Solar energy has fascinated scientists and engineers for decades. Many wonder how leaves harness sunlight to produce energy with remarkable efficiency.



<a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/photosynthesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a>, the process that drives energy capture in green organisms, employs subtle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-instead-of-oil-or-coal-powers-a-new-kind-of-engine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to avoid waste. This link between molecular events and advanced physics once seemed far-fetched, but new research is changing minds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-quantum-effects-shape-plant-function">How quantum effects shape plant function</h2>



Research by Professor Jürgen Hauer from the Technical University of Munich and first author Erika Keil suggests that fragile molecular states hold more power than expected. Observations in chlorophyll molecules reveal that electrons move through different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy levels</a> in a seamless way.



This happens when light enters a leaf and triggers electronic changes inside each pigment. Instead of scattering energy, the system finds pathways that keep losses to a bare minimum.



Superposition states allow energy to overlap across multiple electronic configurations. These overlaps explain why leaves can transfer energy to reaction centers so efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-solar-panels-mimic-leaf-energy-efficiency">Can solar panels mimic leaf energy efficiency?</h2>



Developers of solar panels dream of mimicking natural energy transport in leaves. Basic strategies borrowed from plants might improve devices that struggle with reflection, heat, and other hurdles.



Nature uses pigments to harvest light across a wide range of wavelengths. Researchers aim to create synthetic analogs with better spectral coverage and minimal losses.



Some systems rely on specialized organic molecules designed to emulate chlorophyll. Others seek to combine biological components with man-made scaffolds to form hybrid solar cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-quantum-steps-matter">Why quantum steps matter</h2>



Classical physics alone cannot fully explain the speed and efficiency of light harvesting. Scientists suspect that quantum coherence, even if it lasts briefly, helps direct energy through an optimal route.



Coherence means electron waves remain in sync long enough to guide energy transfer. These fleeting periods can reduce random losses by funneling energy into the right channels.



Although short-lived, such coherence has been detected in photosynthetic bacteria and algae, hinting at a universal trick shared by green organisms. Observations confirm that multiple energy states interact in ways that defy classical explanations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probing-the-spectrum">Probing the spectrum</h2>



Scientists categorize chlorophyll absorption in plant leaves into two main zones, called the Q band and B band. Each leaf uses these zones to capture different wavelengths, allowing chlorophyll to gather light from various parts of the solar spectrum.



Studies suggest that these bands do not operate independently. Instead, they communicate through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-giant-leap-forward-breakthrough-ultra-pure-silicon-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> couplings that enable a steady flow of energy inside the leaf.



Once energy arrives in the lower electronic states, cooling removes excess energy as heat. This ensures the system remains stable and prevents damage from overexcitation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-experimental-observation">Challenges in experimental observation</h2>



Capturing events that happen in a few trillionths of a second is no small task. Ultrafast spectroscopy uses laser pulses to freeze these moments and map the flow of energy.



Researchers must sift through complicated data, since chlorophyll molecules vibrate and rotate while transferring energy. Careful modeling helps interpret the signals and tease apart overlapping states.



Advanced simulations also guide the design of future experiments. These combined approaches reveal hidden pathways that allow nature to avoid large losses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaf-physics-and-solar-technology">Leaf physics and solar technology</h2>



Lessons from plants often inspire new strategies in the lab. Scientists build prototypes to see if they can harness the same quantum features found in leaves.



One idea is to insert synthetic pigments into specialized arrays that mimic the arrangement of chlorophyll in a photosynthetic complex. Another approach is to embed such pigments in robust materials, creating stable systems for light capture.



Although no device can match leaf efficiency yet, progress in controlling molecular interactions suggests a path forward. The ultimate goal is to replicate nature’s nearly perfect energy transfer on larger scales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-discoveries-in-leaves">Quantum discoveries in leaves</h2>



Global demand for renewable power has skyrocketed. Solar panels offer a dependable alternative to fossil fuels, but improvement is always welcome.



Understanding quantum behavior in leaf structures might boost solar capture rates, driving down costs and raising output. Increased efficiency means more energy from less sunlight, a valuable gain for any region.



Quantum-driven devices could also be tailored to specific light environments, much like plants that grow in shade or bright sun. Engineers see potential for flexible systems that adapt to changing conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-questions-remain">Many questions remain</h2>



Scientists still debate how long these quantum states last under normal biological settings. Some measurements hint at coherence persisting longer than expected, while others find extremely brief periods.



Many suspect the protein environment around chlorophyll keeps the states stable enough to guide energy. Pinpointing which factors extend or shorten coherence is a primary focus of research.



Clarity on these mechanisms may help build artificial complexes with more robust quantum effects. As a result, energy could move through synthetic systems with the same near-zero waste found in leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-striving-for-clarity-in-complex-systems">Striving for clarity in complex systems</h2>



Quantum biology is not just about single molecules. It examines how entire networks of pigments and proteins cooperate to channel energy.



The synergy between theory and experiment leads to more precise models. Each insight refines our understanding of how plants achieve such efficiency.



Researchers are also exploring how environmental factors like temperature and hydration affect energy flow. This knowledge may shape solar technology suited to varied climates.



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



Scientists want to harness <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum effects</a> beyond photosynthesis. Some envision quantum computing concepts that rely on similar phenomena to process data.



These connections remind us that nature is a powerful teacher. Studies of chlorophyll continue to influence fields like photonics and materials science.



The connection between light and molecular structure could lead to technology that was once thought impossible. A deeper understanding of plant energy transfer and leaf structure may pave the way for next-generation solar solutions.



Photosynthetic research encourages people to look at leaves with newfound respect. Their ability to gather sunlight with astonishing precision may prove to be a breakthrough for a more sustainable future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Science</a>.



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Tiny leaf pigments might hold the key to better solar power

Solar energy has fascinated scientists and engineers for decades. Many wonder how leaves harness sunlight to produce energy with remarkable efficiency. Photosynthesis, the process that drives energy capture in green organisms, employs subtle quantum mechanics to avoid waste. This link between molecular events and advanced physics once seemed far-fetched, but new research is changing minds. How quantum effects shape plant function Research by Professor Jürgen Hauer from the Technical University of Munich and first author Erika Keil suggests that fragile molecular states hold more power than expected....

A recent international study has shed light on the specific exercise routines linked to significantly reduced mortality rates.&nbsp;



This research, spanning across four nations and delving into the health habits of half a million Americans, unveils a precise workout regimen that could potentially cut one’s risk of premature death in half.



<h2 id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The team of researchers from Spain, Australia, Canada, and Denmark meticulously examined medical records and survey responses of healthy Americans aged 18 and above.&nbsp;



The experts analyzed data and death records to determine the optimal time and type of exercise that would reduce the risk of mortality from various causes.



