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...

A pioneering study led by the <a href="https://umich.edu/">University of Michigan</a> (U-M), utilizing advanced artificial intelligence and social media analytics, has found that approximately 15% of Americans are skeptical about the reality of climate change. 



This revelation comes at a time when scientific consensus has repeatedly warned of the increasing risks posed by a warming climate, including heightened occurrences of flooding, wildfires, and sea-level rise, among other disasters.



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



Drawing on Twitter data spanning from 2017 to 2019, the researchers employed AI techniques to gauge public sentiment on climate change, mapping out both belief and denial across the United States.&nbsp;



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50591-6">Scientific Reports</a> on February 14, delves into the role social media plays in propagating climate change denialism, pinpointing influential figures, such as former President Donald Trump, who have significantly contributed to spreading misinformation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-data-nbsp">Social media data&nbsp;</h2>



"Prior to the advancement of AI and social media data, this work relied on expensive and time-consuming surveys," explained Joshua Newell, the study's senior author and a professor at U-M's School for Environment and Sustainability.



By analyzing over 7.4 million geocoded tweets with ChatGPT's Large Language Model, the team distinguished tweets as either supporting or opposing climate change, subsequently mapping these attitudes at both state and county levels. This analysis not only confirmed the 14.8% national denial rate, aligning with prior studies, but also highlighted demographic and geographic patterns in climate change skepticism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overall-trends-nbsp">Overall trends&nbsp;</h2>



The findings indicate a higher acceptance of climate change along the U.S. coasts, whereas central and southern regions, including Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, and North Dakota, exhibit higher rates of denialism. Intrastate variances were also notable; for instance, California's Shasta County and Texas's Hockley County showed significantly higher denial rates than their respective state averages.



Political affiliation emerged as a dominant factor influencing climate change beliefs, with a notable correlation between Republican voters and climate change skepticism. The study also observed a link between climate denialism and low COVID-19 vaccination rates, suggesting a broader trend of skepticism towards scientific consensus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-public-opinion-nbsp">Shaping public opinion&nbsp;</h2>



The study also ventures into the social media landscape, identifying key influencers and the formation of distinct communities around climate change belief and denial, largely operating within echo chambers with minimal cross-communication.



"The most heavily retweeted post includes one by Trump that questions climate change due to unusually cold weather in the U.S., and another where he casts doubt on a U.N. climate report," Newell noted, emphasizing the influence of prominent figures in shaping public opinion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-misinformation-nbsp">Combating misinformation&nbsp;</h2>



Given the divisive nature of climate change discourse, the researchers advocate for social media platforms to take a more active role in flagging misinformation and consider stricter policies against users who perpetuate falsehoods about climate change.



"This study provides a basis for developing strategies to counter this knowledge vulnerability," Newell concluded, stressing the importance of combating misinformation to foster a more informed public discourse on climate change.



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More than 48 million Americans deny that climate change is real

A pioneering study led by the University of Michigan (U-M),...

Scientists have made progress in understanding how the brain processes time, potentially rewriting the narrative on neural flexibility and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cheese-may-contain-nutrients-that-prevent-cognitive-decline/">cognitive function</a>. 



The research, led by Professor Arkarup Banerjee in the <a href="https://www.cshl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory</a>, focused on the vocalizations of Alston's singing mouse from Costa Rica, offers profound insights into how our brains may bend the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perception of time</a> to adapt to varying circumstances. 



This phenomenon could have far-reaching implications across numerous fields including technology, education, and therapy.



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



Life's rhythm is inherently unpredictable, oscillating between moments that seem to sprint past and those that trudge along. 



Humans exhibit a remarkable ability to adapt to these temporal shifts, whether it's keeping up the rhythm of a conversation or matching the pace of a busy crowd. 



The enigma of how the brain orchestrates these adjustments has long puzzled scientists. 



“There are many instances where we have to do the same action but at different tempos. So the question is, how does the brain do it," said Professor Banerjee. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alston-s-singing-mouse">Alston's singing mouse</h2>



The study's focus on Alston's singing mouse, a species known for its distinctive, human-audible vocalizations, provides a unique window into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural mechanics</a> of temporal processing. 



These mice communicate through songs that vary in length and tempo, making them ideal subjects for investigating how neural circuits might govern the flexibility of timing in vocalization.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="k4kpWaed1x-3367443-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temporal-scaling-nbsp">Temporal scaling&nbsp;</h2>



By simulating duets with these mice and analyzing activity in the orofacial motor cortex (OMC), Professor Banerjee and his team observed a phenomenon they termed "temporal scaling." 



Unlike a clock that measures absolute time, OMC neurons appear to encode relative time, dynamically adjusting the interval between vocalizations. 



“Instead of encoding absolute time like a clock, the neurons track something like relative time,” explained Professor Banerjee. “They actually slow down or speed up the interval. So, it’s not like one or two seconds, but 10%, 20%.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adjusting-the-perception-of-brain-time">Adjusting the perception of brain time </h2>



This discovery not only sheds light on how the brain modulates vocal communication but also suggests a broader principle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/playing-instrument-lifelong-music-engagement-better-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural operation</a>. 



The ability to adjust the perception of time could be a fundamental aspect of how the brain processes various sensory and motor tasks, offering a glimpse into the intricate mechanisms that allow for the flexibility and adaptability of behaviors.



“It’s this three-pound block of flesh that allows you to do everything from reading a book to sending people to the moon," said Professor Banerjee. 



"It provides us with flexibility. We can change on the fly. We adapt. We learn. If everything was a stimulus-response, with no opportunity for learning, nothing that changes, no long-term goals, we wouldn’t need a brain. We believe the cortex exists to add flexibility to behavior.”



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



The implications of the study are vast, opening up new avenues for exploring how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-screen-time-changes-the-brain-based-on-23-years-of-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brains</a> enable us to navigate the world. 



"These results provide a framework for studying hierarchical control circuits, a common design principle across many natural and artificial systems," wrote the researchers.



From enhancing educational methods to developing therapeutic interventions for neurological disorders, the potential applications of understanding how the brain bends time are as limitless as the human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-rats-have-an-imagination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">imagination</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-perceives-time">How the brain perceives time</h2>



The human brain perceives time through a complex interplay of various regions, rather than through a single "time center." 



This perception is a result of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-is-constantly-working-to-learn-from-our-mistakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain's processing</a> of continuous information from the external environment and its internal states.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-regions">Key regions</h3>



At the core of time perception are the basal ganglia and the cerebellum, which are believed to play critical roles in processing temporal information, such as the duration of events.&nbsp;



The prefrontal cortex is involved in planning and anticipating future events, which is essential for our sense of the passage of time. 



Additionally, the hippocampus, known for its role in memory formation, allows us to place events in a temporal sequence, creating a coherent narrative of our past.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influential-factors">Influential factors</h3>



Time perception can be influenced by various factors, including attention, emotion, and the nature of the task at hand. 



