For decades, scientists have been grappling with what is considered to be the most fundamental question about the cosmos: How fast is our universe expanding? 



The rate of expansion influences everything from how galaxies form to how they might one day drift apart.



Determining the expansion rate of the universe, a number called the "Hubble constant," shapes our entire understanding of the cosmos, its age, and its ultimate fate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-tension-expansion-conundrum">"Hubble tension" expansion conundrum</h2>



Unfortunately, though many brilliant minds have dedicated their lives to finding the answer to this riddle, all who have tried thus far have failed, running repeatedly into a brick wall that has come to be known as the "Hubble tension."



Adam Riess, a physicist at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> in Baltimore, has been at the forefront of this debate. "With measurement errors negated, what remains is the real and exciting possibility that we have misunderstood the universe," Riess admitted.



Riess, who won a Nobel Prize for discovering that the universe's expansion is accelerating due to dark energy, has been working tirelessly to resolve what's known as the Hubble Tension.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-hubble-constant-matters">Why the Hubble constant matters</h2>



But before diving deeper, let's consider why the expansion rate -- called the Hubble constant -- is so crucial. 



Named after Edwin Hubble, who first observed that galaxies are moving away from us, this constant helps us map out the history and future of everything we see in the night sky. 



Determining it with precision has been a major goal of astronomers for decades.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hubble-constant_3-steps_illustration_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hubble-constant_3-steps_illustration_nasa_1s.webp" alt="This illustration shows the three basic steps astronomers use to calculate how fast the universe expands over time, a value called the Hubble constant. All the steps involve building a strong &quot;cosmic distance ladder,&quot; by starting with measuring accurate distances to nearby galaxies and then moving to galaxies farther and farther away. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1951709"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This illustration shows the three basic steps astronomers use to calculate how fast the universe expands over time, a value called the Hubble constant. All the steps involve building a strong "cosmic distance ladder," by starting with measuring accurate distances to nearby galaxies and then moving to galaxies farther and farther away. Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



When the <a href="https://hubblesite.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> was launched in 1990, one of its main objectives was to pin down the universe's expansion rate. 



Before Hubble, estimates of the universe's age ranged wildly from 10 to 20 billion years -- a huge uncertainty. 



Thanks to Hubble's observations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expansion-rate-of-the-universe-confirmed-by-jwst/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cepheid variable stars</a> -- stars that pulsate at regular intervals and serve as cosmic mileposts -- we now have a more precise age of about 13.8 billion years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-telescope-to-the-rescue">Webb telescope to the rescue?</h2>



Some scientists wondered if the discrepancies in measurements were due to errors in Hubble's data. Maybe, they thought, the way Hubble measured distances had some hidden flaws. 



Then came the James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a>), launched to great fanfare as the successor to Hubble. Webb's infrared observations of Cepheids matched Hubble's optical data perfectly. 



"Combining Webb and Hubble gives us the best of both worlds. We find that the Hubble measurements remain reliable as we climb farther along the cosmic distance ladder," Riess explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-vs-webb-vs-expansion">Hubble vs. Webb vs. expansion</h2>



Despite the new data, the tension between measurements remains. The Hubble and Webb telescopes confirm one universe expansion rate, based on observations of the local universe.



Meanwhile, observations from the early universe, like those from the Planck satellite's mapping of the cosmic microwave background radiation, suggest another. 



This leaves cosmologists scratching their heads. Is there something about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universe-expansion-rate-dark-energy-measured-11-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fabric of space</a> we don't yet understand? Does resolving this discrepancy require new physics, or is there another explanation?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brenda-frye-tackles-hubble-and-expansion">Brenda Frye tackles Hubble and expansion</h2>



In October 2024, <a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/webb/2024/10/01/webb-researchers-discover-lensed-supernova-confirm-hubble-tension/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">as reported by NASA</a>, Brenda Frye from the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a> and an international team took a different approach. 



They used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-finds-a-second-lensed-supernova-in-a-distant-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitationally lensed supernovae</a> to measure the Hubble constant -- a method independent of previous techniques. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hubble-constant_galaxy-cluster-G165_supernova-H0pe_gravitational-lensing_jwst_UArizona_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hubble-constant_galaxy-cluster-G165_supernova-H0pe_gravitational-lensing_jwst_UArizona_1s.webp" alt="NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) image of the galaxy cluster PLCK G165.7+67.0, also known as G165, on the left shows the magnifying effect a foreground cluster can have on the distant universe beyond. The foreground cluster is 3.6 billion light-years away from Earth. The zoomed region on the right shows supernova H0pe triply imaged (labeled with white dashed circles) due to gravitational lensing. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, B. Frye (University of Arizona)" class="wp-image-1951711"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) image of the galaxy cluster PLCK G165.7+67.0, also known as G165, on the left shows the magnifying effect a foreground cluster can have on the distant universe beyond. The foreground cluster is 3.6 billion light-years away from Earth. The zoomed region on the right shows supernova H0pe triply imaged (labeled with white dashed circles) due to gravitational lensing. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, B. Frye (University of Arizona)</figcaption></figure>



While observing a densely populated cluster of galaxies, they noticed something unusual. "What are those three dots that weren’t there before? Could that be a supernova?" the team wondered. 



It turned out to be a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-travels-back-in-time-to-better-understand-supernovae-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Type Ia supernova</a>, an explosion of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf star</a>, magnified and split into multiple images by the gravitational lensing effect of the intervening galaxy cluster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-gravitational-lensing">What is gravitational lensing?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-carousel-lens-galaxy-alignment-reveals-dark-matter-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gravitational lensing</a> is important to this experiment. The lens, consisting of a cluster of galaxies situated between the supernova and us, bends the supernova's light into multiple images. 



This effect not only magnifies the supernova but also allows scientists to measure the time delays between the images, providing another way to calculate the Hubble constant.



Their analyses confirmed that these dots corresponded to an exploding star with rare qualities. 



The team's work provided a Hubble constant value of 75.4 kilometers per second per megaparsec, plus 8.1 or minus 5.5. For context, one megaparsec is about 3.26 million light-years. 



"Our team’s results are impactful: The Hubble constant value matches other measurements in the local universe, and is somewhat in tension with values obtained when the universe was young," Frye concluded.



Another strikeout... add Brenda Frye to the long list of brilliant minds still probing the universe for an answer to Hubble tension.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-getting-sad-now-what">This is getting sad, now what?</h2>



So, where does this leave us? 



The Hubble Tension isn't going away. It might be telling us that there's new physics waiting to be discovered. 



Perhaps our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-could-explain-the-rapid-expansion-of-the-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark energy</a>, dark matter, or other fundamental forces needs to be revised. 



"We need to find out if we are missing something on how to connect the beginning of the universe and the present day," Riess pointed out. 



It's possible that new theories or modifications to existing ones could bridge the gap.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaking-things-up-with-new-theories">Shaking things up with new theories</h2>



Could the solution lie in something entirely unexpected? Perhaps there's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-may-consist-of-particles-that-travel-faster-than-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new particle or force</a> that affects the expansion rate. Or maybe the nature of dark energy changes over time. 



Some theories even propose the existence of extra dimensions or modifications to gravity at large scales. It's also worth considering that the universe might not be uniform in all directions. 



If there are variations in the density of matter and energy across vast distances, this could affect expansion rates in ways we haven't fully accounted for. 



Maybe everyone is completely off base and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter doesn't even exist</a>? Or maybe we're looking in the wrong place -- what if the answers can be found by looking for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-are-now-searching-for-dark-matter-inside-old-earth-rocks-minerals-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter in rocks on Earth</a>?



One thing's for sure: the cosmos isn't giving up its secrets easily. But that's part of the thrill of science. Every answer leads to new questions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-constant-hubble-tension-mysterious-universe">Hubble constant, Hubble tension, mysterious universe</h2>



In the end, the universe is reminding us that there's still so much we don't know. The quest to figure out how fast our universe is expanding has led to some fascinating discoveries and even more intriguing questions. 



Scientists like Adam Riess and Brenda Frye have used powerful tools like the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes to measure the Hubble constant with increasing precision. 



Their efforts confirm that the local universe is expanding at a certain rate, but this doesn't quite line up with measurements from the early universe.



This mismatch, known as the Hubble Tension, suggests there might be something we’re missing in our understanding of the cosmos. Maybe there are new physics to uncover, or perhaps our current models need some tweaking. 



What's clear is that the universe isn't giving up its secrets easily, and that keeps things exciting for astronomers and physicists alike.



