Circadian rhythms are the natural, internal processes that regulate the sleep-wake cycle and repeat roughly every 24 hours. 



These rhythms, influenced by environmental cues like light and darkness, play a crucial role in various bodily functions ranging from sleep regulation to hormone release.



When these rhythms fall out of sync - due to factors such as artificial lighting, irregular schedules, or travel across time zones - people can experience disruptions in sleep, mood, and overall well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lights-reset-circadian-rhythms">Lights reset circadian rhythms</h2>



New research has revealed that the vibrant blue and orange hues seen at sunrise and sunset may hold the key to resetting these rhythms. 



By mimicking these natural light cycles, scientists at the University of Washington in Seattle have developed a novel LED light that emits alternating wavelengths of blue and orange. 



The LED device, designed to realign circadian rhythms, has been proven to significantly advance melatonin production. This could offer a promising solution for those suffering from sleep disorders and other health issues linked to circadian misalignment. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-circadian-health">Improving circadian health</h2>



Published in the Journal of Biological Rhythms, the research represents a breakthrough in how humans can influence circadian rhythms. 



The findings hold significant promise for improving circadian health. Study co-author Jay Neitz is a professor of ophthalmology in the UW School of Medicine. 



“Our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercising-shift-internal-clock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internal clock</a> tells us how our body's supposed to act during different times of day, but the clock has to be set. If our brain is not synced to the time of day, then it's not going to work right," said Professor Neitz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupted-circadian-rhythms">Disrupted circadian rhythms </h2>



The study suggests new strategies to combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other health issues linked to disrupted circadian rhythms, offering hope for improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-quality-is-determined-by-daily-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a>, mood stabilization, and overall mental health.



Circadian rhythms are naturally reset daily by the 24-hour solar light-dark cycles, which help regulate our biological processes in alignment with the environment. 



Professor Neitz noted that the light used in the LED device has alternating blue and orange wavelengths which stimulate the circuit that our brains use to reset our internal clocks.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melatonin-keeps-fruits-and-vegetables-fresh-as-well-as-helping-you-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melatonin</a>, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation and the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, is produced when light signals from the eyes stimulate specific areas of the brain to begin the winding-down process for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sleep-patterns-affect-your-health-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>.



This hormone plays a critical role in helping the body adjust to darkness, promoting relaxation, and ensuring restful sleep.



People spending more time under artificial light, especially in the evening, often experience delayed melatonin production, which can disrupt their sleep patterns and overall well-being. 



Prolonged exposure to artificial lighting can also interfere with the body’s ability to properly align with natural day-night cycles, contributing to sleep disturbances and fatigue.



To address this issue, the research team conducted a study comparing different types of artificial lights to measure their impact on melatonin production and their effectiveness in resetting circadian rhythms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-revolutionary-approach-to-lighting">A revolutionary approach to lighting</h2>



Unlike other commercial products that emphasize blue light to trigger melanopsin, this new LED light emits alternating blue and orange wavelengths, which stimulate a different circuit in the retina. 



“The light we developed does not involve the melanopsin photopigment. It stimulates a blue-yellow opponent circuit that operates through cone photoreceptors in the retina," explained Professor Neitz.



In an experiment, participants were exposed to three different light devices. The alternating blue-orange LED led to the most significant shift in melatonin production, advancing it by 1 hour and 20 minutes, compared to just 40 minutes for the blue LED and 2.8 minutes for white light.



“Even though our light looks white to the naked eye, we think your brain recognizes the alternating blue and orange wavelengths as the colors in the sky,” said Professor Neitz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lighting-the-way-forward">Lighting the way forward</h2>



The LED device has now been successfully commercialized through the University of Washington. The product is distributed by TUO, a Chicago-based company. This marks an important step toward bringing this technology to the public.



By harnessing the natural color palette of sunrise and sunset, this innovative lighting solution offers a new approach to resetting circadian rhythms, potentially transforming how we address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daylight-saving-time-changes-are-directly-linked-to-sleep-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep disorders</a>, mood regulation, and overall health.



The technology holds the promise of improving well-being for those affected by modern lighting and lifestyle challenges, helping individuals reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/07487304241262918" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Biological Rhythms</a>.



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Colors of sunset and sunrise reset our circadian rhythms

Circadian rhythms are the natural, internal processes that regulate the sleep-wake cycle and repeat roughly every 24 hours. These rhythms, influenced by environmental cues like light and darkness, play a crucial role in various bodily functions ranging from sleep regulation to hormone release. When these rhythms fall out of sync - due to factors such as artificial lighting, irregular schedules, or travel across time zones - people can experience disruptions in sleep, mood, and overall well-being. Lights reset circadian rhythms New research has revealed that the vibrant...

One of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet might be closer than you realize - right inside your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-dislike-for-vegetables-caused-by-microbes-in-the-mouth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mouth</a>. This bustling environment hosts over 500 species of bacteria, which form structured communities known as biofilms. 



Almost all of these bacteria reproduce through binary fission, where a single mother cell divides into two daughter cells.



However, new research from the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> (MBL) and <a href="https://forsyth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ADA Forsyth</a> reveals an extraordinary mode of cell division in Corynebacterium matruchotii, a common bacterium found in dental plaque. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multiplying-mouth-bacteria">Multiplying mouth bacteria</h2>



Unlike typical bacteria, C. matruchotii undergoes multiple fission, a rare process where a single cell divides into multiple cells simultaneously. The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2408654121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, uncovers this unique division mechanism.



The research team discovered that C. matruchotii can produce up to 14 new cells at once, depending on the size of the original cell. Notably, these bacteria only extend growth from one end of the filament - a process known as “tip extension.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-community-of-dental-plaque-nbsp">Microbial community of dental plaque&nbsp;</h2>



Within the dental plaque biofilm, C. matruchotii acts as a structural scaffold. Dental plaque is just one of many microbial communities within the broader human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiome</a>, a complex environment of microorganisms living harmoniously within a healthy body. 



The research provides insight into how these bacteria proliferate, compete for resources, and maintain structural integrity within dental plaque.



“Just as coral forms reefs and trees create forests, Corynebacterium in dental plaque forms a dense, bushy structure that supports a variety of other bacterial species,” explained Jessica Mark Welch, a senior scientist at ADA Forsyth and adjunct scientist at MBL.



“These biofilms are like miniature rainforests. Bacteria interact dynamically as they grow and divide. We believe that C. matruchotii’s unique cell cycle helps it establish dense networks at the core of the biofilm,” added lead author Scott Chimileski, a research scientist at MBL.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growth-strategy-of-mouth-bacteria-nbsp">Growth strategy of mouth bacteria&nbsp;</h2>



The study builds on a 2016 research paper that utilized an imaging technique known as CLASI-FISH (combinatorial labeling and spectral imaging fluorescent in situ hybridization) to visualize the spatial organization of dental plaque.&nbsp;



The earlier study revealed that filamentous C. matruchotii cells form the backbone of structures resembling “hedgehogs” within the plaque.



