The solar system, billions of years old, holds many secrets about its formation. Among its fascinating residents is Chiron, a centaur orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune. 



New findings by scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) shed light on this hybrid of comet and asteroid, revealing unprecedented insights into its surface chemistry and activity.



The study was led by Dr. Noemí Pinilla-Alonso of the University of Oviedo and Dr. Charles Schambeau from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Their findings could reshape our understanding of centaurs and the solar system’s early history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-capsules-of-the-solar-system">Time capsules of the solar system </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-space-objects-called-centaurs-29p-continue-to-perplex-nasa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centaurs</a> are objects with dual characteristics, straddling the line between asteroids and comets. 



Chiron, discovered in 1977, is unique even among centaurs. It exhibits comet-like behavior, including a coma - a cloud of gas and dust - alongside distinct surface and interior features.



Dr. Pinilla-Alonso emphasizes that centaurs act as “time capsules,” preserving information about the solar system’s formation. "All small bodies in the solar system talk to us about how it was back in time,” she explained. 



Chiron’s activity, driven by solar heating, offers a rare opportunity to explore these preserved secrets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-chemical-diversity-in-a-centaur">Unprecedented chemical diversity in a centaur</h2>



Using <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>, the team discovered that Chiron's surface hosts carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ice. Its coma contains methane and other gases, marking the first detection of such diversity in a centaur. 



“These results are like nothing we’ve seen before,” noted Dr. Schambeau from <a href="https://www.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCF</a>.



JWST’s advanced capabilities allowed the researchers to study Chiron even at its farthest point from the Sun. This distance usually limits the activity of similar objects, such as trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs).



Unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/comet-will-be-visible-for-the-first-time-in-50000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comets</a> closer to the Sun, Chiron’s thinner coma offers clearer insights into its surface chemistry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chiron-s-ice-and-gas-dynamics">Chiron's ice and gas dynamics</h2>



Dr. Pinilla-Alonso noted that Chiron’s dual nature makes it invaluable for studying processes in both comets and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-large-asteroids-will-pass-near-earth-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroids</a>. 



"What is unique about Chiron is that we can observe both the surface and the coma,” she said.



This dual observation provides critical information about the ice layer's thickness, porosity, and chemical properties.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2060-Chiron_coma_asteroid-comet-hybrid_credit-USF_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2060-Chiron_coma_asteroid-comet-hybrid_credit-USF_1s.webp" alt="Artist's impression of 2060 Chiron, an active centaur, surrounded by a faint disc of debris. Bright icy deposits and active areas are visible on its surface. Credtis: William D. González Sierra of the Florida Space Institute, University of Central Florida." class="wp-image-1954508"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Artist's impression of 2060 Chiron, an active centaur, surrounded by a faint disc of debris. Bright icy deposits and active areas are visible on its surface. Credtis: William D. González Sierra of the Florida Space Institute, University of Central Florida.</figcaption></figure>



JWST’s observations revealed the coexistence of primordial ices, such as methane and water, and newer compounds formed through surface processes. 



“Every active centaur we observe shows some peculiarity,” said Dr. Pinilla-Alonso. Understanding these peculiarities may uncover patterns across these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/once-in-a-lifetime-comet-will-be-easily-visible-this-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enigmatic objects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-oddball-among-centaurs">An oddball among centaurs</h2>



Chiron stands out due to its unusual behavior, including comet-like activity and potential rings of debris. 



Dr. Schambeau describes it as “an oddball” with a unique thermophysical process. He analyzed methane in Chiron’s coma, linking its outflow to sun-heated regions on its surface.



These findings deepen our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2060-chiron_debris-disk_asteroid-comet-hybrid_credit-USF_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">centaurs’ evolution and behavior</a>. 



Chiron’s dynamic environment provides clues about how solar heating influences its surface and subsurface, offering a glimpse into processes shaping similar bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-and-future-of-chiron">Origins and future of Chiron</h2>



Chiron likely originated in the TNO region before moving into its current orbit. Gravitational interactions with giant planets alter the paths of centaurs, exposing them to varied environments.



Dr. Pinilla-Alonso explained that centaurs typically remain in the giant planets’ region for about a million years before being ejected. “They may end their lives as Jupiter Family comets or return to the TNOs region."



Chiron’s journey across the solar system exposes it to solar radiation, driving surface changes and creating its unique chemical composition. 



Understanding this evolution provides valuable insights into the early solar system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-chiron-s-discovery">Broader implications of Chiron’s discovery</h2>



The study’s implications extend beyond Chiron. Identifying gases and ices on distant objects enhances our understanding of the solar system’s building blocks. 



These findings could also inform future research on centaurs and other icy bodies.



Dr. Pinilla-Alonso noted that JWST’s spectra revealed intricate details about Chiron’s ices and their interactions. "Based on our new JWST data, I’m not so sure we have a standard centaur."



Further studies may uncover shared traits among centaurs, offering a clearer picture of their origins and diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-more-about-centaurs">Learning more about centaurs</h2>



The researchers from <a href="https://www.uniovi.es" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oviedo</a> and UCF plan to continue observing Chiron as it approaches the Sun.



Closer proximity will enable more detailed studies of its surface and coma, potentially uncovering new chemical and physical properties.



Future research may also explore seasonal variations and illumination effects on Chiron’s ice reservoir. Such studies could refine our understanding of how centaurs interact with their environments and evolve over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-mysteries-of-the-solar-system">Unveiling the mysteries of the solar system</h2>



The JWST, an international collaboration led by NASA, has revolutionized space science. 



Its ability to observe distant objects like Chiron is solving long-standing mysteries about the solar system and beyond. These discoveries highlight the telescope’s transformative impact on planetary science.



“JWST has made these detections accessible. These results enhance our understanding of Chiron’s interior composition and its unique behaviors,” concluded Dr. Schambeau.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-solar-system-exploration">New chapter in solar system exploration</h2>



Chiron’s unique chemistry and activity mark a significant milestone in understanding the solar system’s origins. 



The ongoing research, powered by JWST’s capabilities, promises to unravel more secrets about this enigmatic centaur and its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">counterparts</a>.



Through Chiron, scientists are not just uncovering the past - they are laying the groundwork for future exploration of icy bodies across the solar system.



“The analysis of Chiron’s gases and ices opens new frontiers and opportunities for exciting research,” said Dr. Pinilla-Alonso.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/12/aa50124-24/aa50124-24.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a>.



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Rare asteroid-comet hybrid is unlike anything ever seen before

The solar system, billions of years old, holds many secrets about its formation. Among its fascinating residents is Chiron, a centaur orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune. New findings by scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) shed light on this hybrid of comet and asteroid, revealing unprecedented insights into its surface chemistry and activity. The study was led by Dr. Noemí Pinilla-Alonso of the University of Oviedo and Dr. Charles Schambeau from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Their findings could reshape our understanding of centaurs...

Cancer,Cells

Stress is a ubiquitous part of life, particularly acute for those battling cancer. The repercussions of chronic stress extend beyond mere emotional strain, contributing significantly to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-mothers-stress-shapes-her-firstborn-daughters-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical ailments</a> such as heart disease and strokes. 



Moreover, it has been suggested that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-men-and-women-react-differently-to-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> might play a role in facilitating the spread of cancer, though the mechanisms behind this phenomenon remained elusive -- until now.



An enlightening study conducted by Xue-Yan He, a former postdoctorate researcher at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (<a href="https://www.cshl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSHL</a>), alongside Adjunct Professor <a href="https://www.cshl.edu/research/faculty-staff/mikala-egeblad/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mikala Egeblad</a> and Professor <a href="https://www.cshl.edu/research/faculty-staff/linda-van-aelst/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Linda Van Aelst</a>, explores how the human mind influences cancer metastasis. 



Their findings could revolutionize treatment strategies, offering hope for preventative measures against cancer's spread.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intricate-dance-of-stress-and-cancer">Intricate dance of stress and cancer</h2>



Xue-Yan He articulates a reality many cancer patients face: the omnipresence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physically-active-children-cope-better-with-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, driven by the diagnosis, insurance concerns, and familial responsibilities. 