For example, when we are focused on a task that is engaging, time may seem to pass more quickly, a phenomenon often referred to as "time flies when you're having fun." Conversely, when we are bored or waiting anxiously, time can seem to drag.



Moreover, individual differences in time perception highlight the subjective nature of time. Factors such as age, cognitive abilities, and even cultural background can influence how one perceives the duration of events.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-duration-and-the-brain">Time duration and the brain</h3>



Neuroscientific research has also shown that the brain can encode short and long durations differently, with different mechanisms and regions involved in the milliseconds to seconds range compared to hours to days.&nbsp;



The perception of very short durations, for example, is thought to involve sensory and motor systems, while longer durations involve more cognitive processes, such as memory and attention.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41593-023-01556-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>. 



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Our brains "bend time" to adapt and keep up with life's rhythm

Scientists have made progress in understanding how the brain processes...

Honeybees possess an extraordinary ability to adapt their flight mechanics and avoid overheating in response to rising temperatures, ensuring their survival and continued nectar foraging in a warming world.



This research from the <a href="https://www.uwyo.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wyoming</a> uncovered the resilience of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-celebrating-bees-and-beekeepers-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">essential pollinators</a> and highlights their crucial role in the face of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honeybees-adapting-to-rising-temperatures">Honeybees adapting to rising temperatures</h2>



Jordan Glass, a postdoctoral research associate at the University's Department of Zoology and Physiology, embarked on this study to explore how extreme heat impacts the foraging capabilities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-are-very-loyal-to-their-flower-patches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a>. 



Amidst growing concerns over the rapid decline of insect pollinators, largely attributed to climate change, this research provides a glimmer of hope. 



It demonstrates that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-have-surprising-abilities-to-maintain-their-nest-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> can forage effectively, without risking their lives, across a wide temperature range, from 77 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.



The team meticulously analyzed the bees' flight muscle temperatures, metabolic rates, and water loss while carrying nectar in a controlled environment. 



Additionally, high-speed video recordings offered insights into adjustments in their wing flapping mechanics at different temperatures. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honeybees-ingenious-flight-adjustments">Honeybees' ingenious flight adjustments</h2>



The findings were remarkable: at temperatures up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, bees exhibited increased flight muscle temperatures and metabolism. 



However, at 104 degrees, these parameters remained stable, suggesting an adaptive mechanism to mitigate heat stress.



Glass's analysis revealed a fascinating adaptation: to counteract the risk of overheating at higher temperatures, bees decreased their wingbeat frequency and increased stroke amplitude. 



This adjustment not only enhances flight efficiency but also minimizes metabolic heat production, thus conserving water -- a crucial adaptation in hot, dry conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-honeybees-against-climate-change">Resilience of honeybees against climate change</h2>



This study illuminates the sophisticated strategies <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-type-of-sugar-that-kills-honeybees-could-help-fight-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> employ to combat the challenges posed by a warming climate. 



While the findings alleviate some concerns about the vulnerability of honeybees to climate-induced temperature increases, Glass warns that the threat is not entirely averted. 



“Due to the capacity of hot bees to reduce metabolic heat production during flight, our data suggest that, under dry and poor forage conditions, (dehydration) may limit activity before overheating, impairing critical pollination services provided by honeybees,” Glass wrote. 



“Even with reductions in metabolic heat production, (dehydration) likely limits foraging at temperatures well below bees’ critical thermal maxima in hot, dry conditions.”



As the planet continues to warm, the resilience of honeybees is very encouraging. Yet, the research underscores the importance of addressing the broader implications of climate change on our natural world. 



The adaptability of honeybees serves as a testament to the intricate balance of ecosystems and the critical need for conservation efforts to safeguard these essential pollinators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honeybees-higher-temperatures-and-climate-change">Honeybees, higher temperatures, and climate change</h2>



As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybee-pollination-produces-plant-offspring-vastly-inferior-to-plants-pollinated-by-other-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> face mounting challenges in our warming world. Climate change, with its extreme weather patterns, rising temperatures, and altered landscapes, poses a significant threat to these vital pollinators. 



Honeybees, crucial for pollinating crops and wild plants, are now at the forefront of environmental concern, grappling with the direct and indirect effects of a changing climate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupted-ecosystems-and-foraging-patterns">Disrupted ecosystems and foraging patterns</h3>



Climate change disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems, affecting the availability of flowering plants that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-inherit-altruistic-traits-from-their-mother/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> rely on for nectar and pollen. 



Altered blooming times and the reduced diversity of plants not only limit food sources but also force bees to venture further afield in search of sustenance, increasing their exposure to risks and energy expenditure.



Rising temperatures challenge honeybees' ability to maintain optimal hive temperatures. While bees are adept at adapting their flight behavior to avoid overheating, as revealed in recent studies, extreme heat can still push them beyond their limits. 



High temperatures can lead to increased water needs for cooling hives, exacerbating the risk of dehydration and impairing their ability to forage effectively.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pesticides-and-pathogens-a-double-whammy">Pesticides and pathogens: A double whammy</h3>



Climate change also exacerbates the threat of pesticides and pathogens. Warmer temperatures can enhance the toxicity of certain chemicals and increase the prevalence of diseases and parasites that afflict honeybee colonies. 



These factors, combined with habitat loss and pollution, contribute to the declining bee populations observed worldwide.



The plight of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-came-first-bee-venom-or-bee-stingers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> underlines the urgent need for global action against climate change. Protecting and restoring habitats, reducing pesticide use, and supporting sustainable agriculture are critical steps toward ensuring the survival of honeybees. 



Moreover, fostering biodiversity and creating bee-friendly environments can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on these essential pollinators.



In summary, the impact of climate change on honeybees is a stark reminder of our interconnectedness with nature. As stewards of the planet, it is our collective responsibility to combat climate change and protect the biodiversity that sustains our food systems and natural ecosystems. 



The survival of honeybees and, by extension, our own future, depends on our actions today to create a more sustainable and resilient world.



The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2311025121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Why honeybees don't overheat when loaded with nectar in rising temperatures

Honeybees possess an extraordinary ability to adapt their flight mechanics...

Earth's global expanse of coral reefs is significantly larger than previously known to science. Recent research spearheaded by the University of Queensland made this encouraging discovery using advanced satellite mapping. Their work marks a pivotal step forward in the conservation of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-bleaching-releases-bacteria-that-put-further-strain-on-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crucial ecosystems</a>.



<a href="https://researchers.uq.edu.au/researcher/22630" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Mitchell Lyons</a>, a key figure from UQ’s School of the Environment and a contributor to the <a href="https://allencoralatlas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allen Coral Atlas project</a>, shared that scientists have identified approximately 348,000 square kilometers of shallow coral reefs, extending down to depths of 20-30 meters. 



“This revises up our previous estimate of shallow reefs in the world’s oceans,” Dr Lyons said. “Importantly, the high-resolution, up-to-date mapping satellite technology also allows us to see what these habitats are made from."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-true-global-scale-of-earth-s-coral-reefs">The true global scale of Earth's coral reefs</h2>



Of particular note is the discovery that 80,000 square kilometers of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-growth-cannot-keep-pace-with-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> boast a hard bottom surface, an environment conducive to coral growth, in stark contrast to areas characterized by sand, rubble, or seagrass. 