The current research delves deeper into the biology of C. matruchotii, using time-lapse microscopy to observe how these filamentous cells grow.&nbsp;



Rather than providing a static image of this microbial environment, the scientists captured real-time dynamics of bacterial growth, interactions, and the remarkable growth strategy of C. matruchotii.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fundamental-biology-of-mouth-bacteria">Fundamental biology of mouth bacteria</h2>



“To understand how various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-and-imprint-new-era-dna-transformation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> collaborate in the plaque biofilm, we need to grasp the fundamental biology of these microorganisms that reside exclusively in the human mouth,” Welch said.



Despite regular brushing, dental plaque reappears, which led the scientists to estimate that C. matruchotii colonies can grow up to half a millimeter per day.&nbsp;



Although other Corynebacterium species are found in different parts of the human body, such as the skin and nasal cavity, these species do not exhibit the same elongation or multiple fission behavior.



“This unique growth strategy might have evolved due to the competitive nature of the dental plaque environment,” Chimileski suggested.



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



C. matruchotii lacks flagella, which means it cannot move actively. Researchers speculate that its distinctive elongation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cells-shape-successfully-reproduce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell division</a> strategies might serve as a means to explore its environment, similar to how fungal mycelia or soil-dwelling Streptomyces bacteria operate.



“If these cells can move towards nutrients or interact with other species to form beneficial relationships, it could help us understand how the spatial organization of plaque biofilms develops,” Chimileski said.



Study co-author Gary Borisy, a principal investigator at ADA Forsyth and former director of the MBL, noted that it is remarkable that our mouths harbor a microbe with such a unique reproductive strategy. "The next step is to explore how this strategy impacts oral and overall health.”



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Bacteria in your mouth multiply in a very unique way

One of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet might...

Each year, a new spotlight shines on the different facets of youth culture - whether it's the newest fashion trend, the hottest technology, or the latest mental health concern. 



For the last couple of years, experts have illuminated a growing phenomenon: the widespread use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, among teens.



But there's an added complication that's now emerging, and it's one that chills the blood a bit more than the cool vapor these devices expel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teens-vaping-and-mental-health">Teens, vaping, and mental health</h2>



Concerning evidence from a recent study on vaping behavior among Australian high school students has revealed a distressing link between depressive symptoms and the likelihood of e-cigarette use.



The research shows that students who reported severe depressive symptoms were more than twice as likely to have used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-use-increases-smoking-vaping-risks-among-youth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarettes</a> than those who reported none of these symptoms.



A broad brush was used in this study, not narrowing in on one specific mental health issue but casting a wider net to include facets like severe depressive symptoms, moderate and high stress levels, and low well-being.



The data painted a consistent picture: higher e-cigarette use among those with poorer mental health.



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



This data serves as a wake-up call for the need to address mental health hand-in-hand with vaping prevention, precisely at the critical juncture when these issues first rear their heads - early adolescence.



The research team surveyed over 5,000 7th and 8th grade students across 40 schools in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia from May to October 2023.



By doing so, they created one of the largest datasets on adolescent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaping-linked-to-lower-sperm-counts-and-testicular-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaping</a> in Australia, and the results offer us valuable insights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teen-vaping-rates">Teen vaping rates </h2>



Ultimately, 5,157 students contributed to the study, of which 8.3 percent admitted to having used e-cigarettes before.



But here's the crunch: e-cigarette use was 74 percent higher among students who reported moderate stress. In those reporting high levels of stress, it was 64 percent higher. 



And when we look at students reporting low well-being, e-cigarette use jumps to a staggering 105 percent higher compared to their counterparts with high well-being.



Surprisingly, anxiety symptoms seemed to break this trend, showing no association with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-vaping-exposes-teens-to-toxic-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarette use</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ourfutures-vaping-trial">OurFutures vaping trial</h2>



The data collected was part of a larger initiative - the OurFutures Vaping Trial. This initiative holds the distinction of being the first, and currently only, clinical trial of a school-based e-cigarette prevention program in Australia.



Under the stewardship of Dr. Lauren Gardner from the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre and Professor Nicola Newton, the OurFutures Vaping Trial aims to test if vaping uptake can be thwarted in Australian adolescents.



Gardner highlights the lack of data that exists on the relationship between adolescent vaping and mental health, particularly within the unique Australian context. 



This is alarming, considering the concurrent rise of vaping and mental health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teen-vaping-rates-surge-despite-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issues among youth</a>. Hence, there is a sense of urgency to navigate this complex landscape and to develop prevention and early intervention strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-global-perspective">Building a global perspective</h2>



The findings of this study are not exclusive to Australia. They echo the results of research conducted in the United States and other countries, which show a link between adolescent e-cigarette use and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.



“There is a growing body of evidence of a relationship between vaping and mental health: vaping has been linked with the onset of mental health problems, and vice versa,” noted co-author&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/about/our-people/academic-staff/emily-stockings.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Associate Professor Emily Stockings</a>&nbsp;from the Matilda Centre.



“Although not explored in our study, it is possible that this relationship can be explained by shared social, environmental and genetic risk factors, or it may point to possible self-medicating behaviors.



“In the short term, nicotine may reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, and young people may be reaching for vapes as a coping mechanism.



“Regardless of whether mental ill-health influences smoking or vice-versa, it is clear that if we are to prevent vaping onset, we need to address mental health at the same time.”



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00048674241267908" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian &amp; New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry</a>. 



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Teen vaping rates are doubled by stress and depression

Each year, a new spotlight shines on the different facets...

Did you know there is a lot more to our planet than meets the eye? We're talking about a completely new, doughnut-shaped region discovered within the Earth's liquid core by scientists from The Australian National University (ANU).



This region, with its unique doughnut-shaped structure, provides vital insights into the dynamics of our planet's magnetic field.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-doughnut-in-earth-s-liquid-core">Discovering the 'doughnut' in Earth's liquid core</h2>



The doughnut-shaped region is nestled only at low latitudes and lies parallel to the equator, residing where the liquid core meets the mantle. 



This area could only be revealed recently, thanks to the meticulous efforts of <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a> seismologists. The Earth's core comprises two parts: a solid inner core and a liquid outer core. 



Both are enveloped by the Earth's mantle. Our newly discovered region sits at the top of Earth's outer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">core</a>.



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



Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić, the study's co-author and a geophysicist at ANU, shares some insights into this unusual feature. 



Seismic waves, he says, move slower in this newfound region than anywhere else in the liquid outer core.



"The region sits parallel to the equatorial plane and is confined to the low latitudes, forming a doughnut shape," remarks Tkalčić. 



However, the precise thickness of the 'doughnut' still eludes the team. They estimate that it could stretch a few hundred kilometers beneath the core-mantle boundary.



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



Tkalčić and his team took a unique approach to this discovery by deviating from traditional seismic wave observation techniques. 