As we look ahead, upcoming missions like NASA's <a href="https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope</a> and ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid mission</a> offer hope for new insights. Until then, we can marvel at the fact that we're part of an ever-expanding universe that's still full of surprises.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad1ddd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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Webb telescope confirms: What we think we know about the universe is very wrong

For decades, scientists have been grappling with what is considered to be the most fundamental question about the cosmos: How fast is our universe expanding? The rate of expansion influences everything from how galaxies form to how they might one day drift apart. Determining the expansion rate of the universe, a number called the "Hubble constant," shapes our entire understanding of the cosmos, its age, and its ultimate fate. "Hubble tension" expansion conundrum Unfortunately, though many brilliant minds have dedicated their lives to finding the answer to...

A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.usc.edu/">University of Southern California</a> suggests that the everyday act of sitting increases the risk of dementia, especially for older adults.&nbsp;



In a collaboration with the University of Arizona, the USC researchers discovered a link between prolonged sedentary behavior and a greater risk of developing dementia for adults aged 60 and above.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-cumulative-sedentary-time">Cumulative sedentary time&nbsp;</h2>



Alarmingly, the experts found that the risk is amplified among older people who remain sedentary for over 10 hours a day. This figure hovers close to the average sedentary time of an American, which stands at approximately 9.5 hours daily.



A surprising finding of the study is that the frequency of breaks does not really matter. Instead, it's the cumulative sedentary time that counts.&nbsp;



“Many of us are familiar with the common advice to break up long periods of sitting by getting up every 30 minutes or so to stand or walk around. We wanted to see if those types of patterns are associated with dementia risk," explained study co-author Professor David Raichlen.&nbsp;



"We found that once you take into account the total time spent sedentary, the length of individual sedentary periods didn’t really matter."



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



The research was focused on data from the U.K. Biobank. As part of a Biobank sub-study, over 100,000 adults wore accelerometers - devices tasked with recording movement - continually for a week.&nbsp;



The participants included about 50,000 adults aged 60 and over, all of whom were dementia-free at the study's inception.



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



To analyze this massive dataset, the researchers used machine learning to distinguish between varying intensities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/no-pain-no-gain-physical-activity-enhances-pain-tolerance/">physical activity</a>. This produced an objective view of the time individuals allocated to different types of sedentary behaviors.



Over the next six years, 414 of the initial participants were diagnosed with dementia. Factoring in variables like age, sex, education level, race, and several lifestyle attributes, the research team narrowed down their results.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



“We were surprised to find that the risk of dementia begins to rapidly increase after 10 hours spent sedentary each day, regardless of how the sedentary time was accumulated. This suggests that it is the total time spent sedentary that drove the relationship between sedentary behavior and dementia risk, but importantly lower levels of sedentary behavior, up to around 10 hours, were not associated with increased risk,” said study co-author Gene Alexander, an expert at the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Arizona and Arizona Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.



“This should provide some reassurance to those of us with office jobs that involve prolonged periods of sitting, as long we limit our total daily time spent sedentary."



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The current study expands upon prior research that explored how specific sedentary actions, such as watching TV, might influence dementia risk more than others.&nbsp;



“Our latest study is part of our larger effort to understand how sedentary behavior affects brain health from multiple perspectives. In this case, wearable accelerometers provide an objective view of how much time people dedicate to sedentary behavior that complements our past analyses,” said Raichlen.



Further research is needed to establish causality and whether physical activity can mitigate the risk of developing dementia, the authors said.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.15231">JAMA</a>.



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Ten hours of sitting amplifies the risk of dementia

A recent study led by the University of Southern California...

Climate change and extreme weather events are damaging water quality in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a> worldwide, according to a comprehensive review of almost 1,000 studies. The scale of the problem, and the urgent need for better water management strategies, are matters that can no longer be ignored.



An international team of researchers, including experts from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>, analyzed 965 studies that were conducted over a span of 22 years from 2000 to 2022. 



<h2 id="h-ecological-impacts">Ecological impacts&nbsp;</h2>



One of the most alarming findings was that climate change had increased water temperatures and algae levels in 56 percent of studies.&nbsp;



This phenomenon is contributing to a decline in dissolved oxygen concentrations in river water. Algae, particularly at excessive levels, can consume vast amounts of oxygen. This deprives other aquatic life and affecting the ecosystem's balance.



<h2 id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h2>



The analysis also revealed that droughts and heatwaves led to increased salinity and higher concentrations of pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals.



“The severe effects climate change is already having on water quality globally are very concerning. Previous climate change predictions flagged this, but unfortunately, we are now seeing these extreme events play out across the world,” said study co-author Professor Luke Mosley.



“Rivers are intrinsically important ecosystems but also provide key water sources for drinking water and agriculture. Poor quality water can result in the river water being unsuitable for these uses.”



<h2 id="h-poor-water-quality">Poor water quality</h2>



Some of the studies in Australia, led by Professor Mosley during the Millennium Drought spanning 2007 to 2020, revealed that water bodies like the River Murray and Lower Lakes experienced shockingly low water levels. These rivers also had poor water quality, notably extreme salinisation and acidification.&nbsp;



The extreme ecological impacts, such as the tragic Lower Darling River fish kills in 2019, were direct outcomes of deteriorated water quality.



<h2 id="h-gaps-in-our-knowledge">Gaps in our knowledge&nbsp;</h2>



But while the study offers extensive insights, it also highlights gaps in our knowledge. Dr. Michelle van Vliet of <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en/home-en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a>, who led the research, wants to see more data on water quality collected in non-Western countries to improve our understanding of the implications of climate change on water quality.



“Most water quality studies now focus on rivers and streams in North America and Europe. We need a better monitoring of water quality in Africa and Asia,” said Dr. van Vliet.



<h2 id="h-complex-factors">Complex factors</h2>



Furthermore, it is not just climate change that's impacting our rivers. Land use, human activities like wastewater treatment, and other anthropogenic factors are contributing to the damage in our waterways.&nbsp;



“Understanding the complex interplay between climate, land use and human drivers, which together influence the sources and transport of pollutants is crucial,” said Dr. van Vliet.



<h2 id="h-water-management-systems">Water management systems&nbsp;</h2>



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/natrevearthenviron/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Earth and Environment</a>, paints a bleak portrait of climate change's effects on global waterways, but there is hope. 



Professor Mosley believes that the research will act as a catalyst for the development of innovative water management systems.&nbsp;



“Our findings stress the need to improve understanding of the complex hydroclimatic–geographic–human driver feedbacks and to develop technologies and water quality frameworks that support the design of robust water quality management strategies under increasing hydroclimatic extremes,” Professor Mosley said.



“It is hoped this research will spur increasing additional effort and collaboration globally to understand extreme water quality effects."



“Governments and other policy makers should take note of the findings and consider contingency plans and strategies to try to minimize water quality risks.”



<h2 id="h-weather-extremes">Weather extremes</h2>



The results of the study highlight an urgent need for a better understanding of water quality changes during extreme weather events, and the mechanisms underlying this.&nbsp;



“Only then will we be able to develop effective water management strategies that can safeguard our access to clean water and ensure ecosystem health under climate change and increasing weather extremes," said Dr. van Vliet.



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Rivers at risk: Climate change is diminishing global water quality

Climate change and extreme weather events are damaging water quality...

Green,Comet,In,Dark,Space.,Elements,Of,This,Image,Furnished

In the vastness of our universe, objects constantly move and change. However, Comet Nishimura stands out as more than just an ordinary space rock. This ghostly green comet, with its mysterious origins, is now making its closest approach to Earth and visible to the naked eye.



Nishimura won't grace our skies again until 2317, making this viewing truly a "once in a lifetime" opportunity.



Only a month ago, the astronomical community was taken by surprise when <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/introducing-comet-nishimura" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Comet Nishimura was discovered</a>. The comet isn't just dawdling through space - it's racing at a speed of 240,000 miles per hour as it catapults around the Sun.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-close-encounter-with-the-green-comet">Close encounter with the green comet</h2>



The comet is expected to make its closest approach to our planet on the morning of September 12 at a distance of 78 million miles. The ideal times to catch a glimpse will be the hour after sunset or the hour before dawn, looking in the direction of east-north-east.



According to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq4PArccK1U" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASASpaceNews</a>, Nishimura is currently between the constellations of Cancer and Leo. Around 4 am, the comet is visible slightly higher and to the left of the “morning star."



<h2 id="h-dirty-snowball">Dirty snowball&nbsp;</h2>



To the naked eye, Comet Nishimura - also known as Comet C/2023 P1 - appears as a star-like blob with a thin green tail.&nbsp;



Comets are often referred to as the visual representation of a “dirty snowball.” The terminology arises from the nature of comets, which are essentially aggregates of ice, dust, and rocky material.&nbsp;



Unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-released-boulders-with-the-explosive-capacity-of-an-atomic-bomb/">asteroids</a> that are primarily composed of metals and rocks, comets undergo a unique transformation when they draw near to the Sun.