"This data will allow scientists, conservationists, and policymakers to better understand and manage reef systems," Dr. Lyons added.



The project utilized over 1.5 million samples and 100 trillion pixels from the <a href="https://sentinels.copernicus.eu/web/sentinel/missions/sentinel-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sentinel-2</a> and <a href="https://www.planet.com/our-constellations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Planet Dove CubeSat satellites</a>, creating a high-resolution global map that offers an unprecedented view of the world's coral reefs. 



“This is the first accurate depiction of the distribution and composition of the world’s coral reefs, with clear and consistent terminology,” Dr Lyons said. “It’s more than just a map -- it’s a tool for positive change for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-nurseries-need-protection-equal-to-that-of-established-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> and coastal and marine environments at large.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worldwide-effort-of-science-and-conservation">Worldwide effort of science and conservation</h2>



Associate Professor Chris Roelfsema, also from UQ, highlighted the collaborative nature of the reef mapping project, which involved over 480 contributors. 



The resultant maps and data are publicly available through the Allen Coral Atlas and Google Earth Engine, ensuring widespread access. 



"These resources are already being utilized in coral reef <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-some-corals-more-resilient-to-climate-change-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a> across the globe," Dr. Roelfsema noted, listing countries from Australia to Kenya and regions extending to western Micronesia.



The detailed insights provided by these maps equip scientists, policymakers, and local communities with the information needed to make informed decisions aimed at preserving our coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-light-pollution-from-coastal-cities-is-damaging-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a>. 



This compelling research highlights the underestimated extent of coral reefs and sets a new standard for how we approach their protection. 



With the power of detailed, accessible data, we are now better positioned than ever to safeguard these vital ecosystems for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-role-of-coral-reefs-in-the-global-environment">Vital role of coral reefs in the global environment</h2>



As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-fish-have-feces-that-is-deadly-to-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a> reefs, often described as the rainforests of the sea, are among the most valuable ecosystems on our planet. 



These underwater marvels play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the global environment, supporting an incredible diversity of marine life, protecting coastlines, and sustaining economies. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-hotspots">Biodiversity hotspots</h3>



Coral reefs support an astonishing variety of organisms. They provide habitat, breeding grounds, and nursery areas for an estimated 25% of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. 



This biodiversity not only makes reefs hotbeds for marine life but also crucial for the genetic diversity that underpins resilience to environmental changes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-coastal-protection">Earth's coastal protection</h3>



Coral reefs act as natural barriers, absorbing the energy of waves and storms, and thereby protecting coastal communities, habitats, and shorelines from erosion and flooding. 



This buffering capacity is invaluable, especially for low-lying island nations and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arise-project-will-coral-islands-survive-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal regions</a> that are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels and intensified storm events.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-value-of-global-coral-reefs">Economic value of global coral reefs</h3>



The economic contribution of coral reefs is immense, supporting millions of jobs worldwide through fisheries, tourism, and medicine. 



Reefs are vital for commercial and subsistence fisheries, providing a source of protein for millions of people. 



The allure of their biodiversity also underpins a thriving marine tourism industry, from snorkeling and diving to educational and conservation activities. 



Moreover, coral reef organisms are a source of potential pharmaceutical compounds for medicines.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-regulation">Climate regulation</h3>



Coral reefs play a role in the global carbon cycle. Although less recognized than forests for their carbon sequestration capabilities, reefs contribute to the ocean's role as a carbon sink by capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 



The process of calcification, by which corals build their skeletons, indirectly removes carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgency-of-conservation">Urgency of conservation</h3>



Despite their importance, coral reefs face unprecedented threats from climate change, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollutants-from-fossil-fuels-are-embedded-in-coral-skeletons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices. 



The increasing frequency of coral bleaching events, driven by rising sea temperatures, threatens their survival. 



Conserving and restoring coral reefs is not just an environmental imperative but a necessity for human well-being and economic stability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-call-to-action">Global call to action</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crust-forming-algae-have-the-potential-to-dominate-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation of coral reefs</a> requires global cooperation and action. Protecting these ecosystems means reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing sustainable fishing practices, managing tourism responsibly, and investing in restoration efforts. 



Each action taken to preserve coral reefs contributes to the health of our planet and secures the livelihoods and futures of communities worldwide.



Coral reefs are irreplaceable treasures of the Earth, embodying the interconnectedness of life and the urgency of environmental stewardship. Their conservation is a testament to our commitment to a sustainable and resilient global environment.



The Allen Coral Atlas, a vision brought to life with funding from the late Paul Allen’s Vulcan Inc. and managed by Arizona State University in partnership with Planet, the Coral Reef Alliance, and The University of Queensland, stands as a testament to collaborative innovation in environmental conservation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949790624000016?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports Sustainability</a>.



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Satellites discover huge expanse of Earth's coral reefs that were previously unknown

Earth's global expanse of coral reefs is significantly larger than...

In the vast and often harsh landscapes of the desert, where survival hinges on the ability to navigate effectively, ants of the genus Cataglyphis exhibit a remarkable feat of orientation.&nbsp;



These desert ants - though diminutive in size and possessing brains with less than one million neurons - have been found to use the Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-can-switch-their-perception-of-earths-magnetic-field-on-and-off/">magnetic field</a> for navigation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-processing-magnetic-information-nbsp">Processing magnetic information&nbsp;</h2>



The remarkable discovery, which was initially made by researchers from the <a href="https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/university/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Würzburg</a> (JMU), challenged previous understandings of animal navigation and prompted further investigation into the underlying mechanisms.



The latest study provides brand new insights into how desert ants process magnetic information. The researchers have discovered that the ants' internal compass, known as the central complex, is a key site for processing Earth's magnetic signals. These signals are also processed in "mushroom bodies" that are responsible for learning and memory in the ant's brain.



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



Dr. Pauline Fleischmann elaborated on the ants' preparatory behaviors, noting that before venturing out for the first time, the ants perform learning walks to calibrate their navigation systems. "Before an ant leaves its underground nest for the first time and goes in search of food, it has to calibrate its navigation system."



These walks involve intricate movements and orientations that align them with the magnetic field, even when the nest entrance - a mere hole in the ground - is out of sight. The team's field studies in southern Greece, where these ants are native, have demonstrated that these orientation behaviors are indeed influenced by Earth's magnetic field.



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



The experts analyzed young workers that had not yet undertaken any learning walks. The desert ants were observed in experiments that were precisely planned out.&nbsp;



The ants were sometimes allowed to venture out under natural conditions, and other times they were allowed to venture out in a manipulated magnetic field that displayed chaotic directions or did not allow horizontal orientation.&nbsp;



With this faulty directional information, it was not suitable as a reliable reference system for the ants' behavior to look back to the nest entrance during the learning walks, noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spatial-memory-formation-nbsp">Spatial memory formation&nbsp;</h2>



"Our neuroanatomical brain analyses show that ants exposed to an altered magnetic field have a smaller volume and fewer synaptic complexes in an area of the brain responsible for the integration of visual information and learning, the so-called mushroom body," explained the study authors.