Rather than focusing on signals generated by earthquakes within the first hour, the ANU scientists chose to delve deeper, analyzing similarities in waveforms several hours after the earthquake's origin. This innovative method led to their breakthrough discovery. 



By meticulously scrutinizing the geometry of the waves' paths and their journey through the outer core, they successfully reconstructed their travel times, thus revealing the previously unknown region with low seismic speeds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-liquid-core-doughnut-mysteries">Earth's liquid core 'doughnut' mysteries</h2>



Dr. Xiaolong Ma, another study co-author, explains that this discovery sheds light on some yet unsolved mysteries of Earth's magnetic field dynamics. 



Dr. Ma emphasizes that understanding the Earth's outer core still requires multidisciplinary efforts from seismology, mineral physics, geomagnetism, and geodynamics.



The outer core, predominantly composed of liquid iron and nickel, plays a crucial role in generating Earth's magnetic field. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/earth-magnetic-field_doughnut-shaped-region_schematic_credit-Science-Advances_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/earth-magnetic-field_doughnut-shaped-region_schematic_credit-Science-Advances_1s.webp" alt="Ray path of K* feature, schematic of the OC heterogeneity, and absolute PKIKP travel time residuals. Credit: Science Advances" class="wp-image-1943533"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ray path of K* feature, schematic of the OC heterogeneity, and absolute PKIKP travel time residuals. Credit: Science Advances</figcaption></figure>



This is primarily due to the vigorous movement of the electrically conductive liquid within the core. The magnetic field thus created acts as a protective shield around Earth, sustaining life by shielding us from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-dances-with-solar-wind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar winds</a> and harmful radiation.



Tkalčić suggests that understanding the Earth's outer core's composition, particularly the presence of light chemical elements, is pivotal for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comprehending the magnetic field</a> and predicting its potential weakening or cessation.



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



The discovery of the doughnut-shaped region not only enriches our understanding of Earth’s inner workings but may also have far-reaching implications for geophysical research and our comprehension of tectonic activities. 



By providing a more nuanced view of the outer core, scientists can refine existing models of mantle dynamics and improve forecasts regarding seismic activities. 



This knowledge could also enhance our ability to interpret historical seismic data, allowing researchers to draw parallels between current and past geological events, thus offering a clearer picture of Earth's developmental timeline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-earth-s-liquid-core">Future research on Earth's liquid core</h2>



As researchers continue to investigate the characteristics of this newly uncovered region in Earth's liquid core, several exciting avenues for future study emerge. 



For instance, advancing imaging techniques and computational models will be paramount in accurately determining the doughnut's thickness and understanding its material properties. 



Additionally, interdisciplinary collaborations that involve not only seismologists but also geochemists and mineralogists will be essential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-should-you-care">Why should you care?</h2>



We all know that Earth's magnetic field plays no small role in shrugging off the sun's damaging solar particle storms. 



But did you know that the explored low velocity within the liquid core hints at a high concentration of light chemical elements that can slow down seismic waves? 



These light elements, coupled with temperature variations, stir the liquid in the outer core, and we have our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weak-magnetic-field-may-have-set-the-stage-for-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>.



The importance of Earth's magnetic field cannot be emphasized enough -- it's one of the key reasons life thrives on our beautiful planet.



From scientists to laymen, the dynamics of Earth's magnetic field continues to pique interest worldwide. Findings like these can open doors to more research about the magnetic field on Earth and beyond.



The findings from this exciting study have been published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn5562" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Doughnut-shaped region discovered in Earth's liquid core impacts our magnetic field

Did you know there is a lot more to our...

Children and screens are seen together more often than peanut butter and jelly these days. However, this seemingly innocent combination is cause for concern. Sweden's emphatic message to parents is that toddlers should not have any screen exposure. 



Yes, you heard that right, not even a minute. This extends to older children as well, with screen time recommended only in moderation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-recommendations">Screen time recommendations</h2>



The Public Health Agency in Sweden has advised that children under the age of two should not be exposed to any form of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-screen-time-changes-the-brain-based-on-23-years-of-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital media or television</a>. It does sound like a lot to ask in our tech-saturated world, but the authorities are firm in their stance. 



As children grow, electronic indulgence should be restricted. For ages two to five, a hard cap of one hour a day should be adhered to, the agency counsels. Six to twelve-year-olds could afford a couple of hours in front of the screen, but not a minute more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tv-dinners-a-recipe-for-childhood-obesity">TV dinners: A recipe for childhood obesity?</h2>



A recent study has uncovered a link between screen time during meals and increased chances of overweight children.



It appears that the seemingly harmless act of watching television or fiddling with phones at the dinner table tips the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scale against children's health</a>. The Swedish Public Health Agency extends this safeguard to children under the age of two as well.



"For too long, smartphones and other screens have been allowed to enter every aspect of our children's lives," said Jakob Forssmed, Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health. With this statement, he echoes the recommendations of the public health agency, reinforcing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">need for digital discipline</a> in kids' lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-among-children-and-teens">Screen time among children and teens</h2>



The agency’s recommendations extend to teenagers as well, suggesting that 13 to 18-year-old teens limit their screen time to two to three hours per day. 



This is a daunting task considering Swedish teens aged 13 to 16 spend an average of six and a half hours a day on screens, outside of school hours.



This overindulgence in screens does not leave a lot of time for communal activities, physical activity or adequate sleep, said Forssmed. He also pointed to the worrying reality of a Swedish "sleep crisis," with more than half of 15-year-olds not getting enough sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guarding-children-from-excessive-screen-use">Guarding children from excessive screen use</h2>



Furthermore, the health agency advised against using screens before bedtime and recommended that all digital devices remain outside bedrooms at night. This suggestion is based on research showing that excessive screen use can lead to poor sleep, depression, and body dissatisfaction.



Sweden's government is not stopping at recommendations. They have expressed intentions of exploring a ban on smartphones in primary schools. In January, a study elucidated that even an hour of iPad use per day in toddlers can impact their understanding of the world around them.



Researchers at <a href="https://drexel.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drexel University</a> in Philadelphia found a two-fold increased risk of unusual sensory behaviors in children exposed to any amount of screen time starting at a year old. The risk escalated with each additional hour of screen time. This highlights the severity of the issue at hand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engaged-parents-can-model-healthy-habits">Engaged parents can model healthy habits</h2>



To effectively tackle the growing concern of excessive screen time, parental involvement is paramount. Engaged parents who actively participate in their children's activities are better positioned to model healthy habits. 



This includes not only limiting screen exposure but also encouraging alternative pursuits - such as reading, playing outside, or participating in community events - that promote creativity and social skills.



Furthermore, parents can facilitate open discussions about digital media, helping children understand its impact and their own consumption habits. 



By setting boundaries and providing guidance, families can collectively work towards a balance that promotes mental and physical well-being, creating a healthier environment for the next generation amidst the digital age's rapid evolution.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swedish-pediatricians-no-screen-time-for-children-under-two/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Screen time</a> and its effects on children is a Pandora's box that we've unwittingly opened. The recommendations and initiatives by the Swedish Public Health Agency and Minister Jakob Forssmed are steps in the right direction. 



