<p>Galaxies often collide and interact over vast timescales, reshaping their structures in unpredictable ways. Some merge, others drift past one another, but few experience a direct impact through the core. </p>



<p>Recently, the Bullseye galaxy, officially known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bullseye-galaxy_LEDA-1313424_9-rings_hubble_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LEDA 1313424</a>, has revealed a stunning cosmic event.</p>



<p>NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> captured this rare phenomenon, showing the Bullseye galaxy marked by nine distinct rings. </p>



<p>This discovery changes how astronomers view galaxy interactions, providing a rare glimpse into the rippling effects of a high-speed collision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-dive-through-the-bullseye-galaxy">A dive through the Bullseye galaxy</h2>



<p>A much smaller blue dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/hubble-spots-a-supernova-in-the-constellation-gemini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> pierced straight through the Bullseye’s heart, leaving behind an intricate pattern of expanding rings. These rings, filled with newborn stars, resemble ripples in a pond. </p>



<p>While previous studies of ring galaxies identified only two or three rings at most, this system has shattered that record.</p>



<p>The process behind this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-years-ago-edwin-hubble-proved-the-milky-way-is-not-the-only-galaxy-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraordinary formation</a> mirrors events found in nature. Consider the Northern Gannet, a seabird known for its high-speed dives into the ocean. </p>



<p>From as high as 100 feet, it plummets into the water in pursuit of fish. Its pointed beak and tightly folded wings reduce splash, but the impact still sends tiny ripples outward. Now, scale that scenario to galactic proportions.</p>



<p>Instead of a bird, imagine a tiny galaxy plunging into a much larger one. Instead of water, envision a vast galactic disk filled with stars, gas, and dust. </p>



<p>Fifty million years ago, when the blue dwarf galaxy passed through the core of the Bullseye, the cosmic ripples left in its wake pushed material both inward and outward, shaping the structure of the larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-captures-a-blue-lurker-multi-star-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-in-the-bullseye-galaxy">Rings in the Bullseye galaxy</h2>



<p>Seeing such a phenomenon in detail is rare. Both the Hubble Space Telescope and the <a href="https://keckobservatory.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">W. M. Keck Observatory</a> in Hawaii confirmed the existence of nine rings in the Bullseye galaxy. </p>



<p>This is more than double the number seen in any other known ring galaxy. Hubble also identified the intruding galaxy, which now sits to the left of the Bullseye.</p>



<p>"This was a serendipitous discovery," said Imad Pasha, the lead researcher and a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a>. "I was looking at a ground-based imaging survey and when I saw a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/andromeda-galaxy-the-violent-history-of-our-closest-cosmic-neighbor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> with several clear rings, I was immediately drawn to it. I had to stop to investigate it."</p>



<p>The name "Bullseye" perfectly describes the galaxy’s appearance, with each ring resembling a mark left by a cosmic arrow. </p>



<p>The rings are not merely decorative features; they represent powerful waves of star formation triggered by the dwarf galaxy’s high-speed passage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-brief-moment-in-history">A brief moment in history </h2>



<p>The researchers believe that this moment in the Bullseye galaxy’s history is brief.</p>



<p>"We’re catching the Bullseye at a very special moment in time. There's a very narrow window after the impact when a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-confirms-hubble-constant-our-understanding-of-universe-expansion-very-wrong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> like this would have so many rings," noted study co-author Pieter G. van Dokkum, a professor at Yale.</p>



<p>Galactic interactions are common, but a direct hit through the center is rare. The smaller galaxy’s straight trajectory caused material in the Bullseye to shift dramatically, creating the distinct concentric rings. Each ring marks a wave of compressed gas, leading to the birth of new stars.</p>



<p>For perspective, the Milky Way spans about 100,000 light-years across. The Bullseye galaxy, at 250,000 light-years in diameter, is more than twice as large. Its massive size makes the rings even more striking, as they continue expanding outward.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-ninth-ring">Confirming the ninth ring</h2>



<p>Hubble’s crisp imaging allowed researchers to pinpoint most of the rings, many of which are clustered near the center. </p>



<p>"This would have been impossible without Hubble," Pasha explained. The telescope’s high resolution provided an unparalleled look at the Bullseye’s structure, revealing intricate details invisible to ground-based observatories.</p>



<p>The Keck Observatory in Hawaii played a crucial role in confirming one additional ring, bringing the total to nine. Researchers believe a tenth ring may have once existed but has since faded beyond detectability. </p>



<p>If this lost ring still remains in some form, it would be located three times farther than the outermost ring captured by Hubble.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-theories-about-ring-formation">Confirming theories about ring formation</h2>



<p>The Bullseye galaxy aligns almost perfectly with long-standing theories about ring formation. Models predict that a galaxy hit in this way should produce a series of outward-moving rings, and this is exactly what astronomers observed.</p>



<p>"That theory was developed for the day that someone saw so many rings," van Dokkum said. "It is immensely gratifying to confirm this long-standing prediction with the Bullseye galaxy."</p>



<p>Hubble’s image provides an angled view of the rings, making them appear unevenly spaced. If seen directly from above, they would form nearly perfect circles - with the innermost rings packed closely together and the outermost ones more widely spaced.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-ripple-effect-in-space">A ripple effect in space</h2>



<p>To understand how these rings formed, imagine a pebble dropped into a pond. The first ripple spreads out widest, while others follow at regular intervals. </p>



<p>In the Bullseye galaxy, the first two rings likely formed rapidly and expanded outward. Later rings appeared in sequence, slightly offset by the continued movement of gas and dust.</p>



<p>The passage of the blue dwarf galaxy affected the earliest rings the most, triggering a chain reaction that lasted millions of years. </p>



<p>While individual stars remained largely undisturbed, entire groups of stars piled up to form the visible rings.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, gas was carried outward and mixed with dust, fueling the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universe-is-expanding-faster-than-science-can-explain-hubble-tension-physics-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creation</a> of new stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-the-bullseye-galaxy">Evolution of the Bullseye galaxy </h2>



<p>Despite the clarity of this discovery, many questions remain. Astronomers want to determine which stars existed before the dwarf galaxy’s arrival and which formed afterward. </p>



<p>This will help refine models of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unknown-factors-are-accelerating-the-expansion-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> evolution and provide insight into the long-term fate of the Bullseye.</p>



<p>Over time, some of the rings will fade as stars move out of alignment. However, the larger structure of the Bullseye will persist for millions of years, giving astronomers plenty of time to study its evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-galactic-interactions">Insights into galactic interactions</h2>



<p>Although this discovery was unexpected, it sets the stage for more findings in the future. Advanced telescopes will soon provide even greater insights into galactic interactions. </p>



<p>"Once NASA's Nancy Grace <a href="https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roman Space Telescope</a> begins science operations, interesting objects will pop out much more easily," said van Dokkum. "We will learn how rare these spectacular events really are."</p>



<p>The research not only confirms theories about ring formation but also raises new questions about the physics of galactic collisions. .</p>



<p>The team's findings were published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad9f5c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, Imad Pasha (Yale), Pieter van Dokkum (Yale)</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Bullseye galaxy reveals stunning rings after galactic impact

Galaxies often collide and interact over vast timescales, reshaping their structures in unpredictable ways. Some merge, others drift past one another, but few experience a direct impact through the core. Recently, the Bullseye galaxy, officially known as LEDA 1313424, has revealed a stunning cosmic event. NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope captured this rare phenomenon, showing the Bullseye galaxy marked by nine distinct rings. This discovery changes how astronomers view galaxy interactions, providing a rare glimpse into the rippling effects of a high-speed collision. A dive through the Bullseye...

Relax,,Lake,Ritom,On,The,Swiss,Alps

<p>In an era where technology often confines us to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-causes-of-sedentary-behavior-in-children/">sedentary</a> habits, walking remains a readily available and simple form of exercise. A new study suggests that the more we walk, the more we stand to gain in terms of health benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The relationship between the number of steps taken and the reduction in mortality risk has been a topic of many discussions. The current study, which is the world’s most extensive research on the subject, reveals encouraging new insights.</p>



<p>The analysis combined the results of&nbsp; 17 different studies across the globe, including data from 226,889 individuals. The results were published today in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/eurjpc/zwad229"><em>European Journal of Preventive Cardiology</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>The findings challenge the prevalent belief surrounding the optimal daily step count. It appears the magic number is not 10,000 or even 5,000 steps.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, the researchers found that walking merely 3,967 steps a day cuts down the risk of dying from any cause. Furthermore, just 2,337 steps daily were found to lessen the risk from cardiovascular diseases. However, it's not just about meeting the bare minimum.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our study confirms that the more you walk, the better,” explained Professor Maciej Banach of the <a href="https://en.umed.pl/">Medical University of Lodz</a>, who led the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, every increase of 1,000 steps per day was linked with a 15% lower risk of mortality from any cause, while an additional 500 steps saw a 7% decrease in cardiovascular deaths.</p>



<h2 id="h-universal-benefits-of-walking">Universal benefits of walking&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study highlights the universal benefits of walking regardless of age, gender, or region of residence.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We found that this applied to both men and women, irrespective of age, and irrespective of whether you live in a temperate, subtropical or subpolar region of the world, or a region with a mixture of climates," noted Professor Banach.</p>



