An asteroid impact on Mars 11 million years ago sent fragments of the red planet hurtling through space. One of these pieces eventually crashed into Earth, making its way to Purdue University and becoming known as the Lafayette Meteorite.&nbsp;



This rare find has been instrumental in unlocking secrets of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/manganese-discovery-ancient-mars-earth-like-water-lake-habitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>’ watery past, with new research recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7185/geochemlet.2443" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochemical Perspective Letters</a> that provides insight into the timing and nature of Mars’ ancient water activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-mars-watery-past">Tracing Mars’ watery past</h2>



Scientists have long known that the Lafayette Meteorite interacted with liquid water on Mars, but the exact timing of this event was uncertain.&nbsp;



Dr. Marissa Tremblay, an assistant professor at Purdue University’s <a href="https://www.eaps.purdue.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences</a> (EAPS), led an international research team to determine the age of the water-altered minerals in the meteorite, pinpointing it to 742 million years ago.



“Dating these minerals can therefore tell us when there was liquid water at or near the surface of Mars in the planet's geologic past,” Tremblay explained.&nbsp;



The findings suggest that while liquid water wasn’t abundant on the surface at this time, it likely came from melting subsurface ice, or permafrost, caused by intermittent volcanic activity - a phenomenon still observed on Mars today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-a-moment-in-mars-geological-timeline">Preserving a moment in Mars’ geological timeline</h2>



The study not only identified when water interacted with the meteorite but also established that the dating was unaffected by events after the meteorite left Mars.&nbsp;



“The age could have been affected by the impact that ejected the Lafayette Meteorite from Mars, the heating it experienced during the 11 million years it was floating in space, or the heating when it fell to Earth,” Tremblay said.&nbsp;



However, the team confirmed that none of these factors altered the age, validating the timeline of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-lost-most-of-its-water-but-where-did-it-go/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> interaction.



Study co-author and Purdue EAPS researcher Ryan Ickert applied heavy isotope analysis to further verify that previous data on the meteorite’s water-rock interaction had likely been skewed by other geological processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“This meteorite uniquely has evidence that it has reacted with water. The exact date of this was controversial, and our publication dates when water was present,” said Ickert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-journey-of-the-meteorite">Mysterious journey of the meteorite </h2>



The Lafayette Meteorite’s journey to Purdue is something of a mystery. It was found in a university drawer in 1931, though how it got there remains unknown.&nbsp;



In previous research, Tremblay and her team used crop disease markers from organic contaminants found on the meteorite to narrow down when it might have fallen to Earth.



Once the meteorite was ejected from Mars, it endured constant cosmic ray bombardment in space, which produced certain isotopes, offering clues to its time of impact on Earth.&nbsp;



“Many meteoroids are produced by impacts on Mars and other planetary bodies, but only a handful will eventually fall to Earth,” Tremblay said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-time-capsules">Planetary time capsules</h2>



Meteorites like Lafayette serve as planetary time capsules, offering invaluable data on the geological and environmental history of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-meteorites-can-be-traced-to-three-asteroid-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">home worlds</a>. With their dense structure, metallic content, and magnetic properties, meteorites are often distinguishable from Earth rocks.&nbsp;



“We can identify meteorites by studying what minerals are present in them, their mineral relationships, and by checking for a fusion crust formed during entry into Earth’s atmosphere,” Tremblay explained.&nbsp;



By analyzing these traits and their chemical signatures, scientists can often determine a meteorite’s planetary origin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-history-of-meteorites">Complex history of meteorites</h2>



This research marks a significant milestone for the team, which included scientists from institutions across the globe, such as the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Center (SUERC), the University of St. Andrews, the University of Glasgow, the University of Bristol, and London’s <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>.&nbsp;



“Before moving to Purdue, Ryan and I were both based at SUERC, where the argon-argon isotopic analyses of the alteration minerals in Lafayette took place,” Tremblay said.&nbsp;



Their partners at SUERC and the Natural History Museum have long contributed to studying Lafayette’s complex history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-minerals-in-meteorites">Dating minerals in meteorites</h2>



Dating the water-altered minerals in Lafayette, and others in its class of Martian meteorites called nakhlites, has been a central focus in planetary science, as they uniquely capture moments when liquid water was present on Mars.&nbsp;