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Children under two should not be exposed to TV or screen time

Children and screens are seen together more often than peanut...

As much a tradition as the sight of costumed trick-or-treaters and lawns decorated with makeshift graveyards, the early appearance of Halloween candy and decorations in stores has become a familiar scene. 



Even before summer fully fades, grocery aisles are lined with candy corn and jumbo bags of Snickers, prompting many to lament the rush to end one season and usher in another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-trigger-for-early-halloween-shopping-nbsp">Psychological trigger for early Halloween shopping&nbsp;</h2>



But what drives this seasonal shift? While the obvious answer might be profit -- eye-catching displays increase consumer interest, and extending the holiday season boosts sales -- there’s another, more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holiday-stress-can-take-a-major-toll-on-health-and-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychological</a> reason at play. 



Daniele Mathras, an associate professor of marketing at <a href="https://www.northeastern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northeastern University</a>, has suggested that as the days shorten and the calendar edges closer to Halloween, we begin to think more about our own mortality. This awareness, known as “mortality salience,” can actually make us more inclined to shop.



“The theory is that we buy more as a compensatory mechanism for the fear of dying,” Mathras explained. “The changing of the seasons and end of summer is one of those time periods where mortality is salient, so retailers may benefit by reminding us fall is here early.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capitalizing-on-fear">Capitalizing on fear</h2>



In recent years, retailers have increasingly capitalized on this psychological trigger. Since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted trick-or-treating, retailers have extended the candy shopping season, with Halloween displays appearing as early as the second week of August.



This year, Disney World in Orlando kicked off its “Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party” on August 9th, and Starbucks launched its iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte on August 22nd, three days earlier than last year. These early launches reflect a broader trend of leveraging mortality salience to drive consumer behavior.



The concept of mortality salience influencing consumer behavior has been extensively studied in academia. In 2021, the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> funded research examining how the fear of mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shopping-habits-have-remained-consistent-for-3500-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buying habits</a>.&nbsp;



Previous studies have shown that when people are reminded of their mortality, they sometimes cope by making conspicuous purchases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mortality-salience-and-personality-types">Mortality salience and personality types </h2>



Alexander DePaoli, an associate teaching professor in marketing at Northeastern, noted that this dynamic affects different personality types in distinct ways, which can be particularly evident during Halloween.&nbsp;



DePaoli, who has studied indulgent purchases and mortality salience, explained that contemplating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cardiovascular-disease-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">death</a> can prompt people to buy items that reinforce their self-perception.



“Essentially, if you identify as a 'fun person' - if it's an important source of your self-esteem to be a fun person - mortality salience makes you more likely to buy indulgent things, like chocolate,” DePaoli said.&nbsp;



“If that's not the case, then your focus is actually drawn to more functional products instead. Mortality salience leads you to be like, OK, I need to use my time and money more wisely.”



In other words, those who see themselves as fun-loving may be more prone to picking up Halloween candy in late summer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-aesthetics-of-halloween-shopping-nbsp">Cultural aesthetics of Halloween shopping&nbsp;</h2>



However, DePaoli also emphasizes that there are many other, more tangible reasons for the early arrival of Halloween merchandise. 



Retailers have established seasonal sections in their stores, and holidays with strong visual themes -- like Christmas, Halloween, and Easter -- naturally occupy these spaces for longer periods.



“The cultural aesthetics that have been built up around Christmas and holiday shopping are very recognizable, very attention-grabbing,” DePaoli explained. 



“Same thing with Halloween. If it can grab attention, then in theory it will help you move some units and generate some hype.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prolonged-holiday-product-sales">Prolonged holiday product sales</h2>



Moreover, prolonged exposure to seasonal products increases the likelihood of purchase. The more often shoppers pass by 12-foot skeletons at Home Depot, the more tempted they might be to buy one.



“It gives you a long runway to buy things,” DePaoli said. “The first time you see the giant skeleton you might think 'Oh, that's ridiculous, that's a joke.' The second or third time it's 'Oh, I could see myself being the sort of person who gets that. Will it fit on my front porch?'”



So, while we may roll our eyes at the sight of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/christmas-toxic-environmental-day-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christmas</a> songs playing on November 1st, Valentine’s Day cards appearing in January, or Reese’s peanut butter pumpkins hitting shelves before Labor Day, these early product launches do have a purpose: they drive sales. “It does move product,” DePaoli concluded.



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Fear of death is the key driver of early Halloween shopping

As much a tradition as the sight of costumed trick-or-treaters...

In a marine science mystery reminiscent of a game of Clue, researchers from the United States set out to investigate the death of a pregnant porbeagle shark in the open waters southwest of Bermuda. The evidence points to a larger shark, equipped with its deciduous triangular teeth, as the most likely culprit.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predation-of-a-porbeagle-shark-nbsp">Predation of a porbeagle shark&nbsp;</h2>



“This is the first documented predation event of a porbeagle shark anywhere in the world,” said Brooke Anderson, the study’s lead author and a former graduate student at <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a>.



“In one event, the population not only lost a reproductive female that could contribute to population growth, but it also lost all her developing babies. If predation is more widespread than previously thought, there could be major impacts for the porbeagle shark population that is already suffering due to historic overfishing.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endangered-porbeagle-sharks">Endangered porbeagle sharks</h2>



Porbeagles are formidable sharks found in the Atlantic, South Pacific Ocean, and the Mediterranean. These sharks are large, active, and robustly built, growing up to 3.7 meters in length and weighing as much as 230 kilograms.&nbsp;



They are also long-lived, with lifespans that can reach 30 to even 65 years. Female porbeagles have a slow reproductive cycle, not reaching reproductive maturity until around 13 years old. When they do reproduce, they give birth to an average of four pups every one or two years after a gestation period of eight to nine months.



Due to this slow reproduction rate, porbeagle populations struggle to recover from threats such as overfishing, recreational fishing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-device-reduces-shark-bycatch-by-electrifying-the-bait/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bycatch</a>, and habitat loss and degradation.&nbsp;



These pressures have led to the porbeagle being listed as endangered in the Northwest Atlantic on the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN Red List of Threatened Species</a>, with populations in the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean considered critically endangered.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-porbeagles-tagged-off-massachusetts-nbsp">Porbeagles tagged off Massachusetts&nbsp;</h2>



As part of a broader research effort to study shark migration, Anderson and her colleagues tagged porbeagles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in 2020 and 2022.&nbsp;



Each shark was fitted with two satellite tags: a fin-mount satellite transmitter and a pop-off satellite archival tag (PSAT).&nbsp;



The fin-mount tag sends the shark’s location to satellites whenever the fin surfaces, while the PSAT records depth and temperature data continuously, storing it until the tag detaches and floats to the surface to transmit its collected data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-turn-of-events-nbsp">Unexpected turn of events&nbsp;</h2>



One of the tagged porbeagles was a pregnant female measuring 2.2 meters in length. Anderson and her team hoped that tracking this female would provide valuable insights into important habitats for porbeagle mothers and their offspring.