This contrasted sharply with ants that experienced natural magnetic conditions, whose sensory experiences led to an increase in synaptic connections in these brain regions. The results demonstrate the importance of magnetic information for spatial memory formation.



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



According to the experts, the research extends beyond the calibration of the ants' compass. It sheds light on the broader implications of multisensory stimuli on neuronal plasticity and navigation.



Going forward, the team plans to investigate which sensory organ receives the magnetic information and via which sensory pathways it is transmitted and processed. Ultimately, the desert ant may be used as a model organism for studying the neuronal underpinnings of navigation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2320764121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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How desert ants use Earth's magnetic field for navigation 

In the vast and often harsh landscapes of the desert,...

A,Joro,Spider,In,A,Web,On,A,Rainy,Morning

In the past decade, Joro spiders, an orb-weaving species native to East Asia, has made a conspicuous invasion across Georgia and the Southeastern United States. 



Since its first sighting in the U.S. around 2013, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/riding-the-wind-joro-spiders-are-invading-the-u-s-at-an-alarming-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this invasive species</a> has not only adapted but thrived, raising questions about its success in urban environments. 



Recent research from the <a href="https://www.uga.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> sheds light on this phenomenon, revealing the spider's remarkable resilience and ability to tolerate urban stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-city-vibes-how-joro-spiders-deal-with-urban-areas">City vibes: How Joro spiders deal with urban areas</h2>



The study focused on the Joro spider's surprising tolerance for vibrations and noise, common elements in urban landscapes that typically stress many animals. 



Researchers found that despite living near busy roads, Joro spiders maintain their health and body mass, comparable to their counterparts in quieter areas. 



This adaptability suggests that the Joro spider can compensate for the challenges of a human-dominated environment.



<a href="https://www.ecology.uga.edu/directory/andy-davis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andy Davis</a>, a research scientist at UGA's<a href="https://www.ecology.uga.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Odum School of Ecology</a> and the corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of vibrations for spiders, a key sensory input for detecting prey. 



"But these Joro webs are everywhere in the fall, including right next to busy roads, and the spiders seem to be able to make a living there. For some reason, these spiders seem urban tolerant," Davis explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surviving-and-thriving-in-the-fast-lane">Surviving and thriving in the fast lane</h2>



Joro spiders are frequently found in places where native Georgia spiders are absent, constructing their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/joro-spiders-they-may-be-massive-but-they-are-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distinctive golden webs</a> in high-traffic areas such as between power lines, atop stoplights, and over gas station pumps. 



This prompted Davis and his team to investigate their behavior near roadsides using a tuning fork to simulate prey vibrations. 



The findings showed that Joro spiders attacked simulated prey 59% of the time, with a slight decrease in attack frequency near busier roads compared to quieter areas. However, this did not affect their overall health or body mass.



Alexa Schultz, a third-year ecology student at UGA and co-author of the study, noted, "It looks like Joro spiders are not going to shy away from building a web under a stoplight or an area where you wouldn’t imagine a spider to be. I don’t know how happy people are going to be about it, but I think the spiders are here to stay."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-joro-spiders-in-concrete-jungles">Joro spiders in concrete jungles</h2>



The Joro spider's native habitat in Japan shares a similar climate and latitude with the U.S., suggesting a predisposition for adaptation. 



<a href="https://news.uga.edu/joro-spiders-likely-to-spread-beyond-georgia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Previous research</a> from Davis' lab highlighted the spider's high metabolism, heart rate, and cold tolerance as factors contributing to its rapid population growth in the U.S. The current study adds urban vibration and sound tolerance to the list of traits facilitating the Joro spider's expansion.



Despite their proliferation and the unease they may cause, researchers assure that the spiders are relatively timid and pose no significant threat. 



In summary, the Joro spider's successful colonization of urban environments underscores a remarkable example of nature's adaptability in the face of human expansion. 



Through resilience and an uncanny ability to tolerate urban stressors like noise and vibrations, these spiders not only survive but thrive, creating new ecosystems within our bustling cities. 



This alarming research from the University of Georgia illuminates the unexpected ways in which wildlife can adapt to urban landscapes, challenging us to reconsider our perceptions of nature in the city. 



As we move forward, embracing the presence of the Joro spider and other adaptable species offers a unique opportunity to foster biodiversity and balance within our urban ecosystems, highlighting the importance of coexistence in an ever-changing world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-joro-spiders-in-cities">More about Joro spiders in cities</h2>



As discussed above, the Joro spider is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/joro-spiders-may-soon-colonize-the-entire-east-coast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beautiful orb-weaver</a> from East Asia that is known for its vivid colors and impressive web-spinning skills. 



This species made its first appearance in the United States around 2013 in the state of Georgia. Since then, it has rapidly expanded its territory across the Southeastern U.S., captivating scientists and citizens alike with its resilience and adaptability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics </h3>



Characterized by a bright yellow and blue body, with distinctive red markings, the Joro spider is not only a marvel of nature's artistry but also an engineering genius. 



Females, significantly larger than males, can weave webs that span up to three feet in diameter. These webs are not only traps for prey but also serve as a testament to the spider's intricate architectural abilities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-and-habitat">Adaptation and habitat </h3>



The Joro spider's successful establishment in the U.S. is a fascinating study of ecological adaptation. Thriving in both rural and urban areas, Joro spiders demonstrate a remarkable tolerance for varied climates and environments. 



Originally hailing from a climate similar to the U.S. Southeast, they've shown an impressive ability to withstand the region's temperature fluctuations and even brief freezes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-predation">Diet and predation </h3>



As predators, Joro spiders play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. They primarily feed on small insects caught in their resilient webs, which are known for their strength and durability. 



The spiders' predation habits contribute to the ecological balance by regulating pest populations, showcasing their integral role in their new ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproduction-and-growth">Reproduction and growth </h3>



The reproductive cycle of the Joro spider is another area of interest for researchers. In late summer to early fall, females lay egg sacs that can contain hundreds of eggs, ensuring the continued expansion of their population. 



The rapid growth of their numbers in the U.S. underscores the spider's robust adaptability and the absence of natural predators in their new environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-ecological-impact">Cultural and ecological impact </h3>



In their native Japan, Joro spiders are woven into the cultural fabric, often celebrated for their diligent web-weaving. 



In the U.S., while they have stirred some concern due to their menacing size and invasive status, researchers emphasize their potential benefits, particularly in pest control. 



The Joro spider's presence challenges us to consider the delicate balance between native and non-native species, and the potential for symbiotic relationships within ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbol-of-adaptation-and-coexistence">Symbol of adaptation and coexistence </h3>



The history and details of the Joro spider encapsulate a remarkable journey of migration, adaptation, and coexistence. 