As they approach the star, the icy and dusty components begin to vaporize, a process called sublimation. This results in the formation of a distinctive tail and a cloudy halo, a feature known as a coma.



<h2 id="h-interstellar-origins">Interstellar origins</h2>



What makes Comet Nishimura truly captivating is its potential interstellar origin. This speculation arises from its trajectory and the fact that it was discovered at a great distance from the sun.&nbsp;



The discovery of the comet is credited to Hideo Nishimura of Japan. He managed to spot the celestial object using a telephoto lens mounted on a Canon camera on August 12, 2023.&nbsp;



Around this time, the comet also appeared in an image snapped by a photographer at June Lake, California. In the image, the ghostly green comet presented itself as a vivid green blob with a brilliant tail.



<h2 id="h-slingshot-around-the-sun">Slingshot around the Sun&nbsp;</h2>



Another intriguing aspect of this green comet’s journey is its impending “slingshot” around the Sun. This is a dramatic maneuver orchestrated by our star’s immense gravitational pull. This will send the comet hurtling back into the darkness of space, away from our sight.&nbsp;



"People only get the chance to see a naked eye comet like Nishimura about once a decade," said Professor Brad Gibson, director of the <a href="https://www.milne.hull.ac.uk/">E A Milne Centre for Astrophysics</a> at the University of Hull.



"The comet takes 500 years to orbit the solar system, Earth takes one year, and the outer planets can take many decades. Halley's Comet, which caused much interest during its last nearby visit to Earth in 1986, takes 76 years to orbit the solar system. So, to say this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Nishimura isn't an exaggeration."



<h2 id="h-close-solar-approach">Close solar approach&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Gibson highlighted that Nishimura's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/comet-nishimura-may-approach-earth-so-closely-that-it-will-be-visible-to-the-naked-eye/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closest rendezvous</a> with the sun on September 17, at a proximity of just 27 million miles, could be perilous for the green comet.&nbsp;



There's a possibility that it may not withstand this close solar approach. The comet’s nucleus - a solid core made of rock, dust, and frozen gases - might disintegrate.



However, Professor Gibson assured that Earth is not in danger, as the comet's orbit and speed have been meticulously mapped out. He noted that Comet Nishimura might play a role in the annual meteor shower named the Sigma-Hydrids. This shower graces our skies every December.



<h2 id="h-interstellar-objects">Interstellar objects&nbsp;</h2>



Interstellar objects offer an intriguing look into far-off solar systems. They present an opportunity to study celestial bodies untouched by our Sun’s influence.&nbsp;



To date, only three interstellar objects have been identified. This includes a meteor that struck Earth in 2014, only to be confirmed as interstellar by the US Space Command eight years later. This was followed by Oumuamua in 2017 and Comet Borisov in 2019.



Interestingly, while Oumuamua was first labeled a comet, it was later reclassified as an asteroid due to its absence of a coma. On the other hand, 2I/Borisov holds the distinction of being one of the most “pristine comets” ever observed, as announced by scientists in 2021.



For now, the mystery of Comet Nishimura’s true origins persists. Further orbital calculations may shed more light on its journey.&nbsp;



For an enhanced view of Comet Nishimura, experts recommend using binoculars or a telescope. Additionally, tools like SkyView, Sky Guide, and Night Sky apps allow users to pinpoint exact celestial objects, constellations, and planets.



<h2>More about comets</h2>



Comets, often described as "dirty snowballs" or "icy dirtballs", are some of the most captivating objects in our solar system. These celestial wanderers, composed primarily of ice, dust, and rocks, offer invaluable insights into the early days of our solar system.



<h3>Origins and composition</h3>



Comets originate from the frigid outskirts of our solar system, primarily from two regions: the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. The<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-earth-like-planet-may-be-hiding-just-beyond-neptune/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Kuiper Belt</a>, lying just beyond Neptune, houses short-period comets -- those that complete their orbits in less than 200 years. 



Meanwhile, the distant Oort Cloud, almost a light-year away from the Sun, is the birthplace of long-period comets that can take thousands or even millions of years to orbit the Sun.



A comet has several distinct parts. The nucleus, its solid and central part, contains ices -- like water, carbon dioxide, ammonia, and methane -- mixed with dust. When a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sungrazing-comet-may-have-caused-dinosaur-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet</a> approaches the Sun, this ice begins to vaporize, forming a glowing envelope of gas around the nucleus called the coma. 



Solar radiation and solar winds push this gas and dust into two distinct tails. These are called the dust tail and the ion tail. It's worth noting that the tails of a comet always point away from the Sun, regardless of the comet's direction.



<h3>Historical significance</h3>



Throughout history, various cultures have regarded comets as omens or harbingers of change. Their sudden appearance and brilliant displays often evoked fear, awe, or wonder. 



Today, we understand that comets aren't omens, but rather remnants from the early solar system. They serve as cosmic time capsules, preserving ancient materials in their pristine state.



<h3>Recent discoveries and missions</h3>



Space missions to comets have vastly expanded our understanding of these icy bodies. In 2014, the European Space Agency's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Rosetta/The_Rosetta_lander" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosetta mission</a> made history by deploying the Philae lander on the comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko. 



This mission provided an unprecedented close-up view of a comet's surface and analyzed its composition. The little Philae lander shed light on the possible origins of Earth's water and organic molecules.



In summary, comets, with their ethereal beauty, are not just spectacular sights in the night sky. They are scientifically intriguing objects that carry the ancient history of our solar system. Studying them doesn't just satisfy our curiosity but also helps answer fundamental questions about the origins of life and the nature of our cosmic neighborhood.



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Last chance to see "ghostly green" Comet Nishimura until it returns in 2317

In the vastness of our universe, objects constantly move and...

In recent years, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infectious-pathogen-has-spread-to-90-percent-of-cannabis-farms-in-california/">cannabis</a> has taken center stage in discussions about mental health. The psychoactive cannabinoid THC has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety.&nbsp;



But what if our brains have their own natural version of this compound that plays a role in mitigating stress? New research from <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/">Northwestern University</a> suggests that this might be the case.



The study suggests that our brains remain active when exposed to stress. The experts found that the cannabinoid molecules released by our own cerebral network seem to affect the brain similarly to THC.



<h2 id="h-stress-response">Stress response</h2>



Researchers have poorly understood the specific pathways and neural circuits that natural cannabinoids influence.



The study reveals that during stressful situations, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-identify-rewards-and-punishments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amygdala</a> - an integral emotional center in the brain - releases cannabinoid molecules. 



These molecules subsequently act to temper the stress alarm sent from the hippocampus. This part of the brain is a critical memory and emotion center. 



The findings support the existing theory that these self-produced cannabinoid molecules serve as the body's innate response to stress.



<h2 id="h-stress-related-disorders">Stress-related disorders&nbsp;</h2>



Stress can exacerbate or trigger psychiatric disorders ranging from major depression to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).&nbsp;



Study co-author Dr. Sachi Patel is an expert in Behavioral Sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a psychiatrist at Northwestern Medicine.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Understanding how the brain adapts to stress at the molecular, cellular and circuit level could provide critical insight into how stress is translated into mood disorders and may reveal novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of stress-related disorders,” said Dr. Patel.



According to Dr. Patel, the study indicates that impairments in this endogenous cannabinoid signaling system in the brain could lead to a greater susceptibility to developing stress-related psychiatric disorders. These include depression and PTSD, although this remains to be determined in humans.



<h2 id="h-cannabinoid-production">Cannabinoid production&nbsp;</h2>



For their research, the Northwestern team used a cutting-edge protein sensor to detect the presence of cannabinoid molecules at specific brain synapses.&nbsp;



The study revealed that the amygdala, under certain high-frequency activity patterns, can produce cannabinoids. Researchers observed these molecules in mice subjected to various stress types.



<h2 id="h-cannabinoid-receptor">Cannabinoid receptor&nbsp;</h2>



When the experts removed the target for these cannabinoids, the cannabinoid receptor type 1, mice demonstrated a diminished ability to handle stress.&nbsp;



More specifically, without these receptors at the crucial juncture between the hippocampus and amygdala, the mice exhibited passive stress responses.&nbsp;



Mice without the cannabinoid receptor also had a decreased inclination for sweetened water post-stress. This suggests the mice were experiencing anhedonia - the loss of ability to feel pleasure - which is a common symptom of depressive disorders.



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers increasingly recognize the endocannabinoid system as a viable target for drug development for stress-related disorders. Ultimately, the findings may help to inform future therapeutic strategies.