However, an unexpected turn of events occurred. After 158 days, the PSAT began transmitting from an area off Bermuda, indicating that the tag had detached and was floating at the surface.



The transmitted data revealed that this female had spent five months cruising at depths between 100 and 200 meters at night and 600 to 800 meters during the day, in water temperatures ranging from 6.4 to 23.5 °C. Throughout this period, the fin-mount tag had only transmitted once, confirming that the shark had mostly remained underwater.



But then, on March 24, 2021, over the span of four days, the temperature recorded by the PSAT remained consistently around 22 °C at depths between 150 and 600 meters.&nbsp;



This sudden change in data could only mean one thing: the unfortunate porbeagle had been hunted and consumed by a larger predator. The PSAT was likely excreted four days later, which is when it began transmitting again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-sharks-hunting-each-other">Large sharks hunting each other</h2>



“Two endothermic predator candidates large enough to predate upon mature porbeagles and located within the vicinity and at the time of year of the predation event include the white shark Carcharodon carcharias and shortfin mako Isurus oxyrhinchus,” the authors wrote.



Shortfin mako sharks typically prey on cephalopods, bony fish, smaller sharks, porpoises, sea turtles, and seabirds, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-white-sharks-separated-into-three-distinct-groups-that-dont-intermingle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great white sharks</a> are known to feed on whales, dolphins, seals, and rays.&nbsp;



Of the two suspects, the great white shark is the more likely culprit, as shortfin mako sharks usually exhibit rapid, oscillatory dives between the surface and deeper waters during the day - behavior that was not detected by the PSAT.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-interactions-of-large-predators-nbsp">Complex interactions of large predators&nbsp;</h2>



“The predation of one of our pregnant porbeagles was an unexpected discovery. We often think of large sharks as being apex predators. But with technological advancements, we have started to discover that large predator interactions could be even more complex than previously thought,” Anderson noted.



“We need to continue studying predator interactions to estimate how often large sharks hunt each other. This will help us uncover what cascading impacts these interactions could have on the ecosystem,” she concluded.



This case, while tragic, opens new avenues for understanding the complexities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine predator</a>-prey dynamics, particularly among the ocean’s most formidable inhabitants.



The research is detailed in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1406973">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Unexpected discovery: Large sharks are hunting each other

In a marine science mystery reminiscent of a game of...

Water is a vital part of our existence, yet millions of people around the globe are struggling to gain access to safe drinking water. But imagine if we could create water from the mere air around us? That would be a revolutionary game-changer.



According to the United Nations and World Health Organization, 1 in 3 people do not have access to safe drinking water. Now, experts from University of New South Wales (UNSW) suggest a new way to tackle this global issue - atmospheric water generation. 



In simple words, it's a process that could extract water from the moist air around us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extracting-water-from-air">Extracting water from air</h2>



Professor Kristen Splinter, the managing director of <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW</a>'s Water Research Laboratory joins Daniel Lambert, the former Civil Engineer of the Year and current CEO of Legacie, to promote the technology.



Together, they discuss the potential of atmospheric water generation technology in an episode of UNSW's Engineering the Future podcast series.



"When we consider innovations in water, atmospheric water generation is a really interesting one. Its viability commercially and on scale is still being proven but it could help solve some of our problems for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-4-4-billion-people-lack-access-to-safe-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communities without access to fresh water</a> supply. It could be particularly relevant for communities located in humid environments," noted Lambert.



This technology offers a broad spectrum of methods to extract water from air. From collecting fog and using membranes that only pass water vapor to using certain chemicals that extract water from air, the possibilities are promising.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-vary-by-region">Opportunities vary by region </h2>



"You can collect fog, you can use membranes that only pass water vapor. There's ways of using different chemicals. You can expose air to those chemicals that extract the water from it, or through condensation or pressurizing air," notes Lambert. Kristen Splinter agrees on the promising nature of the technology, but with a caveat. It's the environmental conditions that matter.



"A research paper from <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03900-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> was suggesting that up to 1 billion people in the tropics, where this is potentially going to be most successful, could have access to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/public-trust-in-drinking-water-safety-has-dwindled-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safer drinking water</a> by using this atmospheric water harvesting," noted Splinter. This technology is potentially most successful in tropics due to their humid environment.



However, this solution doesn't work like a universal fix. The key to successful atmospheric water generation is humidity, which is absent in many parts of the world. "Each region would need to find the most viable solution for its area," Splinter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-converting-air-to-water">Challenges in converting air to water</h2>



While the promise of atmospheric water generation is compelling, there are significant challenges that must be overcome before it can be widely implemented. 



One of the primary hurdles is the energy consumption associated with this technology. The processes used to extract moisture from air often require substantial power, which can limit their feasibility in regions where energy resources are scarce or where reliance on fossil fuels could exacerbate environmental woes. 



Additionally, the initial capital investment for the necessary infrastructure can be daunting, posing a barrier for communities with limited financial resources. 



Therefore, ongoing research is needed to develop more energy-efficient methods and cost-effective solutions to ensure that atmospheric water generation can become a viable option for diverse populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gray-side-of-water-a-potential-solution">Gray side of water: A potential solution</h2>



Besides atmospheric water generation, Splinter and Lambert also discuss other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strict-pfas-limits-will-make-drinking-water-safer-for-100-million-americans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential solutions</a> to the global water crisis, including graywater systems. Graywater refers to the reusable wastewater from washing machines, showers, and baths.



One important point the experts made was the need to prevent graywater from mixing with toilet water. "Why do we put all the other things that are graywater down that same system?" said Splinter.



"Education is key, not just how we deal with wastewater on a centralized scale, but at a community and household scale.



"If we think about 30 years down the track, will we need centralized&nbsp;wastewater treatment plants&nbsp;or will we be able to do it through a closed-loop process in a household or in a precinct?"



So, could the air we breathe today be our water source tomorrow? And could graywater be the golden ticket to tackling water scarcity? Only time will tell, but for now, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-a-crucial-role-in-clean-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fresh perspectives</a> are quenching our thirst for innovative solutions.



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Collecting water from the air to tackle a global crisis

Water is a vital part of our existence, yet millions...

Migraines weigh on millions worldwide like an unseen blanket, hampering daily life. However, recent drug advancements are stirring up feelings of optimism and potential relief for those living under this blanket. One of these advancements is the emergence of an innovative drug named "ubrogepant."



The drug's unique mechanism of action has sparked interest and excitement. It shows promising results in mitigating migraines, especially when the drug is taken at the onset of migraine symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ubrogepant-the-migraine-drug">Ubrogepant: The migraine drug</h2>



"Migraine is one of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysteries-of-migraines-explained-by-brain-fluid-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most prevalent diseases worldwide</a>, yet so many people who suffer from this condition do not receive treatment or report that they are not satisfied with their treatment," said study author Dr. Richard B. Lipton of <a href="https://einsteinmed.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx</a>, New York, and Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology.