<h2 id="h-the-perfect-workout">The perfect workout</h2>



The researchers discovered that a blend of moderate to intense cardiovascular activities, complemented by weight training, may be the perfect workout routine.&nbsp;



This weekly routine includes one hour and 15 minutes of moderate activities like brisk walking, a minimum of two and a half hours of more intense exercises such as running or swimming, and at least two sessions dedicated to muscle-strengthening activities like weightlifting.&nbsp;



Remarkably this regimen was associated with a 50 percent lower risk of death from any cause.



However, the researchers emphasize that any physical activity, even in smaller doses, is vastly superior to a sedentary lifestyle. They pointed to a recent study which revealed that a brisk 11-minute daily walk could cut early death risks by nearly a quarter.



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



This groundbreaking study hinged on data sourced from 22 iterations of the US National Health Interview Survey, spanning from 1997 to 2018.&nbsp;



The survey's participants, predominantly female and white, had an average age of 46. After analyzing their exercise patterns, the researchers compared this data with the causes of their deaths.&nbsp;



Those with conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and stroke, or those who passed away within the initial two years of the survey's follow-up, were intentionally excluded from the analysis.



The researchers split physical activity regimens into 48 categories, including every conceivable blend of moderate aerobic, vigorous aerobic, and muscle-strengthening exercises.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-greatest-risk-reduction">Greatest risk reduction</h2>



The experts found that the "highest statistically significant risk reduction" was tied to 75 minutes of moderate aerobic activities, over 150 minutes of intense aerobic exercises, and a minimum of two muscle-strengthening sessions weekly.



Interestingly, this challenges the World Health Organization's current recommendations, which lean towards more moderate exercise and less vigorous activity.



<h2 id="h-reducing-the-risk-of-heart-attack-stroke-and-cancer">Reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cancer</h2>



The experts also discovered exercise patterns tied to specific causes of death. To combat risks from heart disease or stroke, two and a half to almost four hours of moderate exercise, combined with a little over an hour of intense activity and two muscle-strengthening sessions, led to a staggering 70 percent drop in risk.&nbsp;



Conversely, for cancer-related mortality, more than five hours of moderate exercise, coupled with one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity and two muscle-strengthening sessions, reduced the risk by 56 percent.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2807854?guestAccessKey=5d4ae503-89fb-434a-97f1-6f57e87fec5b&amp;utm_source=For_The_Media&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=ftm_links&amp;utm_content=tfl&amp;utm_term=080723">JAMA Internal Medicine</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-physical-activity-and-mental-health">Physical activity and mental health&nbsp;</h2>



Physical activity also has a range of benefits for mental health. It is directly related to improved overall well-being.



<h3 id="h-mood-enhancement">Mood enhancement</h3>



Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.



<h3 id="h-stress-reduction">Stress reduction</h3>



Exercise reduces levels of the body's stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins.



<h3 id="h-improved-sleep">Improved sleep</h3>



Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. Sleep is crucial for mental well-being.



<h3 id="h-boosted-self-esteem">Boosted self-esteem</h3>



Meeting exercise goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self-confidence. Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance.



<h3 id="h-brain-health">Brain health</h3>



Physical activity increases the heart rate, which pumps more oxygen to the brain. It also aids the release of hormones that provide an excellent environment for the growth of brain cells.



<h3 id="h-cognitive-function">Cognitive function</h3>



Exercise stimulates the growth of new connections between cells in many important cortical areas of the brain, enhancing memory and cognitive functions.



<h3 id="h-reduction-in-anxiety">Reduction in anxiety</h3>



The chemicals released during and after exercise can help people with anxiety disorders calm down.



<h3 id="h-combat-addiction">Combat addiction</h3>



Exercise can help in addiction recovery. The brain releases dopamine, the "reward chemical," in response to any form of pleasure, including substance use. However, exercise can help recreate this dopamine "high" in a healthier way.



<h3 id="h-increased-social-interaction">Increased social interaction&nbsp;</h3>



Joining a fitness group or a gym can provide a social outlet, which can benefit mental well-being.



<h3 id="h-meditative-aspects">Meditative aspects</h3>



Activities like running or swimming can have a meditative effect on the mind, providing a mental "break" and reducing day-to-day worries.



While physical activity is beneficial for mental health, it's important to note that individuals with mental health issues should consult with professionals about the most effective treatments. Exercise can complement but not replace traditional forms of therapy or medication in certain cases.



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This exercise routine can cut your risk of death in half

A recent international study has shed light on the specific...

It's the beginning of a new year, and many people will carry with them a laundry list of resolutions and unreasonably high expectations into 2024. However, if we just listen to the experts, this could be the year that we set realistic goals and actually follow through with them.



According to research, around 40 percent of Americans make New Year's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-resolutions-better-parenting-and-family-health-are-top-priorities/">resolutions</a>, but only around nine percent of them will reach these goals.



Many experts agree that the biggest reason our resolutions fail is because the goals we are setting are not very specific. For example, making a resolution to lose weight is too general and does not include a plan of action or a way to track your progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-resolutions-don-t-work">Why resolutions don't work</h2>



Beyond setting goals that are too broad, people are often setting too many goals. In an article for Entrepreneur, Biztuition CEO Julie Christopher explained why New Year's resolutions often do not work and can actually make matters worse.



"Unfortunately, most of us create too much resistance by injecting too many resolutions and goals into our minds,” said Christopher. “This process results in setting too many expectations and creating unrealistic goals. We end up with a long list of trying to do everything at once, relying on our emotions to keep us motivated until we achieve them.”



“Change just one of your habits that creates the most change. I discovered that making just one small change in your daily repetitive routine is a crucial step to alleviate the resistance that comes with change.”



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



Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert, author of “Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days,” pointed out that many of us have a tendency to make New Year's resolutions that are influenced by the expectations of others and do not reflect what we actually want.



“Goals need to be made for the individual,” Alpert told Business Insider. “So often, people seem to be influenced by their friends, their family, what they see in society. I think it's important for people to set goals that are for themselves and unique to themselves.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-meaningful-resolutions">Lack of meaningful resolutions </h2>



Dr. Karen Lawson is the director of the Integrative Health Coaching program at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Spirituality &amp; Healing.



“Many people don’t make their own resolutions out of what’s most meaningful and desirable for them but they set it out of what other people told them they need to do out of fear or guilt,” Dr. Lawson told CBS News. “So the motivation doesn’t come from within but comes from the outside and that doesn’t tend to lead to success.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acknowledge-a-setback-and-move-on">Acknowledge a setback and move on</h2>



Dr. Lawson also emphasized the importance of being compassionate with ourselves and celebrating our successes along the way. She said that it is best to simply acknowledge when we have a setback and move on.