<p>The research comes at a critical time when sedentary lifestyles, alarmingly prevalent across the globe, have been linked to escalating cardiovascular diseases and reduced life expectancy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over 25% of the global population is reportedly not engaging in enough physical activity, a concern exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further reduced mobility.</p>



<h2 id="h-optimal-number-of-steps">Optimal number of steps&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study senior author Dr. Ibadete Bytyçi from the University Clinical Centre of Kosovo shed light on the knowledge gaps that previously existed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Until now, it’s not been clear what is the optimal number of steps, both in terms of the cut-off points over which we can start to see health benefits, and the upper limit, if any, and the role this plays in people’s health,” said Dr. Bytyçi.</p>



<p>The researchers also factored in the age differences in the step count benefits, finding varied risk reduction percentages between older and younger adults.</p>



<h2 id="h-lifestyle-changes">Lifestyle changes</h2>



<p>Professor Banach emphasized the paramount significance of lifestyle changes. “In a world where we have more and more advanced drugs to target specific conditions such as cardiovascular disease, I believe we should always emphasise that lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, which was a main hero of our analysis, might be at least as, or even more effective in reducing cardiovascular risk and prolonging lives."</p>



<p>Despite the enormous scale of the study, the observational research cannot firmly establish causality between increased step counts and reduced death risks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, while the participants were generally healthy at the outset, the study could not account for racial and socioeconomic disparities or varied step counting methods.</p>



<h2 id="h-walking-for-better-overall-health">Walking for better overall health</h2>



<p>Walking, a fundamental and often overlooked form of exercise, has proven to have substantial health benefits. Here's a more in-depth look at the ways in which walking can improve well-being:</p>



<h3 id="h-heart-and-cardiovascular-health">Heart and cardiovascular health</h3>



<p>As highlighted in the recent global study, walking significantly reduces the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. Regular walking helps to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and enhance blood circulation, thereby boosting heart health.</p>



<h3 id="h-weight-management">Weight management</h3>



<p>Walking burns calories, aiding in weight control. A brisk walk for 30 minutes can burn around 150-200 calories. It helps in the maintenance of a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues.</p>



<h3 id="h-mental-health-benefits">Mental health benefits</h3>



<p>Walking isn't just good for the body; it's beneficial for the mind as well. It has been found to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase self-esteem, and improve mood. Nature walks, in particular, can be incredibly calming and rejuvenating.</p>



<h3 id="h-strengthening-muscles-and-bones">Strengthening muscles and bones</h3>



<p>Regular walking builds muscular strength and endurance, especially in the lower body. It also strengthens bones, increasing bone density, which is particularly vital as we age.</p>



<h3 id="h-reducing-the-risk-of-chronic-diseases">Reducing the risk of chronic diseases</h3>



<p>In addition to cardiovascular diseases, walking can also help in preventing other chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes. It aids in regulating blood sugar levels, thereby keeping diabetes at bay.</p>



<h3 id="h-enhancing-coordination-and-balance">Enhancing coordination and balance&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Walking requires coordination and engages various muscle groups, thereby improving overall balance and flexibility.</p>



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



<p>Walking in groups or with friends fosters social connections and community engagement. This social aspect can provide an additional mental health boost.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Walking will dramatically improve your health, thousands of daily steps not needed

In an era where technology often confines us to sedentary...

Man,With,Dog,Looking,At,Perseid,Meteor,Shower,At,Lake

<p>The Perseids meteor shower is one of the most eagerly anticipated astronomical events of the year. This celestial show, a consistent performer, brightens the night skies in mid-August, captivating the imaginations of both seasoned stargazers and newcomers alike.</p>



<p>The Perseids are named after the constellation Perseus because they seem to emanate from that region of the sky. They are actually remnants of the<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shooting-stars-will-light-up-the-night-sky-this-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> comet Swift-Tuttle</a>, which orbits the Sun every 133 years.</p>



<p>As this comet journeys through our solar system, it sheds a trail of debris, consisting mostly of tiny dust and rock particles. When the Earth passes through this trail, the particles, or meteoroids, collide with our atmosphere, burning up and creating the fiery streaks in the sky we call meteors or "shooting stars."</p>



<h2 id="h-when-and-how-to-view-the-perseids">When and how to view the Perseids</h2>



<p>The Perseid meteor shower occurs every year from about July 23 to August 22, with the peak from late midnight August 11 to dawn August 13. </p>



<p>During this peak, under optimal conditions, observers can expect to see between 50 to 100 meteors per hour. This year, conditions are optimal, so expect it to be closer to 100 or more meteors per hour.</p>



<ul>
<li>Find a Dark Spot: Light pollution severely limits the visibility of meteors. Escaping the city lights and heading to rural or less populated areas will greatly enhance the viewing experience.<br></li>



<li>Be Patient: Your eyes need about 20-30 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Once adjusted, you'll be able to spot more meteors.<br></li>



<li>Look Northeast: Although meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, they will seem to originate from the constellation Perseus, which rises in the northeast.<br></li>



<li>Use the Naked Eye: Telescopes and binoculars limit your field of view. Meteors move swiftly across the sky, so your best bet is to lay back and take in as much of the sky as possible.</li>
</ul>



<p>The Perseids are renowned for their bright and fast meteors. These meteors travel at speeds of up to 59 km/s (132,000 mph)!</p>



<p>Occasionally, observers might spot Perseid fireballs – these are larger explosions of light and color that persist longer than an average meteor streak. They are created when larger particles of comet debris enter Earth's atmosphere.</p>



<p>A few of the brightest Perseids can leave behind a trail known as a "persistent train" – a glowing streak that lingers for a few moments after the meteor has disintegrated.</p>



<h2>Cultural and historical significance</h2>



<p>Throughout history, meteor showers have been met with a mix of awe, reverence, and fear. Ancient civilizations often associated meteor showers with gods, spirits, or important omens.</p>



<p>The Perseids have been observed for about 2000 years and were even referred to as the "tears of St. Lawrence" in medieval Europe, as the peak coincides with the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Christian saint.</p>



<h2>Protecting our night skies</h2>



<p>The beauty of the Perseids, like all meteor showers, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our night skies. With the rise of urban development and the resultant light pollution, many people around the world are unable to witness these natural spectacles.</p>



<p>Organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association advocate for reducing light pollution, and everyone can play a role by adopting dark-sky friendly lighting in their communities.</p>



<p>The Perseids meteor shower is more than just an astronomical event; it's a bridge to our past, a reminder of the vastness of our universe, and an opportunity to reflect on our place within it.</p>



<p>Year after year, as the Earth sails through the remnants of Comet Swift-Tuttle, we are gifted a spectacle that has inspired generations before us and will continue to inspire those after. Whether you're an ardent astronomer or just someone looking up at the sky in wonder, the Perseids promise a dance of light worth staying up for.</p>



<h2>More about meteor showers</h2>



<p>Meteor showers are nature's own fireworks, lighting up the night sky with streaks of brilliance. But what exactly are these shooting stars, and when can we best witness them? Let's dive into the world of meteor showers.</p>



<h3>What are Meteor Showers?</h3>



<p>Meteor showers are events during which multiple meteors, or shooting stars, dart across the sky in a short period. Contrary to popular belief, these meteors aren't stars at all. </p>



<p>They are small particles, often no bigger than a grain of sand, that burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere. The bright streaks we see are the result of these particles vaporizing due to intense friction.</p>



<h3>Where do they come from?</h3>



<p>Meteor showers originate from comets. As comets orbit the sun, they shed a dusty trail. When Earth passes through these trails, the particles enter our atmosphere and become meteors. The radiant, or the point from which the meteors appear to emanate, corresponds to the part of the sky where the Earth encounters the comet's path.</p>



<h3>Notable meteor showers each year:</h3>



<h4>Perseids</h4>



<p>Occurring every August, the Perseids are among the most popular meteor showers. Originating from the comet Swift-Tuttle, they offer about 60-70 meteors per hour at peak.</p>



<h4>Geminids</h4>



<p>Lighting up the December sky, the Geminids come from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. With over 100 meteors per hour at their peak, they're a winter favorite.</p>



<h4>Leonids</h4>



<p>Every November, the Leonids, originating from the comet Tempel-Tuttle, make their appearance. They're known for producing meteor storms roughly every 33 years.</p>



<h3>Viewing tips</h3>



<ol type="1" start="1">
<li>Location Matters: Find a dark spot away from city lights. Light pollution greatly reduces visibility.<br></li>



<li>Peak Times: Meteor showers have peak times where activity is highest. Check predictions for the best viewing times.<br></li>



<li>Dress Warmly: Nights can get chilly. Dress in layers and bring blankets or reclining chairs for comfort.<br></li>



<li>Patience is Key: Your eyes take about 20 minutes to adjust to the dark. Give yourself at least an hour for viewing to catch more meteors.</li>
</ol>



<h3>Conservation</h3>



<p>Meteor showers aren't just beautiful; they're educational. They teach us about the cosmos and our place within it. </p>



<p>However, as urban areas expand and light pollution increases, viewing these natural wonders becomes challenging. Campaigns like <a href="https://darksky.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dark Sky</a> initiatives work towards reducing light pollution. Supporting such initiatives can ensure that future generations also get to witness these celestial wonders.</p>



<p>Meteor showers are a reminder of the dynamic universe we inhabit. These annual displays, resulting from the interplay between Earth and celestial debris, offer us moments of awe and wonder. </p>



<p>By understanding them better and taking steps to conserve our dark skies, we can ensure that these showers remain a source of inspiration for years to come.</p>



<p>---</p>



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

Perseid meteor shower peaks tonight with over 100 fireballs per hour

The Perseids meteor shower is one of the most eagerly...