"Improving care at the first signs of migraine, even before headache pain begins, can be a key to improved outcomes. Our findings are encouraging, suggesting that ubrogepant may help people with migraine function normally and go about their day."



So, what makes ubrogepant special? It functions as a CGRP inhibitor. CGRP is a protein that plays a significant role in the process leading to a migraine. Ubrogepant disrupts this process.



When taken at the start of a migraine, it helps its consumers carry on with their day. This finding was published in the issue of Neurology®, the respected journal of the American Academy of Neurology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drug-tackles-early-migraine-signs">Drug tackles early migraine signs</h2>



Building a comprehensive understanding of the study's purpose is crucial. It focuses on people who can detect an impending migraine from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-could-triple-the-risk-of-headache-disorders-later-in-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early signals</a> like dizziness, neck stiffness, fatigue, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. 



The study involved 518 participants, all suffering from migraines for at least a year, with two to eight attacks monthly over the three months preceding the study. The participants were divided into two groups. 



One received a placebo for their first migraine symptoms and 100 milligrams of the migraine drug for the second onset. The second group followed the reverse order. They recorded their activity limitations in a diary using a grading scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ubrogepant-vs-the-placebo">Ubrogepant vs. the placebo</h2>



How did ubrogepant fare against the placebo? One day post-intake, 65% of those who took ubrogepant noted slight to zero activity limitations compared to the 48% who took the placebo.



Just two hours after taking the pill, ubrogepant users were 73% more likely to report normal functionality.



The emergence of ubrogepant heralds a potential shift in the treatment landscape for migraine sufferers. Traditionally, patients with an acute migraine have relied primarily on triptans, which while effective for some, are not universally well-tolerated or suitable for all individuals. 



Ubrogepant’s innovative mechanism, acting at a molecular level to inhibit CGRP, not only offers a new therapeutic option but also expands the dialogue surrounding patient-centered care.



This timely advancement embodies a broader trend in medicine towards personalized therapies that consider individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-adults-with-migraines-have-a-greater-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patient responses and experiences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-beyond-the-migraine-drug">Future research beyond the migraine drug</h2>



As researchers continue to investigate the efficacy of ubrogepant, emerging questions abound. Future trials could explore its long-term effects and potential utility in preventing migraines rather than solely treating them post-onset.



Moreover, investigations into its applicability in diverse demographic groups may shed light on variations in response, thus optimizing treatment protocols. 



Such research would be pivotal in uncovering the broader implications of CGRP inhibition, potentially influencing the management of other headache disorders as well. 



The ongoing evolution of migraine treatment highlights the importance of continued study, promising hope to millions affected by this debilitating condition.



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



"Based on our findings, treatment with ubrogepant may allow people with migraine who experience early warning signs before a migraine occurs to quickly treat migraine attacks in their earliest stages and go about their daily lives with little discomfort and disruption," said Lipton. "This could lead to an improved quality of life for those living with migraine."



As we conclude, let's hold on to this hopeful thought: Could the new drug be the key to winning the battle against migraine? While we eagerly anticipate the answer, let's stay hopeful and keep our eyes on what's to come in migraine management.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209745" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>.



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New drug may stop migraines in their tracks

Migraines weigh on millions worldwide like an unseen blanket, hampering...

Ever heard a high-pitched buzzing sound near your ear in the dark? That's a sign a female mosquito is on a hunt. And no, it's not after your fear. It's after your blood. But for a male mosquito, that same buzz means something entirely different. It's love in the air... or rather, mating season for mosquitoes.



An international team led by researchers at the University of Washington has stumbled upon surprising details about mosquito mating. Spoiler alert: it's not just about romance. These novel findings could give us the upper hand in malaria control strategies and guide the development of precision drone flight technology.



The male Anopheles coluzzii <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-habitats-are-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito</a> is a major culprit in spreading malaria throughout Africa. Let's call him Mr. A. 



Now, for Mr. A, finding a mate isn't just about showing off his six-pack abdomen. It's a game of sounds. The moment he hears the sound of female-specific wingbeats, his rather poor vision gets a boost.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sounds-of-mosquito-mating">The sounds of mosquito mating </h2>



Though many mosquito species have subpar eyesight, their other senses make up for it. The moment a male mosquito hears the alluring buzz of a female in flight, his eyes "activate," and he starts scanning for a potential partner.



Imagine being in a crowded, busy swarm of eager mosquitoes, all trying to find their soulmate. Even in such chaotic conditions, male <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-use-thermal-infrared-vision-to-track-and-bite-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquitoes</a> can visually lock on to his target. He then speeds up, zipping through the swarm without bumping into any fellow Romeos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sound-love-affair">A sound love affair</h2>



"We have discovered this incredibly strong association in male mosquitoes when they seek a mate. They hear the sound of wingbeats at a specific frequency - the kind that females make - and that stimulus engages the visual system," explained study lead author Saumya Gupta, a postdoctoral researcher in biology at <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW</a>. 



It's a complex tango between different mosquito sensory systems to create this love connection.



Now, why is this important? The strong link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-listen-for-a-specific-buzz-to-find-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">males hearing the female-like buzz</a> and moving towards what they think might be the source could open up new possibilities for mosquito control. 



Picture this: a new generation of traps that are specific to the Anopheles mosquitoes, which are the type that spread malaria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosquito-mating-and-preventing-malaria">Mosquito mating and preventing malaria </h2>



The unique behavior of male mosquitoes got the attention of study senior author Jeffrey Riffell, a UW professor of biology. He suggests that this sound is so irresistible to males that it causes them to steer towards what they think might be the source, be it a real lady or a mosquito trap.



Understanding the interaction between the senses of mosquitoes in these swarms was a key goal for Gupta, Riffell, and their colleagues from various international universities. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sound-cues-change-male-behavior">Sound cues change male behavior </h2>



The team built a miniature arena - a mosquito flight simulator of sorts - where mosquitoes could see, smell, hear, and beat their wings as if in flight, even though they were tethered and couldn't freely move.



In a series of experiments, the experts found that males changed their behavior based on the sounds they heard. The males moved towards an object when they heard the buzz of a female mosquito, but not when they heard the higher-frequency sound of male wingbeats.



Visual cues also played a role here. If a simulated object appeared more than three body lengths away, the male mosquito wouldn't be interested, even if the sound of lady-love was in the air.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-or-flight-in-mosquito-mating">Fight or flight in mosquito mating</h2>



"The resolving power of the mosquito eye is about 1,000-fold less than the resolving power of the human eye. Mosquitoes tend to use vision for more passive behaviors, like avoiding other objects and controlling their position," Riffell explained. 



But when male mosquitoes hear the alluring flight tones of females, they make a surprising set of subtle flight adjustments.