As we learn more about these colorful arachnids, their story offers valuable lessons on resilience, ecological balance, and the interconnectivity of global ecosystems. 



The Joro spider's successful integration into the Southeastern U.S. landscape, and now into the heart of U.S. cities, serves as a reminder of nature's endless capacity for adaptation and the intricate tapestry of life that supports our world.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2813-3323/2/1/4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arthropoda</a>.



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Menacing Joro spiders are now moving their invasion into US cities

In the past decade, Joro spiders, an orb-weaving species native...

In recent years, the Arctic Ocean has been facing an unprecedented environmental challenge that is set to redefine its landscape. A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Armineh Barkhordarian from <a href="https://www.uni-hamburg.de/">Universität Hamburg</a> has shed light on a distressing trend that has become a new norm in the Arctic: frequent marine heatwaves.&nbsp;



The study highlights a stark reality linked to higher anthropogenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/">greenhouse gas emissions</a> and their profound impact on the Arctic's marine environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-transformation-nbsp">Dramatic transformation&nbsp;</h2>



Since 2007, the Arctic Ocean has undergone a dramatic transformation. The researchers found that between 2007 and 2021, the marginal zones of this frigid expanse have been the stage for 11 marine heatwaves, each marking an average temperature increase of 2.2 degrees Celsius above the seasonal norm and lasting an average of 37 days.&nbsp;



A pattern has emerged since 2015 where marine heatwaves are occurring every year, underscoring a worrying trend of increasing frequency and intensity.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-human-activity-nbsp">The role of human activity&nbsp;</h2>



The year 2020 was particularly alarming, witnessing the most severe marine heatwave recorded to date in the Arctic Ocean, which persisted for 103 days, reaching peak temperatures that were four degrees Celsius above the long-term average.&nbsp;



The results of the analysis indicate that the likelihood of such an event happening in the absence of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions is less than one percent, effectively highlighting the significant role of human activity in these changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accumulation-of-heat">Accumulation of heat</h2>



Dr. Barkhordarian’s study provides critical insights into the mechanisms behind these heatwaves. The research proves, for the first time, that heatwaves are produced when sea ice melts early and rapidly after the winter. This process allows for the accumulation of considerable heat in the water by July, when solar radiation reaches its peak.&nbsp;



“In 2007, a new phase began in the Arctic,” said Dr. Barkhordarian, who is an expert on climate statistics. “There is less and less of the thicker, several-year-old ice, while the percentage of thin, seasonal ice is consistently increasing.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-consequences-nbsp">Potential consequences&nbsp;</h2>



The implications of these findings are far-reaching. Marine heatwaves, as defined by the study, occur when temperatures at the water’s surface are higher than 95 percent of the values from the past 30 years for at least five consecutive days.



This new climate in the Arctic not only leads to the continual loss of sea ice but also results in warmer waters, both of which pose substantial threats to the Arctic ecosystem. The potential consequences include the collapse of food chains, reduction in fish stocks, and an overall decline in biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sobering-projection-nbsp">Sobering projection&nbsp;</h2>



At the heart of this study is the concept of attribution research, which seeks to delineate the extent of human influence on climate events. By comparing the observed phenomena with models of a world unaffected by anthropogenic greenhouse gases, the research underscores the undeniable impact of human activity on the frequency and severity of marine heatwaves in the Arctic.&nbsp;



Through the use of satellite data and coupled climate models, the study not only documents the current state of the Arctic Ocean but also provides a sobering projection of its future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-human-factor">The human factor</h2>



"Event attribution analysis demonstrates that the 103-day long 2020 event – the most intense (4 ∘C) recorded so far in the Arctic – would be exceptionally unlikely in the absence of greenhouse gas forcing in terms of both intensity and duration," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Our further results imply that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, along with the expansion of first-year ice extent, moderate marine heatwaves in the Arctic will very likely persistently reoccur."



As marine heatwaves become an annual occurrence in the Arctic, the study highlights the critical importance of understanding and addressing the human contributions to climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-heatwave-of-2020">Arctic heatwave of 2020</h2>



The Arctic heatwave of 2020 was marked by record-breaking temperatures, with a staggering 38°C (100.4°F) recorded in the Siberian town of Verkhoyansk on June 20, 2020. This temperature was confirmed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) as a new Arctic record. 



The heatwave led to devastating wildfires, significant sea ice loss, and contributed to making 2020 one of the three warmest years on record. The average temperatures over Arctic Siberia reached up to 10°C above normal for much of the summer, emphasizing the rapid warming of the Arctic region.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43247-024-01215-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Frequent heatwaves have become the norm in the Arctic Ocean

In recent years, the Arctic Ocean has been facing an...

A recent study has uncovered promising evidence that men who eat a plant-based, vegan diet exhibit better sexual health and a lower instance of erectile dysfunction.



According to new research conducted by leading researchers at NYU <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grossman School of Medicine</a> and <a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard T.H. Chan</a> School of Public Health, a diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts -- while limiting meat and dairy -- may significantly mitigate common complications experienced by prostate cancer patients, such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.



This important analysis sheds light on the potential for dietary choices, namely plant-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-diet-improves-heart-health-in-a-matter-of-weeks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diets</a>, to enhance the quality of life in individuals undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, or simply for men who would like to improve their sexual health



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vegan-power-boosting-male-sexual-health">Vegan power: Boosting male sexual health</h2>



The research, engaging over 3,500 men diagnosed with the disease, sought to determine if a shift towards more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-and-keto-diets-rapidly-transform-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based vegan</a> foods could alleviate the myriad of sexual health and quality-of-life challenges that typically follow prostate cancer treatments.



By categorizing participants into five distinct groups based on their dietary habits -- specifically, the ratio of plant to animal foods consumed -- the study found notable improvements in sexual and urinary health, as well as hormonal well-being, among those who favored a plant-centric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dont-say-vegan-food-labeling-should-focus-on-health-and-sustainability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan diet</a>.



Men in the top quintile for plant food consumption reported an 8% to 11% enhancement in sexual function and up to a 14% improvement in urinary health, experiencing fewer issues related to incontinence, obstruction, and irritation. 



Additionally, this group also saw up to a 13% increase in scores related to hormonal health, indicating fewer symptoms associated with low energy, depression, and hot flashes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-plants-to-prostate-health-unpacking-the-study">From plants to prostate health: Unpacking the study</h2>



Dr. Stacy Loeb, the study's lead author and a distinguished urologist and professor at NYU Langone Health, emphasized the significance of these findings. 



“Our findings offer hope for those looking for ways to improve their quality of life after undergoing surgery, radiation, and other common therapies for prostate cancer, which can cause significant side effects,” said Dr. Loeb. 



“Adding more fruits and vegetables to their diet, while reducing meat and dairy, is a simple step that patients can take.”



Loeb's research is pioneering in its discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-a-plant-based-diet-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based</a> vegan dietary impacts on sexual and urinary health among prostate cancer patients, while also reinforcing previous research indicating a plant-based diet's role in reducing the risk of developing prostate cancer. 