Understanding the impact of stress on cancer progression is crucial, as He notes, given its inevitability in patients' lives.



“Stress is something we cannot really avoid in cancer patients. You can imagine if you are diagnosed, you cannot stop thinking about the disease or insurance or family. So it is very important to understand how stress works on us," He explains.



The collaborative research effort led by He and Egeblad has identified a critical mechanism by which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-induced-increases-in-biological-age-can-be-reversed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> contributes to cancer metastasis. 



They discovered that stress prompts specific white blood cells, known as neutrophils, to form web-like structures that render body tissues more susceptible to cancer spread.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-experiment-from-observation-to-insight">The experiment: From observation to insight</h2>



The researchers embarked on their investigation by simulating chronic stress in mice with cancer. After removing tumors from the mice, the animals were subjected to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-foods-and-stress-a-damaging-combination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, leading to a startling observation by He. They found a significant increase in metastatic lesions, with instances of up to fourfold escalation in metastasis.



Further exploration revealed that stress hormones, glucocorticoids, interact with neutrophils, inducing the formation of <a href="https://www.cshl.edu/how-an-antiviral-immune-reaction-can-go-too-far/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NETs</a> (neutrophil extracellular traps). 



While NETs typically serve a protective role against infections by trapping harmful microorganisms, they paradoxically facilitate a metastasis-conducive environment in the context of cancer.



To verify the connection between stress-induced NET formation and increased metastasis, He conducted three pivotal experiments involving neutrophil removal, NET-destroying drugs, and mice genetically modified to have neutrophils unresponsive to glucocorticoids. 



The outcome was consistent across all tests: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chronic-stress-causes-the-brain-to-crave-comfort-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressed</a> mice did not exhibit increased metastasis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparatory-role-of-stress-in-healthy-tissues">Preparatory role of stress in healthy tissues</h2>



An alarming discovery was that chronic stress led to NET formation in the lung tissues of mice without cancer, suggesting that stress primes healthy tissues for potential cancer development. 



This revelation underscores the profound impact of stress on the body, extending beyond those already diagnosed.



The study's findings advocate for the integration of stress reduction into cancer treatment and prevention strategies. 



As Linda Van Aelst asserts, minimizing stress should be a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-microdosing-may-improve-mental-health-by-boosting-stress-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reducing stress</a> should be a component of cancer treatment and prevention,” she says.



Looking forward, the research team is optimistic about the development of drugs targeting NET formation, offering a preventive approach for patients at risk of metastasis. 



Such treatments could potentially slow or halt the spread of cancer, providing a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with this devastating disease.



This breakthrough underscores the intricate connection between psychological stress and physical health. By illuminating the mechanisms through which stress influences cancer spread, the research paves the way for innovative treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of holistic care in the battle against cancer.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1535610824000370" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer Cell</a>.



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Cancer thrives on human stress as it spreads throughout the body

Stress is a ubiquitous part of life, particularly acute for...

Ginseng,And,Green,Leaf,On,A,White,Background.

Ginseng, a supplement derived from plants and herbs, is celebrated globally for its myriad health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-cancer properties. Recent research spearheaded by the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (<a href="https://www.uoc.edu/en/news/media-services/experts-guide/laura-esquius" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UOC</a>) reveals an additional, compelling benefit: ginseng's significant role in enhancing exercise recovery.



This new study uncovers ginseng's direct impact on diminishing fatigue and aiding muscle recuperation post-exercise. 



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/korean-red-ginseng-may-alleviate-alcohol-addiction-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ginseng</a> can play a significant role as a nutritional supplement for recovery after exercise," states Borja Muñoz, a fitness coach and lead author of the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-ginseng-and-exercise">Science behind ginseng and exercise</h2>



Under the guidance of Patricia Martínez, a dietician, nutritionist, and course instructor at UOC, alongside researchers Rafael Bailón and <a href="https://www.uoc.edu/en/news/media-services/experts-guide/laura-esquius" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laura Esquius</a>, the team meticulously reviewed over 700 scientific articles to confirm these benefits for healthy adults engaging in physical activity.



"When taken together with a balanced diet, ginseng can provide additional nutrition for athletes or anyone else who does physical exercise on a regular basis, Muñoz explained. 



"It's also worth noting that, unless it's medically contraindicated in any given case, taking ginseng on a regular basis is considered beneficial (or at least not harmful) for healthy people."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ginseng-s-impact-on-muscle-recovery-and-fatigue">Ginseng's impact on muscle recovery and fatigue</h2>



The research demonstrates that ginseng significantly reduces post-exercise muscle damage and enhances <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/almonds-accelerate-recovery-after-strenuous-exercise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle regeneration</a>, helping the body to recover from muscle fatigue and damage. 



This is attributed to the active compounds in ginseng stimulating the central nervous system, possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and regulating cortisol, thus improving metabolic functions and bolstering the immune system.



Long-term, systematic ginseng consumption has been shown to mitigate biological markers responsible for exercise-induced muscle damage and inflammation, such as creatine kinase (CK) and interleukin 6 (IL-6). It also reduces lactate production, which is linked to muscle fatigue.



By decreasing fatigue, ginseng potentially lowers the risk of injury, thereby enhancing athletic performance. 



"Although recovery times vary based on the nature of the injury and between individuals, the damaged structures share the same physiological processes. That's why professionals in this field must obtain the most efficient physiological context, to ensure that each person can recover as well and as quickly as possible. This is where ginseng comes in, as it can play a significant role in recovering from injuries," said Muñoz about the possible benefits to athletes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tailoring-ginseng-intake-for-all-types-of-exercise">Tailoring ginseng intake for all types of exercise</h2>



The study originated from Muñoz's observations during his tenure as a fitness coach and injury specialist at a football club in China, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/top-uses-for-ginseng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ginseng</a> was a popular supplement among players for its energy-boosting effects. 



"Our aim was to learn more about the effects of ginseng in a specific situation, in this case in connection with exercise, and to provide verifiable evidence of its ability to improve the body's response to the stimuli of chronic load in sport, helping athletes to recover between training sessions, as the footballers themselves reported that it worked just like an energy drink," said Muñoz.



This research opens avenues for further investigation into ginseng's role in enhancing sports performance and recovery. 



Patricia Martínez points out the potential for future studies to establish a ginseng consumption protocol, optimizing its benefits for athletes. 



"Of the possible future research we're considering, a study to establish a scheduled consumption protocol to find out exactly how and when athletes should take ginseng to optimize its benefits within a given timeframe is particularly appealing, as the studies carried out in relation to these cases suffer from a lack of diversity and scientific evidence," said Martínez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-exercise-ginseng-as-a-dietary-staple">Future of exercise: Ginseng as a dietary staple</h2>



In summary, ginseng emerges as a natural ally for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, offering significant benefits for exercise recovery and performance enhancement. 



This research from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya illuminates ginseng's role in reducing post-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-fatigue-impairs-athletic-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise fatigue</a>, accelerating muscle recovery, and potentially lowering injury risks. 



"There's still a significant amount of work to do, as ginseng has potential to increase athletes' physical performance and help prevent certain injuries, particularly muscle injuries," concluded Muñoz.



By integrating ginseng into a balanced diet, individuals can tap into its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, paving the way for improved physical endurance and health. 



As the scientific community continues to explore ginseng's full potential, this study marks a promising step towards understanding how natural supplements can optimize athletic performance and recovery processes.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/1/90" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrients</a>.



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Ginseng improves exercise performance and helps body quickly recover

Ginseng, a supplement derived from plants and herbs, is celebrated...