Operating,Oil,Well,Profiled,On,Dramatic,Cloudy,Sky

<p>In a recent study, scientists have discovered a connection between the controversial practice of fracking and a previously unidentified type of seismic activity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While fracking is widely known for its potential to induce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-1000-shallow-earthquakes-detected-in-california/">earthquakes</a>, this new research suggests it can also cause small, slow tremors, that have often gone unnoticed.</p>



<h2 id="h-studying-impact-of-co2-fracking">Studying impact of CO2 fracking</h2>



<p>Fracking, formally referred to as hydraulic fracturing, involves the high-pressure injection of fluids into the Earth's subsurface to extract valuable oil and natural gas reserves.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The standard fluid used for this process has traditionally been wastewater. But the researchers specifically analyzed the impacts of fracking with liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) - a method that serves a dual purpose.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-environmental-advantages">Environmental advantages</h2>



<p>Not only does this method extract gas, but it also sequesters carbon dioxide underground, preventing it from contributing to the greenhouse effect in the atmosphere.</p>



<p>The potential environmental advantage of this fracking method is nothing short of remarkable. As some studies suggest, CO2 fracking could offset carbon emissions equivalent to the annual production of one billion solar panels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Because this study examines a process that sequesters carbon underground, there may be positive implications for sustainability, and for climate science,” said Abhijit Ghosh, an associate professor of geophysics at <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/">UC Riverside</a>.</p>



<p>Professor Ghosh explained that because the carbon dioxide is liquid, the results of this study almost certainly apply to fracking with water. Both are likely to cause tremors.</p>



<h2 id="h-silent-tremors">Silent tremors</h2>



<p>The intriguing detail about these tremors is their appearance on seismographs, which starkly contrasts with typical earthquakes. While powerful quakes produce sharp, high-amplitude signals, these tremors are more subdued.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They rise gently above the background noise and then diminish gradually. However, the distinction doesn't necessarily mean that fracking with wastewater is any safer.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-unraveling-the-mystery">Unraveling the mystery</h2>



<p>For years, there was significant contention among seismologists about the true origins of these tremors. Some theories attributed the seismic signals to distant, large-scale earthquakes, while others believed they were the result of local human activity, such as passing trains or industrial operations.</p>



<p>“Seismometers are not smart. You could drive a truck nearby, or kick one with your foot, and it would record that vibration,” said Ghosh, emphasizing the initial challenges in deciphering the data.</p>



<p>To demystify this puzzle, the team set up seismometers around a fracking site located in Wellington, Kansas. This monitoring extended over an extensive period, capturing data before, during, and after the fracking operations.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The conclusive evidence emerged when signals generated underground were found exclusively during the fluid injection phase. “We did not detect the tremors before or after the injections, which suggests the tremors are related to them,” said Professor Ghosh.</p>



<p>Fracking's capacity to cause more significant seismic events has been an acknowledged concern for years. Yet, completely halting the process appears improbable, making ongoing monitoring of these tremors vital.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding the deformation of rocks due to fracking and tracking the post-injection fluid movement is essential for safety.</p>



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



<p>While modeling experiments offer guidelines on safe fluid injection pressures to minimize potential earthquakes, Professor Ghosh offered a word of caution. The reality is that not all geological faults are mapped, making it challenging to predict all potential outcomes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We can only model this type of experiment when we know there is an existing fault. It is possible there are faults we do not know of, and in those cases, we cannot forecast what will happen,” he said.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-fracking">More about fracking</h2>



<p>Fracking is a technique used to extract oil and natural gas from deep underground. Fracking is a topic of significant debate, balancing its economic benefits against environmental and health concerns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The discussion is further complicated by geopolitical considerations, technological advancements, and the global urgency to transition to cleaner energy sources.</p>



<h3 id="h-process">Process</h3>



<p>Fracking involves drilling a well deep into the Earth, then injecting a mixture of water, sand, and chemicals under high pressure. This injection fractures the surrounding rock, allowing trapped oil or natural gas to flow freely so it can be pumped to the surface.</p>



<h3 id="h-benefits">Benefits</h3>



<p>Fracking has significantly increased the U.S.'s oil and natural gas production, reducing the country's dependence on foreign oil and leading to lower energy prices.</p>



<p>The fracking boom has also created numerous jobs in drilling, transport, and infrastructure.</p>



<h3 id="h-environmental-concerns-of-fracking">Environmental Concerns of Fracking</h3>



<h4 id="h-water-contamination">Water contamination</h4>



<p>There are concerns that the chemicals used in fracking fluid might contaminate drinking water supplies.</p>



<h4 id="h-air-quality">Air quality</h4>



<p>Equipment used in the fracking process can release harmful pollutants.</p>



<h4 id="h-seismic-activity-from-fracking">Seismic activity from fracking</h4>



<p>As mentioned in the study, fracking can induce seismic activity, leading to earthquakes in areas that might not typically experience them.</p>



<h4 id="h-water-usage">Water usage</h4>



<p>Large amounts of water are required for fracking, which can strain local water supplies.</p>



<h4 id="h-health-concerns">Health concerns</h4>



<p>Direct exposure to pollutants from the fracking process can impact health. There are concerns about respiratory problems, endocrine disruption, and other health issues, though research in this area is ongoing.</p>



<h4 id="h-alternative-methods">Alternative methods</h4>



<p>As mentioned in the UCR study, there is ongoing research into alternative methods like CO2 fracking. The advantage is the sequestration of CO2, a greenhouse gas, but the method also comes with its own set of challenges and concerns.</p>



<p>The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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CO2 fracking linked to mysterious unidentified seismic activity

In a recent study, scientists have discovered a connection between...

<p>Could dimming the sun's intensity be a potential solution to halting the melting of the West Antarctic ice sheet? A team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html">University of Bern</a> has recently explored this question.</p>



<p>Geoengineering is an intentional and large-scale intervention in the Earth's climate system which has been a controversial topic in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/">climate</a> discussions. Some scientists hope to artificially manipulate the climate in order to cool it.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the concept of geoengineering is met with enormous skepticism among experts who believe that the unpredictable outcomes are far too risky.</p>



<p>The latest research was led by Johannes Sutter from the Climate and Environmental Physics Division (KUP) at the University of Bern. The results are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41558-023-01738-w"><em>Nature Climate Change</em></a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-manipulating-solar-radiation">Manipulating solar radiation</h2>



<p>In particular, the researchers explored the possibility of counteracting West Antarctica's ice melt by manipulating solar radiation. The results of this inquiry, however, confirm that the unpredictable consequences of geoengineering could be monumental.</p>



<p>"The window of opportunity to limit the global temperature increase to below 2 degrees is closing fast," said Johannes Sutter, an expert in ice modeling. He suggests that in light of this, humanity might soon resort to such technical interventions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This means that understanding the implications of "solar radiation management" (SRM) - techniques aimed at blocking solar rays to cool Earth - becomes paramount.</p>



<h2 id="h-climate-tipping-points">Climate tipping points</h2>



<p>The urgency surrounding geoengineering arises from a looming threat: climate tipping points. These are critical junctures beyond which the climate might undergo irrevocable shifts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, the melting of the West Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets could result in catastrophic sea-level rises.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Observations of ice flows in West Antarctica indicate that we are very close to a so-called tipping point or have already passed it," said Sutter. His team's study was a quest to determine whether solar radiation management could theoretically halt the ice sheet's collapse.</p>



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



<p>The researchers evaluated the potential of using aerosols, or suspended particles in a gas, introduced into the stratosphere to block sunlight, thus creating an artificial dimming effect.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While previous inquiries delved into SRM's global implications, this study stands out as the first to use ice model simulations to gauge the impact of solar radiation management on the Antarctic ice sheet.</p>



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



<p>The findings were mixed. If we persist in our current greenhouse gas emissions trajectory and implement SRM mid-century, we might delay but not avert the West Antarctic Ice Sheet's demise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, in a scenario of moderated emissions, solar radiation management could be a potent weapon against ice sheet degradation. The researchers concluded that the blend of early SRM application and aggressive climate mitigation strategies yields the best results.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yet, the experts noted: "Rapid decarbonization remains the most effective path to preserving the West Antarctic Ice Sheet in the long run."</p>



<h2 id="h-is-geoengineering-practical">Is geoengineering practical?</h2>



<p>When it comes to sun dimming, Sutter describes an almost futuristic scene – fleets of high-altitude planes dispersing millions of tons of aerosols into the stratosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But this endeavor isn't a one-time fix; it demands continuous upkeep for centuries. Halting it prematurely, given the prevailing high greenhouse gas concentrations, would cause Earth's temperature to spike dramatically.</p>



<h2 id="h-termination-shock">Termination shock&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Sutter emphasized the dangers of what he terms a "termination shock," stressing that it's but one of many potential hazards associated with solar radiation management.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From unsettling the monsoon patterns to altering oceanic and atmospheric circulations, the side effects of this grand experiment remain largely unknown.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, there's apprehension about the societal repercussions, as such endeavors might detract from genuine climate mitigation efforts.</p>



<h2 id="h-radical-interventions">Radical interventions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Geoengineering would be another global experiment and a potentially dangerous human intervention in the climate system," said study co-author Professor Thomas Stocker. He references the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, urging caution in undertaking such radical interventions.</p>



<p>Overall, the research suggests that while sun dimming poses an intriguing possibility in the fight against climate change, it comes along with profound uncertainties and risks.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Geoengineering: Can we dim the sun to avoid climate tipping points?