Due to complex alterations over time, previous attempts to date these minerals were plagued with uncertainties.&nbsp;



However, the team has now developed a robust dating method that could be applied to other meteorites, enhancing our understanding of when water might have been present on Mars and other planetary bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-planetary-science">The future of planetary science</h2>



Thanks to the Stahura Undergraduate Meteorite Fund, Tremblay and Ickert’s research on the Lafayette Meteorite will continue, with the involvement of undergraduate students in Purdue EAPS.&nbsp;



This opportunity allows students to engage in real-world planetary science, helping to reveal the intricate histories of meteoritic samples.



Tremblay and her team’s work on the Lafayette Meteorite highlights its scientific significance, revealing a complex history that ties it to Mars’ geological past.&nbsp;



Their findings not only deepen our understanding of Mars but also set a precedent for future studies that might unveil even more about the red planet’s climate history, water activity, and potential for supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-mars-rocks-contain-signs-of-life-scientists-call-to-bring-them-back-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.



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Meteorite that struck Mars reveals when the planet had liquid water

An asteroid impact on Mars 11 million years ago sent fragments of the red planet hurtling through space. One of these pieces eventually crashed into Earth, making its way to Purdue University and becoming known as the Lafayette Meteorite.&nbsp; This rare find has been instrumental in unlocking secrets of Mars’ watery past, with new research recently published in the journal Geochemical Perspective Letters that provides insight into the timing and nature of Mars’ ancient water activity. Tracing Mars’ watery past Scientists have long known that the Lafayette...

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next volcanic eruption. For millions of people living near active volcanoes, such a tool would be invaluable. 



Interestingly, some crystals formed deep within the Earth can indeed help forecast volcanic activity. These crystals, which are created as molten rock travels from beneath the Earth's surface, hold vital clues about past eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-hold-a-record-of-eruptions-nbsp">Crystals hold a record of eruptions&nbsp;</h2>



By employing advanced scientific methods, researchers can extract a hidden record from these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-turning-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crystals</a>, uncovering the reasons, locations, and timings of previous eruptions. This historical information can help interpret early signs of volcanic unrest, such as earthquakes, which often signal magma moving toward the surface.&nbsp;



In a new column in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01509-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>, Teresa Ubide, a geoscientist at the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a>, discusses how we are getting closer to having crystal balls - at least for volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-formed-by-cooling-magma">Crystals formed by cooling magma</h2>



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a>, the extremely hot molten rock that powers eruptions, forms tens of kilometers below Earth's surface in the mantle, it begins a complex journey upward.&nbsp;



During this trip, magma may pause in reservoirs and travel through a winding path before eventually erupting. As magma ascends, it cools, forming small crystals that can be carried to the surface during eruptions.



Once magma reaches the surface, it can either flow as lava or explode into fragmented particles known as pyroclasts. As these materials cool, they solidify into volcanic rocks, which preserve the crystals formed deep within the Earth. These crystals serve as “crystal balls,” preserving the memory of everything they experienced inside the volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-appearance-of-volcanic-crystals">Distinct appearance of volcanic crystals</h2>



The appearance of these crystals depends on their mineral composition. For instance, the green olivine found in Hawaiian lavas and the white plagioclase crystals in the Tweed volcano's lavas on the Queensland-New South Wales border are distinct examples.&nbsp;



However, one of the most critical minerals for studying volcanoes is clinopyroxene. This mineral produces shiny black crystals that hold essential information about the inner workings of volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-changes-within-the-crystals-nbsp">Chemical changes within the crystals&nbsp;</h2>



Clinopyroxene crystals may be as tiny as a grain of sand, but under a microscope, they reveal extraordinary details about volcanic activity. They grow in concentric zones, similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-largest-ever-solar-storm-discovered-through-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree rings</a>, with each zone documenting changes in the magma environment within the volcano.&nbsp;



The outermost growth zone is particularly important, as it can indicate if an eruption was triggered by fresh magma rising from deep within the Earth.&nbsp;



By analyzing the chemical changes within these crystals, scientists can estimate how long it took for magma to reach the surface - information that could help predict future eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indications-of-potential-volcanic-eruptions">Indications of potential volcanic eruptions</h2>



These crystals sometimes grow with different compositions in various directions, a phenomenon called sector zoning, which resembles an hourglass inside the crystal.&nbsp;



Sector zoning provides further clues, suggesting that the magma underwent complex processes such as mixing with other magma, releasing gas, or rising quickly before an eruption.&nbsp;



By identifying these processes in the crystals, volcanologists can watch for similar signs at the surface, offering early indications of potential volcanic activity.