Quasar,Of,Death

Astronomers utilizing the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (<a href="https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/vlt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VLT</a>) have made a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/quasar-J059-4351_brightest-object-ever-recorded_ESO_VLT_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brilliant discovery</a> in the cosmos, spotting the brightest quasar ever seen by humans. Quasar J0529-4351 is not only distinguished as the brightest of its kind, but also stands as the most luminous object ever observed in the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quasars-beacons-of-the-distant-universe">Quasars: Beacons of the distant universe</h2>



Quasars, the radiant cores of distant galaxies, shine brightly due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echo-of-gravitational-waves-heard-for-the-first-time-finally-confirming-their-existence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a> at their heart. These black holes are not idle; they voraciously consume material from their surroundings, growing in mass daily. 



The particular quasar at the center of this discovery is expanding at a remarkable rate, assimilating mass equivalent to one Sun each day, positioning it as the fastest-growing black hole known to science.



The process through which these black holes accrue matter is incredibly energetic, emitting immense quantities of light and rendering quasars as some of the most brilliant entities in our sky. This inherent brightness allows even those quasars located at vast distances to be visible from Earth. 



The luminosity of a quasar directly correlates with the growth rate of its supermassive black hole, thus the most luminous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-frenzy-study-reveals-the-eating-habits-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quasars</a> harbor the fastest-expanding black holes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-powers-the-brightest-object-ever-seen">Black hole powers the brightest object ever seen</h2>



Christian Wolf, an astronomer at the Australian National University (<a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a>) and lead author of the study, encapsulated the significance of this discovery. 



“We have discovered the fastest-growing black hole known to date. It has a mass of 17 billion Suns and eats just over a Sun per day. This makes it the most luminous object in the known Universe.” 



The quasar, designated J0529-4351, is situated so far from Earth that its light has journeyed over 12 billion years to reach us.



The energy emitted by the matter spiraling into this colossal black hole, configured in a disc formation, is staggering. Quasar J0529-4351, the brightest object ever seen by humans, shines over 500 trillion times more luminously than the Sun. 



Samuel Lai, an ANU PhD student and co-author of the study, adds, “All this light comes from a hot accretion disc that measures seven light-years in diameter -- this must be the largest accretion disc in the Universe." 



To put this into perspective, the disc's size is about 15,000 times the distance from the Sun to Neptune's orbit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obscurity-to-spotlight-journey-of-quasar-j0529-4351">Obscurity to spotlight: Journey of quasar J0529-4351</h2>



What's equally astonishing is how this quasar managed to elude detection until now, despite its immense brightness. 



“It is a surprise that it has remained unknown until today, when we already know about a million less impressive quasars. It has literally been staring us in the face until now,” shared co-author Christopher Onken, an astronomer at ANU. 



Intriguingly, this object appeared in images from the ESO Schmidt Southern Sky Survey as far back as 1980 but was not recognized as a quasar for decades.



The quest to identify quasars involves analyzing vast amounts of observational data, a task often facilitated by machine-learning models. However, these models, trained on existing datasets, may overlook extraordinary objects like J0529-4351, mistaking them for nearer, less significant stars.



It wasn't until observations from the ANU 2.3-metre telescope at <a href="https://rsaa.anu.edu.au/observatories/siding-spring-observatory">Siding Spring Observatory</a> pinpointed J0529-4351 as a distant quasar. Yet, confirming its status as the most luminous quasar observed required the more powerful X-shooter spectrograph on ESO’s VLT in the Chilean Atacama Desert.



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



This discovery paves the way for further studies with advanced instruments such as the GRAVITY+ upgrade on ESO’s VLT Interferometer (VLTI), which will allow for precise measurements of black holes' masses, even those located far from Earth. 



Moreover, the construction of ESO’s Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in the Chilean Atacama Desert will enhance our capability to identify and study such elusive cosmic phenomena.



The exploration of distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-holes-are-very-messy-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a> offers insights into the early Universe's mysteries, including the formation and evolution of galaxies. 



For Wolf, the motivation is also personal: “Personally, I simply like the chase,” he confesses. “For a few minutes a day, I get to feel like a child again, playing treasure hunt, and now I bring everything to the table that I have learned since.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-quasar-j0529-4351">Lessons from quasar J0529-4351</h2>



In summary, the discovery of the brightest object ever seen in the universe by human eyes, has invigorated the astronomical community. 



Quasar J0529-4351, powered by the fastest-growing black hole known, which consumes mass equivalent to one Sun daily, outshines all known objects in the Universe with its black hole amassing 17 billion Suns in mass. 



Remarkably, it was overlooked for decades, despite its presence in survey images since 1980, due to the limitations of automated analysis tools. 



ESO's findings challenge current methods of celestial object identification and promise exciting opportunities for future research with advanced instruments like the ESO's Extremely Large Telescope and the VLT Interferometer’s GRAVITY+ upgrade, potentially unraveling mysteries of the early Universe and its galactic constituents.



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Brightest object ever seen in the universe eats one star per day

Astronomers utilizing the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (VLT)...

The Gill Oxygen Limitation (GOL) theory suggests that fish are shrinking as global waters warm due to the limited surface area of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-shoulders-evolved-from-the-jawbones-of-ancient-fish-called-placoderms/">gills</a>, which constrains oxygen uptake. 



However, this widely accepted hypothesis has been recently challenged by a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a>.



The research, focusing on brook trout, found that while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-fish-shrink/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher temperatures</a> indeed resulted in smaller fish sizes, the change was not directly linked to gill surface area limitations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-temperature-on-fish-size">Impact of temperature on fish size</h2>



Joshua Lonthair, a lecturer in biology at UMass Amherst and the study's lead author, emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-temperature-threshold-can-the-human-body-handle/">temperature</a> on fish sizes.



"We know that global climate change is happening and our oceans and rivers are getting warmer. And we know that many animals - not just fish - are growing to smaller adult body sizes under warmer temperatures. We even have a name for this, the Temperature Size Rule. But despite decades of research, we still don’t understand why size decreases as temperature increases."



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



The researchers set out to examine the effects of increased water temperatures on three critical aspects of the Gill Oxygen Limitation (GOL) theory: the growth rate, energy needs, and gill surface area of fish. 



They chose brook trout as their subjects due to the species' rapid growth, significance to both the economy and ecology of the Northeastern U.S., and ease of study.



The team started the experiment with young brook trout, each weighing between one and two grams, placing them in tanks of either standard 15º Celsius water or warmer 20º Celsius water.&nbsp;



The experts monitored the fish's weight and size monthly from the beginning, alongside measurements of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/">oxygen</a> consumption after two weeks, three months, and six months to gauge their metabolic rates. Additionally, they collected samples of the gills from these fish to assess any changes in their surface area over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-fish-are-getting-smaller">Why fish are getting smaller</h2>



Analysis of the collected data revealed significant findings: the brook trout in the heated tanks exhibited reduced size, consistent with the Temperature Size Rule expectations.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the data also showed that the gill surface area was sufficient for the fish's oxygen needs, contradicting the GOL theory's assumption that limited gill surface area restricts growth at higher temperatures.



Moreover, although the metabolic rates of fish in the warmer tanks initially increased, indicating higher oxygen consumption, these rates normalized by the six-month mark. This adaptation suggests that brook trout can physiologically adjust to warmer conditions over time, further challenging the GOL theory's premise that temperature-induced oxygen limitations constrain fish growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-future-climate-impacts-nbsp">Predicting future climate impacts&nbsp;</h2>



“Oxygen use may still be an important limiting factor in fish size but, taken together, our findings show that GOL cannot predict what we’re seeing, and this has implications for predicting climate impacts on future fisheries and ecosystems,” Lonthair said



"Our work highlights the importance of interdisciplinarity. Fisheries and macroecology scientists tend to work on the population and species level, while the physiologists tend to work on the individual and cellular levels. But these are academic distinctions, not natural ones, and if we’re going to help fish survive warming waters, we need to work across biological scales and join the insights of all these fields," added senior author Professor Lisa Komoroske.



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



Thus, the research not only questions the validity of the GOL theory but also underscores the need for more comprehensive studies to fully understand the factors influencing fish size reduction in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-droughts-are-increasing-around-the-world-due-to-warming-climate/">warming climate</a>.&nbsp;



The study advocates for additional interdisciplinary research to adapt our fisheries management strategies to the realities of our changing world, moving beyond the simplistic explanations provided by theories like GOL.



