type-can-accurately-predict-your-relationship-status/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social roles</a> we take on in adulthood, for example as a partner, a parent, an employee, lead to the development of more mature personality characteristics, including lower levels of narcissism," Dr. Orth suggested.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-vs-nurture">Nature vs. nurture</h2>



One of the burning questions this study reignites is the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. Are we born with narcissistic traits, or are they sculpted by our environment and experiences? 



While the University of Bern study sheds light on how narcissism can decline with age, it leaves open the question of whether genetic predisposition or life circumstances play a more pivotal role. 



Some psychologists argue that early childhood experiences, such as parenting styles and peer interactions, significantly shape narcissistic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cryptocurrency-investors-linked-to-dark-personality-traits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tendencies</a>. 



Conversely, others underline the role of inherent personality traits that manifest regardless of external influences.



Further research examining these differing perspectives is essential to understand the intricate dance between nature and nurture in the development of narcissism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-mental-health-interventions">Implications for mental health interventions</h2>



The findings from this study also bear substantial implications for mental health interventions. Understanding that narcissism can diminish over time provides a beacon of hope for therapeutic practices aimed at mitigating extreme narcissistic traits. 



Mental health professionals can better tailor their interventions by focusing on enhancing empathy, emotional regulation, and fostering healthier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-has-a-profound-influence-on-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a>. 



Additionally, the study underscores the importance of early intervention in childhood and adolescence, potentially steering individuals away from entrenched narcissistic patterns that could have long-lasting repercussions on their personal and professional lives. 



As research continues to evolve, nuanced approaches in psychological therapies could emerge, informed by the life-span changes in narcissistic traits highlighted by the University of Bern's innovative study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture-of-narcissism-and-age">Bigger picture of narcissism and age </h2>



Dr. Orth opines that these findings hold significant implications as high levels of narcissism influence people's lives in several ways. 



The narcissistic individuals and perhaps even more, the lives of their families and friends are impacted.



Now that we've dished out the findings and their implications, it's time to ponder. 



Do you know people who fit the bill? How do these insights influence your understanding of their behavior? And most crucially, how can society use this understanding to foster a healthier environment?



As they say, "knowledge is power." Let's use it well.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Narcissism declines with age but remains stable relative to peers

Can you think of a narcissistic character who etched a...

Whale strandings are a common occurrence along the East Australian Coastline. Yet, what's often overlooked is the question of what to do with the whale remains, a topic that's now sparking considerable debate and scientific interest.



Cue the entrance of Griffith University's <a href="https://whalesandclimate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whales and Climate Research Program</a>. Led by Dr. Olaf Meynecke, the program is pioneering an innovative new approach to this conundrum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respectful-disposal-of-whale-remains">Respectful disposal of whale remains</h2>



Dr. Meynecke is known for his tireless efforts in marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whales-felt-less-stressed-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a>. He is now on an unusual mission - the sustainable and respectful disposal of whale remains.



"As we’ve seen more and more whales stranding on beaches in past years, the effective, safe and culturally sensitive removal of whale remains near or on public beaches has become a major issue,” he said. 



“Our study shows that forecasting of where whale remains might end up when floating at sea is possible with surprisingly high accuracy.”&nbsp;



He also tells the story of a 14m female humpback whale, found floating lifeless off Queensland's Noosa Heads in July 2023, possibly to due to ship strike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-odyssey-of-a-corpse">Odyssey of a corpse</h2>



The humpback's remains were intercepted before they washed ashore. Then began their journey as the carcass was repositioned 30km offshore. 



Equipped with a satellite tag, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-north-atlantic-right-whales-have-fewer-offspring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale's voyage</a> was tracked as it drifted in the wind and ocean currents for six days before settling on the seabed.



Death is a natural part of life, and in the words of Dr. Meynecke, this unfortunate event opened the door to a scientific first. 



The humpback's passing allowed researchers to test and establish a prediction method for whale drift trajectory.



Not only did this provide valuable data, but it also meant the whale's nutrients could remain in the marine ecosystem while aiding authorities in their decision-making process.



Here's a startling fact, Australia's go-to method of dealing with washed-up whale remains has been landfill. 



There are seven known methods of whale removal like composting, natural decomposition on the beach, sinking the remains, and even using explosives. Each, however, comes with its own set of challenges, from public health risks to logistical nightmares.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-way-is-a-win-win-scenario">Nature's way is a win-win scenario</h2>



Enter offshore towing. It's a method that's been used here and internationally, but with mixed success. 



Drawbacks include remains washing back to shores or obstructing shipping lanes. But Dr. Meynecke's research might just change that.



Dr. Meynecke's findings serve as an initial tool to predict where the whale remains would drift. This could retain the decomposition nutrients within the marine ecosystem -- a huge win for marine life. Scavengers like tiger sharks often play a role in breaking down the remains.