“People on the whole tend to be harder on themselves than they are with other people. They tend to beat themselves up,” said Dr. Lawson. “So when we have a day when we fall down on the diet, instead of telling yourself that you’re weak or bad, tell yourself that you had a bad day and that tomorrow’s a new day to start over.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-blank-slate-of-a-new-year">The blank slate of a new year</h2>



According to <a href="https://www.uwhealth.org/">UW Health</a> psychologist Shilagh Mirgain, the blank slate of a new year can be a great opportunity for people to reset and create a different kind of future for themselves. Dr. Mirgain <a href="https://www.uwhealth.org/news/setting-goals-instead-resolutions-key-to-better-2022">provided the following steps</a> to help people create meaningful goals instead of basic resolutions:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reflect-on-the-past-year">Reflect on the past year</h3>



Identify and examine what went right and what was challenging by asking yourself what you want to bring with you into the new year? What do you want to leave behind? What brings you joy and a sense of fulfillment? What would make you a healthier you?



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-envision-your-best-year">Envision your best year</h3>



Picture your life one year from now and envision how you want to feel. You could write it down as a day in the life of you – who are you around, how is your work life, how do you experience your body and your health, finances, emotions, spirit. Consider picking one word that captures this image as your intention for the 12 months ahead.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-set-some-realistic-goals">Set some realistic goals</h3>



Set a few goals that you want to work towards. Goals are about who you are becoming and not about just giving yourself more to do. Goals need to be for you, it’s your life. If you are doing it for someone else, take it off your list.&nbsp;



Goal-setting should be energy giving not energy draining and should excite you enough to make these goals happen. Once you are clear about your goal, break it down into measurable steps. Think about creating daily, weekly, or monthly action steps that move you in the direction of your larger vision for the year.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plan-and-anticipate-obstacles">Plan and anticipate obstacles</h3>



Plan for the challenges that could arise so you can anticipate how you will overcome them. Have a support team in place to encourage you when you feel like giving up. The main reasons people fail include a failure to plan for setbacks, having unrealistic expectations for their goals and not making a commitment to what they are working towards.&nbsp;



Revisit your goals from time to time to keep them top of mind, celebrate successes, adjust accordingly and recommit to action steps to stay on track.



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How to set realistic goals and achieve them in 2024

It's the beginning of a new year, and many people...

The holiday season, often hailed as "the most wonderful time of the year," paradoxically emerges as a period of heightened stress and neglect of personal health, according to the results of a new survey by the <a href="https://www.heart.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Heart Association</a>. 



The study highlights a worrying trend: the significant impact of holiday stress on healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-healthy-lifestyle-habits-could-extend-your-life-by-decades/">habits</a>, a stark contrast to the festive cheer typically associated with this time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-new-insights">Alarming new insights</h2>



The American Heart Association's survey, conducted in December 2023 with U.S. adults nationwide, reveals startling insights into how holiday stress affects health and well-being.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressure">Pressure</h3>



A striking 63% of respondents find that the holiday season is more stressful than tax season, indicating the extensive pressure that is felt by individuals.



"Balancing work, family, finances and everyday obligations, while trying to fit in festive events that make this time of year special becomes overwhelming and induces chronic stress for many," says the report.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-holiday-stress">Post-holiday stress</h3>



More than half (51%) of Americans report it takes them weeks to de-stress after the holidays. This statistic is even more pronounced among mothers, with over a quarter indicating a recovery time of one month or more.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regrets-nbsp">Regrets&nbsp;</h3>



More than 70 percent of participants regret not taking time to relax and enjoy the season, highlighting a common pitfall of getting caught up in holiday preparations and activities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neglect-of-healthy-habits">Neglect of healthy habits</h3>



The top three things that respondents have trouble prioritizing during the holiday season are eating, sleeping, and exercising. Overall, 69% report not eating well, 64% say they fail to exercise regularly, and 56% lack adequate sleep during the holidays.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-neglect">Self-neglect</h3>



Alarmingly, 79% admit to being so focused on creating special moments for others that they overlook their own needs during the holidays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-of-holiday-stress">Ripple effects of holiday stress</h2>



Dr. Glenn N. Levine is a volunteer with the American Heart Association and chair of the 2021 Psychological Health, Well-Being, and the Mind-Heart-Body Connection scientific statement. He warns of the long-term health impacts of chronic stress.&nbsp;



“Chronic stress can negatively impact both your long-term mental and physical health in many ways if left unmanaged,” said Dr. Levine. “The holidays are an easy time to justify putting off healthy habits, but it’s important to manage chronic stress and other risk factors to stay healthy during the holiday season and into the New Year.”



The survey results resonate with his caution, suggesting that the holiday-induced stress may have deeper and more lasting implications than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-managing-holiday-stress">Tips for managing holiday stress</h2>



Recognizing the challenges, the American Heart Association offers practical advice to manage holiday stress:



<ul>
<li>Eat smart – Eat reasonable portions and think about what colorful fruits and vegetables you can add to your plate versus foods to avoid.</li>



<li>Move more – Physical activity is one of the best ways to manage stress, so aim to take a short walk each day. Any amount of movement counts.</li>



<li>Sleep well – Quality sleep can influence your mood, eating habits, memory and more. Experiment with setting an alarm reminding you to silence your phone notifications and wind down.</li>
</ul>



According to the report, connecting with others is one of the most important aspects of the holiday season:



"Whenever you or a loved one begins to feel stressed, make sure to express your feelings and lean upon each other for support, so you can enjoy the holidays together with lighter, healthier hearts."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthier-holidays-ahead">Healthier holidays ahead</h2>



The analysis serves as a crucial reminder of the need to balance holiday cheer with personal well-being. By adopting simple, healthy habits and maintaining open communication, individuals can navigate the holiday season without stress.



The AHA's <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living">Healthy for GoodTM initiative</a> provides further resources and tips at heart.org/stress to support individuals in managing holiday stress and maintaining heart-healthy habits.



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Holiday stress can take a major toll on health and well-being

The holiday season, often hailed as "the most wonderful time...

In the spirit of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-years-fireworks-send-millions-of-birds-on-erratic-flights/">New Year</a>, many parents are committing to resolutions aimed at improving their parenting skills and family life.&nbsp;



According to the <a href="https://mottpoll.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health</a>, these resolutions include fostering more patience, reducing phone time, maintaining consistent discipline, and cultivating healthier family habits. 



The poll also reveals that tweens and teens are setting their own goals, focusing on academic achievements, extracurricular success, fitness, nutrition, and financial gains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milestone-occasions-nbsp">Milestone occasions&nbsp;</h2>



The poll, which gathered responses from 2,044 parents of children aged 0-18 in August 2023, indicates that about three-quarters of parents make resolutions or set personal goals throughout the year, with a significant portion choosing New Year’s Eve or other milestone occasions like the start of a school year or a birthday to start anew.