It challenges longstanding myths about meat consumption and male sexual health, suggesting that plant-based vegan foods may, in fact, offer superior benefits in this area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-deeper-the-science-behind-the-greens">Digging deeper: The science behind the greens</h2>



Prostate cancer stands as one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers affecting American men, underscoring the importance of this research. 



The study leveraged data from the <a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/hpfs/">Health Professionals Follow-Up Study</a>. This massive dataset is a comprehensive project initiated in 1986 by the Harvard Chan School.



Their initiative collects detailed nutritional and health-related information from over 50,000 male health professionals to understand how diet influences cancer, heart disease, and other serious health outcomes.



Participants, primarily treated for early stages of prostate cancer, provided dietary information every four years through questionnaires. 



Additionally, surveys conducted biennially helped assess various health and sexual health issues, including incontinence, erectile dysfunction, bowel function, energy levels, and mood. 



The study controlled for factors such as weight, physical activity, and other lifestyle choices to isolate the effects of normal or vegan diet on health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-and-the-future-of-male-sexual-health">Plants and the future of male sexual health</h2>



Remarkably, the research indicated that high consumption of any plant-based or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-meat-diets-have-four-times-the-environmental-impacts-of-vegan-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegan</a> food was associated with better sexual, urinary, and vitality scores, irrespective of demographic or lifestyle differences, or even a history of medical conditions like diabetes. 



The improvement in bowel function observed in those consuming more plant-based foods likely stems from the dietary fiber present in these diets.



Dr. Loeb's team plans to extend their research to include a more diverse patient population and those with advanced stages of the disease, given the initial study's demographic was predominantly White healthcare professionals. 



“These results add to the long list of health and environmental benefits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating more plants</a> and fewer animal products,” said Loeb. “They also clearly challenge the historical misconception that eating meat boosts sexual function in men, when in fact the opposite seems to be the case.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-next-steps">Implications and next steps</h2>



In summary, Dr. Loeb's breakthrough study illuminates the powerful role a plant-based vegan diet can play in enhancing the quality of life and sexual health for men, particularly prostate cancer patients. 



By embracing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts, and reducing meat and dairy intake, individuals can significantly improve sexual, urinary, and hormonal health, challenging old myths and setting a new standard for dietary recommendations in cancer care. 



This research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of plant-based diets while offering hope for men seeking natural ways to mitigate the side effects of prostate cancer treatment, thereby improving their overall sexual health.



Next steps will include further studies to broaden these findings across more diverse populations and stages of the disease.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cncr.35172" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancer</a>.



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Men exhibit better sexual health eating a plant-based vegan diet

A recent study has uncovered promising evidence that men who...

In a concerning revelation, a recent study reveals that polar bears may not have the capacity to adapt to the increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/">longer summers</a> caused by climate change. 



The research indicates that spending more time stranded on land puts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-unravel-the-secrets-of-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bears</a> at risk of starvation.



Over a three-week period during summer, scientists observed the behavior of 20 polar bears stranded on land in the western Hudson Bay region of Manitoba, Canada. 



These bears were deprived of their primary food source, seals, which are more readily available on ice. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declining-sea-ice-and-longer-summers">Declining sea ice and longer summers</h2>



"The Arctic marine ecosystem is experiencing rapid declines in sea ice extent, age, and thickness, which are altering ecological dynamics. Within this ecosystem, polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are an apex predator that use sea ice as a platform to hunt primarily ringed (Pusa hispida) and bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus)," wrote the study authors. 



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loss-of-genetic-diversity-in-polar-bears-linked-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polar bears</a> acquire the majority of their energy resources during a brief period in the late spring and early summer when seals are giving birth to and weaning their pups. Climate warming is increasing the duration that some areas of the Arctic are ice free, which in turn forces polar bears in these regions to move to land."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stranded-polar-bears">Stranded polar bears</h2>



In Manitoba, the bears experimented with various strategies to conserve energy and find food. They engaged in resting, scavenging, and foraging. 



Despite these efforts, the outcome was disheartening: nearly all of the observed polar bears experienced significant weight loss, averaging about 2.2 pounds per day.



The study challenges the notion that polar bears might adapt to the changing climate by mimicking the survival tactics of grizzly bears, which can survive on a more varied diet and are more accustomed to terrestrial living.&nbsp;



Charles Robbins, director of the <a href="https://wsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State University</a> Bear Center and co-author of the study, pointed out the critical differences between the two species. “Polar bears are not grizzly bears wearing white coats. They’re very, very different,” he said. 



Unlike grizzlies, polar bears have evolved to rely heavily on the high-fat content of seals, necessitating their access to sea ice for efficient hunting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-expenditure-nbsp">Energy expenditure&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers used innovative methods to gather data on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radar-imaging-will-help-protect-polar-bears-from-human-disturbances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears' behavior</a> and energy expenditure during their time on land, including the use of collars equipped with video cameras and GPS. 



This approach provided insights into the bears' diet - which included bird and caribou carcasses, berries, kelp, and grasses - and their efforts to conserve energy by minimizing movement.



Despite observing a broad spectrum of behaviors and energy expenditures among the bears, the experts concluded that the energy benefits gained from terrestrial food sources were offset by the greater energy expenditure required to access these resources. 



Only one bear in the study managed to gain weight, having found a dead marine mammal on land.



Study lead author Anthony Pagano is a wildlife biologist with the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/centers/alaska-science-center/science/polar-bear-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey Polar Bear Research Program</a> and a former postdoctoral researcher at WSU.



“We found a real diversity of bear behaviors, and as a result, we saw a diverse range of energy expenditures,” said Pagano. "The terrestrial foods did give them some energetic benefit, but ultimately, the bears had to spend more energy to access those resources."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-longer-summers-for-polar-bears">Implications of longer summers for polar bears</h2>



This research is particularly significant as it focuses on the southernmost extent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-sweaters-use-synthetic-fibers-mimicking-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar bear</a> range in the western Hudson Bay, an area believed to be experiencing the impacts of climate warming more acutely than other Arctic regions. 



The local polar bear population has already experienced a dramatic decline, estimated at 30% since 1987, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change.



The findings from this study not only contribute to our understanding of polar bear ecology and the challenges they face as their natural habitat continues to change but also serve as a poignant reminder of the broader implications of global warming on Arctic wildlife.  



As the ice-free period extends, polar bears across the Arctic face an increased risk of starvation, highlighting the need for immediate and concerted conservation efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve these majestic animals for future generations.



“As polar bears are forced on land earlier, it cuts into the period that they normally acquire the majority of the energy they need to survive,” said Pagano. “With increased land use, the expectation is that we'll likely see increases in starvation, particularly with adolescents and females with cubs.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-44682-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>. 



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Polar bears are struggling to survive longer summers, and unlikely to adapt

In a concerning revelation, a recent study reveals that polar...