“Perished whales provide a substantial nutrient source for marine ecosystems, and strategically placing whale remains offshore can enhance nutrient cycling and foster biodiversity, contribute to carbon removal and marine floor enrichment for up to seven years,” Dr. Meynecke said. 



“Their gradual decomposition sustains scavengers and detritivores, and support microbial communities and deep-sea organisms.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-handling-whale-remains">Handling whale remains</h2>



“The best strategy for handling whale remains depends on multiple factors and should be decided on a case-by-case basis. Offshore disposal can be an ethical, cost-effective, and safe option if managed appropriately," noted Dr. Meynecke.  



“By integrating scientific research and practical management strategies presented in our study, we can enhance our ability to predict and effectively manage the drift of whale remains, ensuring that ecological benefits are maximized while minimizing adverse impacts.” 



While each case should be decided individually, offshore disposal emerges as an ethical, cost-effective, and safe option if managed properly. 



Through scientific research and practical management strategies, we can predict and manage the drift of whale remains, maximizing ecological benefits while minimizing adverse impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-engagement-and-education">Community engagement and education</h2>



A key but often overlooked aspect of sustainable whale disposal is community engagement.



Educating the public about the ecological benefits of offshore disposal is important. Involving local communities in cleanup and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-whales-epic-voyage-exposes-perils-of-the-mediterranean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monitoring</a> efforts can foster a sense of stewardship. Additionally, shared responsibility can be achieved through these actions.



Workshops, awareness campaigns, and citizen science initiatives can demystify scientific processes and garner public support. 



Empowering communities with knowledge can lead to more informed discussions and cohesive efforts in marine conservation.



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



The advancements in the sustainable disposal of whale remains signify a broader trend towards more integrated and ecosystem-based approaches to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-a-warming-climate-will-change-the-humpback-whales-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine conservation</a>. 



Future research could explore the long-term impacts of various disposal methods on marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.



Integrating technology, such as drones and AI, could enhance monitoring and predictive capabilities, making offshore disposal even more efficient and reliable.



Innovative solutions by Dr. Meynecke provide hope for sustainable coexistence with ocean life as we deepen our understanding and respect for marine ecosystems.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jmse" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Marine Science and Engineering</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Sustainable benefits of whale remains and their proper disposal

Whale strandings are a common occurrence along the East Australian...

Recent studies have shown that incorporating artificial intelligence in the creative process can have some surprisingly beneficial effects, especially for those who struggle with creativity.



However, these advancements may come with an unexpected quandary: a potential reduction in the diversity and novelty of our collective storytelling.



Renowned researchers from two highly reputed institutions - the University of <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/institutes/idsai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exeter Business School, Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence</a> and the <a href="https://mgmt.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL School of Management</a>, have delved into this riveting topic, exploring the involvement of AI in the realms of creativity and story-writing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-enhances-creativity-but-at-what-cost">AI enhances creativity, but at what cost?</h2>



Insights from the study indicated that AI assistance was able to "professionalize" stories, making them more enjoyable to read due to an increase in unexpected plot twists and generally improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-ai-writing-illustration-drastically-reduces-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">writing</a> quality. The result? Content that was far from dull.



In an experiment involving 300 participants, each asked to write a micro story aimed at young adults, AI proved to be a significant asset for those deemed less creative. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-perform-better-when-they-think-ai-is-helping-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI-assisted</a> stories were up to 26.6% better written and 15.2% less boring than their human-only counterparts.



The borrowed intelligence, however, offered limited benefits to the participants who were naturally more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-outperforms-humans-in-creativity-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creative</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individual-creativity-vs-collective-novelty">Individual creativity vs. collective novelty</h2>



While AI does seem to enhance individual creativity, the study also indicates a resultant decline in collective novelty. 



The AI-assisted stories showcased notable similarities to one another, pointing towards a loss of variety and diversity in content generation.



The research was carried out with the participants divided into three groups. Some had no access to AI help, some could utilize ChatGPT to provide a three-sentence starting idea, and others could choose from up to five AI-generated ideas. 



The quality of these stories was then assessed by 600 individuals, based on their novelty and "usefulness." 



The results showed that writers with access to AI witnessed the most significant improvements in their creativity. Their stories scored 8.1% higher for novelty and 9% higher for usefulness compared to those written without AI assistance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-level-playing-field">A level playing field</h2>



An exciting revelation from this study was the capability of AI to level the playing field between less and more creative writers. 



By providing less creative writers access to five AI ideas, their novelty improved by 10.7% and usefulness by 11.5% compared to those who used no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-teaching-other-robots-its-no-longer-science-fiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI concepts</a>. 