“Determining whether increasing levels of endogenous cannabinoids can be used as potential therapeutics for stress-related disorders is a next logical step from this study and our previous work,” said Dr. Patel.&nbsp;



“There are ongoing clinical trials in this area that may be able to answer this question in the near future.” 



<h2>More about cannabinoids</h2>



Cannabinoids have been the center of attention in both scientific and public circles for years. These intriguing compounds, primarily known for their association with the cannabis plant, have profound effects on the human body and potential therapeutic benefits.



<h3>Origins and types</h3>



Naturally, the cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids. The most well-known among these is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prenatal-thc-exposure-linked-to-life-long-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THC</a> is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, meaning it's responsible for the "high" or euphoric feeling users experience. 



Close on its heels in terms of popularity is cannabidiol (CBD). Unlike THC, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabidiol-could-help-cure-nicotine-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBD</a> doesn't produce a high, but it holds significant medical potential.



Apart from these two, other cannabinoids like cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thc-o-acetate-is-not-a-psychedelic-cannabinoid-according-to-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THC-O-acetate</a>, and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) also exist, and researchers are keenly exploring their potential benefits.



<h3>How cannabinoids work</h3>



Our bodies contain a system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Researchers discovered the ECS when they were trying to understand how THC affected the body. The ECS plays a vital role in regulating a variety of functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, and immune system responses.



When you consume cannabinoids, they interact with the ECS. Specifically, cannabinoids bind to or influence cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body, namely CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction leads to the various effects and potential benefits we associate with these compounds.



<h3>Therapeutic potential</h3>



Over the years, scientists and medical professionals have studied the potential therapeutic uses of cannabinoids. Some established and potential benefits are listed below.



Pain Relief: Medical cannabis often comes into use for chronic pain relief. Both THC and CBD exhibit potential for reducing pain, especially in conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis.



Mental Health: Preliminary research suggests that cannabinoids, particularly CBD, may help in treating conditions like anxiety and depression. However, it's essential to note that THC might exacerbate feelings of anxiety in some individuals.



Epilepsy: One of the most significant breakthroughs in cannabinoid research came with the understanding that CBD could help treat certain forms of epilepsy. The FDA has even approved a CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for treating specific severe epilepsy disorders.



Neuroprotection: Initial studies indicate that cannabinoids might protect against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. However, more research is necessary in this domain.



<h3>Legality and controversies</h3>



The legal status of cannabinoids varies worldwide. Many countries have strict regulations regarding the use and distribution of cannabis and its derivatives. In the U.S., while medical cannabis has gained legality in many states, federal law still classifies it as a Schedule I substance.



The controversy surrounding cannabinoids often stems from the potential for misuse and the psychoactive effects of THC. However, with the growing body of evidence supporting the medicinal benefits of compounds like CBD, the conversation is shifting.



In summary, cannabinoids present a promising frontier in medical research. As we delve deeper into understanding these compounds and their interaction with our bodies, we are bound to unlock even more of their potential benefits. However, as with any substance, it's crucial to approach their use responsibly and with a clear understanding of their effects.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Natural cannabinoids in the brain relieve stress

In recent years, cannabis has taken center stage in discussions...

A recent Europe-wide study has investigated the prevalence of protozoans, bacteria, and viruses in birds and bats that are potentially pathogenic to humans and domestic animals. The experts compiled the results of over 700 scientific articles and nearly half a million observations in varying climate conditions.&nbsp;



The researchers identified specific climatic factors that can significantly alter the risk of succumbing to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-heightens-risk-of-most-infectious-diseases/">infectious diseases</a>.



<h2 id="h-pathogen-occurrence">Pathogen occurrence&nbsp;</h2>



By combining data on the occurrence of more than 75 pathogenic microbes across Europe from almost 400 bird and 40 bat species with climatic factors, the scientists discovered that the occurrence of most pathogens is associated with temperature and rainfall.



“In general, the occurrence of pathogenic bacteria increased in areas with a warm and dry climate. On the other hand, pathogenic viruses prefer moist climate,” said lead author&nbsp;Yanjie Xu, a postdoctoral fellow in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the <a href="https://www.luomus.fi/en/natural-history-museum">Finnish Museum of Natural History</a> from the University of Helsinki.



<h2 id="h-climatic-factors">Climatic factors&nbsp;</h2>



The link between climatic factors and pathogens could be reliably assessed on the 17 pathogen taxa with most data. According to the researchers, the observed associations significantly varied.



<h3 id="h-temperature">Temperature</h3>



“Temperature was positively associated with occurrence of avian flu virus, malaria-parasite, and bacteria that cause chlamydia, salmonella, Q-fever, and typhus in birds and bats,” explained co-author&nbsp;Arto Pulliainen, an expert in Biomedicine at the <a href="https://www.utu.fi/en">University of Turku</a>.



<h3 id="h-rainfall">Rainfall</h3>



Rainfall had both positive and negative associations with the occurrence of different pathogens. For example, rises in rainfall increased the probability for the occurrence of Usutu-, Sindbis- and avian flu viruses and salmonella bacteria.



“Usutu- and Sindbis-viruses are vectored by mosquitoes, and rainfall can increase the occurrence of wetlands favored by mosquitoes. Similarly, avian flu and salmonella are prevalent particularly in waterfowl, for whom wetlands are also of importance,” said co-author Thomas Lilley, a professor of Ecophysiology&nbsp;at the Finnish Museum of Natural History.



<h2 id="h-distribution-ranges">Distribution ranges&nbsp;</h2>



According to the scientists, climate change modifies the distribution ranges of both the pathogens and their hosts. For instance, the distribution ranges of birds have already been observed to shift northwards by more than a kilometer per year.&nbsp;



“There is a possibility that for instance thermophilic pathogens become more common in northern Europe as a cause of climate change,” said senior author Aleksi Lehikoinen, a curator at the Finnish Museum of Natural History.



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



“Our results suggest that rising temperature and increasing precipitation will accelerate the threat of bird- and bat-associated bacterial and viral pathogens to wildlife, domesticated animals and humans, respectively," said the study authors.&nbsp;



"However, the idiosyncratic relationships with climatic conditions among pathogenic taxa highlight the need for pathogen-specific predictive models to understand future pathogen distributions."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ecog.06783">Ecography</a>.



<h2 id="h-more-about-bat-and-bird-viruses">More about bat and bird viruses</h2>



Bats and birds are known to be reservoirs for various viruses that can sometimes spillover and infect other animals, including humans.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-bat-viruses">Bat viruses</h3>



<h4 id="h-coronaviruses">Coronaviruses</h4>



The most well-known of these is SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19. Bats are believed to be the natural reservoir for various coronaviruses, including the ones responsible for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).



<h4 id="h-ebola-and-marburg-viruses">Ebola and marburg viruses</h4>



These are hemorrhagic fever viruses with bats serving as a potential reservoir. They can be transmitted to humans and non-human primates leading to severe outbreaks.



<h4 id="h-rabies-and-other-lyssaviruses">Rabies and other lyssaviruses</h4>



Bats can be reservoirs for rabies virus and other related viruses. Transmission to humans is rare but can be fatal without treatment.



<h4 id="h-nipah-and-hendra-viruses">Nipah and hendra viruses</h4>



These viruses are found in fruit bats and can spill over to other animals and humans, causing severe respiratory and neurological disease.



<h3 id="h-bird-viruses">Bird viruses</h3>



<h4 id="h-avian-influenza">Avian influenza</h4>



Often referred to as "bird flu," various strains of avian influenza virus can infect birds. Some of these strains, like H5N1 and H7N9, have caused severe illnesses in humans.



<h4 id="h-west-nile">West Nile&nbsp;</h4>



While this is primarily a mosquito-borne virus, birds are the main reservoir. Mosquitoes transmit the virus after biting infected birds and can then infect mammals, including humans.



The existence of these viruses in natural reservoirs emphasizes the importance of surveillance, understanding wildlife ecology, and the interactions between wildlife, livestock, and humans.&nbsp;



Reducing the interface between wild animals and humans, like by limiting the wildlife trade or encroachment into natural habitats, can help minimize the risk of future outbreaks.



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Which climatic factors promote the spread of zoonotic diseases?

A recent Europe-wide study has investigated the prevalence of protozoans,...

The narrative of our planet’s history is filled with tales of massive, awe-inspiring creatures, often with the dinosaurs as the headlining act. Yet, a newly unveiled chapter in this ever-evolving story takes us 40 million years before these famous reptilian giants roamed the Earth, to the era of Pampaphoneus biccai - a creature that once laid claim to the title of the largest and most ferocious predator in South America.



Recent revelations in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlad071/7260715">Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society</a> have introduced the world to an extraordinary 265-million-year-old fossil specimen of Pampaphoneus biccai. The fossil is exquisitely preserved and was uncovered in the pastoral landscapes of São Gabriel in Southern Brazil.