Could dimming the sun's intensity be a potential solution to...

<p>Last year, the Hubble Space Telescope made headlines by detecting the most distant star ever seen, a luminary from the universe's first billion years named "Earendel." Now, <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/">NASA's James Webb Space Telescope</a> has uncovered mesmerizing details about this intriguing star.</p>



<p>"The Hubble provided us a glimpse of Earendel, but the James Webb Space Telescope is now offering us a deep dive," said NASA. "These observations not only enlighten us about the star's nature but also about its host galaxy, the Sunrise Arc, and possibly about the early universe itself."</p>



<h2 id="h-a-chance-discovery">A chance discovery</h2>



<p>Earendel is no ordinary star. Webb's NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) instrument paints a portrait of a massive B-type star, sizzling at temperatures twice as scorching as our Sun and radiating with a luminosity a million times more intense.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Situated in the Sunrise Arc galaxy, Earendel's detection was made possible by a combination of human innovation and cosmic alignment. A serendipitous effect called gravitational lensing, caused by the immense galaxy cluster WHL0137-08, acted like a magnifying glass, bringing Earendel into our view.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-most-distant-star-ever-detected">The most distant star ever detected</h2>



<p>But why do we see Earendel as just a solitary point of brilliance? Even the advanced infrared imaging of the Webb shows it as a lone dot.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Astronomers infer that Earendel is magnified by a staggering factor of 4,000, positioning it as the universe's most distant star, existing just a billion years post the big bang. This record outshines the previous distant star champion, spotted by Hubble 4 billion years after the universe's inception.</p>



<h2 id="h-a-possible-companion-star">A possible companion star</h2>



<p>Massive stars, like Earendel, often come paired. While it was assumed that any companion of Earendel would be hidden in its brilliance, the colors of the star suggest otherwise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Astronomers speculate the presence of a cooler, redder companion, detectable only by Webb, as the universe's expansion has elongated its light to wavelengths beyond Hubble's reach.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-sunrise-arc-galaxy">The Sunrise Arc galaxy</h2>



<p>The Sunrise Arc has its own stories. Webb's NIRCam depicts a vibrant tapestry of young star-forming regions and ancient star clusters, some as tiny as 10 light-years in diameter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Like a cosmic mirror, the gravitational lensing effect reflects these celestial features, giving us a peek into the past, possibly resembling how the Milky Way's globular clusters appeared 13 billion years ago.</p>



<p>Astronomers are eagerly awaiting data from Webb’s NIRSpec, which is expected to provide detailed insights into the composition and distance of both Earendel and the Sunrise Arc galaxy.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-distant-stars">More about distant stars</h2>



<p>Distant stars are celestial objects that are located many light-years away from Earth. Observing these stars gives us a glimpse into the history of the universe, as the light from distant stars can take billions of years to reach us.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Studying their properties, such as luminosity, color, and movement, helps scientists understand the nature of stars and galaxies, as well as the overall structure and evolution of the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Technologies like telescopes and space observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope, have greatly enhanced our ability to observe and analyze these distant stars.</p>



<p>Every point of light you see in the night sky is a star, many of which are potentially like our Sun, hosting their own family of planets and with their own unique stories to tell.</p>



<h3 id="h-classification">Classification</h3>



<p>Stars are classified based on their spectral characteristics, from hottest to coolest: O, B, A, F, G, K, M. Our Sun, for instance, is a G-type star.</p>



<h3 id="h-distances">Distances</h3>



<p>The distance to stars is often measured in light-years (ly) or parsecs (pc). One light-year is the distance light travels in one year, which is roughly 9.461 trillion kilometers.</p>



<h3 id="h-observation">Observation</h3>



<p>Due to their distance, many stars appear as point sources even in powerful telescopes. To study them, astronomers rely on their emitted light, which can provide insights into their temperature, composition, motion, and more.</p>



<h3 id="h-life-cycle">Life cycle</h3>



<p>All stars go through a life cycle, starting as a molecular cloud and progressing through stages like main sequence, red giant, and depending on their initial mass, may end as a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole.</p>



<h3 id="h-redshift">Redshift</h3>



<p>Distant stars and galaxies exhibit a phenomenon called redshift, where the emitted light is stretched towards the red end of the spectrum. This phenomenon provides evidence for the expansion of the universe.</p>



<h3 id="h-exoplanets">Exoplanets</h3>



<p>Many distant stars have been found to have planets orbiting them. These are called exoplanets. The study of these exoplanets can help scientists understand the potential for life elsewhere in the universe.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, and STScI</p>



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Webb sheds light on Earendel, the most distant star in the universe

Last year, the Hubble Space Telescope made headlines by detecting...

<p>According to a new study led by <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/">Oregon State University</a>, both male and female gray <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-whales-contribute-to-carbon-capture/">whales</a> that spend their summers feeding off the coast of Oregon – known as the Pacific Coast Feeding Group - are smaller than their counterparts that travel north to the Arctic to forage (the Eastern North Pacific Group).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The investigation revealed that females are three feet (about one meter) and the males 1.5 feet (half a meter) shorter on average than those in the Eastern North Pacific population. These findings raise new questions about the health, behavior, and management of whales in the Pacific Coast Feeding Group.</p>



<h2 id="h-additional-size-differences">Additional size differences</h2>



<p>“That is a significant difference in size. We also found that the Pacific Coast Feeding Group whales had slightly smaller skulls and flukes,” said study lead author K.C. Bierlich, a postdoctoral fellow in Geospatial Ecology at OSU. “It’s a surprising finding – we have not thought about these whales being different in this way before.”</p>



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



<p>Most of the approximately 16,000 gray whales in the Eastern North Pacific population travel past Oregon’s coast as they migrate south to their winter breeding grounds in Mexico each year between October and December, as well as during their return in March to their feeding grounds in the Bering and Chukchi seas between Alaska and Russia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By contrast, whales in the Pacific Coast Feeding Group – which are also known as Oregon’s “southern resident” gray whales and number only 212 – spend their summer months feeding in the coastal waters of Oregon, northern California, Washington, and southern Canada.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Due to their unique ecology and high exposure to boat traffic, noise, and pollution, the study authors have been investigating the health and behavior of these whales since 2015.</p>



<p>The team used photographs to identify individuals, nets to capture fecal samples, and drones to capture aerial images in order to measure the body size of individual whales. These noninvasive methods have already revealed a lot of information about the whales’ health and environment.</p>



<p>“What is really unique about our data on the Pacific Coast Feeding Group is that we know these whales really well. We see the same whales every year and can identify individuals based on unique markings, use sighting history from photo identification to estimate their age, collect fecal samples to determine their sex and use drone imagery to measure their length, skull, and fluke size,” Bierlich explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“A big question our research group has been debating for a while is why these whales come here instead of going farther north like the larger group.”</p>



<p>To compare the Pacific Coast Feeding Group and the Eastern North Pacific one, the experts used a combination of historic whaling records, data from stranded animals, aerial observations, and data collected through state-of-the-art noninvasive techniques such as drone observations.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The investigation revealed that individuals belonging to both populations grow at the same rate, but reach different final lengths.</p>



<p>“That raises some interesting questions: Is this size difference normal for this group of whales and they are a healthy population, but just differently shaped? Or is this difference a sign that they are stressed, unhealthy or not getting enough to eat?” Bierlich pondered.</p>



<h2 id="h-environmental-differences">Environmental differences&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Although reduced size and length are common adaptations for animals when they need to cope with limited resources, the difference between the two whale groups could also be attributed to the particularities of the environments in which they live and forage.</p>



<p>“These whales live in a very shallow environment, feeding in the kelp forest near shore, so the differences could be a reflection of their environment. Their smaller body size and shorter skulls and flukes could potentially help them feed more effectively in this habitat compared to the deeper waters where the Eastern North Pacific whales feed,” Bierlich said.</p>



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



<p>Although further research is needed to clarify these issues, these findings will also have crucial implications for future population management, since being smaller means that these whales have less energy storage available to support reproductive processes and responses to disturbances and injuries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While in the United States, the Pacific Coast Feeding Group is currently managed as part of the larger Eastern North Pacific Group, the differences in size identified by the scientists could raise questions about whether the groups should better be managed separately.</p>



<p>“With only 212 Pacific Coast Feeding Group whales, these whales might require different management strategies compared to the 16,000 whales in the Eastern North Pacific,” Bierlich concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2023.0043"><em>Biology Letters</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>—</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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Gray whales that forage on the Pacific Coast are smaller than expected

According to a new study led by Oregon State University,...