The writing quality, enjoyability, and intrigue of the stories were significantly enhanced, putting writers with low creativity scores on par with their more creative counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-in-creativity">The future of artificial intelligence in creativity</h2>



Despite these positive impacts, there's a more significant underlying concern. Using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-applications-can-use-as-much-power-as-entire-nations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI</a>’s embeddings application programming interface (API), the researchers identified a 10.7% increase in similarity between stories that used one generative AI idea, compared with the group that wrote without AI assistance.



Professor Oliver Hauser, Deputy Director of the Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, highlighted the importance of this study. 



“This is a first step in studying a question fundamental to all human behavior: how does generative AI affect human creativity? Our results provide insight into how generative AI can enhance creativity, and removes any disadvantage or advantage based on the writers’ inherent creativity.”



Professor Anil Doshi from the UCL School of Management added: “While these results point to an increase in individual creativity, there is a risk of losing collective novelty. If the publishing industry were to embrace more generative AI-inspired stories, our findings suggest that the stories would become less unique in aggregate and more similar to each other.”



Professor Hauser warned that this downward spiral shows parallels to an emerging social dilemma: if individual writers find out that their generative AI-inspired writing is evaluated as more creative, they have an incentive to use generative AI more in the future, but by doing so the collective novelty of stories may be reduced further. 



"In short, our results suggest that despite the enhancement effect that generative AI had on individual creativity, there may be a cautionary note if generative AI were adopted more widely for creative tasks."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn5290" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Artificial intelligence boosts creativity, but reduces variety

Recent studies have shown that incorporating artificial intelligence in the...

Around a million years ago, in what is now Spain, tusks and bones were buried in a deadly quicksand trap, revealing a remarkable tale of early human survival, fierce beasts, and natural hazards. 



This ancient site became a converging point for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-humans-first-evolve-in-europe-ape-skull-sparks-new-debate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earliest European humans</a> and scavenging hyenas.



Drawn by the ensnared prey of the enormous extinct elephant, Mammuthus meridionalis, these early humans and predators found themselves in a deadly dance for survival. 



The tale of this entangled drama was unearthed by diligent researchers from the <a href="https://www.uma.es/?set_language=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Malaga (UMA)</a>, shedding light on a forgotten chapter of prehistoric life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-in-plain-sight">Hidden in plain sight</h2>



The hotspot in question is the archaeological site of Fuente Nueva 3 (FN3), nestled in Granada's Guadix-Baza Depression, which is part of the renowned Orce region. 



This unique area is a treasure trove of historical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/476000-year-old-ancient-woodworking-discovery-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artifacts</a>, offering a rich tapestry of human and animal activity from a distant past. Among the notable discoveries are lithic assemblages – stones meticulously carved by our ancestors.



The researchers uncovered compelling evidence of human presence dating back an astonishing 1.4 million years. These ancient inhabitants left behind unmodified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-humans-hunted-elephants-with-stone-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stones</a>, which were likely used as percussion tools to fracture bones and access the nutrient-rich marrow within.



Furthermore, these early humans may have employed these stones as primitive projectiles, hurling them to fend off scavenging hyenas and secure their hard-earned sustenance. 



The site paints a vivid picture of early human ingenuity and adaptation in a challenging and competitive environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-lethal-trap">Nature's lethal trap</h2>



The UMA researchers, led by Professor Paul Palmqvist and Professor María Patrocinio Espigares, made a stunning discovery. 



The fertile layers of FN3 contained two different archaeological levels: lower and upper. Both levels were brimming with skeletal remains and lithic tools.



The lower level included a high density of manuports, hinting at increased hominin activity. The upper layer displayed remains of megaherbivores, particularly Mammuthus meridionalis, which suggested the increased involvement of giant hyenas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-quicksand-quandary">The quicksand quandary</h2>



The researchers analyzed the differences in the faunal assemblages in the two levels along with the particle size in the fertile layers. 



They found that the lower layer predominantly consisted of silts and clays, while the upper layer contained fine sands. 



“These fine sand sediments, deposited close to the paleolake that was in the region, would also contain slightly saline water, a mixture that explains that they could have worked as quicksand, where larger animals were trapped,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-savage-scavengers-feast">Savage scavengers' feast</h2>



The upper level, with its fine sands, had acted as a natural quicksand trap, effectively ensnaring the megaherbivores that roamed the area. 



Once trapped, the massive creatures could not escape, and their half-sunken carcasses became a grim beacon for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-find-evidence-of-cannibalism-among-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scavengers</a>.



Hyenas and early humans alike were drawn to these easy targets, capitalizing on the unfortunate demise of the megaherbivores. 



The evidence of their presence is abundantly clear: lithic assemblages and coprolites (fossilized hyena excrement) scattered across the site paint a vivid picture of this ancient scavenging behavior.