It’s also critical to identify where within the volcano these eruption triggers occur. This information can help determine if certain depths, where earthquakes or ground deformations occur, are particularly significant for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting an eruption</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressure-conditions-during-crystal-formation-nbsp">Pressure conditions during crystal formation&nbsp;</h2>



The chemical makeup of clinopyroxene crystals also provides clues about the pressure conditions during their formation, which can be translated into the depth of magma storage below the surface.&nbsp;



Analyzing these chemical variations requires cutting-edge laboratory techniques, such as using lasers the width of a human hair or focusing intense synchrotron light from particle accelerators like the one in Melbourne, Australia.&nbsp;



These tools enable scientists to extract detailed information about the magma’s journey from the microscopic structures of the crystals.



Next time you hike near a volcano, whether it's in Hawai'i, Iceland, or the Glass House Mountains in Australia, look closely at the rocks for colorful specks. These tiny crystals are the keys to unlocking the history of the volcano - and they might also offer insights into its future.



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Crystals can help predict volcanic eruptions

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next...

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above Japan held an astonishing variety of living microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, many of which are toxic to humans.



Not just the homegrown ones either. Some of these microbial stowaways traveled over 1,000 miles with the help of aerosols, originating from regions lush with fertilizers and pesticides.



This has launched the scientific world into a wave of questions about the journey of human, animal, and plant pathogens across vast geographical terrains, invisible to the naked eye. 



Leading this microbial exploration was the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (<a href="https://www.isglobal.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISGlobal</a>) with support from the Daniel Bravo Andreu Private Foundation (<a href="https://www.fundaciodanielbravo.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FPDBA</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-travel-in-the-air">Microbes travel in the air</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pathogens</a> hitching a ride on the wind isn’t unheard of. But the diversity of microbes that can survive at high altitudes, where conditions could give even an Everest mountaineer pause, is a fresh revelation.



“We know that above a certain point in the troposphere (called the planetary boundary layer), certain materials can be transported over long distances because the air in that region is isolated from the surface and there is less friction. But we did not suspect that viable microorganisms could be there also,” says&nbsp;Xavier Rodó, ICREA researcher at ISGlobal.



Rodó and his team carried out ten tropospheric flights to examine microbial diversity at high altitudes -- a significant jump from studies usually executed just a few meters above the ground or the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-microbial-travel-path">Tracing the microbial travel path</h2>



Rodó and his international team boarded a Cessna aircraft and conducted air surveys above Japan, tracing wind currents from mainland Asia. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-deadly-microbes-travel-around-the-world-so-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transcontinental airways</a>, known as tropospheric bridges, connect air from distant parts of the world.



For context, think about air that lifts in mainland China and then descends over Tokyo, courtesy of typical winter weather conditions. 



A total of 22 aerosol filter samples were gathered during two periods (in February and April 2014), methodically analyzed for their chemical and biological composition.



Sequencing DNA from the samples, the team identified over 266 fungal and 305 bacterial genera associated with the aerosols. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-microbes-in-the-air">Types of microbes in the air</h2>



This microbial soup included potential pathogens for humans, animals, and plants -- familiar names like Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Haemophillus parainfluenzae, and several Staphylococcus species were among the bacterial mix.



The fungal factions included genera like Candida and Cladosporium, to name a couple.



“Surprisingly, the Micrococcus luteus strain isolated was resistant to multiple drugs, including carbapenems, glycopeptides, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole," says Sofya Podzniakova, co-first author of the study.



"Our findings suggest that antimicrobial resistance could spread over long distances via this previously unrecognized route", 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropospheric-travel-tunnel-of-air-microbes">Tropospheric travel tunnel of air microbes</h2>



If you're curious about the origin of these airborne pathogens, the answer could be right underneath our noses -- or rather, our feet.