Over the past 30 years, Greenland has witnessed a significant transformation of its land mass. The warming climate has transformed once icy and snowy regions of the country into barren landscapes, wetlands, and shrubby areas ripe with plants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-a-greener-greenland-reveals-shocking-reality-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green vegetation</a>. 



Approximately 11,000 square miles (28,707 square kilometers) of its ice sheet and glaciers have melted, an area comparable to the size of Albania. This significant loss accounts for about 1.6% of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-shelves-have-lost-over-35-percent-of-their-volume/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">total ice coverage</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellite-stories-uncovering-greenland-s-vegetation">Satellite stories: Uncovering Greenland's vegetation</h2>



This transformation is a direct consequence of rising air temperatures, which not only accelerate ice retreat but also affect land surface temperatures, greenhouse gas emissions, and landscape stability.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> have meticulously analyzed satellite data from the 1980s to the 2010s to track these changes. Their findings reveal the profound impact of warmer temperatures on Greenland's land cover.



<a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/faculty/staff/1012/jonathan-carrivick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jonathan Carrivick</a>, a key author of the study, emphasizes the linkage between rising temperatures and the observed land cover changes.



“Warmer temperatures are linked to the land cover changes that we are seeing on Greenland," Carrivick said. “By analyzing high resolution satellite images, we have been able to produce a detailed record of the land cover changes that are taking place.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vanishing-vistas-greenland-s-ice-loss-exposed">Vanishing vistas: Greenland's ice loss exposed</h2>



The ice loss predominantly occurs around the peripheries of existing glaciers and is notably pronounced in the north, south-west, west, mid-north-west, and south-east of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-no-longer-has-to-worry-about-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>. 



Concurrently, the land area covered by vegetation has more than doubled, expanding by 33,774 square miles (87,475 square kilometers) over three decades. 



This increase in vegetation is especially marked in the south-west, east, and north-east of Greenland, with a significant rise in dense wetland vegetation near Kangerlussuaq in the south-west and in isolated regions in the north-east.



Carrivick points out that the receding ice is setting off a cascade of environmental responses, leading to further ice loss and the 'greening' of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mysterious-arc-joins-ice-on-a-fjord-in-western-greenland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>. 



"We have seen signs that the loss of ice is triggering other reactions which will result in further loss of ice and further ‘greening’ of Greenland, where shrinking ice exposes bare rock that is then colonized by tundra and eventually shrub," Carrivick explained.



“At the same time, water released from the melting ice is moving sediment and silt, and that eventually forms wetlands and fenlands.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearing-ice-alters-global-temperatures">Disappearing ice alters global temperatures</h2>



This phenomenon sees exposed bare rock gradually become colonized by tundra and eventually shrub. The melting ice also contributes to the formation of wetlands and fenlands by moving sediment and silt.



The retreat of ice impacts land surface temperatures through the albedo effect, where snow and ice, being highly reflective, help maintain cooler global temperatures. 



As ice recedes, it unveils bedrock that absorbs more solar energy, thereby increasing land surface temperatures. 



Melting ice also feeds into lakes, further raising temperatures since water absorbs more solar energy than snow and ice.



The research highlights a near fourfold increase in wetlands across Greenland, particularly in the east and north-east, which are significant sources of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-absorbs-more-methane-than-it-emits-surprising-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane emissions</a>. 



The expansion of vegetation and wetlands not only signals but also exacerbates permafrost thaw, active layer thickening, and the release of greenhouse gases previously trapped in Arctic soils.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floods-flora-and-vegetation-for-future-greenland">Floods, flora and vegetation for future Greenland</h2>



The team also developed a model predicting areas on Greenland likely to undergo marked and accelerated changes in the future. 



Dr. Michael Grimes, lead author of the report, notes the simultaneous expansion of vegetation and retreat of ice and glaciers as significantly altering the flow of sediments and nutrients into coastal waters. 



“These changes are critical, particularly for the indigenous populations whose traditional subsistence hunting practices rely on the stability of these delicate ecosystems," says Grimes.



"The loss of ice mass in Greenland is a substantial contributor to global sea level rise, a trend that poses significant challenges both now and in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-s-wake-up-call">Greenland's wake-up call</h2>



In summary, Greenland's dramatic transformation underscores the urgent need for global action against climate change. 



As ice retreats and vegetation expands, the island's landscape undergoes profound changes, signaling broader environmental shifts that affect not only local ecosystems and indigenous communities but also contribute significantly to rising global sea levels. 



The results of the University of Leeds' study presented above vividly illustrates the cascading effects of warmer temperatures, offering an urgent call to action to address the root causes of climate change. 



By understanding these changes and their impacts, we can work towards mitigating future risks and preserving the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-52124-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Greenland is becoming a 'green' land as melting ice is replaced with vegetation

Over the past 30 years, Greenland has witnessed a significant...

Scents may offer a new avenue for treating individuals who are struggling with depression, according to a new study from the <a href="https://www.pitt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pittsburgh</a> School of Medicine. 



The research highlights the power of familiar scents in triggering autobiographical memory recall, potentially offering a unique tool for therapeutic intervention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotionally-vivid-memories-nbsp">Emotionally vivid memories&nbsp;</h2>



The study's findings suggest that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-treatment-restores-sense-of-smell-in-long-covid-patients/">olfactory system</a> - our sense of smell - may play a crucial role in the mental health recovery process.&nbsp;



Unlike traditional approaches that often rely on verbal or visual cues to stimulate memory and emotional response, this research indicates that scents can evoke more specific and emotionally vivid memories, potentially helping individuals break free from the cycle of negative thoughts that often characterize depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanisms-of-memory-recall">Mechanisms of memory recall</h2>



With a background in neuroscience focusing on autobiographical memories, study senior author Dr. Kymberly Young has long been interested in the mechanisms of memory recall. She noted the challenge that depressed individuals face in recalling specific autobiographical memories and the strong, vivid memories healthy individuals can trigger through scents.&nbsp;



Given the direct connection between the olfactory bulb and the amygdala - the part of the brain responsible for emotional processing and memory recall - Dr. Young hypothesized that scents might offer a more effective cue for memory recall in depressed individuals.



“It was surprising to me that nobody thought to look at memory recall in depressed individuals using odor cues before,” said Dr. Young.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



To test this theory, the researchers conducted an experiment using opaque glass vials filled with various potent, familiar scents, such as oranges, ground coffee, shoe polish, and Vicks VapoRub.&nbsp;



Participants in the study, including individuals diagnosed with depression, were asked to smell the contents of the vials and then recall a specific memory, regardless of its emotional valence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-striking-results-nbsp">Striking results&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that participants who were exposed to odor cues demonstrated a significantly higher ability to recall specific events, rather than general memories, compared to those who received word cues.&nbsp;



Moreover, the memories recalled with the help of scents were described as more vivid and immersive, enhancing the feeling of reliving the event.&nbsp;



Dr. Young noted that even though she did not direct participants to specifically recall positive memories, the results showed that participants were more likely to remember positive events when prompted by scents.