“Milestone occasions, such as the start of a new calendar or school year, present families with opportunities for self-reflection and motivation to improve an area of physical and emotional health,” said Sarah Clark, M.P.H., co-director of the Mott Poll. She noted that parents often aim to enhance their parenting techniques, focus on health, and support their child’s community engagement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-top-resolutions-nbsp">Top resolutions&nbsp;</h2>



The poll found that nearly half of mothers and a third of fathers have set goals to modify their parenting approach, with a majority seeking more patience and less phone engagement.&nbsp;



Health-related goals are also prevalent, with many parents aspiring to provide healthier meals and engage in joint exercise with their children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parenting-goals">Parenting goals</h2>



Among those who have established parenting goals, about three-quarters believe these goals have made them better parents, and an even greater number believe it has taught their children about goal-setting.



“Setting goals to improve parenting can help parents define their values and priorities and have positive effects on the health and well being of the whole family,” Clark said.



The poll suggests that parents with three or more children are more likely to focus on consistent discipline and spiritual involvement with their kids compared to those with fewer children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-s-goals">Children's goals</h2>



As for the children’s resolutions, approximately 70 percent revolve around academic performance, with over half targeting success in activities. Goals related to fitness, nutrition, and financial independence are also common, as is the desire to try new things and engage in friendships or volunteering.



Teens aged 15-18 are reportedly more inclined toward goals involving nutrition and exercise, while younger children (11-14 years) show a greater interest in exploring new experiences.



Clark emphasized the importance of goal-setting for children, arguing that “goal-setting helps kids learn to be accountable for their actions and develop a growth mindset.” She also pointed out the benefits of parents modeling goal-setting behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helpful-strategies-nbsp">Helpful strategies&nbsp;</h2>



To support their children’s objectives, parents employ various strategies, including celebrating efforts, joining in their pursuits, tracking progress, providing financial backing, or offering rewards for achieving goals.



Clark advises parents to identify specific strategies to enhance their ability to achieve their goals, especially since New Year resolutions often wane as the year progresses. She recommends setting specific, realistic targets and scheduling time to work towards them.



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2024 resolutions: Better parenting and family health are top priorities 

In the spirit of the New Year, many parents are...

Millions of birds are negatively impacted by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-can-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-wildlife/">fireworks</a> on New Year's Eve, according to a new study from the <a href="https://www.uva.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Amsterdam</a>. The research reveals a startling increase in the number of birds taking flight during these celebrations.



"We already knew that many water birds react strongly, but now we also see the effect on other birds throughout the Netherlands," explained study lead author Bart Hoekstra.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acute-flight-response-nbsp">Acute flight response&nbsp;</h2>



The research indicates that on New Year's Eve, the number of birds in the air near fireworks sites is about 1,000 times higher than on typical nights, with peaks reaching between 10,000 to 100,000 times the normal count.&nbsp;



The most substantial effects were observed within the first five kilometers of the fireworks, although impacts were still notable up to 10 kilometers away.



"Birds take off as a result of an acute flight response due to sudden noise and light. In a country like the Netherlands, with many wintering birds, we are talking about millions of birds being affected by the lighting of fireworks," said Hoekstra.



This phenomenon leads to a significant energy drain for these birds, especially during the harsh winter months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-impacts">Lasting impacts</h2>



Last year, researchers at IBED discovered that geese are impacted by fireworks for more than a week. The study revealed that they spend an average of 10% longer looking for food for at least 11 days after the disturbance.&nbsp;



The researchers said the geese apparently need that time to replenish the lost energy or to compensate for the unknown foraging area in which they have ended up, after fleeing from the fireworks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-radar-images">Radar images</h2>



For the current study, the team used a new approach, combining data from weather radars and bird counts. The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute’s weather radars provided insights during both clear and normal New Year's Eves.&nbsp;



The data was combined with bird count information from Sovon – the Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology, gathered by hundreds of volunteers. This dual approach allowed the researchers to accurately identify the species, number, and reaction distance of birds affected by fireworks.



"We already knew that many water birds react strongly, but it was still unclear how birds outside these water bodies react to fireworks. Through the counts we know exactly where which birds are and using the radar images we can see where they actually take off because of fireworks," said Hoekstra.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erratic-flight-behavior-nbsp">Erratic flight behavior&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that larger birds, such as geese, ducks, and gulls, not only take flight but also reach remarkable altitudes, flying around for hours.&nbsp;



"Larger birds such as geese, ducks and gulls fly to a height of hundreds of meters due to the large-scale discharge of fireworks and remain in the air for up to an hour. There is a risk that they will end up in bad winter weather, or that they will not know where they are flying due to panic and accidents could occur."



The researchers found that, in study areas around Den Helder and Herwijnen alone, almost 400,000 birds took flight immediately at the start of the New Year's Eve fireworks.



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



Given that 62 percent of all birds in the Netherlands reside within 2.5 kilometers of inhabited areas, the implications of fireworks are far-reaching.&nbsp;



"Flying requires a lot of energy, so ideally birds should be disturbed as little as possible during the cold winter months. Measures to ensure this are especially important in open areas such as grasslands, where many larger birds spend the winter," said Hoekstra.



"The effects of fireworks on birds are less pronounced near forests and semi-open habitats. In addition, smaller birds such as tits and finches live there, which are less likely to fly away from disturbance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buffer-zones">Buffer zones</h2>



The researchers advocate for the establishment of fireworks-free zones, particularly in areas populated by larger birds.&nbsp;



"These buffer zones could be smaller in areas where light and sound travel less far, such as near forests. Furthermore, fireworks should mainly be lit at central locations in built-up areas, as far away from birds as possible," said Hoekstra.



"It would be best for birds if we moved towards light shows without sound, such as drone shows or decorative fireworks without very loud bangs."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/fee.2694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment</a>.



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New Year's fireworks cause great distress for millions of birds

Millions of birds are negatively impacted by fireworks on New...

Meteor,Shower.,Elements,Of,This,Image,Furnished,By,Nasa

A comet roughly the size of a city, informally dubbed the “Devil comet” due to its horn-like eruptions, is heading toward Earth and has exhibited a fascinating pattern of activity.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-violent-eruptions">Violent eruptions</h2>



Scientists have observed that this comet, officially known as Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, undergoes violent ejections of ice and gas approximately every 15 days.&nbsp;



The most recent eruption occurred on December 14, with the next anticipated around December 29 or 30.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-version-of-old-faithful-nbsp">Cosmic version of Old Faithful&nbsp;</h2>



Astronomers have noted that Comet 12P completes a rotation every two weeks, which aligns its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-comet-exploding-in-space-is-headed-toward-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cryovolcanic</a> vent with the sun, triggering eruptions due to intense solar heat. 