The presence of elements such as zinc sulfate and potassium, usually found in fertilizers and pesticides, implies an agricultural source. A scenario quite consistent with the extensively farmed croplands in northeast China.



The high-altitude and ground samples from the days examined showed a striking similarity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a>. A consequence of air descending from altitudes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-activities-underground-revealed-by-new-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ground</a>, perhaps? 



The particle transport models simulated by Roger Curcoll, currently a researcher at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya -- BarcelonaTech (<a href="https://www.upc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPC</a>), would certainly support this theory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-microbe-transport-study">New chapter in microbe transport study</h2>



The implications of this study are profoundly impactful. “Our findings uncover a rich and unprecedented diversity of microbes that are dispersed by wind currents thousands of kilometers away from their sources by intense tunnels of wind that form high in the troposphere,” Rodó emphasized.



“They represent a paradigm shift in our understanding of how human health can be affected by pathogens thriving in the environment, particularly in the air."



Though there's no direct trace yet linking the presence of known human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pandemic-looms-as-pathogens-move-from-wild-plants-to-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogens</a> in aerosols and health effects, the study affirms the pressing need for further exploration of air microbes and microbial pathogens' long-distance travel.



So, the next time you feel the wind against your face, remember, it has stories to tell -- tales of microbial hitchhikers scaling the heights of the troposphere and crossing continents. Globe-trotting pathogens show us how interconnected our world truly is, even in ways we can't see.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2404191121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Toxic microbes can travel thousands of miles through the air

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above...

Whether your favorite pastime is cooking or solving crossword puzzles, your hobby may be doing more than just providing joy and relaxation. It turns out, the enchanting pursuits we so dearly cherish might be our secret weapons against the gradual cognitive decline associated with aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hobbies-and-mystery-of-cognitive-aging">Hobbies and mystery of cognitive aging</h2>



Cognitive aging, an inescapable process that slowly chips away at our cognitive abilities as we age, is a matter of significance. 



It's certainly troubling to know that each year, around 10% of individuals demonstrating signs of mild cognitive impairment progress towards Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.



Now, it has been proposed that active participation in cognitively demanding activities could provide a shield against mental deterioration over time. But the extent to which these activities could delay <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pupil-size-reveals-hidden-cognitive-fatigue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive</a> decline has been a riddle that has kept us guessing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-impairment-and-hobbies">Cognitive impairment and hobbies</h2>



In a recent study led by the Texas A&amp;M University School of Public Health, fresh perspectives have emerged. 



The research points out that older adults with mild cognitive impairment, who indulge regularly in high levels of activities such as word games and hobbies, show an improvement in memory, working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to their less active counterparts.



“Today, nearly six million people in the United States have dementia, and this number is projected to grow to about 14 million by 2060 - with minority populations affected the most,” said Dr. <a href="https://sph.tamu.edu/directory/kim.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Junhyoung “Paul” Kim</a>, an associate professor of health behavior at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M</a>. “We sought to help fill the gap in our understanding of cognitive decline.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitively-stimulating-hobbies">Cognitively stimulating hobbies</h2>



Along with his colleagues from the <a href="https://www.usm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Mississippi</a> and <a href="https://www.iu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indiana University</a>, Dr. Kim meticulously analyzed data relating to 5,932 participants who were 50 years or older in 2012. The individual showed signs of mild cognitive impairment, and were part of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) conducted from 2012 to 2020.



The researchers paid close attention to answers to seven questions that gauged the frequency of participants’ involvement in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, game playing, and other hobbies. Their participation levels were divided into low, mid, and high, which is in line with standards adopted in previous studies.



“The participants with high-level engagement consistently showed advanced cognitive function levels throughout the study and maintained a similar level of cognitive abilities compared to the other groups,” said Dr. Kim.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-working-memory-attention-and-processing-speed">Working memory, attention, and processing speed</h2>



Those active in the high-level category demonstrated enhanced memory, working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to those in the mid- and low-level groups.



In addition, the mid-level group displayed higher levels of working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to the low-level participation group.