So what are the precise mechanisms governing fish size and temperature? “We don’t know yet,” said Lonthair. “And it may not be a single mechanism - it may be a host of factors, including oxygen use. We need more interdisciplinary long-term studies so that we can understand how best to adjust to our warming world.”



The study authors collaborated with researchers from the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a>, <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>, and the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Davis</a>.



The research is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1242/jeb.246477" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental Biology</a>.



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Fish are getting smaller as waters temperatures rise

The Gill Oxygen Limitation (GOL) theory suggests that fish are...

For years, the supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-black-hole-creates-a-trail-of-stars/">black hole</a> at the heart of our Milky Way galaxy, Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*), has captivated scientists with its enigmatic presence. Now, scientists stand awestruck at the black hole's breathtaking spin, a revelation that unlocks a new chapter in our understanding of black holes.



“Our work may help settle the question of how fast our galaxy’s supermassive black hole is spinning,” said Dr. Ruth Daly, a professor at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>. “Our results indicate that Sgr A* is spinning very rapidly, which is interesting and has far-reaching implications.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-black-hole-spin">Measuring black hole spin</h2>



Analyzing the black hole, the scientists studied data from X-ray and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-radio-burst-traveled-through-space-for-8-billion-years-to-reach-earth/">radio telescopes</a> to understand how fastSgr A* spins. They used a special method called the outflow method to focus on the "wind" of particles flowing out from the black hole.&nbsp;



By measuring the energy and direction of this wind, they could estimate how fast the black hole is spinning. This is important because it helps us understand how black holes form and grow, and how they affect their surroundings.



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



Scientists calculated two key values to measure the spin:



<ul>
<li>Spin function: This reveals how the black hole's spin influences its ability to launch powerful jets of material. </li>



<li>Dimensionless spin: This acts like a "speedometer" for the black hole's spin, comparing its rotation to its size.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shape-and-black-hole-spin-speed">Shape and black hole spin speed</h2>



Researchers discovered that Sgr A* is spinning at an extremely high rate, approximately 60% of its theoretical maximum speed. This spin is crucial, as it's a black hole's fundamental property alongside its mass.&nbsp;



Additionally, the spin doesn't just sit there quietly. Its immense gravitational pull and rapid pace literally bend and twist the fabric of spacetime around it, warping it into a shape resembling a football. 



Einstein's theory of general relativity predicted this relativistic effect – the spinning black hole "drags" spacetime along with it.



Think of spacetime as a flexible sheet. A giant, rapidly spinning object like Sgr A* wouldn't just rest on it; it would twist and distort the sheet under its influence. And this distortion isn't even; it's shaped like a football because of the specific way the black hole's rotation affects spacetime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-the-spinning">Consequences of the spinning</h2>



The warped spacetime and fast spin of Sgr A* have several consequences for its surrounding environment. The spin affects how matter falls into the black hole. Instead of a straight plunge, the material gets "swirled" due to the spin, influencing its trajectory and rate of infall.



The rapid spin also fuels <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-describe-the-brightest-gamma-ray-burst-ever-recorded/">powerful jets</a> of material shooting out from the black hole. These jets are not random but influenced by the spin, potentially affecting their direction and intensity.



Both the warped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/">spacetime</a> and energetic jets affect how Sgr A* interacts with nearby stars and gas. The black hole's spin dictates the movement of these celestial objects, impacting their potential interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-activity-of-sgr-a-nbsp">Future activity of Sgr A*&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, the Sgr A* is in a relatively inactive state. This means it's interacting minimally with nearby matter, unlike its usual behavior of swallowing gas and dust and ejecting powerful jets.



Sgr A*'s current "outflows" - streams of matter and energy - are weak and diffuse, suggesting limited fuel available near the black hole. However, this state could change dramatically if more material gets close. Events like a star wandering too close or gas clouds drifting nearby could provide fresh "food" for the black hole.



“This work, however, shows that this could change if the amount of material in the vicinity of Sgr A* increases,” said Professor Daly. Increased material would allow Sgr A*'s spin to generate stronger, more focused outflows. The black hole's rotation efficiently transfers energy to incoming matter, accelerating it to high speeds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-black-hole-spin">Broader implications of black hole spin</h2>



When it's active, Sgr A*'s spin can energize the material it pulls in, creating powerful and focused jets of energy and matter.&nbsp;



“A spinning black hole is like a rocket on the launch pad,” said Biny Sebastian, a co-author of the study from the University of Manitoba. “Once material gets close enough, it’s like someone has fueled the rocket and hit the ‘launch’ button.”



These jets can travel vast distances and potentially disrupt gas clouds within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">galaxy</a>, impacting star formation.



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



The properties and behavior of supermassive black holes reveal how black holes interact with their surroundings, influenced by their spin. This helps us understand how they form, grow, and behave across cosmic time.



Moreover, studying black hole spins lets us test theories of gravity, especially general relativity, in extreme environments where gravity is incredibly strong.



By analyzing black hole spins, we can understand how jets and outflows are created, which are crucial for regulating star formation and galaxy growth.



But the story doesn't end there. Each new spin measurement could unlock even deeper mysteries, leading us closer to understanding the very fabric of the universe.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/mnras/stad3228" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a>.



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Spin of a new black hole is unlocking galactic mysteries

For years, the supermassive black hole at the heart of...

Annual carbon emissions from degraded mangrove forests could escalate by nearly 50,000% by the end of the century. This startling projection comes from a recent study led by <a href="https://www.montclair.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montclair State University</a>.



The surge in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mangrove-forest-reveals-ancient-climate-change-effects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> will primarily take place across degraded mangrove forests in regions like southern India, southeastern China, Singapore, and eastern Australia. 



These mangrove forests are crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-influences-coastal-carbon-storage-capacity/">carbon storage</a>, particularly in their soil. Despite their importance, human development activities have led to a noticeable decline in these vital carbon stocks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-loss-of-mangrove-carbon-stocks-nbsp">Massive loss of mangrove carbon stocks&nbsp;</h2>



Over the past two decades, the conversion of mangrove forests to agricultural, aquacultural, and urban areas has resulted in the loss of 158.4 million tons of global mangrove <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/">carbon stocks</a>.&nbsp;



This loss equates to the carbon emissions generated by transporting the entire population of the United States from New York to London by air, illustrating the substantial environmental impact of such degradation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-degraded-mangrove-forests">Studying degraded mangrove forests</h2>



The investigation, led by Professor Jennifer Krumins of Montclair State University, together with PhD candidates Shih-Chieh Chien and Charles Knoble, aimed to examine the correlation between human population density and soil carbon stocks in urban mangrove forests.&nbsp;



The research contributes to understanding the global carbon budget's dynamics concerning these ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



The findings highlight a concerning trend: in areas with a population density of 300 people/km2 - comparable to the population density of the UK or Japan - the carbon stored in mangrove soils near populated regions is about 37% less than in isolated mangrove forests.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the study estimates that the current annual rate of carbon emissions from mangrove loss is 7.0 Teragrams, a figure that is expected to increase to 3,392 Teragrams by the end of the century, in line with current predictions and increasing population densities.



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



Mangrove forests, which occupy roughly 0.1% of the Earth's land surface, are disproportionately significant in their carbon storage capability, especially within their soils. These ecosystems are known to contain three to four times the mass of carbon typically found in other forest types, making them a critical component of the global carbon cycling process.