The significance of this finding cannot be overstated. This is especially true since the remains include an intact skull as well as parts of its skeleton, like ribs and arm bones.



<h2 id="h-when-dinocephalians-ruled-the-earth">When dinocephalians ruled the Earth</h2>



Tracing the lineage of Pampaphoneus leads to the dinocephalians, an early branch of therapsids that precede the catastrophic extinction event wiping out a staggering 86% of global animal species. These creatures were aptly named after the Greek words for "terrible head" due to their dense cranial bones. They were the predominant large land-dwellers of their time, showcasing a diverse range including both carnivores and herbivores.



Mateus A. Costa Santos was the study's lead author and a graduate student at the <a href="https://unipampa.edu.br/portal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleontology Laboratory at the Federal University of Pampa</a> (UNIPAMPA). For context, he explains, "The fossil was found in middle Permian rocks, in an area where bones are not so common, but always hold pleasant surprises.”



He elaborates on the significance, noting, “Finding a new Pampaphoneus skull after so long was extremely important for increasing our knowledge about the animal, which was previously difficult to differentiate from its Russian relatives."



<h2>How Pampaphoneus biccai was found</h2>



A colossal effort went into unearthing this fossil. For a month, paleontologists from UNIPAMPA and <a href="http://www.ufrgs.br/ufrgs/inicial" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul</a> (UFRGS) diligently worked, day in and day out. However, challenges posed by the global pandemic meant an additional three-year delay before the specimen could be cleaned, studied, and its mysteries unveiled.



Co-author Professor Stephanie E. Pierce of Harvard offered her insights on the specimen. He remarked, “This animal was a gnarly-looking beast, and it must have evoked sheer dread in anything that crossed its path.” Pierce emphasizes the global implications of the discovery. He noted its ability to shed light on "the community structure of terrestrial ecosystems just prior to the biggest mass extinction of all time."



The Pampaphoneus biccai specimen has elevated Brazil's significance in the world of paleontology. Interestingly, this isn't the first time a Pampaphoneus skull has been discovered in South America. It is, however, certainly the most comprehensive find yet. Its size, larger than its predecessor, coupled with the impeccable preservation of its bones, offers unprecedented data about its morphology.



<h2>Pampaphoneus was similar to modern big cats</h2>



Equating the creature's ecological significance to that of today's big cats, Professor Felipe Pinheiro from UNIPAMPA describes, “Pampaphoneus played the same ecological role as modern big cats." He goes on to illustrate the creature's might. He observed that, "Its dentition and cranial architecture suggest that its bite was strong enough to chew bones, much like modern-day hyenas."



Indeed, while the newly discovered skull is a formidable 40cm, there are indications of an even larger individual. This clue was gleaned from a jaw fragment that is believed to belong to Pampaphoneus. If accurate, this would suggest creatures nearly twice the size of the current specimen, potentially reaching lengths of up to three meters and weighing around 400kg.



This apex predator of its time was not alone. Within the same vicinity, remains of potential prey like the small dicynodont Rastodon and the giant amphibian Konzhukovia were identified. This discovery paints a vibrant picture of a bygone ecosystem.



The unfolding narrative of Pampaphoneus biccai, in tandem with other fossil findings in the region, underscores the Pampa's untapped potential as a treasure trove of paleontological discoveries. 



This research endeavor was made possible through funding by many generous institutions. Special thanks goes to CAPES, <a href="https://www.gov.br/cnpq/pt-br" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNPq</a>, and the <a href="https://research.harvard.edu/lemann-brazil-research-fund/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard Lemann Brazil Research Fund</a>. The study reaffirms the global significance of Brazil’s rich and diverse fossil record.



<h2>More about dinocephalians</h2>



Dinocephalians, often overshadowed by the more famous dinosaurs, hold a unique and critical place in our planet’s prehistoric narrative. As mentioned above, derived from Greek words meaning "terrible heads," dinocephalians were a diverse group of therapsid (mammal-like reptiles) species that once roamed the Earth long before the first dinosaur made its footprint.



<h3>Origin and evolution</h3>



Dinocephalians first appeared in the middle Permian period, roughly around 270 million years ago. Over time, they diversified into a wide range of forms, leading to both herbivorous and carnivorous species.



<h3>Physical characteristics</h3>



One of the defining characteristics of dinocephalians was their thick, dense cranial bones, which earned them their unique name. These heavy skulls, especially in males, might have served multiple purposes. They helped with protection, combat with rivals, or even as a display to attract potential mates.



Many dinocephalian species also exhibited sexual dimorphism, where males and females displayed distinct physical differences. While males typically had larger, more robust skulls and bodies, females were comparatively smaller and less robust.



<h3>Diet and lifestyle</h3>



The diversity in the dinocephalian group was not just in size or skull structure, but also in dietary habits. Some species, like the massive Moschops, were herbivores with strong, pillar-like limbs. This indicates they had a slow-moving lifestyle where they browsed low-lying vegetation. Others, like the carnivorous Titanophoneus, had sharp teeth and strong jaws, suggesting a predatory lifestyle where they hunted smaller animals.



<h3>Habitat and distribution</h3>



Most dinocephalian fossils come from South Africa and Russia. This suggests these regions were primary habitats for these creatures during the Permian period. These habitats ranged from arid plains to dense forests, supporting the diverse lifestyles of the various dinocephalian species.



<h3>Pampaphoneus biccai extinction</h3>



Around 260 million years ago, dinocephalians began to decline. After Pampaphoneus biccai, the dinocephalians slowly vanished from the planet. 



The exact reasons for their decline remain a subject of debate among paleontologists. However, by the late Permian period, dinocephalians had become extinct. Their extinction paved the way for new groups of therapsids to dominate, eventually leading to the rise of the dinosaurs.



<h3>Significance in evolutionary history</h3>



Dinocephalians represent a vital evolutionary link between earlier reptilian forms and the more advanced mammal-like reptiles that would follow. Their rise and fall highlight the dynamic nature of life on Earth. Entire groups can evolve, diversify, and eventually go extinct, giving way to newer, more adapted species.



In summary, while they may not be as famous as the mighty Tyrannosaurus or the graceful Diplodocus, dinocephalians played a crucial role in the Earth’s prehistoric ecosystem. Their fossils provide valuable insights into the evolution of life, the changing climates and habitats of the past, and the intricate dance of survival, adaptation, and extinction. The legacy of the "terrible-headed" dinocephalians, therefore, stands as a testament to the ever-changing story of life on our planet.



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Long before dinosaurs, Pampaphoneus biccai was the fiercest predator on Earth

The narrative of our planet’s history is filled with tales...

The <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/">James Webb Space Telescope</a> has found evidence of carbon-bearing molecules, specifically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/">methane</a> and carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere of the habitable zone exoplanet K2-18 b.&nbsp;



This discovery offers a new perspective on a planet that bears no resemblance to any within our own solar system. This hints at the potential for extraterrestrial habitable worlds throughout the universe.



<h2 id="h-unique-position-of-k2-18-b">Unique position of K2-18 b</h2>



K2-18 b, which weighs 8.6 times Earth's mass, revolves around the cool dwarf star, K2-18. It is located 120 light-years from our planet in the constellation Leo.&nbsp;



The exoplanet's unique position between the size of Earth and Neptune designates it as a "sub-Neptune."



<h2 id="h-hycean-exoplanet">Hycean exoplanet</h2>



The data from Webb suggests that K2-18 b might be classified as a Hycean exoplanet. This is an emerging category that describes planets which potentially possess hydrogen-rich atmospheres and water-covered surfaces.



According to a Webb <a href="https://webbtelescope.org/contents/news-releases/2023/news-2023-139.html">press release</a>, the suggestion that K2-18 b could be a Hycean exoplanet is intriguing. Some astronomers believe that these worlds are promising environments to search for evidence for life on exoplanets.



<h2 id="h-search-for-alien-life">Search for alien life</h2>



"Our findings underscore the importance of considering diverse habitable environments in the search for life elsewhere," explained Nikku Madhusudhan, an astronomer at the University of Cambridge and lead author of the paper announcing these results.&nbsp;



"Traditionally, the search for life on exoplanets has focused primarily on smaller rocky planets, but the larger Hycean worlds are significantly more conducive to atmospheric observations."



<h2 id="h-clues-in-the-atmosphere">Clues in the atmosphere</h2>



The news release notes an<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/exoplanet_K2-18_atmospheric-conditions_NASA_2big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> abundance of methane and carbon dioxide</a>, and shortage of ammonia. This supports the hypothesis that there may be a water ocean underneath a hydrogen-rich atmosphere on K2-18 b.&nbsp;



The initial observations from Webb also hint at the presence of a molecule called dimethyl sulfide (DMS). On Earth, DMS is predominantly produced by life, mainly emanating from marine phytoplankton. Yet, Madhusudhan suggested that it's crucial to approach this with caution.