Such visually driven responses could be preparatory maneuvers to avoid an object, the research team concluded. Their observations also suggested that males use close-range visual cues for collision avoidance within swarms.



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



This innovative research on mating could lead to new methods for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bad-news-mosquitoes-prefer-heat-and-thrive-in-the-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito control</a> by capitalizing on how mosquitoes integrate auditory and visual cues. 



Mosquitoes are getting smarter and becoming increasingly resistant to insecticides. So, it's time to outsmart them, and these insights into their mating behavior may be the key.



"Today's measures, like insecticides, are increasingly less effective as mosquitoes evolve resistance," said Riffell. "We need new approaches, like lures or traps, which will draw in mosquitoes with high fidelity."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)00946-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Mating secrets of mosquitoes may help us gain control of them

Ever heard a high-pitched buzzing sound near your ear in...

DNA is famously known for its double helix structure, but the human genome also contains more than 50,000 unusual knot-like DNA structures known as i-motifs, according to a team of experts at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.



In a study published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44318-024-00210-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EMBO Journal</a>, the scientists presented the first comprehensive map of these unique DNA structures, shedding light on their potential roles in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-has-a-profound-influence-on-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene</a> regulation, particularly in relation to diseases such as cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abundance-and-distribution-of-i-motifs-nbsp">Abundance and distribution of i-motifs&nbsp;</h2>



“DNA i-motif structures are formed in the nuclei of human cells and are believed to provide critical genomic regulation,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;



“While the existence, abundance, and distribution of i-motif structures in human cells has been demonstrated and studied by immunofluorescent staining, and more recently NMR and CUT&amp;Tag, the abundance and distribution of such structures in human genomic DNA have remained unclear.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pinpointing-the-mysterious-dna-structures">Pinpointing the mysterious DNA structures</h2>



Back in 2018, <a href="https://www.garvan.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Garvan</a> scientists achieved a breakthrough by being the first to directly visualize i-motifs within living human cells, as they detailed in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41557-018-0046-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>. The team developed a novel antibody tool specifically designed to recognize and bind to i-motifs. 



The current research builds on this earlier work, utilizing the same antibody to pinpoint the locations of i-motifs throughout the entire human genome.



“In this study, we mapped more than 50,000 i-motif sites in the human genome that occur in all three of the cell types we examined,” said senior author Daniel Christ, head of the Antibody Therapeutics Lab and Director of the Centre for Targeted Therapy at Garvan.&nbsp;



“That’s a remarkably high number for a DNA structure whose existence in cells was once considered controversial. Our findings confirm that i-motifs are not just laboratory curiosities but widespread - and likely to play key roles in genomic function.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-i-motifs-are-not-randomly-distributed-nbsp">I-motifs are not randomly distributed&nbsp;</h2>



I-motifs are distinctive DNA structures that differ from the well-known double helix. They form when stretches of cytosine bases on the same DNA strand pair with each other, creating a four-stranded, twisted configuration that protrudes from the double helix.



The research revealed that i-motifs are not randomly distributed. The experts discovered that they are concentrated in key functional regions of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a>, including areas that control gene activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-i-motifs-in-gene-activity">The role of i-motifs in gene activity</h2>



The experts determined that the formation of the distinctive DNA structures is cell-cycle and pH dependent. “Furthermore, we provide evidence that i-motif structures are formed in regulatory regions of the human genome, including promoters and telomeric regions.”&nbsp;



Study lead author Cristian David Peña Martinez, a research officer in the Antibody Therapeutics Lab, explained that i-motifs are associated with genes that are highly active during specific times in the cell cycle, which suggests they play a dynamic role in regulating gene activity.



“We also found that i-motifs form in the promoter region of oncogenes, such as the MYC oncogene, which encodes one of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetic-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>’s most notorious ‘undruggable’ targets. This presents an exciting opportunity to target disease-linked genes through the i-motif structure,” he added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-hard-to-treat-cancers-nbsp">Implications for hard-to-treat cancers&nbsp;</h2>



According to study co-author Sarah Kummerfeld, an assistant professor and chief scientific officer at Garvan, the widespread presence of i-motifs near these “holy grail” sequences involved in hard-to-treat cancers opens up new possibilities for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.&nbsp;



“It might be possible to design drugs that target i-motifs to influence gene expression, which could expand current treatment options,” said Professor Kummerfeld.



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



Professor Christ pointed out that the successful mapping of i-motifs was made possible by Garvan’s world-leading expertise in antibody development and genomics.&nbsp;



“This study is an example of how fundamental research and technological innovation can come together to make paradigm-shifting discoveries,” said Professor Christ.



“Our study provides foundational knowledge and resources relating to the location and distribution of i-motifs in human genomic DNA, representing potential targets for future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies,” the authors concluded.



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Genetic mystery: 50,000 DNA "knots" found in the human genome

DNA is famously known for its double helix structure, but...

Underground CO2 storage, a key component of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, is often viewed as a vital solution to combat climate change. In light of the urgency to address global warming, many potential methods of carbon capture have been meticulously investigated.



While the concept of storing CO2 underground is promising, recent research from <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a> highlights significant limitations and challenges associated with scaling up this technology.



Current international scenarios for limiting global warming to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2100 rely heavily on technologies that can remove CO2 from the Earth's atmosphere at unprecedented rates.



These strategies aim to remove between 1 and 30 gigatons of CO2 annually by 2050. However, the estimates for how quickly these technologies can be deployed have been largely speculative.



The Imperial study indicates that existing projections are not likely feasible at the current pace of development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertainty-in-storage-projections">Uncertainty in storage projections</h2>



“There are many factors at play in these projections, including the speed at which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-outer-core-is-its-largest-carbon-reservoir/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reservoirs</a> can be filled as well as other geological, geographical, economic, technological, and political issues,” said Yuting Zhang, lead author from Imperial’s Department of Earth Science and Engineering. 



“However, more accurate models like the ones we have developed will help us understand how uncertainty in storage capacity, variations in institutional capacity across regions, and limitations to development might affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plans-by-oil-companies-fall-short-of-climate-goals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate plans</a> and targets set by policymakers.”



The experts found that storing up to 16 gigatons of CO2 underground annually by 2050 is possible, but would require a substantial increase in storage capacity and scaling that current investment and development levels do not support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-realistic-plans-for-co2-storage">Realistic plans for CO2 storage</h2>



While the UK Government has aspirations to position Britain as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-energy-biodiversity-wildlife-habitats-delicate-balancing-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean energy</a> superpower through initiatives like CCS, the research emphasizes the need to align such ambitions with realistic objectives for the safe and effective storage of CO2.



“Although storing between six to 16 gigatons of CO2 per year to tackle climate change is technically possible, these high projections are much more uncertain than lower ones,” noted co-author Dr. Samuel Krevor, also from Imperial’s Department of Earth Science and Engineering. 