“This work underscores the importance of protecting existing mangroves, especially in areas with high population density,” Krumins said.&nbsp;



“Mangrove forests are critical to the regulation of carbon sequestration, and it is important that we protect them. The first step is to understand the impact of human populations and activities on mangrove forest carbon stocks.” This call to action emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to safeguard these vital ecosystems for future generations and the planet's overall health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-degraded-mangrove-forests-nbsp">‌Degraded mangrove forests&nbsp;</h2>



Degraded mangrove forests are ecosystems that have suffered loss in their structure, function, and biodiversity due to various stressors such as pollution, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-amazon-crisis-deforestation-is-escalating-in-indigenous-territories/">deforestation</a>, climate change, and overexploitation. These stressors lead to significant changes in the mangrove ecosystem, including reduced tree height and density, lower species diversity, and compromised soil quality.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-degradation-nbsp">Impacts of degradation&nbsp;</h3>



The degradation of mangroves impacts not only the flora and fauna that depend on these ecosystems for habitat but also the human communities that rely on them for wood, food, and protection against coastal erosion and storms.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-ecosystems">Valuable ecosystems</h3>



The roots of mangrove trees play a crucial role in sediment stabilization and act as a buffer against storm surges and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-disasters-like-tsunamis-cause-lasting-health-impacts/">tsunamis</a>. When mangrove forests are degraded, the effectiveness of this natural barrier diminishes, leaving coastal areas more vulnerable to natural disasters.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-sinks">Carbon sinks</h3>



Furthermore, mangroves are efficient carbon sinks, storing large amounts of carbon in their biomass and soil. Degradation leads to the release of this stored carbon, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-and-conservation">Restoration and conservation</h3>



Restoration and conservation efforts are essential to reverse the degradation of mangrove forests. These efforts may include reforestation projects, protection laws to prevent further cutting and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">pollution</a>, and sustainable management practices that support the livelihoods of local communities while preserving the mangrove ecosystems.&nbsp;



Successful restoration not only involves planting mangroves but also ensuring that the conditions necessary for their survival, such as appropriate hydrology and protection from further disturbances, are met.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/ad13b6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.&nbsp;



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CO2 emissions from degraded mangrove forests set to increase by 50,000% 

Annual carbon emissions from degraded mangrove forests could escalate by...

Deep in the icy grip of the Arctic, a quiet revolution is underway. Creatures known as bowhead whales that have been swimming these waters for thousands of years have changed their migration patterns. This isn't some whimsical detour; it's a response to a world rapidly losing its ice to global warming.



Years of research from <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> reveal how the whales bend and adapt, and also warn of big changes in the Arctic, impacting everything in the marine ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-time-tracking-of-bowhead-whale-migration">Real-time tracking of bowhead whale migration</h2>



To understand why bowhead whales are changing their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/">migration</a> patterns, the researchers turned to a powerful tool: satellite tags. These tiny devices, attached to individual whales, allowed scientists to follow their journeys across the vast Arctic sea.



“Bowhead whales are highly vocal. Males sing pretty much twenty-four-seven from fall through spring, so you know when they’re there,” said Dr. Angela Szesciorka, a marine scientist at the Marine Mammal Institute who led the study.



The research team then compared modern whale movements with older records, revealing a clear shift over time.



Bowhead whales in the western Arctic have always followed the rhythm of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-ice-algae-heavily-contaminated-with-microplastics/">sea ice</a>. When summer melts the ice, they head north to feeding grounds - and when winter brings ice back, they travel south. But the recent study has noticed a change in their routine.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-whales-contribute-to-carbon-capture/">whales</a> seem to be lingering longer in their summer feeding areas before starting their fall migration south. It's like they're enjoying the feast a little longer before facing the colder months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bowhead-whales-feeding-strategy">Bowhead whales' feeding strategy</h2>



Changing climate leads to longer Arctic summers. Melting ice allows sunlight to reach deeper, triggering a bloom of tiny ocean plants called phytoplankton. This feast attracts a swarm of zooplankton, small fish, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-crustaceans-have-what-it-takes-to-survive-climate-change/">crustaceans</a>, creating an underwater smorgasbord.



Among these revelers are the majestic bowhead whales. They linger for weeks, indulging in the summer bounty. But their feasting isn't just about enjoyment; it's a critical preparation for the harsh winter.



The fat reserves they build now become fuel for the long, dark months when food is scarce and temperatures plunge. The longer they feast, the better equipped they are to face the Arctic's winter challenges.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-breeding-patterns">Changes in breeding patterns</h2>



Longer summers and ample food in the Arctic allow bowhead whales to feast and store fat, crucial for successful breeding. Well-fed whales are more likely to have healthy offsprings.



However, climate change throws a wrench in this cycle. Whales might delay their fall migration due to warmer waters, while shifting ice conditions disrupt breeding location and timing.



Bowhead whales usually choose specific, icy areas for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolf-spiders-change-their-mating-strategies-when-it-rains/">mating</a>, seeking protection from predators and harsh environments. Changing ice cover and warmer water could force them to breed elsewhere or at different times, potentially affecting their safety and calf survival.



Beyond these location issues, broader climate impacts pile on the stress: less food, more ships and exploration, and noisy oceans can all harm whale health and breeding behavior.



Dr. Szesciorka is concerned about a potential increase in ship collisions with bowhead whales. As whales shift north due to climate change and more ships travel in those areas, the risk of accidents goes up. “With this general northward shift paired with an increase in vessels and shipping, the threat of ship strikes will probably increase,” she said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-the-marine-ecosystem">Impact on the marine ecosystem</h2>



The Arctic Ocean is teeming with life, from tiny plankton to massive whales. All these creatures depend on each other to keep the ecosystem healthy. Bowhead whales, the giants of the Arctic, play a crucial role in this balance, and their movements have a big impact on everyone around them.



But what happens when their travels change? If their migration patterns change, where they eat and how much they eat changes too. This can affect the amount of food available for other animals, both big and small.



Moreover, when the big players, like bowhead whales, move around, the smaller ones have to adjust. If the whales leave their usual feeding grounds, the creatures they prey on might suddenly boom in numbers. This could be good news for some animals that eat those creatures, but bad news for others that depend on different food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-bowhead-whale-migration">Implications of bowhead whale migration</h2>



All of these changes, big and small, add up. Bowhead whales are like pillars holding up the Arctic ecosystem. If they move around too much, the whole thing might start to wobble. 



It’s a domino effect, where one change leads to another, throwing everything off balance. Not ideal for a healthy and happy ocean!



Bowhead whales, which were once considered a conservation success story, are changing their migration patterns due to climate change and human activities.&nbsp;



“A shift like this may not necessarily be a bad thing for the whales, but any time we see more overlap with whales and shipping traffic, we should be concerned,” said Dr Szesciorka. “There will be winners and losers, but only time will tell.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messengers-of-ocean-health">Messengers of ocean health</h2>



These whales are also like "messengers" of the ocean's health, and their changing behavior suggests big changes in the Arctic ecosystem, which could affect food webs and the environment.



“We saw these changes in migration patterns in just nine years,” she said. “For a species that can live to 200, that’s pretty stark. That shows they can adapt to their changing environments for now. But will there be a point where they can’t adapt anymore? We have to wait and see,” said Dr. Szesciorka.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1029/2023GL106416" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters.&nbsp;</a>



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Bowhead whales have changed their migration patterns

Deep in the icy grip of the Arctic, a quiet...

Beautiful,Exoplanet,,Part,Of,An,Alien,Binary,Star,System,,Alien

Luke Skywalker's upbringing on the harsh, desert landscape of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-discover-planetary-system-that-resembles-tatooine-from-star-wars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tatooine</a>, as depicted in the "Star Wars" saga, could have been markedly different had his fictional home been located in a more hospitable binary star system. 



This intriguing possibility is supported by findings from a recent Yale-led study, which suggests that planets orbiting two stars might actually have climates more conducive to life than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-life-on-planets-with-two-stars">Rethinking life on planets with two stars</h2>



This thought-provoking research indicates that binary star systems -- where planets orbit a primary star with a secondary star also in orbit around the system -- might inherently favor a more orderly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-find-a-planet-named-halla-that-shouldnt-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic arrangement</a>. 



This challenges the long-held perception of the universe as a domain ruled by chaos and misalignment. 



"We show, for the first time, that there is an unexpected pile-up of systems where everything is aligned," stated Malena Rice, an assistant professor of astronomy at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale</a> and the study's lead author. 