Richard Miles of the <a href="https://britastro.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Astronomical Association</a> likened the comet to a cosmic version of the ‘Old Faithful’ geyser, with eruptions set off by sunrise at its location.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cryovolcanic-comets">Cryovolcanic comets</h2>



Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is characterized as a cryovolcanic comet, known for displaying volcanic-like activity. Unlike terrestrial volcanoes that eject molten rock, cryovolcanic comets release a mix of gasses and ice.&nbsp;



As Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks approaches the sun, it heats up, causing a buildup of pressure in its nucleus. This pressure leads to explosive eruptions of nitrogen and carbon monoxide, ejecting icy debris through large cracks in its shell.



These eruptions can create unique visual patterns when viewed through a telescope, such as the devil horns, which have also been likened to a horseshoe or even the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-halley-type-comet">Halley-type comet</h2>



The comet, comparable in size to the famous Halley’s comet, was last visible to the naked eye from Earth in 1954.



Referred to as a ‘Halley-type comet,’ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-comet-exploding-in-space-is-headed-toward-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">12P/Pons-Brooks</a> shares a similar solar orbit class as the renowned Halley’s comet, with a 71-year orbit around the sun. While it will be closest to Earth in April 2024, it is expected to be visible to the naked eye in May and June 2024, peaking in brightness on June 2, 2024.



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



The comet is named after two astronomers, Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks, who identified it in 1812 and 1883, respectively. They established that this devil comet revisits our solar system every 71 years.&nbsp;



Significant outbursts have been recorded since the 19th century, with 2023 on track to match the number of outbursts typically observed over a year.



This intriguing comet offers a unique opportunity for astronomers and enthusiasts to witness a celestial phenomenon that combines historical significance with a spectacular display in our night sky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-cryovolcanic-comets">More about cryovolcanic comets</h2>



Cryovolcanic comets, like 12P/Pons-Brooks discussed above, embody a unique phenomenon in our solar system. Unlike typical comets, primarily composed of ice, dust, and small rock particles, cryovolcanic comets harbor a remarkable feature: cryovolcanoes.



A cryovolcano, or an ice volcano, differs fundamentally from its terrestrial counterpart. Rather than spewing molten rock, these icy giants eject plumes of volatile substances like water, ammonia, or methane.&nbsp;



These eruptions occur when the internal heat of the comet, often generated by radioactive decay or tidal interactions with a larger body, melts its subsurface ice. The pressure builds up until it finds a weak spot in the comet’s crust, leading to a spectacular outburst.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remnants-of-our-early-solar-system">Remnants of our early solar system</h3>



The study of cryovolcanic comets provides invaluable insights into the early solar system. These comets are often considered pristine remnants from the era of planet formation, harboring materials that have remained largely unchanged for billions of years.&nbsp;



Analyzing the composition of their ejecta can reveal secrets about the solar system’s infancy and the origin of water and organic compounds on Earth.



Significantly, cryovolcanic activity can dramatically alter a comet’s trajectory. As they eject material, they experience a reactive force, akin to a rocket’s thrust, which can change their orbit. This phenomenon makes predicting their paths more challenging, but also more exciting for astronomers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-much-to-learn-about-cryovolcanic-comets">Still much to learn about cryovolcanic comets</h3>



Furthermore, these comets serve as natural laboratories for studying extreme conditions. The interplay between their icy composition and the vacuum of space creates environments not replicable on Earth.&nbsp;



Scientists believe that understanding these conditions could provide clues to extraterrestrial life and the adaptability of life in harsh environments.



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Cryovolcanic "Devil comet" the size of a city erupts again as it heads in Earth's direction

A comet roughly the size of a city, informally dubbed...

A new study has upended long-held views on the economic practices of the first high mountain settlers during the Early Neolithic period, approximately 6,500 to 7,500 years ago.&nbsp;



Traditional assumptions had limited these ancient communities to seasonal occupancy and a heavy reliance on wild resources, particularly focusing on the role of sheep and goat transhumance. However, a study now reveals a broader spectrum of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-longhorned-tick-invasion-threatens-livestock-in-ohio/">livestock</a> activities in these regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-neolithic-livestock-practices-nbsp">Early Neolithic livestock practices&nbsp;</h2>



A collaborative effort by experts from the Archaeozoology Laboratory and High Mountain Archaeology Group at <a href="https://www.uab.cat/web/universitat-autonoma-de-barcelona-1345467954774.html">Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona</a> (UAB), the University of Évora (HERCULES Laboratory), the Milà i Fontanals Institution-CSIC, and the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Government of Aragon has shed light on the livestock practices of the Early Neolithic era.&nbsp;



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



Focusing on the archaeological site of Coro Trasito in Sobrarbe, Aragon, this study is the first of its kind to characterize the feeding strategies and management of domesticated animals in high mountain environments.



The research team used a novel approach, combining stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis in bone collagen with archaeozoological analysis. This technique allowed them to assess animal ecology, management strategies, and feeding practices of the earliest societies in these regions, situated over 1,500 meters above sea level.&nbsp;



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



The findings challenge previous assumptions, demonstrating varied management and feeding strategies among different flocks.



Contrary to the previous belief that these high mountain settlers relied primarily on wild resources, the study reveals a small but diverse collection of domesticated animals, including cows, goats, sheep, and pigs (Bos taurus, Capra hircus, Ovis aries, and Sus domesticus).&nbsp;



These animals were mainly used for meat and milk production, highlighting a nuanced approach to livestock rearing. Notably, the researchers discovered a significant rise in the economic importance of pigs (Sus domesticus) during this period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeding-management-practices">Feeding management practices</h2>



Furthermore, the team found evidence of different feeding management practices, including the use of varied pastures and possibly surplus agricultural products.&nbsp;



These findings indicate that livestock practices at the Coro Trasito site were well-established and intricately linked to agricultural practices from the onset of the Neolithic era. The study also reveals how these flocks were adapted to the environmental conditions of their surroundings.



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



The results of the archaeozoological, isotopic and archaeological analyses reveal that the inhabitants of the Coro Trasito cave made use mainly of domestic resources, noted the researchers.



"Furthermore, the presence of transformation activities related to dairy and fat products, and the existence of storage structures within the cave indicates the complexity of neolithisation processes in the central Pyrenees and how these areas were quickly integrated into a broader economic system."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fearc.2023.1309907" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology</a>.



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Early Neolithic mountain settlers used complex farming methods

A new study has upended long-held views on the economic...