“This is because there are no existing plans from governments or international agreements to support such a large-scale effort. However, five gigatons of carbon going into the ground is still a major contribution to climate change mitigation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-co2-storage">Modeling CO2 storage</h2>



The researchers developed models to show how quickly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a> systems could realistically be scaled up, taking into account factors such as suitable geology, economic limitations, and technological feasibility.



These models suggest that while it is possible to reduce CO2 emissions on a large scale, the path to achieving this and the contribution from key regions might diverge significantly from current projections. 



For example, the study questions the overly optimistic projections often found in Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports, particularly for countries like China, Indonesia, and South Korea, where current development is low.



“While integrated assessment models play an important role in helping climate policymakers make decisions, some of the assumptions they make when it comes to storing large amounts of carbon underground appear unrealistic,” noted study co-author Professor Christopher Jackson from Imperial’s Department of Earth Science and Engineering. 



“Our findings suggest that more attainable and accurate benchmarks are needed to guide policy and investment.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-a-realistic-global-benchmark">Setting a realistic global benchmark</h2>



The team’s analysis suggests a more realistic global benchmark for underground CO2 storage might be in the range of 5-6 gigatons per year by 2050.



This projection aligns with growth patterns observed in existing industries, including mining and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-renewable-energy-capacity-will-take-a-record-leap-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>. 



By applying these historical growth patterns to CO2 storage, the researchers have developed a model that offers a more practical and reliable method for predicting how quickly carbon storage technologies can be scaled up.



“Our study is the first to apply growth patterns from established industries to CO2 storage,” explained Dr. Krevor. “By using historical data and trends from other sectors, our new model provides a realistic and practical approach for setting attainable targets for carbon storage, helping policymakers to make informed decisions.”



The research, funded by the Engineering &amp; Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Royal Academy of Engineering, highlights the importance of setting realistic goals in the global effort to combat climate change.



While underground carbon storage presents a promising strategy, understanding its potential and limitations is crucial for making the best use of this technology.



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Underground CO2 storage: Feasible solution or climate illusion?

Underground CO2 storage, a key component of carbon capture and...

Crocodile culling in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia is a controversial practice aimed at managing the population of saltwater crocodiles, which have been increasing since they were protected by law in 1971. The primary focus of culling is to ensure public safety, particularly in areas where there is a high risk of crocodile attacks on humans.



A new study published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10693" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">People and Nature</a> reveals that education and community awareness, the removal of problematic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-and-ecology-shaped-250-million-years-of-crocodile-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodiles</a>, and the designation of exclusion areas are significantly more effective in reducing saltwater crocodile attacks than widespread culling. 



The research, led by <a href="https://www.cdu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Darwin University</a> (CDU), challenges the notion that culling is a cost-effective or efficient solution to mitigating crocodile attacks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-rate-of-crocodile-attacks-nbsp">Analyzing the rate of crocodile attacks&nbsp;</h2>



The experts examined the correlation between the density of crocodile populations and human populations and the frequency of saltwater crocodile attacks in the Northern Territory over the past 50 years. Data analysis showed that from 1979 to 2022, there were 76 crocodile attacks in the region, with 30% of these attacks resulting in fatalities.



Interestingly, while both crocodile density and the human population continued to rise, the rate of crocodile attacks stabilized from 2009 onwards, with a notable 10% decrease in the frequency of attacks over the following decade.&nbsp;



This trend suggests that the behaviors of Northern Territory residents and tourists around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waterways</a> have adapted in response to the growing crocodile population, largely due to government-led education programs and efforts to remove problem crocodiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crocodile-culling-is-not-the-best-strategy-nbsp">Crocodile culling is not the best strategy&nbsp;</h2>



Lead author Cameron Baker, a postdoctoral research fellow at CDU's Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, highlighted the fact that the reduction in attacks correlates with increased awareness and the targeted removal of problem crocodiles.&nbsp;



These strategies have proven to be more effective in reducing attacks than any broad-scale culling program, a method periodically considered in the Northern Territory.



“Our models predicted that the NT crocodile population would have to be reduced by as much as 90% to reduce the crocodile attack frequency by one attack per year,” Baker explained.&nbsp;



“If widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killing-animals-ecosystem-non-native-culling-harmful-strategy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culling</a> to reduce density was the prime strategy to reduce crocodile attacks, then the population would need to be driven to very low levels to see any significant reduction. This is because the risk of attacks on humans only decreases once large crocodiles are completely extirpated from an area.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-downside-of-crocodile-culling-nbsp">The downside of crocodile culling&nbsp;</h2>



According to Baker, such extensive culling would not only push the species back into the critically endangered category but would also be prohibitively expensive. Humane culling operations, based on the current Northern Territory crocodile management budget, would cost approximately $975 per crocodile.&nbsp;



“Assuming these operational costs remained constant throughout the culling period, it would cost $87,750,000 to cull 90% of the NT crocodile population humanely, achieving a 48% reduction in crocodile attack frequency,” he said.



In contrast, the Northern Territory Government spent AUD$250,000 on the “Be Crocwise” educational campaign between 2013 and 2016. Since its implementation in 2009, this campaign has contributed to a 10% decrease in crocodile attacks, demonstrating a far more cost-effective approach than culling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-behavior-and-crocodile-attacks-nbsp">Human behavior and crocodile attacks&nbsp;</h2>



Baker further noted that the data indicated crocodile attacks were influenced by human behavior and activities near water. “Between 2011 and 2021, humans were 363 times more likely to be severely injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident than by a crocodile in the NT,” he said.&nbsp;



“Most victims of crocodile attacks, 90%, were local to the NT. This highlights the importance of modifying human behavior to reduce the risks of attacks by large predators such as crocodiles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-crocodile-management-methods-nbsp">Alternative crocodile management methods&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Hamish Campbell, who led the study, stressed the need for an evidence-based approach to crocodile management.&nbsp;



“Crocodiles are a danger to humans in North Australia, and this risk needs to be managed. The funds available for crocodile management are limited, and we need to spend these in the most effective manner to reduce crocodile attacks on humans, and the evidence shows that widespread culling is not a cost-effective nor efficient means of doing this,” he said.&nbsp;



“Alternative management methods currently used by the Northern Territory government seem to be working and effective.”



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



Vinay Udyawer from the Australian Institute of Marine Science, who also contributed to the research, noted that the study's findings could inform other predator mitigation strategies.&nbsp;



“The results of this study can be expanded beyond just the management of crocodiles in the Northern Territory,” he said. “It highlights the general ineffectiveness of culling as a primary mitigation tool and the importance of alternative strategies like public education campaigns for managing the risks posed by other large marine predators such as sharks.”



The findings underscore the effectiveness of targeted, evidence-based approaches over broad, less effective measures, offering valuable insights for managing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-impacts-of-human-wildlife-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-wildlife interactions</a> in various contexts.



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Culling is not effective in preventing crocodile attacks 

Crocodile culling in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia is...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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...

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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...

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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