“The planets orbit precisely in the same direction that the first star rotates, and the second star orbits that system on the same plane as the planets.”



Her team's research, published on February 22 in The Astronomical Journal, reveals a surprising trend of planetary and stellar alignments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-binary-star-systems">Studying binary star systems</h2>



By employing data from the Gaia DR3 catalog, the <a href="https://exoplanetarchive.ipac.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Exoplanet Archive</a>, and the TEPCat catalog, Rice and her colleagues have meticulously crafted 3D geometries of planetary orbits in binary systems. 



Their analysis uncovered that out of 40 systems studied, nine exhibited perfect alignment -- with planets orbiting in the same direction as the rotation of the primary star, and the secondary star moving along the same plane as the planets.



This alignment could signify a natural inclination towards order in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-worlds-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary systems</a>, potentially increasing the likelihood of stable conditions suitable for life. 



"It could be an indication that planetary systems like to push toward an orderly configuration," Rice explained, noting the significance of such alignment for the formation and sustainability of life. 



Misaligned stellar companions can destabilize planetary orbits or cause extreme temperature variations, both of which are detrimental to the development of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-life-with-two-suns-implications-for-habitability">Planetary life with two suns: Implications for habitability</h2>



But what would life look like on a more temperate version of Tatooine? 



According to the study's findings, inhabitants of such a planet could experience continuous daylight during certain seasons, with one star illuminating one side of the planet and the other star the opposite side. 



This would ensure that the planet receives sunlight without the extreme temperatures associated with closer stellar proximity. 



In different seasons, both stars would shine on the same side of the planet, with one appearing significantly larger than the other due to its closer distance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-tatooine-future-of-exoplanet-exploration">Beyond Tatooine: Future of exoplanet exploration</h2>



In summary, this Yale-led study dramatically expands our understanding of the cosmos, revealing that binary star <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stellar-cannibalism-scientists-find-the-remnants-of-devoured-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">systems</a> might not only be more common but also more hospitable to life than previously believed. 



By demonstrating a surprising tendency towards orderly alignments, this research opens new horizons in the search for extraterrestrial life, challenging us to reconsider our assumptions about the conditions necessary for habitable planets. 



With these insights, we stand on the brink of a new era in astronomy, where the discovery of life-friendly planets in binary systems could become a reality, transforming our quest to find our place in the universe.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-3881/ad1bed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astronomical Journal</a>.



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Tatooine-like planets with two stars are hospitable to life

Luke Skywalker's upbringing on the harsh, desert landscape of Tatooine,...

The world is currently facing a critical health crisis that disproportionately affects our youngest citizens. Recent research has brought to light the very high increase in premature births and the severe health outcomes children face due to the impacts of extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-could-cause-one-billion-deaths-over-the-next-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



These include an increase in preterm births, a higher incidence of respiratory diseases and death, and a growing number of hospital admissions for children. 



Without immediate global action, these disturbing trends are set to impact children's health for generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-victims-of-climate-change">Hidden victims of climate change</h2>



For decades, scientists have been sounding the alarm on the risks associated with extreme weather events such as temperatures, floods, and bushfires. 



However, a disturbing study published in the Science of the Total Environment journal marks the first comprehensive review of scientific evidence on how climate change affects children's health and premature births. 



The study, led by Dr. Lewis Weeda from <a href="https://www.uwa.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Western Australia</a> and the Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre at <a href="https://www.telethonkids.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Telethon Kids Institute</a>, along with Matthew Flinders Professor of Global Ecology, Corey Bradshaw, from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>, synthesizes the findings of 163 health studies worldwide. 



It aims to guide government planning towards mitigating the adverse health outcomes of climate change on future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-premature-births-and-climate-change">Premature births and climate change</h2>



The researchers' analysis revealed a startling statistic. The risk of preterm birth could increase by an average of 60% due to exposure to extreme temperatures. 



Professor Corey Bradshaw expressed concern over the global increase in preterm birth rates, which could lead to lifelong complications for millions of children. 



"We've crunched the data to show how certain types of future weather events will worsen particular medical issues in the population," he explained, highlighting a direct correlation between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-denial-environment-warming-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and various child health issues. 



“We identified many direct links between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and child health, the strongest of which was a 60% increased risk on average of preterm birth from exposure to temperature extremes. Respiratory diseases, mortality, and morbidity, among others, were also made worse by climate change," Bradshaw added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-climate-change-impacts-on-child-health">Broader climate change impacts on child health</h2>



Apart from the significant risk of preterm births, respiratory diseases, mortality, and morbidity rates are also expected to worsen due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-disinformation-is-a-persistent-scourge-in-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>.



The study also examined the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aviations-contribution-to-climate-change-is-expected-to-intensify/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollutants</a>, finding that while the impact was less severe compared to temperature extremes, it was still significant. 



“The effects of different air pollutants on children’s health outcomes were smaller compared to temperature effects, but most pollutants still had an effect of some type, so the news is concerning," Bradshaw explained. 



"The children’s health issues we identified depend on weather extremes -- cold extremes give rise to respiratory diseases, while drought and extreme rainfall can result in stunted growth for a population.”



Weather extremes, such as cold, drought, and excessive rainfall, were linked to specific health outcomes like respiratory diseases and stunted growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-socio-economic-divide">The socio-economic divide</h2>



A concerning aspect of the research is its indication that the majority of analyzed studies were conducted in high-income nations, which contrasts sharply with the reality that children in lower-income countries face the highest risk of inadequate healthcare, infrastructure, and stable food supply. 



This disparity suggests that even advanced economies are not immune to the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-48-million-americans-deny-that-climate-change-is-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> on children's health, with risks varying across continents and socio-economic circumstances.



Professor Bradshaw warned of the rising social and financial costs associated with climate change, citing asthma as an example, which could cost up to US$1.5 billion due to a single fire season in the future. 



“Given that climate influences childhood disease, social and financial costs will continue to rise as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> progresses, placing increasing pressure on families and health services," Bradshaw said.



"For example, asthma has been estimated to cost as much as US$1.5 billion due to a single fire season in the future, while another study estimated the costs of a single case of childhood asthma at up to US$23,573 in the coming years.”



The research also highlights how geography plays a role in the health impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beneficial-plant-bacteria-likely-to-decline-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, with examples from Australia and South Africa showing differing consequences such as increased premature births and higher mortality rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cost-of-inaction-economic-and-social-implications">Cost of inaction: Economic and social implications</h2>



Dr. Weeda emphasized the need for immediate action to protect children from climate-related diseases. “Our research recognizes some important areas where children are most vulnerable to climate change,” he said. 



“The development of public health policies to counter these climate-related diseases, alongside efforts to reduce anthropogenic climate change, must be addressed if we are to protect current and future children.”



Finding solutions and implementing climate adaptation and mitigation policies would positively impact multiple <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Sustainable Development Goals</a>. 



Climate change is universal and adversely affecting all countries and people, and we must prepare societies for mounting threats to child health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-forward-action-and-policy-needed-now">Path forward: Action and policy needed now</h2>



In summary, the urgent call to action against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-opinions-swing-voting-and-elections-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> underscores a critical responsibility to safeguard the health and future of our children. 



This disturbing new research clearly demonstrates the severe impact of environmental extremes on young lives, highlighting the necessity for immediate, coordinated global efforts to mitigate these effects. 



By developing and implementing robust public health policies, alongside proactive climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, we can protect vulnerable populations from the dire health consequences forecasted. 



The time to act is now, to ensure that children worldwide inherit a healthier planet and a brighter future, free from the shadow of climate-induced health crises.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170944" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Climate change has increased premature birth risk by 60%

The world is currently facing a critical health crisis that...

In a world where "survival of the fittest" is seen as the absolute truth, a surprising study challenges this belief. Dr. James Saulsbury from the <a href="https://ku.edu/">University of Kansas</a> has uncovered secrets that change how we understand <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/">evolution</a>.