Imagine a vast expanse of untouched snow -- an idyllic scene for winter enthusiasts. Now, picture this wintry dream not on Earth, but on <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/the-history-of-mars-is-much-more-complex-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>. This is what the Korolev crater offers.



This immense Martian crater is a breathtaking feature on the Red Planet, captured in stunning detail by the European Space Agency's (ESA) <a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/mars-exploration/missions/express/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars Express mission</a>.



Launched on June 2, 2003, Mars Express embarked on a six-month voyage to Mars, culminating in a successful orbital entry on Christmas Day of the same year. 



This December marks the 20-year anniversary of its orbit insertion and the commencement of its groundbreaking science program.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectacular-view-of-korolev-crater">Spectacular view of Korolev crater</h2>



Celebrating this milestone, the Mars Express High Resolution Stereo Camera (<a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Mars_Express/Mars_Express_orbiter_instruments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HRSC</a>) provides us with a remarkable view of the Korolev crater. 



This image is a composite of five different 'strips', each collected over separate orbits, seamlessly merged to present this stunning vista. 



Additionally, the crater is showcased in perspective, context, and topographic views, offering a comprehensive understanding of its terrain.



Spanning 51 miles (82km) in diameter, Korolev crater lies in Mars's northern lowlands, south of the dune-filled <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/violent-volcanic-eruptions-persisted-on-mars-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Olympia Undae</a> that encircles part of the northern polar cap. 



Unlike an ordinary crater, Korolev is unique. It's not filled with snow but with a thick layer of ice, approximately <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Mars_Korolev_crater_topography_2medium-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.2 miles (1.8km) deep</a>, that persists throughout the year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-permanent-ice">Science behind the permanent ice</h2>



This perpetual <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/white-water-ice-against-the-rusty-red-soil-of-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice cover</a> is attributed to a fascinating phenomenon known as a 'cold trap'. The crater's depth, around two kilometers below its rim, plays a pivotal role. 



The deepest parts, holding the ice, create a natural cold trap. The air cooled by the ice sinks, forming a protective layer of cold air directly above it. 



This layer acts as a shield, maintaining the ice's stability and preventing it from melting. Air's poor heat conductivity enhances this effect, ensuring the crater remains permanently icy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-a-space-pioneer">Tribute to a space pioneer</h2>



Korolev crater honors Sergei Korolev, the chief rocket engineer and spacecraft designer, often referred to as the father of Soviet space technology. 



Korolev's legacy includes the pioneering Sputnik program, the Vostok and Voskhod human space exploration programs, and the first interplanetary missions to the Moon, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elon-musks-spacex-plans-to-land-a-spacecraft-on-mars-in-3-to-4-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>, and Venus. 



He was instrumental in the development of the Soyuz launcher, a key component of the Russian space program, utilized for both crewed and robotic flights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-korolev-crater-offers-a-new-perspective">Korolev crater offers a new perspective</h2>



Korolev crater has also piqued the interest of other missions, such as ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Exploration/ExoMars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ExoMars</a> program, which seeks to determine if life ever existed on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/odyssey-orbiter-captures-unprecedented-images-of-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>. 



The Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (<a href="https://www.cassis.unibe.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CaSSIS</a>) on the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter captured a fascinating 25 mile (40km) segment of the crater's northern rim. 



This imagery, taken soon after its operational commencement in April 2018, highlighted the crater's intriguing shape and structure, along with its bright icy deposits.



In summary, these images from Mars Express and ExoMars offer incredible scientific data while providing a new perspective on our neighboring planet, unveiling its beauty and continuing to feed our curiosity about the universe. 



The Korolev crater, with its year-round ice, is a stark reminder of the dynamic and diverse environments that exist beyond our world. As we celebrate the 20-year journey of Mars Express, we look forward to many more discoveries and a deeper understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curiosity-mars-rover-finds-more-compelling-evidence-for-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-mars-express">More about Mars Express</h2>



As mentioned above, the Mars Express mission, an ambitious endeavor by the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>), stands as a landmark in space exploration. 



Launched on June 2, 2003, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, this mission marks Europe's first independent venture to another planet. The spacecraft, propelled by a Soyuz-Fregat rocket, embarked on a six-month journey to Mars, arriving in December 2003.



At the heart of the mission lies the Mars Express Orbiter, equipped with high-resolution cameras and scientific instruments designed to scrutinize the Martian surface and atmosphere.



These tools have captured unprecedented images and data, offering insights into the planet's geology, mineral composition, and climate history. 



Notably, the mission's OMEGA instrument detected signs of water ice and carbon dioxide ice at the Martian poles, bolstering theories about Mars' potential to host life in the past.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beagle-2-lander">Beagle 2 lander</h3>



Accompanying the orbiter was the Beagle 2 lander, named after the HMS Beagle, the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his historic voyage. 



Unfortunately, after its deployment from the orbiter, Beagle 2 lost contact with Earth, leading to speculation about its fate. 



In 2015, images from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter revealed that Beagle 2 had successfully landed but failed to fully deploy its solar panels, impeding communication.



Despite this setback, the Mars Express Orbiter continues to exceed expectations. Its extended missions have allowed continuous observation of Mars, contributing to our understanding of the planet's atmosphere, surface, and potential for habitability.



The mission has fostered international collaboration, with instruments provided by ESA member states and NASA.



In summary, the Mars Express mission, ongoing and dynamic, exemplifies human curiosity and technological prowess. As it continues to orbit Mars, it sends back a wealth of data, fueling scientific discovery and inspiring future missions to unravel the mysteries of the Red Planet.



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"Korolev crater" on Mars has a 50-mile-wide sheet of solid ice that is one-mile thick

Imagine a vast expanse of untouched snow -- an idyllic...

Tree,Grows,In,Light,Bulbs,,Energy-saving,And,Environmental,Concepts,On

In an era where food security is becoming increasingly challenging, a fascinating study from <a href="https://liu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Linköping University</a> offers a beacon of hope. This research introduces an innovative approach to soilless cultivation, or hydroponics, by integrating an electrically conductive cultivation substrate, aptly named "electronic soil" or eSoil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-electronic-soil-revolution">The electronic soil revolution</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Electronic-soil-with-growing-plant_credit-Thor-Balkhed_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eleni Stavrinidou</a>, an associate professor at the Laboratory of Organic Electronics at Linköping University and the leader of the <a href="https://liu.se/en/research/laboratory-of-organic-electronics/electronic-plants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Electronic Plants group</a>, spearheads this pioneering research. Her team's development of eSoil marks a significant advancement in hydroponics. 



This novel substrate is environmentally friendly, being derived from cellulose and a conductive polymer called PEDOT.



It also offers a low-energy, safe alternative to previous methods that relied on high voltage and non-biodegradable materials like mineral wool. 