Dr. Kim and his team hope the results will encourage healthcare providers to recommend elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment to partake in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitively</a> stimulating activities, preferably three to four times a week.



“We also found significant differences in all three cognitive functions between years with a declining slope, but the differences between 2014 and the other years of the data set that were examined were not significant,” said Dr. Kim.



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



While the findings are encouraging, further research is needed to fully grasp the mechanisms behind hobbies and cognitive resilience.



Future research should investigate how different forms of activities distinctly influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive functions</a> and whether certain demographics might respond better than others. 



Furthermore, conducting longitudinal studies across diverse cohorts could be helpful in applying these findings to larger segments of the population.



If you're interested and wish to incorporate more cognitively stimulating activities into your everyday routine, some achievable, enjoyable, and science-backed options are:



• Reading on a regular basis



• Engaging in word games



• Learning new skills



• Being social



• Exercising regularly



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-health-and-hobbies">Cognitive health and hobbies</h2>



Even though cognitive aging is a part of our life, a growing body of research suggests that we can take proactive steps to soften its impact. It seems that staying mentally active isn't just a way to pass time but a route to preserving our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-maps-help-the-brain-remember-places-and-paths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive abilities</a> well into our golden years.



In conclusion, keeping our minds engaged as we age could potentially yield significant benefits for maintaining cognitive health. It's surprising to think that our leisure activities could wield such power.



So, the next time you pick up that crossword puzzle or captivating novel, remember - you're not simply killing time - you're boosting your brain health too.



The study is published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41465-024-00293-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Cognitive Enhancement</a>. 



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Hobbies keep the brain sharp and slow cognitive aging

Whether your favorite pastime is cooking or solving crossword puzzles,...

Understanding the complexities of the infant brain is crucial to unlocking the mysteries of early cognitive development. 



By studying the brain of infants, experts gain key insights into how fundamental processes like learning, memory, and emotional regulation begin to form in the earliest stages of life.



Researchers are continually exploring new methods to observe how infants respond to their environment, from basic sensory experiences like hearing and seeing to more intricate brain processes. 



A revolutionary wearable brain imaging device developed by researchers from <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> and <a href="https://www.bbk.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birkbeck</a> now offers unprecedented insight into infant brain activity, revealing a clearer picture of neurodevelopment and paving the way for early interventions for neurodiverse conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-view-of-infant-brain-activity">Comprehensive view of infant brain activity</h2>



Unlike conventional neuroimaging techniques, this portable and harmless device uses light waves to measure neural activity across the entire surface of an infant's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutrition-for-neurons-the-role-of-breast-milk-in-shaping-our-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. By providing real-time, non-invasive insights, the technology marks a significant leap in the field of pediatric neuroscience and neurodevelopmental research.



Dr. Liam Collins-Jones is the study's first author from UCL Medical Physics &amp; Biomedical Engineering. 



"Previously, we developed a wearable imaging approach that could map activity in specific areas of the brain. But this made it difficult to get a complete picture as we could only focus on one or two areas in isolation," noted Dr. Collins-Jones.



This latest iteration offers a comprehensive view of brain functions, revealing unexpected activity in the prefrontal cortex (the brain’s emotional processing hub) in response to social stimuli.



"The new method allows us to observe what’s happening across the whole outer brain surface underlying the scalp, which is a big step forward," said Dr. Collins-Jones.



This breakthrough could deepen our understanding of neurodevelopment during early childhood, offering insights into conditions like autism, dyslexia, and ADHD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leap-forward-in-neurodevelopment-studies">A leap forward in neurodevelopment studies</h2>



The wearable device was tested on 16 infants, aged five to seven months, as they engaged in different scenarios such as listening to actors sing nursery rhymes or observing motion-oriented toys.



The researchers observed localized brain activity in response to social stimuli, confirming earlier optical neuroimaging and MRI findings.



"This is the first time that differences in activity across such a wide area of the brain have been measured in babies using a wearable device," said Professor Emily Jones from Birkbeck. "With this, we should be able to see what’s happening in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/odors-influence-newborn-brain-growth-in-the-first-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">babies’ brains</a> as they play, learn, and interact with other people in a very natural way."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-way-to-observe-brain-activity">Flexible way to observe brain activity</h2>



Traditional methods like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/post-covid-brain-changes-detected-by-advanced-mri-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MRI</a> scanning present significant limitations when studying infant brain activity. The subject must remain perfectly still for an extended period, making it particularly challenging with young children who are naturally more active and less likely to stay still.