<p>The <a href="https://iwc.int/en/">International Whaling Commission</a> (IWC) sounded the alarm this week, issuing its first-ever <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sixth-mass-extinction-is-currently-in-progress/">extinction</a> alert concerning the critically endangered vaquita porpoise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This small marine mammal, known to be the tiniest among porpoises and within the cetacean order in terms of size, is facing a daunting threat to its existence.</p>



<p>Vaquitas, which grow up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) long, are unique to the northern reaches of Mexico’s Gulf of California. This area is often called the "Aquarium of the World" due to its rich biodiversity. </p>



<h2 id="h-shocking-state-of-decline">Shocking state of decline </h2>



<p>Since its recognition as a critically endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List in 1996, the vaquita population has seen a shocking decline.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to IWC data, vaquita numbers plummeted from approximately 570 to a mere 10 within the past decade.</p>



<h2 id="h-extinction-alert-for-the-vaquita">Extinction alert for the vaquita</h2>



<p>This extinction alert is a pioneering effort by the IWC's scientific committee to amplify concerns regarding the possible extinction of various cetacean species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Despite nearly thirty years of repeated warnings, the vaquita hovers on the edge of extinction due to gillnet entanglement,” the commission highlighted.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-dangers-of-gillnets">Dangers of gillnets&nbsp;</h2>



<p>These gillnets, although outlawed in the region, persist in ensnaring not only the shrimp and totoaba fish, which are the prime targets but also the innocent vaquita as an unintended "bycatch."</p>



<p>Totoaba fishing has been banned in the Gulf of California since 1975. However, the demand for the fish’s swim bladder, especially in China for its use in traditional medicines, keeps the illicit practice alive. </p>



<p>The IWC's scientific committee remains hopeful for the vaquita. They believe that stricter enforcement against gillnet use could pave the way for their recovery.</p>



<p>The dangers of gillnets have long been recognized, prompting the IWC to employ the extinction alert.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-the-vaquita-is-in-a-race-against-time">The vaquita is in a race against time</h2>



<p>The goal is not just to spotlight these warning signs, but to also “generate support and encouragement at every level for the actions needed now to save the vaquita,” said the IWC.</p>



<p>“The extinction of the vaquita is inevitable unless 100% of gillnets are substituted immediately with alternative fishing gears that protect the vaquita and the livelihoods of fishers.”</p>



<h2 id="h-glimmer-of-hope">Glimmer of hope&nbsp;</h2>



<p>IWC spokesperson Kate Wilson said that vaquitas “have surprised us all by managing to maintain a population of only around 10 animals for about five years."&nbsp;</p>



<p>A calf's sighting during a recent survey gives a glimmer of optimism. "But with such a small population, the gillnets will get them in the end if they are not removed," said Wilson.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-history-of-vaquitas">History of vaquitas</h2>



<p>Diving into the history of this resilient marine mammal, vaquitas have thrived in the shallow 50-meter deep waters of the Gulf of California for over 2.5 million years since their Pleistocene era ancestors. They have adapted to feast on fish, squid, and small crustaceans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Historically, their numbers have oscillated between a few thousand to 5,000 over the past 250,000 years, as per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, marking an unusual pattern distinct from other marine mammals.</p>



<p>This unique population structure has its advantages. Kirk Lohmueller of UCLA shed light on this last year, explaining that small populations can often accumulate harmful mutations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But in the case of the vaquitas, with a life expectancy of 21 years, their limited genetic variation reduces inbreeding risks, safeguarding them from potentially lethal genetic mutations.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-vaquitas">More about vaquitas</h2>



<p>The vaquita porpoise is not just any marine animal. It's the world’s smallest cetacean, a creature that wears a permanent smile and sports distinctive dark rings around its eyes. </p>



<p>However, its diminutive size and endearing appearance belie a grim reality: it stands as the most endangered marine mammal in the world. The name "vaquita" is Spanish for "little cow."</p>



<p>Here are some more details about this intriguing and elusive creature:</p>



<h3 id="h-physical-appearance">Physical appearance</h3>



<p>The vaquita has a small and robust body, spanning up to 1.5 meters in length. Its skin is primarily gray, but its belly lightens to a pale gray or white. </p>



<p>This porpoise exhibits distinctive dark rings around its eyes and dark patches on its lips, which give it a unique appearance. Short, broad flippers and a tall, triangular dorsal fin enable it to navigate its marine habitat with ease.</p>



<h3 id="h-vaquita-habitat">Vaquita habitat</h3>



<p>The vaquita inhabits the northern part of the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, in Mexico. </p>



<p>This shallow marine area provides the exclusive natural habitat for this critically endangered porpoise. The vaquita's range is limited, making it one of the most geographically restricted marine mammals.</p>



<h3>Plight of the vaquita</h3>



<p>So, what has brought the vaquita to the brink? As mentioned above, the answer lies primarily in fishing nets. Gillnets, designed to catch the prized totoaba fish, have unintentionally ensnared and drowned countless vaquitas. </p>



<p>The totoaba's swim bladder fetches high prices in black markets, especially in Asia, for supposed medicinal properties. This lucrative trade has kept the gillnet business booming, with devastating consequences for the vaquita.</p>



<h3>Conservation efforts</h3>



<p>Many organizations and governments recognize the urgency of the vaquita's situation. They have responded with a series of protective measures:</p>



<h4>Gillnet ban</h4>



<p>Mexico has implemented a permanent ban on gillnet fishing in the vaquita's habitat. This move aims to remove the primary threat to these creatures. However, enforcement remains a challenge due to the lucrative nature of the totoaba trade.</p>



<h4>VaquitaCPR</h4>



<p>This ambitious project sought to capture and breed vaquitas in a protected environment. But, it came to a halt when a captured vaquita died, emphasizing the species' vulnerability and the risks associated with such efforts.</p>



<h4>Awareness campaigns</h4>



<p>Numerous NGOs and international bodies, including the World Wildlife Fund and the International Committee for the Recovery of the Vaquita, are working tirelessly to raise awareness about the vaquita's plight.</p>



<h4>Alternative fishing techniques</h4>



<p>Efforts are underway to introduce and popularize vaquita-safe fishing methods. By providing fishermen with alternatives to gillnets, we can protect the vaquita without jeopardizing livelihoods.</p>



<h3>Collective responsibility</h3>



<p>Saving the vaquita requires global cooperation. While the responsibility largely falls on Mexico, international consumers also play a role, especially in the demand for totoaba products. Curtailing this demand can choke the illegal trade that endangers the vaquita.</p>



<h3>The Bigger Picture</h3>



<p>The story of the vaquita offers a broader lesson about human impact on the environment. It reminds us that every action has consequences, sometimes affecting species we barely know exist. The vaquita’s story is one of many, but it's emblematic of the fragile balance that exists in nature.</p>



<p>In summary, the vaquita porpoise symbolizes the delicate relationship between human livelihoods and the preservation of biodiversity. As we continue to strive for a balance, the fate of the vaquita hangs in the balance.</p>



<p>This terrible situation is a poignant reminder of the urgency and importance of conservation. It is our collective duty to ensure that the world doesn't lose this small, smiling porpoise to the annals of history.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Greenpeace.org</p>



<p>—-</p>



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First-ever "extinction alert" issued for the vaquita porpoise

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) sounded the alarm this week,...

Woman,Hands,Holding,Flower,And,Organic,Soap,And,Jute,Washcloth

<p>Researchers at Virginia Tech have unlocked a remarkable way to breathe new life into used plastics by upcycling them into valuable surfactants – the chemicals behind everyday items like soaps and detergents.</p>



<p>At first glance, plastics and soaps share little resemblance. However, delve into their molecular structures, and a fascinating parallel emerges. </p>



<p>Polyethylene, a plastic found ubiquitously around the globe, boasts a chemical structure eerily reminiscent of a fatty acid, the precursor of soap. The similarity hinges on their long carbon chains, albeit with fatty acids flaunting an extra atomic group at its end.</p>



<p>It was this molecular kinship that captured the attention of <a href="https://chem.vt.edu/people/faculty/teaching-and-research/gliu.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guoliang “Greg” Liu</a>, an associate professor of chemistry at <a href="https://www.science.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a>.</p>



<p>"Given the similarities between polyethylene and fatty acids, it seemed plausible to transform one into the other,” mused Liu, pondering if polyethylene could, with some clever chemistry, yield <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soap-can-make-you-more-or-less-attractive-to-mosquitoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soap</a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-turning-plastic-into-soap">Turning plastic into soap</h2>



<p>However, the scientific conundrum was to efficiently cleave the lengthy polyethylene chain into shorter segments, while stopping short of reducing them too much. An evening by a fireplace provided the spark for Liu's innovation.</p>



<p>Mesmerized by the rising smoke, Liu mused over its genesis: the breakdown of cellulose polymers in wood. A question emerged: could burning polyethylene produce similar results?</p>



<p>Drawing parallels, Liu postulated, “Firewood, rich in polymers like cellulose, breaks down into short chains and then into tiny gaseous molecules, eventually yielding carbon dioxide. If we apply the same principle to polyethylene, halting the process prematurely, we'd procure short-chain polyethylene molecules.”</p>



<p>With the assistance of Ph.D. chemistry students, Zhen Xu and Eric Munyaneza, Liu constructed a specialized oven-like reactor. This device heated polyethylene via temperature-gradient thermolysis, splitting the plastic while controlling further decomposition.</p>



<p>The outcome? A residue akin to chimney soot but, in essence, short-chain polyethylene or, more precisely, waxes.</p>



<p>Liu explained, “This was just the initiation of our journey from plastic to soap.” With a few more tweaks and the introduction of saponification, the team birthed the world's inaugural plastic-derived soap. Their efforts were further honed with inputs from specialists, many linked with the <a href="https://mii.vt.edu/">Macromolecules Innovation Institute</a> at Virginia Tech. Their groundbreaking findings debuted in the journal, Science.</p>