The research shows a different story. It's not just about adapting, but also about chance and luck playing a big role in who lives and who dies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-queen-hypothesis-nbsp">Red Queen hypothesis&nbsp;</h2>



Think of the famous scene in Lewis Carroll's "Through the Looking-Glass" where Alice runs as fast as she can yet stays in the same place. The Red Queen hypothesis in biology uses this imagery to explain how species evolve.&nbsp;



It's not just about becoming the strongest or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-animals-perceive-time-the-fastest/">fastest species</a>, but about being the fittest by keeping up with everyone else.



The theory suggests that organisms aren't simply competing for resources or outsmarting predators; they're engaged in an ongoing race against evolving threats and challenges.&nbsp;



Every adaptation, every shift in behavior, is a desperate attempt to stay in the same relative position.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neutral-theory-of-biodiversity-nbsp">Neutral theory of biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



By contrast, the neutral theory of biodiversity suggests that the "stroke of luck" plays a far bigger role than intense competition or adaptive superiority.&nbsp;



The theory proposes that most species are functionally equivalent in their ability to survive and reproduce. Their abundance and distribution aren't necessarily determined by being "better" or "worse," but by the whims of random births, deaths, immigrations, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-linked-to-1430-bird-extinctions/">extinctions</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-ancient-animals">Analysis of ancient animals</h2>



Dr. Saulsbury's team delved into the rich fossil record of microscopic marine creatures known as zooplankton. This allowed them to track species' lifespans over millions of years.&nbsp;



By analyzing the fossil’s ages at the time they vanished, the researchers could compare them to other species.



Dr. Saulsbury’s aim was to see if extinction was more like a random lottery, as the "neutral theory" predicted, or a fierce competition where only the best adapted survived, as the Red Queen hypothesis suggests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chance-and-the-struggle-for-survival-nbsp">Chance and the struggle for survival&nbsp;</h2>



Surprisingly, the researchers concluded that the forces shaping species' fates might be a mix of chance and the basic struggle for survival in a world with limited <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-environmental-cost-of-ai-what-are-we-willing-to-give-up-for-computing-power/">resources</a>.



In the past, people believed younger species were less likely to die out than older ones because they had more time to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-blend-in-to-adapt-to-diverse-environments/">adapt</a>. 



“Scientists kept finding instances where young species are especially at risk of extinction. So we had a theory vacuum – a bunch of anomalous observations and no unified way of understanding them,” explained Dr. Saulsbury.



The study suggests that younger species might actually be more likely to go extinct. This is because they haven't had as much time to evolve and deal with changes in the environment. This finding supports the idea that all species have an equal chance of survival, regardless of their age.



More importantly, the findings aren't a complete dethronement to the Red Queen hypothesis. The researchers still acknowledge the importance of continuous adaptation in some cases.&nbsp;



“Red Queen theory has been a compelling and important idea in the evolutionary biological community, but the data from the fossil record no longer seems to support that theory,” said Dr. Saulsbury.&nbsp;



“But I don't think our paper really refutes this idea because, in fact, the Red Queen theory and the neutral theory are, in a deep way, pretty similar. They both present a picture of extinction happening as a result of competition between species for resources and of constant turnover in communities resulting from biological interactions."



The study suggests that instead of a linear race, life thrives in a web of interconnectedness, driven by diverse forces like ​​cooperation, competition, and adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-is-like-a-lottery-nbsp">Nature is like a lottery&nbsp;</h2>



The study supports the idea that nature is more like a lottery than a competition. The neutral theory of biodiversity, once considered strange, suggests that all living things, from the tiniest insect to the largest whale, have an equal chance of disappearing. It's not about who's "better," but about random luck.



Dr. Saulsbury's work gives new life to the idea that luck, not just being the strongest or most specialized, can help species survive.&nbsp;



"What makes a species vulnerable to extinction? People are interested in learning from the fossil record whether it can tell us anything to help conserve species," said Dr. Saulsbury.



'The pessimistic side of our study is that there are ecological situations where there isn't a whole lot of predictability in the fates of species; there’s some limit to how much we can predict extinction."&nbsp;



"To some extent, extinction will be decided by seemingly random forces - accidents of history. There’s some support for this in paleobiological studies."



For instance, the extinction of dinosaurs, likely due to an asteroid impact, paved the way for mammals to take center stage. This wasn't because mammals were inherently "better," but because they just happened to be around when the dinosaurs were not.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-and-versatility-nbsp">Adaptability and versatility&nbsp;</h2>



Another example is animals living on an island, cut off from the mainland. Fewer predators and competitors let them evolve in unique ways. This "luck" can lead to amazing adaptations, like the flightless birds of Galapagos or the giant lemurs of Madagascar. These were all created by chance events like volcanic eruptions, separating them from their mainland ancestors.



But being in the right place isn't everything. Some species have another secret weapon: adaptability. These "generalists" aren't picky about their environment. They can eat different foods, live in different places, and handle change better than specialists. Think of a raccoon, happy in a city trash can or a forest stream. This "versatility luck" helps them survive as the world around them shifts.



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



The study explains that even weak or young species can survive if they have adequate resources. This means protecting forests, reefs, and other natural areas so animals have space and resources they need.&nbsp;



Changes in the environment, like climate change and pollution, hurt young species the most. We need to slow down these changes to give all animals a better chance. This means reducing pollution, using energy wisely, and working together to protect the planet.



Raising public awareness and educating the public about the complexities of extinction and biodiversity loss is also essential.&nbsp;



Using the study’s knowledge, the public and policymakers can better appreciate the need for comprehensive conservation strategies that address the challenges of preserving biodiversity.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.230762912">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Survival of the fittest? Study suggests it's more a game of chance 

In a world where "survival of the fittest" is seen...

A new study from the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a> has revealed a link between high levels of niacin and the development of cardiovascular disease. Niacin is a B vitamin that is commonly found in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slimming-down-on-a-western-diet-incredible-new-drug-could-make-it-happen/">Western diet</a>. It is also used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-previously-unknown-pathway">Previously unknown pathway </h2>



The researchers have identified a previously unknown pathway involving 4PY - a byproduct of excess niacin intake. This metabolite plays a critical role in heart disease progression.



Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, has been a staple in food fortification practices in the United States for decades. However, the research suggests that excess niacin contributes to cardiovascular diseases through the elevation of 4PY levels in the bloodstream. 



Elevated levels of 4PY have been strongly associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stroke-deaths-expected-to-rise-to-five-million-by-2030/">strokes</a>, and other adverse cardiac events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-direct-damage-to-blood-vessels">Direct damage to blood vessels </h2>



In preclinical studies, Dr. Stanley Hazen and his team demonstrated that 4PY contributes to vascular inflammation. The experts also found that 4PY directly damages blood vessels, potentially leading to atherosclerosis over time. 



The study further explores genetic links between 4PY and vascular inflammation. It lays the groundwork for potential new interventions and therapeutics aimed at reducing or preventing this inflammation.



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



“What’s exciting about these results is that this pathway appears to be a previously unrecognized yet significant contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Hazen.&nbsp;



“What’s more, we can measure it, meaning there is potential for diagnostic testing. These insights set the stage for developing new approaches to counteract the effects of this pathway.”



“For decades, the United States and more than 50 nations have mandated niacin fortification in staple foods such as flour, cereals and oats to prevent disease related to nutritional deficiency."



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



However, one in four study subjects in the researchers’ patient cohorts appear to be getting too much niacin. These individuals had high levels of 4PY, which appears to contribute to cardiovascular disease development.



"The main takeaway is not that we should cut out our entire intake of niacin - that’s not a realistic approach,” said Dr. Hazen. “Given these findings, a discussion over whether a continued mandate of flour and cereal fortification with niacin in the U.S. could be warranted.”



Dr. Hazen noted that broader use of supplements made with niacin have also become popular because of presumed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anti-aging-molecule-extends-lifespan-by-improving-cellular-health/">anti-aging</a> purposes. He said that patients should consult with their doctors before taking over-the-counter supplements and focus on a diet rich in fruit and vegetables while avoiding excess carbohydrates.