This remarkable discovery offers significant insights into the survival strategies of our ancestors, revealing how they adapted to and exploited their environment. It highlights the intricate interactions between early humans and other species, showcasing a complex web of life and death that shaped the course of evolution. 



Furthermore, it marks the first description of a natural quicksand trap in a fossil deposit of such critical importance to human evolution, underscoring the profound impact of natural hazards on the history of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mechanics-of-quicksand-traps">The mechanics of quicksand traps</h2>



Understanding how these quicksand traps formed requires a detailed study of the soil and water conditions at the time. 



The researchers plan to investigate the sedimentary processes and water salinity that contributed to the formation of quicksand, which acted as a death trap for large animals and a feasting ground for scavengers.



The discovery at FN3 in Spain is not an isolated incident. Similar quicksand traps have been identified in other parts of the world, providing a broader understanding of how these natural phenomena influenced animal and human behavior.



Future research will compare these sites to gather more comprehensive data on the role of quicksand traps in prehistoric ecosystems.



The UMA team, which includes researchers from Complutense University of Madrid and Tarragona, plan to carry out more in-depth studies of the upper and lower archaeological levels and other significant sites within the Orce region.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41513-024-00241-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Iberian Geology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Mammoth remains found in deadly quicksand trap

Around a million years ago, in what is now Spain,...

Ultrasound technology is now at the forefront of modulating the brain's natural phenomena, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-daydream-to-awareness-the-brains-alert-mechanism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daydreaming</a>, random fantasizing, and spontaneous thoughts, which open doors to creativity and reflection.



While it might seem unusual to attempt to control or modify these free-flowing thoughts, a new development in neuroscience aims to do just that. 



The goal isn't to stifle our creative channels but to enhance our ability to stay present and mindful in the moment.



Researchers from the prestigious <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a> have discovered that low-intensity ultrasound technology can be used to non-invasively modulate a specific region of the brain associated with activities like daydreaming, memory recall, and future envisioning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultrasound-tech-and-brain-networks">Ultrasound tech and brain networks</h2>



The focus of this technological intervention is the <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">default mode network</a> (DMN), a connected system of brain areas that are particularly active during introspective activities, such as daydreaming.



Utilizing a specific low-intensity ultrasound technology, termed "transcranial-focused ultrasound" or TFUS, the researchers aimed to subtly alter this network.



Brian Lord, lead author of the study and postdoctoral researcher in the University of Arizona's Department of Psychology, proudly stated: "We are the first to show that the default mode network can be directly targeted and noninvasively modulated."



Lord further clarified that one area of the DMN, the posterior cingulate cortex, plays a significant role in how the mind engages with experiences. 



This network brings stories to life in our minds, revives past memories, and carves future scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-narratives-mindfulness-and-the-now">Narratives, mindfulness, and the now</h2>



Fascinating as this narrative forming process is, it does not come without potential drawbacks. 



Lord pointed out that while it contributes to a cohesive sense of oneself, such constant internal narrative-making can thwart our ability to be truly present in each moment.



To combat this, Lord's team employed TFUS to stimulate specific brain areas noninvasively, with millimeter precision. 



TFUS carries an advantage over other noninvasive brain stimulation methods such as transcranial electrical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, due to its capacity to penetrate below the cortex.



Thirty participants underwent TFUS stimulation targeted at the posterior cingulate cortex of the DMN. 



To measure the effects, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to observe changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-emotions-linked-to-unique-brain-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain activity</a>.



Participants reported on their feelings and experiences before and after the TFUS treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultrasound-s-impact-on-brain-health">Ultrasound's impact on brain health</h2>



The experiment concluded that TFUS could reduce the brain's connectivity within the DMN and influence participants' mindfulness and subjective experiences, including their sense of self and perception of time.



"The best part is you are using a minimal amount of energy to alter brain activity. You are just giving a gentle push to the brain with low-intensity ultrasound," explained Lord.



The potential benefits are profound. The ability to target and alter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-pollution-impairs-brain-network-connectivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain networks</a> widens the doors to unique precision therapeutics, medical treatments specifically tailored to an individual's characteristics, lifestyle, and environment. Plus, it paves the way to possibly treat mood disorders like depression and anxiety.



"Unlike neuroimaging techniques where you can only make correlations with brain activity, noninvasive stimulation tools like TFUS allow you to probe the brain and develop causal models," Lord said. "That's a really powerful thing for the whole field of neuroscience."



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



As promising as TFUS technology is, it also brings forth important ethical considerations. 



The ability to modulate brain activity noninvasively raises questions about consent, privacy, and potential misuse. It's crucial that the field sets stringent guidelines to ensure that such powerful tools are used responsibly. 