The study's findings are nothing short of remarkable. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Electronic-soil-with-growing-plant_barley-seed_credit-Thor-Balkhed_3medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barley seedlings</a>, traditionally not grown in hydroponic systems, exhibited a 50% increase in growth over 15 days when their roots were stimulated electrically using eSoil. 



This discovery not only expands the range of crops suitable for hydroponic cultivation but also demonstrates the potential for more efficient growth with fewer resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-global-challenges">Addressing global challenges</h2>



Stavrinidou emphasizes the urgency of finding new agricultural methods, citing the rising global population and the impact of climate change. 



“The world population is increasing, and we also have climate change. So it’s clear that we won’t be able to cover the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-food-waste-greater-food-security-less-environmental-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food demands</a> of the planet with only the already existing agricultural methods. But with hydroponics we can grow food also in urban environments in very controlled settings,” Stavrinidou explains.



Hydroponics, characterized by its soil-free growth medium, reliance on water and nutrients, and a closed system that conserves water and nutrients, is already being used to cultivate crops like lettuce, herbs, and certain vegetables. 



This method is particularly advantageous in areas with limited arable land or harsh environmental conditions.



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



While the results are promising, Stavrinidou admits that the underlying biological mechanisms are not yet fully understood. 



“In this way, we can get seedlings to grow faster with less resources. We don’t yet know how it actually works, which biological mechanisms that are involved. What we have found is that seedlings process nitrogen more effectively, but it’s not clear yet how the electrical stimulation impacts this process,” says Starvrinidou.



The research from Linköping University is a significant step toward enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/step-into-the-future-urban-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban agriculture</a>. 



eSoil's low energy consumption and safety features, combined with the benefits of hydroponic cultivation, including space efficiency through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-gardens-promote-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vertical farming</a>, present a sustainable solution to the growing demands for food.



As Stavrinidou cautiously notes, “We can’t say that hydroponics will solve the problem of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a>. But it can definitely help, particularly in areas with little arable land and with harsh environmental conditions.” 



In summary, this study sheds light on the potential of hydroponics in urban settings, while also opening the door to further research and innovation in sustainable agriculture.



The full study was published in the journal PNAS.



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eSoil, or "Electronic soil," boosts crop growth by over 50%

In an era where food security is becoming increasingly challenging,...

An international team of researchers has identified a strong link between regular exercise and enhanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/regular-daytime-napping-increases-brain-health/">brain health</a>.



The study was conducted by clinical researchers from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute's Brain Health Center at <a href="https://www.providence.org/locations/socal/saint-johns-health-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Providence Saint John's Health Center</a>.



The comprehensive research involved extensive MRI brain scans from 10,125 individuals at Prenuvo imaging centers. The results shed light on the profound impact of regular exercise on our brain's structure and function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enlarged-brain-areas-nbsp">Enlarged brain areas&nbsp;</h2>



The experts found a correlation between physical activities such as walking, running, or sports, and an increase in the size of critical brain areas involved in memory and learning. 



The research highlights a notable enlargement in gray matter, crucial for processing information, and white matter, which serves as the communication hub between different brain regions.&nbsp;



Additionally, the hippocampus, a vital area for memory, showed significant expansion in those who regularly engaged in physical exercises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-effects-on-brain-health">Positive effects on brain health</h2>



"Our research supports earlier studies that show being physically active is good for your brain. Exercise not only lowers the risk of dementia but also helps in maintaining brain size, which is crucial as we age," said lead researcher Dr. Cyrus A. Raji.



"We found that even moderate levels of physical activity, such as taking fewer than 4,000 steps a day, can have a positive effect on brain health," said study co-author Dr. David Merrill, director of the PBHC. "This is much less than the often-suggested 10,000 steps, making it a more achievable goal for many people."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-larger-brain-volumes-nbsp">Larger brain volumes&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Dr. Somayeh Meysami is an assistant professor of Neurosciences at Saint John's Cancer Institute and the Pacific Brain Health Center.



"Our research links regular physical activity to larger brain volumes, suggesting neuroprotective benefits. This large sample study furthers our understanding of lifestyle factors in brain health and dementia prevention," said Dr. Meysami.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modifiable-risk-factors-for-alzheimer-s">Modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's</h2>



The research builds upon a 2020 Lancet Study that identified about a dozen modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, including physical activity. It also extends previous work by the same group, which connected caloric burn from leisure activities to improved brain structure.



"This study demonstrates the influence of exercise on brain health imaging and when added to other studies on the role of diet, stress reduction and social connection offer the proven benefits of drug-free modifiable factors in substantially reducing Alzheimer's disease," said George Perry, Editor-in-Chief of the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3233/JAD-230740" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Alzheimer's Disease</a>.



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



"With comprehensive imaging scans, our study underscores the interconnected synergy between the body and the brain. It echoes the knowledge of past generations, showcasing that increased physical activity is a predictor of a healthier aging brain," said study senior author Dr. Attariwala.



The research offers a compelling argument for the power of regular exercise as an easy and effective way to maintain brain health.&nbsp;



Whether it's a daily walk or engaging in a favorite sport, the study confirms that staying active has lasting benefits for our cognitive well-being, potentially transforming our approach to aging and brain health maintenance.



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Regular exercise makes your brain bigger

An international team of researchers has identified a strong link...

Astronomers have captured a new snapshot of the ancient spiral galaxy BRI 1335-0417. The research is providing valuable insights into the formation of early galaxies and shedding light on the origins of our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/">Milky Way</a>.&nbsp;



Dating back more than 12 billion years, BRI 1335-0417 is the oldest and farthest known spiral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> in our universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxy-bri-1335-0417-nbsp">Spiral galaxy BRI 1335-0417&nbsp;</h2>



According to study lead author Dr. Takafumi Tsukui, a state-of-the-art telescope called <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/alma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ALMA</a> allowed the experts to look at this ancient galaxy in much greater detail.



"Specifically, we were interested in how gas was moving into and throughout the galaxy," said Dr.&nbsp; Tsukui. "Gas is a key ingredient for forming stars and can give us important clues about how a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> is actually fueling its star formation."



The research stands out for its unique findings on the galaxy's disk. The team captured the motion of gas around BRI 1335-0417. 



They also identified the formation of a seismic wave, a phenomenon that has never been observed within such an early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/askap-telescope-finds-rare-polar-ring-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a>.