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



The implications of this research are far-reaching. They challenge long-standing practices and beliefs regarding niacin supplementation and dietary intake. For years, niacin was a favored treatment for lowering LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, due to its presumed benefits. 



However, this study sheds light on why niacin may no longer be the preferred treatment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-cholesterol-may-increase-the-risk-of-dementia/">cholesterol</a> management. The adverse effects of excess niacin could detract from its cholesterol-lowering benefits.



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



“Niacin’s effects have always been somewhat of a paradox,” said Dr. Hazen. “Despite niacin lowering of cholesterol, the clinical benefits have always been less than anticipated based on the degree of LDL reduction."&nbsp;



"This led to the idea that excess niacin caused unclear adverse effects that partially counteracted the benefits of LDL lowering. We believe our findings help explain this paradox. This illustrates why investigating residual cardiovascular risk is so critical; we learn so much more than what we set out to find.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41591-023-02793-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



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Vitamin B paradox: Supplement linked to heart disease risk

A new study from the Cleveland Clinic has revealed a...

A,Lake,In,Central,California's,San,Joaquin,Valley,Is,Partially

In a remarkable case of environmental reclamation, Tulare Lake - once the largest body of freshwater west of the Mississippi River - has re-emerged in the San Joaquin Valley of California after vanishing 130 years ago.&nbsp;



This resurgence, triggered by a series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consecutive-atmospheric-rivers-cause-far-more-damage/">atmospheric rivers</a> over California in 2023, marks a significant moment not only for the natural landscape but also for Indigenous communities, wildlife, and agricultural workers in the area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-significance-nbsp">Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>



Vivian Underhill, formerly a postdoctoral research fellow at <a href="https://news.northeastern.edu/2024/02/05/tulare-lake-reappearance/">Northeastern University</a>, has extensively studied the lake's disappearance and unexpected return. 



Underhill highlighted the lake's historical significance, noting that it was a vital waterway that enabled steamships to carry agricultural supplies across what is now an arid landscape.&nbsp;



Tulare Lake, or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/tulare-lake_returned_california_2024_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pa’ashi</a>" as it is known to the Indigenous Tachi Yokut, was primarily fed by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada mountains, creating a large and vibrant ecosystem in an area that receives minimal rainfall.



Underhill noted that this isn’t the only time the lake has returned since the 1800s. “It happened in the ’80s, it happened once in the ’60s, a couple of times in the ’30s.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-reclamation-efforts-nbsp">Land reclamation efforts&nbsp;</h2>



The disappearance of Tulare Lake in the late 19th century was a consequence of land reclamation efforts by the state of California, aimed at converting public and indigenous lands into private farmland. 



This process involved draining the lake to irrigate surrounding arid lands, fundamentally altering the region's landscape and ecology.&nbsp;



Underhill described this transformation as a "deeply settler colonial project" that had lasting impacts on the region's Indigenous communities and natural habitats.



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



However, the recent return of Tulare Lake has brought with it a host of environmental and social changes. The resurgence of water has led to a cooling of local temperatures and the return of diverse wildlife, including species considered vulnerable or imperiled.&nbsp;



Migratory birds, fish, and amphibians have been particularly notable beneficiaries of the lake's return, highlighting the area's continued ecological significance. 



Underhill explained that Tulare Lake was once part of the Pacific Flyway, and was an important stopover area for migratory birds.&nbsp;



“The loss of that habitat has been a major issue in bird conservation and bird diversity," said Underhill. “Something that continues to amaze me is - (the birds) know how to find the lake again. It’s like they’re always looking for it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-of-tulare-lake">Human impact of Tulare Lake</h2>



The human impacts of the lake's return are complex and varied. For the Tachi Yokut, the re-emergence of "Pa’ashi" has been a profound spiritual and cultural revitalization, allowing them to reconnect with traditional practices.&nbsp;



Conversely, the agricultural community faces challenges, with growers implementing flood prevention measures to protect farmland, often at the expense of surrounding worker communities who have suffered from flooding and displacement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-blessing-or-a-curse">A blessing or a curse?</h2>



Underhill emphasized the mixed nature of Tulare Lake's return, acknowledging the personal and property losses suffered by many while also pointing to the ecological and cultural resurgence it represents. The lake's return is seen not just as a result of catastrophic flooding but as a reminder of the region's historical and natural state.



"Most mainstream media coverage - from The New York Times to the Bakersfield Californian - has focused on what the lake has flooded: farm equipment, crops, dairies, and homes. They frame this water as catastrophic flooding that has destroyed millions of dollars of crops and equipment. But these are not (only) floodwaters. This is a lake returning," said Underhill.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-restoration-of-tulare-lake-nbsp">Ecological restoration of Tulare Lake&nbsp;</h2>



As efforts to drain the lake continue, Underhill suggests a re-evaluation of land management practices in light of climate change, advocating for the lake's preservation as part of a broader ecological and economic strategy.&nbsp;



Underhill noted that fish biologists and water scientists also argue that the lake should be restored as habitat and as part of a growing movement toward Indigenous management.



"Recognizing Pa’ashi as central to this landscape’s ecosystem would remake mainstream senses of the valley: no longer the productive agricultural region that feeds the nation (at a steep premium). Letting Pa’ashi remain could heal the Central Valley’s relationship with water, serving as water storage, flood protection, and a profound new turn in ecological restoration."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-san-joaquin-valley-and-tulare-lake">More about the San Joaquin Valley and Tulare Lake</h2>



As discussed above, the San Joaquin Valley is a rich tapestry of lush farmland, bustling cities, and diverse communities. Stretching over 250 miles from the north to the south, it forms the southern portion of the California Central Valley, bounded by the Sierra Nevada to the east and the Coast Ranges to the west. This fertile valley plays a pivotal role in California's agricultural sector, producing a significant portion of the nation's fruits, vegetables, and nuts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic challenges and opportunities</h3>



The San Joaquin Valley is often referred to as the breadbasket of the world, and for good reason. Its warm climate, coupled with ample water supply from the Sierra Nevada snowmelt, creates ideal conditions for farming. The valley boasts a wide array of crops, including grapes, almonds, tomatoes, cotton, and oranges. Additionally, it is a leading producer of dairy products in the United States. The agricultural productivity of the region not only feeds America but also contributes significantly to the global food supply.



Despite its agricultural success, the San Joaquin Valley faces numerous economic challenges. Many communities in the valley deal with high levels of poverty and unemployment. The region's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, making it susceptible to fluctuations in water availability and international trade policies. However, efforts are underway to diversify the economy, with investments in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, showing promise. Moreover, the valley's central location makes it a strategic hub for distribution and logistics industries.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural diversity and community life</h3>



Water management is a critical issue in the San Joaquin Valley. The valley is at the forefront of California's water-related challenges, including droughts, groundwater depletion, and conflicts over water rights. Sustainable water use practices and innovative irrigation technologies are essential for the valley's future prosperity. Efforts to restore and protect natural habitats, such as the San Joaquin River restoration project, highlight the balance between agricultural development and environmental conservation.



The San Joaquin Valley is home to a vibrant tapestry of cultures and communities. The region's history of immigration, from the Dust Bowl migration to recent waves from Latin America and Southeast Asia, has created a diverse cultural landscape. Festivals, farmers' markets, and community events celebrate this diversity, offering a glimpse into the valley's rich cultural heritage.



In summary, the San Joaquin Valley is a region of contrasts, where agricultural bounty coexists with economic challenges, and environmental concerns meet innovative solutions. Its role as an agricultural powerhouse is undisputed, but the future of the valley lies in balancing growth with sustainability. As it navigates these challenges, the San Joaquin Valley continues to be an essential part of California's landscape, contributing significantly to the state's economy, culture, and identity.



The full report by Underhill is published in the journal <a href="https://openrivers.lib.umn.edu/article/the-return-of-paashi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Rivers</a>.&nbsp;



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Tulare Lake has returned in California after completely vanishing for 130 years 

In a remarkable case of environmental reclamation, Tulare Lake -...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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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

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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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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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...