Researchers and ethicists must work hand-in-hand to create a framework that upholds the integrity of both scientific exploration and individual rights.



Moreover, future research should aim to explore the long-term effects of TFUS on brain networks and behavior. 



While initial studies are promising, understanding the sustained impact of this technology will be vital for its integration into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asking-for-consent-before-touching-someone-cultivates-trust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapeutic practices</a>. 



Continued collaboration across disciplines, including neuroscience, psychology, and ethics, will be essential to harness the full potential of TFUS while safeguarding human well-being.



This research from the University of Arizona opens new possibilities in the field of neuroscience, potentially revolutionizing our approach to mindfulness and mental health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2024.1392199/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Human Neuroscience</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Ultrasound waves can enhance mindfulness and brain health

Ultrasound technology is now at the forefront of modulating the...

Usually, <a href="https://www.spacex.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a> is synonymous with innovative space solutions, a name that sparks hopes of an extraterrestrial future. However, a recent incident involving the company's Falcon 9 rocket has left a dent in their otherwise stellar reputation.



A SpaceX rocket has gone off course for the first time in nearly a decade, marooning the company's Starlink internet satellites in a lower-than-intended orbit, spelling their inevitable plunge back to Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spacex-rocket-falcon-9">SpaceX rocket Falcon 9</h2>



This mishap occurred during the launch of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/falcon-9-ties-spacex-records-for-most-consecutive-reuse-rocket-launches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Falcon 9 rocket</a> from California. The unfortunate event unfolded on Thursday night, taking its flight with 20 Starlink satellites onboard - a mission that was destined to fail within minutes.



The unexpected culprit? A malfunction in the upper-stage engine, resulting from a liquid oxygen leak, as explained by SpaceX on Friday.



Now, just picture half of those satellites, lost in space, being on the receiving end of a desperate rescue attempt. SpaceX's flight controllers tried to elevate them to a higher orbit using onboard ion thrusters. 



However, reality struck hard when it was clear that the thrust could not compensate for negligibly low orbit of just 84 miles above Earth. Basically, this was less than half of the intended distance. SpaceX confirmed this predicament, stating that the maximum available thrust was far from enough to salvage the situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fate-of-the-satellites">Fate of the satellites</h2>



The fate of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthcare-satellite-will-reveal-the-climate-effects-of-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellites</a>? A dramatic reentry into the atmosphere, resulting in a fiery demise. The company, however, didn’t share any timelines as to when this might occur. It's worth noting that SpaceX has over 6,000 Starlink satellites in orbit, providing internet service to some of the remotest corners of the world.



The Federal Aviation Administration has since put its foot down. They insist that the issue be resolved. No future Falcon rockets will be given the green light until then. 



What about the other upcoming SpaceX missions? Unfortunately, there's a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the issue, with crewed flights and a private spacewalk mission on the line.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-risks-of-spacex-rocket-malfunction">Potential risks of SpaceX rocket malfunction</h2>



The fallout from this incident raises several crucial concerns, primarily regarding the safety of future missions. 



With a significant pending queue of launches, any recurring technical issues might imperil the schedules and operational safety of forthcoming missions. 



Moreover, there's an inherent risk of collision with other celestial objects, an area that demands immediate attention and effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-m9-5-flare-region-3654-strong-solar-activity-causes-radio-blackouts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solutions</a>. 



Each malfunctioning satellite re-entering the Earth's atmosphere brings the potential for debris, albeit with controlled and calculated demise projections. The broader implication, however, is rooted in the need for heightened scrutiny and rigorous testing protocols before future launch authorizations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spacex-s-contingency-plan">SpaceX’s contingency plan</h2>



SpaceX, never one to shy away from challenges, is reportedly working on contingency measures to address the current predicament. 



Foremost on their agenda is conducting a thorough investigation to diagnose the exact cause of the liquid oxygen leak that led to the engine malfunction. They are also exploring potential design modifications and additional safety redundancies to prevent the recurrence of such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-space-exploration-could-be-shut-down-by-orbiting-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anomalies</a>. 



Collaboration with regulatory bodies like the <a href="https://www.faa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal Aviation Administration</a> ensures an integrated approach to troubleshooting. 



SpaceX’s transparent communication with stakeholders and the public remains a cornerstone in maintaining trust and managing expectations during this turbulent phase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bigger-picture">The bigger picture</h2>



In the grander scope of space exploration, occasional setbacks are not uncommon and often serve as steep learning curves. Despite the current challenges, SpaceX’s endeavors have profoundly transformed the industry, pioneering reusable rocket technology and commercial space travel. 



The lessons gleaned from this incident will neither diminish their past achievements nor deter future advancements. The relentless pursuit of innovation and space exploration continues to inspire hope that humanity's reach will extend beyond our planet. 