“Upcoming Webb observations should be able to confirm if DMS is indeed present in the atmosphere of K2-18 b at significant levels,” explained Madhusudhan.



<h2 id="h-k2-18-b-is-in-the-habitable-zone">K2-18 b is in the habitable zone&nbsp;</h2>



Just because K2-18 b is in the habitable zone and showcases carbon-bearing molecules does not guarantee it can sustain life. Its vast size suggests an interior dominated by high-pressure ice, reminiscent of Neptune.



"Although this kind of planet does not exist in our solar system, sub-Neptunes are the most common type of planet known so far in the galaxy," explained team member Subhajit Sarkar of Cardiff University.&nbsp;



“We have obtained the most detailed spectrum of a habitable-zone sub-Neptune to date, and this allowed us to work out the molecules that exist in its atmosphere.”



<h2 id="h-atmospheric-composition">Atmospheric composition&nbsp;</h2>



The astronomers used a brilliant method to unearth these secrets. Because the parent stars of these exoplanets often outshine their smaller counterparts, it's challenging to discern the components of these distant atmospheres.&nbsp;



The team circumvented this problem by studying the light from K2-18 b's parent star as it shone through the planet's atmosphere. This transit method yields crucial clues about the atmospheric composition.



<h2 id="h-webb-s-remarkable-precision">Webb's remarkable precision&nbsp;</h2>



"This result was only possible because of the extended wavelength range and unprecedented sensitivity of Webb, which enabled robust detection of spectral features with just two transits," said Madhusudhan.&nbsp;



"For comparison, one transit observation with Webb provided comparable precision to eight observations with Hubble conducted over a few years and in a relatively narrow wavelength range."



"These results are the product of just two observations of K2-18 b, with many more on the way,” explained Savvas Constantinou of the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/">University of Cambridge</a>. “This means our work here is but an early demonstration of what Webb can observe in habitable-zone exoplanets.”



<h2 id="h-future-steps-to-explore-k2-18-b">Future steps to explore K2-18 b</h2>



The research team is eager to dig deeper. Their next steps involve the MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument) spectrograph, aiming to further validate and enrich our understanding of K2-18 b.



"Our ultimate goal is the identification of life on a habitable exoplanet, which would transform our understanding of our place in the universe," said Madhusudhan.



While the journey to understanding K2-18 b and other similar exoplanets has just begun, the recent discoveries underscore the importance and potential of the James Webb Space Telescope. JWST is a combined endeavor of NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and the Canadian Space Agency.



<h2>More about the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)</h2>



The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) stands as humanity's most ambitious astronomical undertaking to date. It promises to revolutionize our understanding of the universe.



NASA leads the <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a> project. They are collaborating closely with the <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> (ESA) and the <a href="https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Space Agency</a> (CSA). Together, these agencies have developed a telescope that possesses a primary mirror nearly three times larger than Hubble's. This increased size allows the JWST to collect more light and observe distant, ancient galaxies that have remained elusive to our current instruments.



<h3>Different than Hubble</h3>



Unlike the Hubble, which orbits Earth, the JWST will sit at the second Lagrange Point (L2), located approximately 1.5 million kilometers away from our planet. This unique position offers a stable environment, free from Earth's radiative and light interference, enabling more detailed and clearer observations.



The JWST primarily focuses on infrared observations. This capability allows it to peer through cosmic dust clouds and witness the birth of stars and planetary systems. Additionally, by studying infrared light from the universe's early days, the JWST aims to unravel the mysteries of the period called the "Dark Ages," shortly after the Big Bang.



One of the JWST's groundbreaking features is its deployable sunshield, which is the size of a tennis court. This shield protects the telescope from external heat and light, ensuring the instruments remain cool enough for accurate infrared measurements.



The James Webb Space Telescope represents the pinnacle of modern astronomical engineering and ambition. As it ventures into space, it carries humanity's hopes and curiosities, destined to reshape our understanding of the cosmos.



The study will soon be published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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"Super Earth" planet K2-18 b has an ocean and atmosphere that could support life

The James Webb Space Telescope has found evidence of carbon-bearing...

African-american,Girl,With,Sunglasses,Smokes,A,Cigarette.,She,Smokes,With

New research has confirmed that smoking cigarettes greatly accelerates the aging process. The findings were recently presented at the <a href="https://www.ersnet.org/">European Respiratory Society</a> International Congress in Milan by Dr. Siyu Dai. He is an assistant professor in the School of Clinical Medicine at <a href="http://sie.hznu.edu.cn/Portal/Home.aspx">Hangzhou Normal University</a>.



<h2 id="h-telomere-shortening">Telomere shortening&nbsp;</h2>



“Our study shows that smoking status and cigarette quantity can result in the shortening of leucocyte telomere length, which is an indicator of tissue self-repair, regeneration and aging," explained Dr. Dai. "In other words, smoking can accelerate the process of aging, while quitting may considerably decrease the related risk.”



To understand the significance of this revelation, it is necessary to understand the function of telomeres. They serve a protective role that is similar to the plastic or metal caps that prevent shoelaces from fraying.



<h2 id="h-aging-progression">Aging progression&nbsp;</h2>



Comprising lengths of repetitive DNA sequences, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obstructive-sleep-apnea-speeds-up-aging-on-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">telomeres</a> shield the ends of our chromosomes. But with every cell division, these telomeres undergo minor shortening. 



When they become too short, the cell's ability to divide is compromised. This leads to cellular death – an intrinsic part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvard-scientists-fountain-of-youth-pill-sparks-controversy/">aging</a> progression. 



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



There has been speculation that telomere length in white blood cells, or leucocytes, is linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smokers-have-weaker-hearts-that-pump-less-blood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a>. However, the current study is the first to explore the link between smoking status, quantity of cigarette consumption, and telomere shortening.



In collaboration with her colleague Dr. Feng Chen, Dr. Dai extracted and analyzed a staggering amount of genetic and health-related data from UK Biobank. In particular, the researchers focused on data from 472,174 UK Biobank participants and 113 SNPs.



<h2 id="h-mendelian-randomization">Mendelian randomization</h2>



The team's methodology, known as Mendelian randomization, is particularly significant. This approach leverages genetic variations, or SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), inherited from our forebears to infer causal relationships between exposure to modifiable factors (like smoking) and health conditions (like shortened leucocyte telomeres). 



The strength of this method lies in its ability to avoid the interference of other potential factors. This offers a clearer picture of causality.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered&nbsp;</h2>



“We found that current smoking status was statistically significantly associated with shorter leucocyte telomere length, whereas previous smokers and people who had never smoked didn’t show significantly shorter leucocyte telomere length," said Dr Dai.



"Among people who used to smoke, there was a trend towards shorter telomere length, but this was not statistically significant. People who smoked the greater number of cigarettes had significantly shorter leucocyte telomere length."&nbsp;



"In summary, smoking may cause the shortening of leucocyte telomere length, and the more cigarettes smoked, the stronger the shortening effect."



<h2 id="h-telomere-length-and-disease">Telomere length and disease</h2>



Dr. Dai noted that in recent years, observational studies have linked shortened leucocyte telomere length with many diseases. These include cardiovascular disease, diabetes and muscle loss. 



"This means that the effect of smoking on telomere length probably plays a critical role in these diseases, although more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms."



“Our study adds to the evidence that smoking causes aging. As there are clear health benefits of smoking cessation, it is time to include cessation support as well as treatment into daily clinical management to help us to create a smoke-free environment for the next generation.”



<h2 id="h-future-research-on-smoking-cigarettes">Future research on smoking cigarettes</h2>



Dr Dai and Dr Chen will carry out further research to validate the current findings. They also plan to further investigate the effect of passive smoke exposure on tissue self-repair, regeneration and aging. In particular, they will explore the way that it could affect children.



<h2 id="h-significance-of-the-study">Significance of the study</h2>



Professor Jonathan Grigg, Chair of the European Respiratory Society Tobacco Control Committee, who was not involved with this research, commented:&nbsp;



“This study addresses the question whether smoking affects telomere lengths. Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes. If telomeres become short, cells can no longer divide successfully, and they die."



"Dr Dai and her colleagues, in a study of half a million adults, show a clear association between smoking and reduced telomere length. This study applied Mendelian randomization, a well-known method for providing good levels of evidence and being able to show causal relationships, to support previous, observational studies suggesting that smoking causes aging, while quitting may reverse this effect." 