<h2>Inspiration for innovative upcycling methods</h2>



<p>The lead author, Xu, heralded the method’s simplicity and efficiency, saying, “Our work has showcased a tandem approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/upcycling-plastic-waste-into-valuable-products/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic upcycling</a> without resorting to strange catalysts or intricate steps. This can inspire innovative upcycling methods for the future.”</p>



<p>While polyethylene was this study's focal plastic, the method also holds promise for polypropylene. Notably, Liu's upcycling technique can simultaneously handle both plastics, sidestepping the need for their separation – a laborious task in current recycling regimes due to their similarities.</p>



<p>The ingenuity of this method lies in its simplicity, relying predominantly on plastic and heat, thus underscoring its economic viability and minimal environmental footprint. For upcycling to truly resonate on a commercial scale, the end product must be economically enticing.</p>



<p>While soaps might seem humble, their value can overshadow plastics by two or threefold. Currently, soaps fetch around $3,550 per metric ton, while polyethylene trails at about $1,150.</p>



<p>Liu envisions this research paving the way for global recycling facilities to adopt this approach, eventually ushering in a new age of sustainable soaps that also combat plastic waste.</p>



<p>Highlighting the broader implications of their work, Liu, who is also affiliated with Virginia Tech's nanoscience program and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, commented, “Tackling plastic pollution is a global imperative. A straightforward process might be more accessible to a vast number of nations.”</p>



<p>Echoing this sentiment, Xu added, “This is potentially a significant stride in our ongoing battle against plastic pollution.”</p>



<h2>More about upcycling</h2>



<p>Upcycling stands as a beacon of hope in a world drowning in waste. At its core, upcycling involves taking used or discarded items and transforming them into something of greater value or utility. </p>



<p>Unlike recycling which breaks down materials, upcycling creatively reuses them in a way that adds to their worth. Let's delve into the ins and outs of upcycling, and why it matters now more than ever.</p>



<h3>What is Upcycling?</h3>



<p>Simply put, upcycling takes waste and turns it into treasure. It means looking at an old shirt, a discarded wooden pallet, or a broken piece of furniture, and seeing potential. </p>



<p>Instead of tossing these items away, you give them a new purpose. An old ladder might become a unique bookshelf; a wine bottle could transform into a beautiful lamp.</p>



<h3>Why Upcycle?</h3>



<h4>Environmental benefits</h4>



<p>Every item we save from the landfill reduces waste and conserves energy. Manufacturing new products typically consumes more resources and energy than upcycling old ones. So, when you upcycle, you reduce your carbon footprint.</p>



<h4>Economic benefits</h4>



<p>Upcycling can save you money. Instead of buying a brand-new desk, why not repurpose an old door? Upcycled products often fetch a good price in markets too, making it a lucrative hobby or business venture.</p>



<h4>Creativity unleashed</h4>



<p>The process of upcycling taps into your creativity. It challenges you to see beyond an item's current form and imagine what it could become.</p>



<h3>How to start Upcycling</h3>



<h4>Assess what you have</h4>



<p>Begin at home. Look for items you no longer use. That old jean pocket? It could become a wall organizer.</p>



<h4>Equip yourself</h4>



<p>Gather basic tools like scissors, glue, paint, and brushes. You don’t need a fancy setup. Just the essentials will do.</p>



<h4>Seek inspiration</h4>



<p>Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube teem with upcycling ideas. Search, explore, and let your creativity flow.</p>



<h4>Start small</h4>



<p>Don't overwhelm yourself. Begin with easy projects and gradually take on more complex challenges as your skills grow.</p>



<h3>Successful Tips</h3>



<h4>Quality matters</h4>



<p>Always choose items in reasonably good condition. A little wear adds character, but too much damage makes upcycling difficult.</p>



<h4>Clean before you start</h4>



<p>Clean items thoroughly. This ensures that paint sticks better and gives a neat final look.</p>



<h4>Safety first</h4>



<p>Wear gloves, masks, and goggles as needed, especially when dealing with paints, solvents, or cutting tools.</p>



<h4>Experiment</h4>



<p>Not every project turns out perfect. Sometimes, the best creations come from unexpected trials.</p>



<p>Upcycling is more than just a trend; it's a movement towards a sustainable future. It merges environmental consciousness with creativity, producing results that are not only eco-friendly but also beautiful and unique. </p>



<p>As the saying goes, "One person's trash is another's treasure." With upcycling, this couldn't be truer. Dive in and uncover the hidden gems in your home today!</p>



<p>---</p>



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Scientists discover method for upcycling plastic waste into soap

Researchers at Virginia Tech have unlocked a remarkable way to...

<p>A recent study has unearthed staggering statistics which suggest that by the age of 75, half of the global population could be grappling with mental health conditions such as depression and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-therapy-can-reduce-pain-stress-and-anxiety/">anxiety</a>.</p>



<p>In a comprehensive analysis that spanned two decades, researchers from <a href="https://hms.harvard.edu/">Harvard Medical School</a> and the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/">University of Queensland</a> in Australia analyzed data from World Health Organization surveys.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data was collected through face-to-face interviews conducted with an overwhelming 156,331 participants, representing 29 diverse nations spanning from the US to Saudi Arabia, Japan, Israel, several European countries, and parts of South America and Africa.</p>



<h2 id="h-alarming-reality">Alarming reality</h2>



<p>The findings, which are published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/home"><em>Lancet Psychiatry</em></a>, present an alarming reality: the projection that by the age of 75, one in two individuals could be battling at least one mental health disorder. This is a significant upsurge from the 2019 estimate, which placed the ratio at one in every eight.</p>



<p>Dr. John McGrath, the study's lead author and a noted mental health researcher from the University of Queensland’s Brain Institute, remarked: "The most common were mood disorders such as major depression or anxiety. We also found the risk of certain mental disorders differed by sex."</p>



<h2 id="h-gender-differences">Gender differences&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The gender differences in mental health vulnerabilities were clearly evident. Women were considerably more likely than men to report diagnosed anxiety disorders during their lifetimes - 19 percent for women versus 11 percent for men.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The overall likelihood of men developing a mental illness in their lifetime stood at 46 percent, with women having a slightly elevated risk at 53 percent. However, specific disorders like major depressive disorder and specific phobias exhibited similar prevalence across genders.</p>



<p>When men were interviewed, 14 percent reported risky alcohol use and abuse, followed by 7.5 percent admitting to major depressive disorders and 5 percent confessing to specific phobias. By contrast, women predominantly reported major depressive disorders at 13.6 percent and were also twice as likely to suffer from specific phobias.</p>



<h2 id="h-a-global-challenge">A global challenge&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The data underscores a concerning rise in mental illness rates in the US, emphasizing that this crisis is not limited to American borders but is a global challenge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over recent years, the number of suicides in the US has surged from 45,900 to over 48,000, highlighting the gravity of the situation.</p>



<h2 id="h-early-intervention-is-needed">Early intervention is needed</h2>



<p>One critical revelation of the study is the age at which these disorders commonly emerge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On average, individuals first manifest symptoms around the age of 15. This finding accentuates the urgency for early intervention.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers suggest that greater financial and social investments are critical for detecting and treating mental health issues at their onset. This could exponentially increase an affected individuals' chances of a prolonged life.</p>



<p>"Services need to be able to detect and treat common mental disorders promptly, and be optimized to suit patients in these critical parts of their lives," said Harvard University healthcare policy specialist, Dr. Ronald Kessler.</p>



<p>"By understanding the age at which these disorders commonly arise, we can tailor public health interventions and allocate resources to ensure that appropriate and timely support is available to individuals at risk."</p>



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



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



<p>The strain on America's mental health infrastructure has been evident, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, which escalated the pre-existing crisis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The pandemic-induced lockdowns, combined with isolation, lack of preventive mental health care, and the overarching underfunding of the mental healthcare system, have left a vast portion of the population vulnerable - especially the youth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A concerning report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) disclosed that in 2021, 10.2 percent of US high school students admitted to attempting suicide within the past year. This was a dramatic increase from approximately eight percent in 2019.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-mental-health">More about mental health</h2>



<p>Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social welfare. It influences how we think, feel, and act, affecting our ability to cope with stress, relate to others, and make choices.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-prevalence-of-mental-disorders">Prevalence of mental disorders</h3>



<p>The prevalence of mental disorders is on the rise. As highlighted in the previously mentioned study, the risk of developing a mental illness by age 75 is as high as 50 percent. But this is not just an issue for the elderly; mental health concerns often begin in adolescence and continue to affect people throughout their lives.</p>



<h3 id="h-types-of-mental-health-disorders">Types of mental health disorders</h3>



<p>Mental health disorders can vary widely, ranging from common conditions like anxiety and depression to more severe illnesses such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most widespread, affecting almost one-fifth of the adult population at some point in their lives.</p>



<h3 id="h-impact-on-daily-life">Impact on daily life</h3>



<p>Mental health conditions can be debilitating, impacting every aspect of daily life. Simple tasks may become overwhelming, relationships strained, and maintaining employment can be challenging. Moreover, mental health often influences physical health, leading to an increased risk of certain chronic conditions.</p>



<h3 id="h-treatment-and-support">Treatment and support</h3>



<p>Though the statistics may appear grim, mental health conditions are often treatable. Therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones can make a substantial difference. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as they often lead to better outcomes.</p>



<h3 id="h-barriers-to-care">Barriers to care</h3>



<p>Unfortunately, stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to mental health services often create barriers to care. Many people suffer in silence, unable to seek the help they need. The disparity in mental health services across countries and within communities can exacerbate these challenges.</p>



<h3 id="h-the-covid-19-pandemic">The COVID-19 pandemic</h3>



<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has added a new layer to the mental health crisis, leading to an increase in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. The isolation, uncertainty, and health concerns related to the pandemic have taken a toll on people worldwide.</p>



<h3 id="h-moving-forward">Moving forward</h3>



<p>As we advance in understanding mental health, it is vital to prioritize prevention, early intervention, and treatment. Governments, healthcare providers, and communities must work together to provide comprehensive mental health services and reduce the associated stigma.</p>



<p>Emphasizing mental health in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings can foster a supportive environment where people feel comfortable seeking help. Increased funding and policy changes are also necessary to ensure that everyone, regardless of location or economic status, can access the mental health care they need.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Mental health crisis: Half of the world’s population will be affected by age 75

A recent study has unearthed staggering statistics which suggest that...