While the immediate horizon appears daunting, the bigger picture hints at a resilient and adaptive organization poised to overcome adversity and continue its mission towards space colonization and global connectivity.



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



Despite these hiccups, Jared Isaacman, the tech entrepreneur set to lead the private flight, remains optimistic about SpaceX's Falcon 9. He places his faith firmly in its "incredible track record" and its integrated emergency escape system.



SpaceX's last rocket mishap dates back to 2015, during a cargo run to the space station. This was followed by another explosion the following year during ground testing. 



Despite the recent setback, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk remains confident. He believes that a high flight rate will make it easier to identify the problem and implement the necessary corrections. The question is, how soon can SpaceX bounce back from this setback? Only time will tell.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Starlink satellites are stranded in low orbit after rocket malfunction

Usually, SpaceX is synonymous with innovative space solutions, a name...

Just as you enjoy a picnic by the calming view of a lake, it's disheartening to know that those serene waters are in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-losing-their-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grave danger</a>. Lakes worldwide are facing an unsettling trend of warming – their temperatures are skyrocketing at an unprecedented rate.



The scientific details behind this concern are meticulously drawn out in a recent study. This research is the work of a collaborative team of limnologists and climate modelers from various backgrounds.



The lead scientist, Dr. Lei Huang, garnered his postdoctoral research experience from the<a href="https://ibsclimate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> IBS Center for Climate Physics</a> in Busan, South Korea, and now resides at Capital Normal University in Beijing, China.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behind-the-lake-warming">Behind the lake warming</h2>



The team's findings are indeed sobering. If the current rate of anthropogenic warming - warming caused by human activities - continues until 2100, the surface and subsurface waters of our beloved lakes are set to heat up at a rate they've never encountered before.



Imagine, the conditions that sustained rich biodiversity and important ecological services of lakes could be history soon.



The team made this prediction using a state-of-the-art climate computer model known as the Community Earth System Model (version 2), covering the period from 1850-2100 CE.



This model is a novelty in its field, as it seamlessly integrates the dynamics of lake systems with the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hundred-paths-into-the-future">Hundred paths into the future</h2>



Ever wondered how scientists predict future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lake-tsunamis-are-an-emerging-climate-linked-hazard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>? Here's an example - rather than running the computer model into the future only once, the scientists used an ensemble of 100 past-to-future simulations. 



These simulations ran on "Aleph," one of South Korea's fastest computers at the <a href="https://www.ibs.re.kr/eng.do" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Basic Science</a>, producing slightly different versions of natural climate variability while also factoring in the warming effects of increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.



With this manifold approach, the scientists could separate the naturally occurring lake temperature variations from those caused by human actions. The team was able to predict when lake temperatures would permanently cross natural bounds – a situation they refer to as "no-analog" conditions.



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



While surface warming affects creatures in the shallower parts, some organisms can relocate vertically to cooler depth layers. Therefore, it's not just the surface, but how the warming seeps into the subsurface layers needs considerable attention as well.



Dr. Iestyn Woolway, a NERC Independent Research Fellow at <a href="https://www.bangor.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bangor University</a>, UK, and a corresponding author of the study, highlights this crucial aspect.



According to Dr. Woolway, the subsurface layers of tropical lakes, which house rich biodiversity, will be the first to face these unprecedented conditions when global warming reaches about 2.4°C (36.32°F) above pre-industrial conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steps-to-reduce-lake-warming">Steps to reduce lake warming</h2>



Tackling lake warming requires both individual and collective action. Here are some steps to mitigate this issue: 



<ul>
<li>Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Support afforestation and reforestation projects, as trees absorb CO2. Implement green infrastructure like green roofs and urban forests to lower temperatures.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Enhance water conservation efforts by fixing leaks and using water-saving fixtures. Advocate for clean energy policies and international agreements like the Paris Agreement. Increase public awareness through community programs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/shasta-lake-is-full-for-the-second-consecutive-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">education</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Support research and monitoring of lake temperatures. Protect wetlands and riparian zones to absorb heat and pollutants. </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystems-at-stake">Ecosystems at stake</h2>



"Our study reveals synchronous emergence of no-analog conditions in tropical lake subsurface layers, driven by rapid downward transmission of warming signals during frequent lake mixing events," said Dr. Woolway.



"In contrast, high-latitude lakes partly shield subsurface layers from surface&nbsp;warming&nbsp;through stratification, delaying or sometimes even preventing no-analog climates at depths."



These no-analog lake climates won't just stop at warming the lakes; they can trigger severe disruptions in ecosystems, warned Professor Axel Timmermann, a co-author of the study, and Director of the IBS Center for Climate Physics.