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



The research opens up new possibilities for therapeutic interventions for depression, suggesting that engaging the amygdala through olfactory cues could be a simple yet effective strategy to enhance memory recall and emotional processing.&nbsp;



This approach could complement existing treatments, offering a low-tech, accessible method to assist individuals in overcoming depression by leveraging the natural connections between scent, memory, and emotion.



As Dr. Young prepares for more technologically advanced studies using brain scanners to further explore the connection between scents and amygdala activation in depressed individuals, the implications of her current findings are already generating excitement.&nbsp;



The potential to improve memory recall, and consequently, problem-solving and emotion regulation, offers hope for addressing some of the core challenges faced by individuals with depression.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.55958" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Unlocking memories with scents may help treat depression

Scents may offer a new avenue for treating individuals who...

Many,Red,Worms,In,Dirt,-,Bait,For,Fishing

The quiet invasion of non-native earthworms across North America, once considered benign, has been revealed as a significant threat to the continent's ecosystems. According to a new study led by <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/">Stanford University</a>, at least 70 species of invasive earthworms have made their way into North American soil. 



The study presents the largest database of alien <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthworms-are-important-drivers-of-global-food-production/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthworms</a> to date, shedding light on a critical yet underappreciated ecological issue.



“Earthworms tell the story of the Anthropocene, the age we live in,” said study senior author Professor Elizabeth Hadly.&nbsp;



“It is a story of global homogenization of biodiversity by humans, which often leads to the decline of unique local species and the disruption of native ecosystem processes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introduction-of-invasive-earthworms-nbsp">Introduction of invasive earthworms&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthworms-are-unseen-heroes-in-food-production/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthworms</a>, generally hailed for their beneficial roles in agriculture and gardening, are now under scrutiny for their potential as antagonists in native ecosystems.&nbsp;



The introduction of alien earthworm species to North America, a practice dating back to the late 1800s, aimed to exploit their positive contributions to soil health. 



These creatures aerate the soil, facilitate water and nutrient penetration, and enrich the ground with their castings. However, the study highlights a darker side to this narrative.&nbsp;



Non-native earthworms have begun to stress native plants, trees, and wildlife by altering soil properties and encouraging the spread of invasive plant species.



For example, in the northern broadleaf forests of the U.S. and Canada, alien earthworms’ impact on soil stresses trees such as sugar maples by altering the microhabitat of their soils. This triggers a cascading series of impacts on the food web that help invasive plants spread.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-displacement-of-native-earthworms">Displacement of native earthworms</h2>



One of the most striking findings of the research is the sheer scale of alien <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthworms-invade-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthworm</a> colonization, with these species found in 97% of studied soils across North America. 



These invaders now account for 23% of the continent's earthworms, showcasing a significant displacement of native species.&nbsp;



The researchers noted that invasive earthworms are at a distinct advantage, considering that many female alien earthworm species can produce offspring without fertilization from a male. 



Furthermore, melting permafrost in the northern parts of the continent is providing brand new habitats for invasive earthworms.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-action-against-invasive-earthworms">Urgent need for action against invasive earthworms</h2>



The study's lead author, Jérôme Mathieu, an associate professor of Ecology at the <a href="https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr/en">Sorbonne University</a>, emphasized the urgent need for attention to this phenomenon, pointing out that human activities continue to facilitate the proliferation of these alien species, threatening the survival of native earthworms.



The researchers utilized a vast collection of records spanning from 1891 to 2021, combined with data on U.S. border interceptions of alien earthworms from 1945 to 1975, to map out the introduction pathways and spread of these species across North America.&nbsp;



The experts found that overall, invasive earthworms represent 23% of the continent’s 308 earthworm species, and account for 12 of the 13 most widespread earthworm species. &nbsp;



The proportion of alien <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-soil-ecosystems-earthworms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthworms</a> in Canada was found to be three times greater than that of native earthworms. 



Furthermore, the study revealed that there is about one alien earthworm for every two native species across most of the lower 48 U.S. states and Mexico.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-and-implications-nbsp">Key findings and implications&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis, bolstered by machine learning techniques, reveals a complex web of introduction and dissemination, highlighting the adaptability and resilience of these organisms. 



The study also underscores the importance of prevention and early detection in managing the threat posed by alien earthworms.&nbsp;



“These ratios are likely to increase because human activities facilitate the development of alien species that threaten native earthworm species, a phenomenon still largely overlooked,” said Professor Mathieu.



“This is most likely the tip of the iceberg,” said study co-author John Warren Reynolds. “Many other soil organisms may have been introduced, but we know very little about their impacts.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-remarkable-world-of-earthworms">The remarkable world of earthworms</h2>



As discussed above, earthworms, both invasive and native, play a pivotal role in maintaining the health and fertility of our soil.



These invertebrates, belonging to the class Oligochaeta, thrive in moist environments, burrowing through the earth to create intricate tunnel systems. 



Their activities significantly benefit the ecosystem, making them unsung heroes of the agricultural world.



Earthworms consume organic matter, including dead leaves and decaying plant materials, as they navigate through the soil. 



This diet not only helps to break down organic waste but also aids in the recycling of nutrients. As they digest this material, earthworms produce castings -- nutrient-rich waste that serves as a powerful natural fertilizer. 



These castings enrich the soil, boosting its fertility and enhancing plant growth.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-earthworms-and-biodiversity">Invasive earthworms and biodiversity</h3>



The physical movement of earthworms through the soil is equally beneficial. Their burrowing action creates channels that improve soil structure by increasing aeration and drainage. 



This enhanced soil environment allows for better root penetration and water retention, crucial factors for healthy plant development. 



Moreover, the tunnels they create serve as conduits for root growth, enabling plants to access nutrients and water more efficiently.



Earthworms also play a critical role in the soil food web. They serve as a food source for a variety of predators, including birds, rodents, and insects, thus contributing to the biodiversity of their ecosystems. 



Their presence and activity indirectly support a wide range of above-ground biodiversity, highlighting their importance in sustaining both soil health and overall ecosystem balance.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-agriculture-and-combating-climate-change">Supporting agriculture and combating climate change</h3>



The impact of earthworms extends beyond their immediate environment. By improving soil health, they support agriculture and horticulture, ensuring that soil is fertile and productive for food crops and ornamental plants alike. 



Their contribution to carbon sequestration, through the incorporation of organic matter into the soil, further underscores their role in combating climate change.



Despite their silent work beneath our feet, earthworms face threats from human activities, such as the excessive use of pesticides and habitat destruction. 



Recognizing and mitigating these threats is essential to preserving the health of our soils and the broader environment.



In summary, earthworms are vital yet often unnoticed engineers of the earth. Their continuous labor transforms the soil, making it a hospitable place for plants to thrive. 



By understanding and appreciating the role of earthworms, we can better steward the land, ensuring the health and vitality of our planet for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02310-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Invasive earthworms are reshaping North American ecosystems

The quiet invasion of non-native earthworms across North America, once...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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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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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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How the immune system responds to injury

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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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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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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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