<p>Although people often think they can compensate for lack of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-sleep-quality-is-associated-with-mental-illness/">sleep</a> during weekdays by sleeping in on the weekends, a recent study led by <a href="https://www.psu.edu/">Pennsylvania State University</a> has found that such beliefs are misguided.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the experts, sleep deprivation throughout the week has detrimental effects on cardiovascular health metrics like heart rate and blood pressure and weekend sleep catch-up does not bring these parameters back to their original state.</p>



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



<p>“Only 65 percent of adults in the U.S. regularly sleep the recommended seven hours per night, and there’s a lot of evidence suggesting that this lack of sleep is associated with cardiovascular disease in the long term,” said senior author Anne-Marie Chang, an associate professor of Biobehavioral Health at Penn State.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our research reveals a potential mechanism for this longitudinal relationship, where enough successive hits to your cardiovascular health while you’re young could make your heart more prone to cardiovascular disease in the future.”</p>



<p>For this in-depth study lasting 11 days, the experts selected 15 fit men aged between 20 and 35. The initial three nights permitted them to rest for up to 10 hours, establishing a baseline sleep pattern.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over the subsequent five nights, the participants' sleep was curtailed to five hours, succeeded by a two-night recovery phase where they could again rest up to 10 hours.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team measured the participants’ resting heart rates and blood pressure at two-hour intervals daily to assess the cardiovascular impact of this sleep pattern.</p>



<h2 id="h-changes-in-heart-rate">Changes in heart rate</h2>



<p>Since the researchers recurrently monitored heart rate and blood pressure during each day, they could account for any effects that the time of day might have on these parameters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, heart rate is naturally lower immediately after waking than later during the day, so measuring it multiple times throughout the day can account for this difference.</p>



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



<p>The analysis revealed that the heart rate increased almost one beat per minute (BPM) daily. Starting with an average 69 BPM, it soared to roughly 78 BPM by the end of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>At the same time, systolic blood pressure increased by about 0.5 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) daily, from an average initial measurement of 116 mmHg to approximately 119.5 mmHg by the end of the recovery period.</p>



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



<p>“Both heart rate and systolic blood pressure increased with each successive day and did not return to baseline levels by the end of the recovery period,” said lead author David Reichenberger, a graduate student in Biobehavioral Health at Penn State.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“So, despite having additional opportunity to rest, by the end of the weekend of the study, their cardiovascular systems still had not recovered.” Thus, recuperating from extended sleep deprivation might require more extended sleep recovery periods.</p>



<p>“Sleep is a biological process, but it’s also a behavioral one and one that we often have a lot of control over,” said Chang.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Not only does sleep affect our cardiovascular health, but it also affects our weight, our mental health, our ability to focus and our ability to maintain healthy relationships with others, among many other things. As we learn more and more about the importance of sleep, and how it impacts everything in our lives, my hope is that it will become more of a focus for improving one’s health.”</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-sleep-deprivation">More about sleep deprivation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Sleep deprivation refers to the condition of not getting enough sleep. It can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Here are some key points about sleep deprivation:</p>



<h3 id="h-effects-on-the-body-and-mind">Effects on the body and mind</h3>



<p>Sleep deprivation can lead to mood swings, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, a weakened immune system, and poor decision-making.</p>



<h3 id="h-physical-health-risks">Physical health risks</h3>



<p>Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a range of health problems including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even a shortened life expectancy.</p>



<h3 id="h-mental-health-risks">Mental health risks</h3>



<p>It can also contribute to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and paranoia.</p>



<h3 id="h-causes">Causes</h3>



<p>There are numerous causes for sleep deprivation. It could be due to lifestyle choices, work-related issues, sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea, or other medical conditions.</p>



<h3 id="h-accidents-and-injuries">Accidents and injuries</h3>



<p>Sleep deprivation has been linked to a higher risk of accidents, especially car crashes. When deprived of sleep, a person's reaction time can be as slow as someone who is intoxicated.</p>



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



<p>Sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive functions such as memory consolidation. When deprived of sleep, learning and memory can suffer.</p>



<h3 id="h-counteracting-the-effects">Counteracting the effects</h3>



<p>While the best remedy for sleep deprivation is getting adequate sleep, certain measures like taking short naps, avoiding caffeine and electronics before bedtime, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help in the interim.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0000000000001229"><em>Psychosomatic Medicine</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>—-</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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Weekend recovery may not counteract cardiovascular impacts of sleep deprivation

Although people often think they can compensate for lack of...

<p>For many years, experts have attempted to understand the science of happiness. But how strong is the evidence behind some of the most commonly promoted strategies for achieving happiness? A new review suggests that the road to happiness might be less clear than we thought.</p>



<p>The analysis, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/nathumbehav/"><em>Nature Human Behavior</em></a>, was conducted by researchers Elizabeth Dunn and Dunigan Folk.</p>



<p>The study presents a compelling examination of happiness interventions. The findings indicate that most experiments on popular happiness strategies - such as spending time outdoors, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-activity-can-protect-mental-health-in-pre-teen-years/">physical activity</a>, and mindfulness practices - fail to meet the current best practices in psychological research.</p>



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



<p>Around a decade ago, the scientific community grappled with what became known as the "Replication Crisis." Many research outcomes from pivotal studies were suddenly put under the microscope, with results proving difficult to replicate consistently. Several factors were identified, including small sample sizes and methodological flaws.</p>



<p>As the world of science reeled from these revelations, there was a paradigm shift in research methodologies. Dunn and Folk’s work is representative of this newer, more rigorous approach</p>



<p>The experts set out to present new insights and to assess older research through the lens of these stringent standards.</p>



<h2 id="h-strict-criteria">Strict criteria&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Before delving into happiness research, Dunn and Folk set stringent criteria. One cornerstone of their assessment was statistical power.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dunn explained: "If we have studies that have samples that are too small, we can end up failing to detect effects that really exist." Conversely, overly small samples can also lead to misleading "false positives."</p>



<p>The researchers also emphasized the importance of pre-registration, a process wherein scientists detail their research plans and hypotheses for public scrutiny before embarking on experiments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"In the absence of pre-registration, researchers can kind of shoot darts at the wall and then draw the bull's eye on afterward," said Dunn. "We have to draw bull's-eye, shoot our dart and then be pretty honest and transparent about whether it hit."</p>



<h2 id="h-subjective-well-being">Subjective well-being&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To standardize their assessment, the researchers anchored their review to a universally recognized definition of happiness: subjective well-being (SWB). This includes both emotional aspects of well-being, such as the prevalence of positive over negative emotions, and cognitive facets like life satisfaction.</p>



<h2 id="h-happiness-boosting-tactics">Happiness-boosting tactics&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The experts evaluated five widely recommended happiness-boosting tactics: gratitude, physical activity, nature exposure, meditation, and social interaction. Their findings include:</p>



<h3 id="h-gratitude">Gratitude</h3>



<p>Writing thankful messages appears to foster short-term positive shifts in mood.</p>



<h3 id="h-social-interaction">Social interaction</h3>



<p>Engaging with strangers or adopting extroverted behaviors can elevate mood, albeit based on a limited set of studies.</p>



<h3 id="h-mindfulness-and-meditation">Mindfulness and meditation</h3>



<p>Among a handful of robust studies, six found that mindfulness practices can foster happiness. However, these could potentially blur the lines between social interactions and the mindfulness exercises themselves.</p>



<h3 id="h-exercise">Exercise</h3>



<p>While a single workout session might lift spirits, evidence for its long-term impact on happiness remains insubstantial.</p>



<h3 id="h-time-in-nature">Time in nature</h3>



<p>Contrary to popular belief, the connection between nature and happiness was less substantiated than one might expect.</p>



<p>In conclusion, Dunn and Folk’s work reminds us of the significance of robust, transparent research. The study highlights the importance of critically evaluating the strategies we adopt in our journey toward well-being.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-pursuit-of-happiness">More about the pursuit of happiness</h2>



<p>The pursuit of happiness transcends cultural, social, and economic barriers. Often seen as the ultimate goal of life, this pursuit has been the subject of philosophical debates, scientific inquiries, and artistic expressions for millennia.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-philosophical-context">Philosophical context</h3>