Lake organisms, compared to their terrestrial and marine counterparts, often find it hard to migrate to more optimal climates. Hence, understanding the timing of the emergence of no-analog conditions is vital for adaptation, planning, and climate mitigation in lake ecosystems.



As you now gaze at the gentle ripples of the lake, it's clear that our lakes are not simply bodies of water, but an integral part of our ecosystems – an area we can't afford to ignore. So, isn't it time we took some serious steps to prevent such a catastrophic future?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01491-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Lakes are warming toward the point of no return

Just as you enjoy a picnic by the calming view...

In the world of archaeology and anthropology, the Neanderthal has long been a subject of intrigue and speculation. 



Ever since the first <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-structure-of-neanderthal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neanderthal bones</a> were unearthed in 1856, these ancient hominins have posed a string of questions.



Were they different or similar to us? Did our ancestors coexist peacefully or clash with them? What was their relationship with the recently discovered Denisovans, a Neanderthal-like group that dwelled in Asia and South Asia? 



The narrative of Neanderthals and other early humans is replete with such queries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-paradigm-shift">A paradigm shift </h2>



An international team of geneticists and AI specialists, led by Professor Joshua Akey from <a href="https://lsi.princeton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University’s Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics</a>, is reshaping our understanding of early human history.



By delving deep into genetic intricacies, the team has uncovered evidence of extensive genetic intermingling among early human groups, implying a closer connection than previously assumed.



Liming Li, a professor at <a href="https://med.seu.edu.cn/en/22005/list.psp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southeast University</a> in China, underscored the significance of the discovery. “This is the first time that geneticists have identified multiple waves of modern human-Neanderthal admixture.”



The research was carried out while Li was an associate research scholar in Professor Akey’s laboratory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sliding-dynamics-of-ancient-human-relations">Sliding dynamics of ancient human relations</h2>



According to Professor Akey, our direct ancestors parted ways with the Neanderthal lineage around 600,000 years ago and developed modern physical traits approximately 250,000 years ago.



From that point until the Neanderthals vanished - a time frame of about 200,000 years - there was consistent interaction between modern humans and Neanderthal populations.



“For the vast majority of human history, we've had a history of contact between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-and-humans-lived-side-by-side-45000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern humans</a> and Neanderthals,” said Professor Akey, shedding light on this complex interspecies relationship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-neanderthals">A new perspective on Neanderthals</h2>



Neanderthals, formerly framed as slow and dull, are now seen as adept hunters and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-glue-created-and-used-underestimated-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tool constructors</a>. They possessed advanced techniques to treat injuries and were well-adapted to Europe’s chilly climate.



These revelations suggest that there is a much more nuanced story about these hominin groups, which included our own ancient human ancestors, in addition to Neanderthals and Denisovans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-ancestral-gene-flow">Shedding light on ancestral gene flow</h2>



By analyzing genomes from 2,000 present-day humans and three Neanderthals, plus one <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-denisovan-species-humans-lived-undisturbed-tibetan-plateau-160000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denisovan</a>, the researchers created a map of gene flow among these groups over the past 250,000 years.



The strategic application of the genetic tool IBDmix, using machine learning techniques, was instrumental in decoding the genome. This tool was designed by Professor Akey’s team as an alternative to the traditional method of comparing human genomes against a reference population.



The researchers discovered evidence of multiple waves of contact between modern humans and Neanderthals, contradicting earlier genetic data. 



“Most genetic data suggests that modern humans evolved in Africa 250,000 years ago, stayed put for the next 200,000 years, and then dispersed out of Africa 50,000 years ago to populate the rest of the world," said Professor Akey.



“Our models show that there wasn’t a long period of stasis, but that shortly after modern humans arose, we've been migrating out of Africa and coming back to Africa, too.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-disappearance-of-neanderthals">The disappearance of Neanderthals</h2>



The breakthrough realization came when Li and Akey chose to look for modern-human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-neanderthals-may-belong-to-the-same-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> in the Neanderthal genomes, and not vice versa.



The final twist in the saga was the revelation that the Neanderthal population was smaller than what was previously believed. 



The researchers estimate that the Neanderthal population included around 2,400 breeding individuals, which about 1,000 fewer than expected. This new understanding sheds light on how the Neanderthals disappeared around 30,000 years ago.



" I don’t like to say ‘extinction,’ because I think Neanderthals were largely absorbed,” said Akey. His idea is that Neanderthal populations slowly shrank until the last survivors were folded into modern human communities.



Professor Akey’s assimilation model resonates with a hypothesis proposed by Fred Smith, an anthropology professor, in 1989.



“Our results provide strong genetic data consistent with Fred’s hypothesis. Neanderthals were teetering on the edge of extinction, probably for a very long time," noted Professor Akey.