"It will be interesting to see what the researchers have found in relation to the effects of passive smoking on telomere length.”



<h2>More about telomeres</h2>



Our cells contain the intricate blueprint of life: DNA. As vital as this molecule is, it's the tiny end caps called telomeres that play a crucial role in maintaining DNA's health and stability.



<h3>What are telomeres?</h3>



Imagine the plastic tips on the end of your shoelaces. They prevent the laces from fraying, ensuring longevity and functionality. In a similar way, telomeres act as protective caps at the ends of our DNA strands, safeguarding our genetic information.



<h3>The role of telomeres in aging and cell division</h3>



Every time a cell divides, its DNA replicates. But each replication shaves a little bit off the telomeres. Over time, as telomeres shorten, they send signals to the cell to stop dividing. This process plays a part in aging, as cells lose their ability to divide and repair tissue.



<h3>Telomerase: The protector of telomeres</h3>



Nature, recognizing the importance of telomeres, has a backup system: the enzyme telomerase. This enzyme helps rebuild telomeres, allowing cells to keep dividing for a longer time. While most of our cells don't produce much telomerase after birth, some cells, like stem cells, do, ensuring they can continually regenerate.



<h2>Telomeres and health implications</h2>



Short telomeres link to several age-related diseases, including certain forms of cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Stress, poor diet, and lack of exercise can accelerate telomere shortening, underscoring the importance of a healthy lifestyle.



<h3>The future of telomere research</h3>



Researchers believe that understanding telomeres can unlock treatments for aging and associated diseases. By manipulating telomerase or developing treatments that affect telomere length, we might someday extend the lifespan of cells and combat age-related illnesses.



In conclusion, telomeres serve as guardians of our DNA, playing an essential role in cell aging and health. As research continues, these small DNA end caps might hold the key to longer, healthier lives.



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Smoking cigarettes accelerates aging by speeding up the genetic clock

New research has confirmed that smoking cigarettes greatly accelerates the...

Night owls might want to rethink their habits. A recent investigation by researchers from <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/">Brigham and Women’s Hospital</a> has uncovered a troubling connection between late sleep-wake cycles and an elevated risk of diabetes.&nbsp;



The researchers explored the concept of "chronotype," which refers to an individual's innate circadian rhythm or preference for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-counteracts-negative-effects-of-sleep-deprivation/">sleep</a> and waking times.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-circadian-preference">Circadian preference&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Tianyi Huang is an associate epidemiologist at the Brigham’s Channing Division of Network Medicine.



“Chronotype, or circadian preference, refers to a person’s preferred timing of sleep and waking and is partly genetically determined so it may be difficult to change,” said Huang.



“People who think they are ‘night owls’ may need to pay more attention to their lifestyle because their evening chronotype may add increased risk for type 2 diabetes.”



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



Earlier studies by the team had identified a higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in individuals with inconsistent sleep patterns, with evening chronotypes often displaying irregular sleeping habits. This new research aimed to uncover the link between chronotype, lifestyle factors, and diabetes risk.



The exhaustive study scrutinized data from 63,676 female nurses as part of the Nurses’ Health Study II conducted between 2009 and 2017.&nbsp;



Participants shared information about their perceived chronotype, dietary habits, weight, sleep timings, smoking and drinking habits, physical activity, and family history of diabetes.&nbsp;



The study, a collaborative venture between the Brigham’s Channing Division of Network Medicine and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, is an expansive probe into the risk factors of major chronic diseases affecting women.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



A significant revelation was that 11% of participants identified strongly with an evening chronotype while 35% felt a definite morning inclination. The balance, about 50%, were more ambivalent, not particularly leaning towards either morning or evening.



Initially, evening chronotypes showed a 72% increased diabetes risk. However, upon considering lifestyle factors, this risk was revised to a 19% increase.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-evening-chronotypes">Evening chronotypes&nbsp;</h2>



Alarmingly, among the healthiest lifestyle group, just 6% were evening chronotypes, while 25% of those with less healthy habits identified with this category.



The night owls, the data suggests, were prone to consuming larger alcohol quantities, maintaining a poor diet, sleeping less, smoking, and exhibiting unhealthy weight and physical activity metrics.



<h2 id="h-chronotype-mismatch">Chronotype mismatch</h2>



“When we controlled for unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, the strong association between chronotype and diabetes risk was reduced but still remained, which means that lifestyle factors explain a notable proportion of this association,” said study first author Sina Kianersi, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Brigham’s Channing Division of Network Medicine.



The research also revealed a surprising trend: the heightened diabetes risk linked to the evening chronotype manifested primarily in nurses working daytime shifts, not those on overnight shifts.



“When chronotype was not matched with work hours we saw an increase in type 2 diabetes risk,” said Huang. “That was another very interesting finding suggesting that more personalized work scheduling could be beneficial.”



<h2 id="h-study-limitations">Study limitations&nbsp;</h2>



However, a limitation of the study is its lack of diversity, focusing mainly on white female nurses. Further research across broader demographics is essential to ascertain the applicability of these findings universally.&nbsp;



While the study highlights associations, it cannot firmly establish causality. Other factors might play a role in influencing a person's chronotype, their susceptibility to unhealthy habits, and diabetes risk.



<h2 id="h-future-research">Future research</h2>



Looking ahead, the team plans to explore the genetic foundation of chronotype and its potential relationship with cardiovascular disease, alongside diabetes, in a broader, more diverse group of participants.&nbsp;



“If we are able to determine a causal link between chronotype and diabetes or other diseases, physicians could better tailor prevention strategies for their patients,” says Kianersi.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7326/M23-0728">Annals of Internal Medicine</a>.



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Night owls have an increased risk of diabetes, new study finds

Night owls might want to rethink their habits. A recent...

A red fire ant species with a painful sting (Solenopsis invicta) is one of the most invasive species on Earth. Native to South America, these red <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supergene-transformed-the-social-hierarchy-of-fire-ants/">fire ants</a> have recently spread across the globe.&nbsp;



Now, a team of scientists led by the<a href="https://www.ibe.upf-csic.es/">&nbsp;Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE)</a> in Spain has confirmed that this species has reached Sicily and could soon spread all over Europe, possibly causing major environmental, economic, and health problems in Italy and beyond.



<h2 id="h-alarming-spread-of-red-fire-ants">Alarming spread of red fire ants</h2>



“S. invicta&nbsp;is one of the worst invasive species. It can spread alarmingly quickly,” explained lead author Mattia Menchetti, a PhD student at IBE. “Finding this species in Italy was a big surprise, but we knew this day would come.”



Previously known as “the imported red fire ant,” this species’ scientific name comes from its most infamous feature, its painful stings that can sometimes cause anaphylactic shock. 



<h2 id="h-how-are-they-spreading">How are they spreading?</h2>



Although it is native to South America, red fire ants have spread rapidly by flying into wind stream to travel farther on the local level. 



Humans have also played a major role in the insect’s global spread through the maritime trade industry and by shipping plant products, helping it establish throughout the United States, as well as in other regions, such as Australia, the Caribbeans, China, and Mexico. However, this is the first time that the ant has been spotted in Europe.



<h2 id="h-alien-ant-species">Alien ant species</h2>



“There are a vast number of alien ant species currently establishing in Europe, and the absence of this species was kind of a relief,” Menchetti said. “For decades, scientists have feared that it would arrive. We could not believe our eyes when we saw it.”



After seeing several photographs taken in Sicily of what looked strikingly similar to S. invicta, the experts travelled to the region to confirm the ants’ identity.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-red-fire-ants-have-painful-stings">Red fire ants have painful stings</h2>



They discovered 88 nests in a 4.7-hectare area close to a river, some of which contained several thousands of working ants. Sicilian residents told them that they had been getting stung frequently by such ants for several years.



“The locals have been experiencing these painful things since at least 2019, so the ants have probably been there for a while,” said Menchetti. “And the real extension of the invaded area is probably larger.”



<h2 id="h-first-entry-point-in-europe">First entry point in Europe</h2>



Although scientists discovered the ant in Europe for the first time, they suspect that Sicily wasn't the insect's first point of entry on the continent.



While they could not yet determine how it reached Europe, an analysis of the Sicilian ants’ DNA revealed similarities to red ant populations in the US and China.



<h2 id="h-predicting-the-future-spread-of-red-fire-ants">Predicting the future spread of red fire ants</h2>



To better understand how the ants might spread around Europe, the researchers analyzed the local wind patterns in Sicily and designed a comprehensive model to determine how suitable the rest of Europe and the Mediterranean region will be for this species and what role might climate change play in the ants’ further spread.