<p>From the ancient Greeks to modern thinkers, the pursuit of happiness has been a central theme in philosophy:</p>



<p>Aristotle believed that happiness, or eudaimonia, was the highest good in life. To him, happiness wasn't about fleeting pleasures but rather leading a life of virtue and purpose.</p>



<p>Utilitarian philosophers like John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham posited that the best action is the one that maximizes utility, typically framed as that which produces the greatest well-being of the greatest number.</p>



<p>Existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche emphasized individual freedom and responsibility, suggesting that happiness is deeply personal and often found in the act of seeking meaning, even in the face of absurdity.</p>



<h3 id="h-psychological-insights">Psychological insights</h3>



<p>Modern psychology has contributed a great deal to our understanding of happiness:</p>



<h4 id="h-positive-psychology">Positive psychology</h4>



<p>Spearheaded by Martin Seligman, this field focuses on strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to a fulfilling life. Concepts like flow, gratitude, and strengths-based approaches are foundational.</p>



<h4 id="h-set-point-theory">Set point theory</h4>



<p>This theory posits that our level of subjective well-being is determined primarily by heredity and by personality traits ingrained in us early in life, and remains relatively constant throughout our lives.</p>



<h4 id="h-adaptation-principle">Adaptation principle</h4>



<p>We quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events or life changes, a phenomenon often called the "hedonic treadmill."</p>



<h3 id="h-socio-cultural-perspectives">Socio-cultural perspectives</h3>



<p>Different cultures have unique perspectives on happiness:</p>



<h4 id="h-eastern-philosophies">Eastern philosophies</h4>



<p>Concepts like 'nirvana' in Buddhism or 'Tao' in Taoism emphasize contentment, detachment, and balance as pathways to happiness.</p>



<h4 id="h-western-cultures">Western cultures</h4>



<p>Often emphasize individual achievement, freedom, and autonomy as key components of happiness.</p>



<h4 id="h-collectivist-societies">Collectivist societies</h4>



<p>Emphasize community, harmony, and collective well-being over individual success.</p>



<h4 id="h-economic-and-political-viewpoints">Economic and political viewpoints</h4>



<p>The connection between wealth and happiness has been a subject of much debate. While higher income can lead to increased well-being to a certain extent, after a certain point, additional income has a minimal impact on subjective well-being.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The famous saying, "money can't buy happiness," captures this sentiment, although it might be more accurate to say "money can buy happiness, but only up to a point."</p>



<p>Furthermore, the "pursuit of happiness" is mentioned in the U.S. Declaration of Independence as an inalienable right, reflecting the importance of this pursuit in the foundational values of the nation.</p>



<p>—--</p>



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What is the path to happiness? The science is still not clear

For many years, experts have attempted to understand the science...

<p>In an era where stress and mental health issues are on the rise, the fascinating connection between humans and dogs offers a glimpse into a therapeutic relationship that goes beyond mere companionship.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The relationship between people and dogs that has far-reaching implications for both mental and physical well-being.</p>



<h2 id="h-interactions-with-dogs">Interactions with dogs</h2>



<p>Petting a dog, even briefly, has been found to boost your health for months. This is more than just a feel-good moment, as multiple studies have uncovered a profound physiological response to this simple act.</p>



<p>A growing body of research suggests that interactions with dogs could have a lasting positive impact on health. In fact, these brief positive experiences are powerful enough to lower stress hormones and increase oxytocin, which is often referred to as the "love hormone."</p>



<h2 id="h-animals-improve-our-thinking-skills">Animals improve our thinking skills</h2>



<p>The authors of a recent study found evidence that even brief moments of quality time with a good dog can also help people "think better." Twice-weekly short interactions between school children and dogs were found to improve the youngsters' reasoning skills and concentration, with the positive effects persisting for months.</p>



<p>"I think it is safe to say that animals are beneficial to our mental and physical health. We're seeing really nice effects," said Professor Nancy Gee, director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at <a href="https://www.vcu.edu/">Virginia Commonwealth University</a>.</p>



<p>The VCU center is at the forefront of a burgeoning field of research into the health benefits of human-animal interaction. Supported by organizations such as the US National Institutes of Health and the Waltham PetCare Science Institute, this exploration has expanded rapidly.</p>



<h2 id="h-dogs-lower-our-stress-levels">Dogs lower our stress levels</h2>



<p>Professor Gee told <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/08/04/1192070347/spending-time-with-a-dog-can-be-good-for-your-health">NPR</a> that research on the health benefits of dogs has exploded in recent years, and the quality of the evidence has improved. She said there's growing evidence that levels of the stress hormone cortisol drop in people after just five to 20 minutes spent interacting with dogs, even if it's not their pet.</p>



<p>Last year, a comprehensive review by Australian medical researchers and psychologists scrutinized 129 peer-reviewed studies. They found that more than half of these investigations recorded positive physiological changes in individuals who spent as little as five minutes with a dog.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-love-hormone">The love hormone</h2>



<p>"'Also, we see increases in oxytocin, that feel-good kind of bonding hormone,'" Gee told NPR. This research highlighted changes in people's heartbeat, known as 'heart rate variability' (HVR), a sign of overall improvements in health.</p>



<p>Higher HVR has been linked with relaxation, while lower HVR is associated with serious health risks. "What I love about this research, is that it's a two-way street. We see the same thing in the dogs. So the dogs' oxytocin also increases when they interact with a human," said Professor Gee.</p>



<h2 id="h-cognitive-gains">Cognitive gains</h2>



<p>International collaboration is playing a key role in understanding these phenomena. Gee's work with the University of Lincoln's research on regular playtime with dogs revealed significant benefits for school children, lowering stress and improving "executive functioning." Remarkably, these cognitive gains were found to last.</p>



<p>"We actually saw [those effects] one month later. And there's some evidence that [they] may exist six months later," Gee noted.</p>



<h2 id="h-lower-heart-attack-risk">Lower heart attack risk</h2>



<p>But transient interactions with dogs are not the only source of health benefits. A meta-analysis published by the <a href="https://www.heart.org/">American Heart Association</a> linked dog ownership with significant reductions in the risk of death and heart attack for survivors who lived alone. Overall, living with a dog was found to lower death risks by 24 percent.</p>



<p>Megan Mueller, a psychology professor at <a href="https://www.tufts.edu/">Tufts University</a>, reflects on why dogs might have such a profound impact on humans. "Animals, and dogs in particular, live in the moment," she told NPR. "They're experiencing their environment with wonder and awe all the time."</p>



<p>"They are not bringing up what happened to them earlier in the day or what they're thinking about in the future. They're there right now."</p>



<h2>More about the human-dog bond</h2>



<p>The bond between dogs and humans is one of the most celebrated and complex relationships in the animal kingdom. This connection goes back thousands of years and has deep biological, psychological, and social components. Here's an overview of the main factors that contribute to this unique relationship:</p>



<h3>Historical perspective</h3>



<p>Dogs were one of the first animals to be domesticated, with evidence suggesting that the domestication process began as far back as 20,000 to 40,000 years ago. </p>



<p>Initially, humans may have been drawn to wolves (the ancestors of domestic dogs) for their hunting prowess. Conversely, wolves could have benefitted from human leftovers and protection. Over time, this relationship evolved into a mutualistic one, with humans and dogs working together in hunting, herding, and protection.</p>



<h3>Biological connection</h3>



<p>Dogs and humans share a unique hormonal connection. Studies have shown that interactions between dogs and their human companions can increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection, in both species. This creates a positive feedback loop that strengthens the attachment between dogs and humans.</p>



<h3>Social structure</h3>



<p>Dogs have social structures that are in some ways similar to human social structures. They are pack animals and understand hierarchy and roles within a social group. Many dogs view their human family as their pack and integrate themselves within that structure, obeying a leader and often fulfilling a specific role within the family unit.</p>



<h3>Communication</h3>



<p>Dogs have an uncanny ability to understand human gestures, expressions, and even words. While they may not understand human language in the way humans do, they can learn to associate specific sounds and gestures with actions and rewards. This mutual understanding fosters a deeper connection and facilitates training and cooperation.</p>



<h3>Emotional support and companionship</h3>



<p>Dogs provide emotional support and companionship to many people. They can sense human emotions and often respond with empathy and support. This has made them invaluable as therapy animals and companions for people who live alone or are going through difficult times.</p>



<h3>Utility and working relationships</h3>



<p>Throughout history, dogs have served humans in various working roles, such as hunting, herding, guarding, and more recently, assisting in police and military work, and aiding those with disabilities. This has fostered a sense of partnership and collaboration between the species.</p>



<h3>Challenges and responsibilities</h3>



<p>While the relationship between dogs and humans is often positive and fulfilling, it also entails significant responsibilities. Proper care, training, and understanding of a dog's needs are crucial for a healthy relationship. Some challenges, such as behavioral issues or misunderstandings, can occur, but with proper knowledge and effort, these can usually be overcome.</p>



<p>The bond between dogs and humans is rich and multifaceted, rooted in our shared history and a complex interplay of biological, social, and emotional factors. Whether as working partners or beloved pets, dogs have become an integral part of human society. They provide companionship, support, and joy to millions of people around the world.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Petting a dog, even when it's not your own, can boost your health for months

In an era where stress and mental health issues are...

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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;</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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?</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

How does salt makes things taste better?

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>'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)."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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.”</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>“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;</p>



<p>“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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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