Dr. Tsukui compared the movement of the spiral galaxy's disk to ripples spreading on a pond, suggesting the disk's vertical oscillation might be due to external factors such as new gas streaming into the galaxy or interactions with smaller <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.&nbsp;



These external influences bombard the galaxy with fresh fuel for star formation, a key factor in understanding galactic evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-early-spiral-galaxies">Evolution of early spiral galaxies</h2>



"Additionally, our study revealed a bar-like structure in the disk. Galactic bars can disrupt gas and transport it towards the galaxy's center. The bar discovered in BRI 1335-0417 is the most distant known structure of this kind," said Dr. Tsukui. "Together, these results show the dynamic growth of a young galaxy."



The images seen through the ALMA telescope in the present day are a throwback to the galaxy's early days -- when the Universe was just 10 percent of its current age, noted the researchers.



Study co-author Professor Emily Wisnioski pointed out the unique attributes of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-second-most-distant-galaxy-in-pandoras-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early galaxies</a> like BRI 1335-0417.&nbsp;



"Early galaxies have been found to form stars at a much faster rate than modern galaxies. This is true for BRI 1335-0417, which, despite having a similar mass to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, forms stars at rate a few hundred times faster," said Professor Wisnioski. "We wanted to understand how gas is supplied to keep up with this rapid rate of star formation."



"Spiral structures are rare in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-a-galaxy-12-billion-light-years-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early Universe</a>, and exactly how they form also remains unknown. This study also gives us crucial information on the most likely scenarios."



"While it is impossible to observe the galaxy's evolution directly, as our observations only give us a snapshot, computer simulations can help piece the story together."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-alma-telescope-nbsp">The ALMA telescope&nbsp;</h2>



As mentioned above, the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) is a revolutionary astronomical observatory and one of the largest and most complex ground-based astronomy projects.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-location">Location</h3>



ALMA is located in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, at an altitude of about 5,000 meters (16,500 feet). This high and dry location is ideal for millimeter and submillimeter wavelength observations, which are otherwise absorbed by moisture in the Earth's atmosphere.



ALMA is an international partnership involving North America, Europe, East Asia, and Chile, showcasing global cooperation in the field of astronomy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-and-discoveries">Research and discoveries</h3>



The array consists of 66 high-precision antennas, which can be positioned up to 16 kilometers apart. 



This configuration allows astronomers to achieve a resolution and sensitivity that were previously unattainable in millimeter/submillimeter astronomy.



ALMA is designed to study some of the oldest and most distant objects in the Universe. It has contributed significantly to our understanding of star formation, planetary systems, galaxies, and the early Universe.&nbsp;



Its high-resolution capabilities also make it ideal for detailed imaging of molecular gas and dust in the Universe, essential for understanding the process of star and planet formation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-spiral-galaxies">More about spiral galaxies</h2>



As mentioned above, spiral galaxies, with their distinctive pinwheel shapes, are some of the most visually striking objects in the universe. 



These galaxies consist of a central bulge surrounded by a flat, rotating disk of stars, gas, and dust, all bound together by gravity. 



The spiral arms, which give these galaxies their name, are regions of high star formation, marked by bright young stars, nebulae, and dark dust lanes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation and structure of spiral galaxies</h3>



The formation of spiral galaxies remains an area of active research in astronomy. The leading theory suggests that the spiral structure results from density waves that rotate through the disk. 



These waves compress the gas and dust, triggering star formation. This process not only creates the vivid spiral arms but also contributes to the dynamic evolution of the galaxy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Types and classification</h3>



Spiral galaxies come in various types, classified by the size of their central bulge and the openness of their spiral arms. 



The most common types include the grand design spirals, with well-defined arms, and the flocculent spirals, with patchier, less distinct arms. 



The Milky Way, our home galaxy, is a barred spiral galaxy, featuring a central bar-shaped structure that influences the motion of stars and gas.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Role in cosmic evolution and research</h3>



These galaxies play a crucial role in our understanding of cosmic evolution. They are fertile grounds for star formation and can host a wide range of celestial phenomena, including supernovae and black holes. 



Observations of spiral galaxies have also contributed to the discovery of dark matter, as the rotational speed of the outer regions of these galaxies cannot be explained by the visible mass alone.



In summary, spiral galaxies are not just visually stunning but also central to many areas of astrophysical research. They offer a window into the processes of star formation and galaxy evolution, making them a fundamental topic in the study of the cosmos.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/mnras/stad3588" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a>.&nbsp;



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Seismic ripples observed in the oldest known spiral galaxy where they don't belong

Astronomers have captured a new snapshot of the ancient spiral...

A new study led by an anthropologist from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, is shedding light on the origins of archery in the Americas and its societal impact.&nbsp;



The research challenges previous notions by suggesting that archery <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-can-improve-technology/">technology</a> in the Andes emerged around 5,000 years ago, rather than the previously believed 3,000 years ago. 



This finding was based on the analysis of 1,179 projectile points from the Lake Titicaca Basin in the Andes mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expansion-of-exchange-networks">Expansion of exchange networks</h2>



“This is among the first instances in which Andean archaeologists have investigated social complexity through the quantitative analysis of stone tools,” said corresponding author Luis Flores-Blanco, a doctoral student in Anthropology at UC Davis.&nbsp;



The study indicates that the adoption of bow-and-arrow technology coincided with the expansion of exchange networks and the increasing tendency of people to live in villages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-social-complexity">Increasing social complexity</h2>



Traditionally, researchers have focused on monumental architecture and ceramics to investigate increasing social complexity in the region.



However, this study shifts the focus to projectile points, which are typically associated with foraging communities.



The research team examined over a thousand projectile points spanning 10,000 years. They all originated from the Lake Titicaca Basin. 



Flores-Blanco highlighted the basin’s historical significance, noting its elevation of 12,500 feet and its role in the domestication of plants like the potato. 



The region was also a significant territory for the Tiwanaku civilization and the Inca Empire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-on-archery-in-the-americas">New insights on archery in the Americas </h2>



The team’s analysis involved measuring the length, width, thickness, and weight of each projectile, noting that older points were larger. 



A noticeable decrease in size occurred around 5,000 years ago during the Terminal Archaic period, suggesting a shift from spear-throwing to bow-and-arrow technology.



Additionally, the researchers compared their archery data with American archaeological information regarding settlement sizes, raw material availability, and cranial trauma data from the region. 



They observed that during the Terminal Archaic period, settlement sizes increased, but the number of settlement sites decreased. Interestingly, despite access to unique materials, there was a lack of evidence of social violence.



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



According to Flores-Blanco, the introduction of bow-and-arrow technology could have played a role in maintaining social norms crucial to the development of new social institutions like obsidian exchange hubs and the expansion of village residences.



This research not only offers new insights into the technological advancements of ancient Andean civilizations but also suggests a deeper, more nuanced understanding of how these societies evolved and interacted.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2023.10.012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quaternary International</a>.



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How the rise of archery changed life in the Americas

A new study led by an anthropologist from the University...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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