"We just demographically overwhelmed Neanderthals and incorporated them into modern human populations.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adi1768" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Neanderthals and humans had multiple waves of contact

In the world of archaeology and anthropology, the Neanderthal has...

Get ready to hop into a journey through time as we explore the fascinating world of ancient kangaroos, delving into an era when these remarkable creatures roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia.



Imagine a kangaroo - not the modern hopping creatures we all know and love - but a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/end-of-an-era-woolly-mammoth-remains-tell-an-intriguing-story/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammoth</a> "giant wallaby" who roamed the Earth millions of years ago.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-that-survive-mass-extinctions-arent-always-boring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colossal ancestors</a> were a far cry from the agile, bounding kangaroos of today, embodying a different kind of majesty and movement.



Intriguing new research reveals that these extinct relatives of our contemporary kangaroos moved in quite a different fashion. 



Unlike their modern descendants who are known for their characteristic hopping, these ancient giants, known as Protemnodon, exhibited a unique mode of locomotion that sheds new light on the diverse evolutionary history of marsupials.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-giant-wallaby-kangaroos">Meet the giant wallaby kangaroos</h2>



Diving into the Pleistocene era, between two and a half million to ten thousand years ago, we introduce you to a particular extinct kangaroo species known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protemnodon-kangaroo-fossils-may-explain-their-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Protemnodon</a>, endearingly referred to as the giant wallaby.



This fascinating period in Earth's history saw the rise and fall of numerous unique and extraordinary creatures, with Protemnodon standing out among them.



Several of these predecessors to our modern kangaroos were far larger, but contrary to what you might assume, the latest findings suggest that they were not hopping around.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-walking-the-walk-on-four-legs">Walking the walk...on four legs</h2>



Previously, it was thought that despite their larger size, these ancient kangaroos hopped around much like their current-day descendants. 



However, newly published findings from a team of researchers reveal that these mega-marsupials were primarily quadrupedal, displaying a preference for moving about on all four legs.



Billie Jones, a former masters student at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, had initially speculated that the giant wallaby was more likely to be quadrupedal.



The research team confirmed this theory by taking a quantitative look at the limb proportions of the animal.



An interesting discovery was that Protemnodon's limb proportions were quite unlike that of any living kangaroos. In particular, its short feet support the assumption that Protemnodon was primarily a quadrupedal creature.



“There had been some speculation in a graduate thesis from the University of Uppsala that it might have been more quadrupedal in its habits compared to living kangaroos," noted Jones, the lead author of the study. 



“This new paper draws on a couple of previous quantitative studies that looked at the anatomy of the humerus (upper arm bone) in a diversity of mammals, and concluded that&nbsp;Protemnodon&nbsp;habitually put more weight on its forelimbs than kangaroos today.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-of-movement-among-kangaroos">Diversity of movement among kangaroos</h2>



Interestingly, Protemnodon isn't the first instance of non-hopping kangaroos discovered by the scientists at Bristol’s School of Earth Sciences. 



In previous research, experts at Bristol had shown that another subfamily of kangaroos - the sthenurines - were bipedal striders instead of hoppers.



This diverse range of locomotion within the kangaroo family suggests a greater variety of habitats in ancient Australia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-held-by-ancient-bones">Secrets held by ancient bones</h2>



Analysis of the extinct giant wallaby's limb bones provide further evidence that Protemnodon was not well-equipped for hopping. The ankle bones, for instance, were unsuited to withstand the stresses of hopping.



Professor Christine Janis, the supervisor of the study, added that the extinct giant wallaby Protemnodon was likely a poor hopper at best.



The evidence suggests that Protemnodon most likely moved around quadrupedally, bounding on all fours similar to how tree-kangaroos move on the ground.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-habitats-and-ecosystems">Ancient habitats and ecosystems</h2>



The locomotion style of Protemnodon suggests that these ancient kangaroos adapted to a diverse range of habitats.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinct-giant-kangaroo-discovered-in-papua-new-guinea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fossil</a> evidence indicates that these quadrupedal kangaroos likely thrived in forested regions and grasslands, where dense vegetation and varied terrain made hopping less efficient.



Their movement on all fours would have enabled them to navigate through these environments more effectively, accessing food sources and avoiding predators.



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



Understanding the diverse locomotive adaptations of ancient kangaroos like Protemnodon provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marsupials-are-key-to-healthy-ecosystems-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marsupials</a>.



These findings can inform current conservation efforts by highlighting the importance of preserving varied ecosystems that support different forms of locomotion. 



Protecting diverse habitats ensures the survival of modern kangaroos and their relatives, allowing them to continue their unique evolutionary journeys.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10914-024-09725-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Mammalian Evolution</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Giant kangaroos of the past didn't hop - they walked on all fours

Get ready to hop into a journey through time as...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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.

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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.

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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