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that, although only seven percent of the European continent is suitable for S. invicta given current environmental conditions, climate change will likely expedite their spread and population growth in other areas too.&nbsp;



Moreover, researchers found that urban regions, particularly in Europe, were especially at risk, with 50 percent of Europe’s cities vulnerable to invasion.



“This is especially concerning because many of the cities, including London, Amsterdam, and Rome, have large seaports, which could allow the ants to spread rapidly to more countries and continents,” said senior author Roger Vila, an evolutionary biologist at IBE.



<h2 id="h-eradication-plans">Eradication plans</h2>



Since the only place where the red fire ants were successfully eradicated is New Zealand, the experts plan to base their interventions on methods that worked there, as well as on efforts underway in China. 



First, they will systematically inspect local areas to assess whether the ants have already reached them. Next, the plan is to initiate a multi-year treatment to eradicate the red fire ant nests. Finally, they will monitor the invaded sites to ensure that there are no resurgences. 



In these efforts, the public should play a critical role in helping monitor the insect’s spread. “Citizens can play a very important role in this,” Menchetti explained. “We hope that, with their help, we will be able to cover a wider area. This will help us track and spot all the possible areas invaded in the region.”



<h2 id="h-citizen-science-programs">Citizen science programs&nbsp;</h2>



Thus, the researchers plan to organize citizen science programs in which people would take photos of the ants. However, since many European ants build similar-looking nests, the experts will double-check the citizens’ findings. They need to make sure that they discovered the right ant species and are actually reporting red fire ant sightings.



“There needs to be more awareness about this problem because the problem is already in Europe. We need coordinated action, and we need it now,” Menchetti concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.07.036">Current Biology</a>.



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Invasive red fire ants have made their way to Europe and are poised to takeover

A red fire ant species with a painful sting (Solenopsis...

Recent findings by scientists at the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health</a> (NIH) have raised concerns about the potential impacts of particulate air pollution on breast cancer rates.&nbsp;



This research, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djad170">Journal of the National Cancer Institute</a>, is one of the most extensive examinations to date on how outdoor air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter, might influence breast cancer incidence.



The study was led by a team of researchers from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), both prominent divisions of NIH.&nbsp;



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



The focus of the research was on particulate matter of 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller (PM2.5).&nbsp;



These minute particles are known to originate from several sources, including vehicle emissions, combustion of materials like oil and coal, industrial releases, and even the burning of wood and vegetation.&nbsp;



Given their size, these particles can easily penetrate the deeper parts of our respiratory system when inhaled.



<h2 id="h-significant-findings">Significant findings</h2>



“We observed an 8% increase in breast cancer incidence for living in areas with higher PM2.5 exposure. Although this is a relatively modest increase, these findings are significant given that air pollution is a ubiquitous exposure that impacts almost everyone,” said Alexandra White, Ph.D., lead author and head of the Environment and Cancer Epidemiology Group at NIEHS.&nbsp;



“These findings add to a growing body of literature suggesting that air pollution is related to breast cancer.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



To obtain a comprehensive dataset, the team used information from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. This exhaustive research had enrolled over half a million men and women from six states and two metropolitan areas between 1995 and 1996.&nbsp;



The primary demographic in focus was women, with an average age of 62, predominantly non-Hispanic white. Over a span of two decades, a total of 15,870 breast cancer cases emerged within this cohort.



<h2 id="h-historic-pollution-levels">Historic pollution levels&nbsp;</h2>



A unique aspect of this study was the researchers’ method to estimate PM2.5 exposure. Instead of just considering the pollution levels at the time of enrollment, they also factored in historical pollution levels from the past 10-15 years.&nbsp;



“The ability to consider historic air pollution levels is an important strength of this research,” said Rena Jones, Ph.D., senior author and principal investigator of the study at NCI. “It can take many years for breast cancer to develop and, in the past, air pollution levels tended to be higher, which may make previous exposure levels particularly relevant for cancer development.”



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



Furthermore, the experts delved deeper into the connection between air pollution and specific types of breast cancer. They found a higher incidence of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer linked with PM2.5 exposure.&nbsp;



However, no such correlation was observed with estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) tumors. This intriguing discovery points towards the possibility that PM2.5 might be influencing breast cancer through endocrine disruption pathways. Notably, ER+ tumors are the predominant type diagnosed in U.S. women.



<h2 id="h-study-limitations">Study limitations</h2>



The researchers acknowledged that the study did not account for regional variances in the relationship between breast cancer and air pollution.&nbsp;



They recommend that future research should factor in regional pollution differences, especially the various PM2.5 types women encounter, to fully understand their potential risk.



For those curious about the air quality in their region, the Environmental Protection Agency has a handy tool: the Air Now website. This platform allows residents to quickly gauge air quality by simply entering their zip code, providing real-time data, including PM2.5 levels.



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Breast cancer incidence linked to high particulate air pollution

Recent findings by scientists at the National Institutes of Health...

New research is shedding light on how the choices we make every day - what we eat, how much we move, our sleep patterns, and even our social interactions - play a role in our mental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-can-drastically-improve-your-health-without-thousands-of-daily-steps/">health</a> outcomes.



According to the World Health Organization, one in 20 adults experiences depression. This condition poses a significant burden on public health worldwide.&nbsp;



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



An international coalition of scientists from institutions including the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/">University of Cambridge</a> and Fudan University set out to investigate the relationship between lifestyle habits and depression risk.&nbsp;



The researchers explored many factors that may influence this link, including lifestyle, genetics, brain structure and our immune and metabolic systems.



The experts analyzed data from the UK Biobank, a biomedical database containing genetic, lifestyle and health information. They focused their analysis on 290,000 people - of whom 13,000 had depression - over a nine-year period.



<h2 id="h-healthy-lifestyle-factors">Healthy lifestyle factors&nbsp;</h2>



The team ultimately identified a combination of positive lifestyle habits that can act as a protective shield against depression.



In particular, seven healthy lifestyle factors were linked with a lower risk of depression:



<ul>
<li>Moderate alcohol consumption</li>



<li>A balanced diet</li>



<li>Consistent physical activity</li>



<li>Quality sleep (7-9 hours)</li>



<li>Abstaining from smoking</li>



<li>Minimized sedentary behavior</li>



<li>Robust social connections</li>
</ul>



<h2 id="h-reducing-depression-risk">Reducing depression risk</h2>



Surprisingly, of these, optimal sleep stood out as the biggest protective factor, reducing the risk of depression by 22%.&nbsp;



Frequent social connection, which diminished the risk of depression by 18%, was found to be the most protective against recurrent depressive disorder.



Moderate alcohol consumption decreased the risk of depression by 11%, healthy diet by 6%, regular physical activity by 14%, never smoking by 20%, and low-to-moderate sedentary behavior reduced the risk by 13%.



<h2 id="h-genetics-have-a-lesser-influence">Genetics have a lesser influence&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers looked at participants' DNA to establish a genetic risk score based on the presence of depression-linked genetic variants. They found that lifestyle choices have a much greater influence on depression risk compared to genetics.



“Although our DNA - the genetic hand we’ve been dealt - can increase our risk of depression, we’ve shown that a healthy lifestyle is potentially more important," said Professor Barbara Sahakian.



“Some of these lifestyle factors are things we have a degree control over, so trying to find ways to improve them - making sure we have a good night’s sleep and getting out to see friends, for example - could make a real difference to people’s lives.”



<h2 id="h-brain-scans">Brain scans</h2>



When the experts analyzed MRI brain scans from 33,000 participants, they discovered intriguing correlations between a wholesome lifestyle and larger volumes in brain regions such as the pallidum, thalamus, amygdala, and hippocampus.&nbsp;



The blood markers told another part of the story. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein, a stress-induced molecule, and triglycerides, a primary fat storage form, were tied to suboptimal lifestyles.



These links are supported by previous research. For example, stress can wreak havoc on our ability to regulate blood sugar, deteriorating immune functions and hastening cellular aging.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, inadequate sleep and physical inactivity compromise our resilience to stress. The repercussions of social isolation are equally dire, increasing infection risk and weakening immunity.



<h2 id="h-study-implications">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The team found that the pathway from lifestyle to immune and metabolic functions was the most significant. A poorer lifestyle impacts our immune system and metabolism, which in turn increases our risk of depression.



“We’re used to thinking of a healthy lifestyle as being important to our physical health, but it’s just as important for our mental health," said Dr. Christelle Langley.



"It’s good for our brain health and cognition, but also indirectly by promoting a healthier immune system and better metabolism.”



“We know that depression can start as early as in adolescence or young adulthood, so educating young people on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and its impact on mental health should begin in schools," said Professor Jianfeng Feng.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44220-023-00120-1">Nature Mental Health</a>.



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Seven healthy lifestyle habits that prevent depression

New research is shedding light on how the choices we...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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