This new wearable technology, based on high-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT), offers a more natural and flexible way to observe brain activity in real-world settings, allowing infants to move freely and interact with their surroundings without the restrictive environment of a scanner.



Dr. Rob Cooper is the study's senior author from UCL Medical Physics &amp; Biomedical Engineering.



"This device is a great example of academic research and commercial technological development working hand-in-hand," said Dr. Cooper.



The portable and affordable device offers exciting possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-advanced-brain-mapping-yet-reveals-how-we-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mapping the brain</a> and identifying neurodevelopmental conditions at an early stage. 



By capturing brain activity during natural interactions, this technology opens the door to more personalized early-life support for neurodiverse children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-for-brain-monitoring">Future implications for brain monitoring</h2>



The potential applications of this wearable brain imaging technology extend beyond early childhood neurodevelopment. 



As researchers continue to refine the device, it could eventually be used to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrasound-waves-can-enhance-mindfulness-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a> across various stages of life, including adolescence and adulthood. 



This opens up new possibilities for studying brain plasticity, mental health disorders, and the effects of early interventions on long-term cognitive and emotional well-being.



By expanding our understanding of how the brain develops in its earliest stages, this technology could pave the way for early intervention strategies that improve cognitive and emotional outcomes. 



The ultimate goal is to create a more personalized approach to supporting neurodiverse individuals, helping them thrive from infancy through adulthood.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://direct.mit.edu/imag/article/doi/10.1162/imag_a_00244/123636/Whole-head-high-density-diffuse-optical-tomography" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imaging Neuroscience</a>.



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Wearable imaging device reveals infant brain activity

Understanding the complexities of the infant brain is crucial to...

As we bid farewell to the sweltering summer of 2024 and welcome the crisp fall, the twilight of September 17th offers us a celestial treat -- the Harvest Moon.



But what makes this particular full moon special? Unlike other full moons, the Harvest Moon rises soon after sunset for several consecutive evenings, providing extra light. This effect is due to the moon's orbital path.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harvest-moon-in-the-september-sky">Harvest Moon in the September sky</h2>



On September 17, as the sun takes its final bow, the Harvest Moon will rise - reaching its pinnacle of brilliance at 10:34 P.M. Eastern Time. The moon will alao appear full the night before and the night after its peak.



This year, the Harvest Moon is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-supermoon-blue-moon-will-outshine-and-outsize-all-other-moons-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermoon</a>, which means it will look much larger and brighter than usual as it reaches its closest point to Earth, known as perigee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A supermoon and a lunar eclipse&nbsp;</h2>



The 2024 Harvest Moon also coincides with a partial lunar eclipse, providing a rare opportunity to witness an eclipse during a supermoon.



During this event, only a small part of the Moon (about 3.5%) will pass through Earth's umbra, creating a slight darkened area, as if a "bite" has been taken out of the Moon.&nbsp;



Much of the event will appear as a penumbral eclipse, where the Moon's disk will subtly darken as it passes through Earth's penumbral shadow.&nbsp;The eclipse will begin at 8:41 PM Eastern Time on September 17, with the peak at 10:14 PM. 



The entire eclipse will be visible from western Europe, South America, and parts of North America, with partial visibility across most of the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-the-harvest-moon">Timing of the Harvest Moon</h2>



Each full moon bears a name that encapsulates the essence of the time in which it occurs. 



The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, making its grand entry either in September or October.



Thanks to its well-timed arrival with the harvest season, farmers can bask in the moon's light to gather their crops before the onset of the first frosts of fall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-names-of-the-september-full-moon">Names of the September full moon</h2>



Occasionally, a game of musical chairs happens in the lunar calendar. When October's full moon is closer to the equinox, it inherits the Harvest Moon title, and September's full moon becomes known as the Corn Moon.



This term refers to corn harvesting season in the late summer to early fall in the northern United States.



Native American tribes like the Western Abenaki and Dakota also used similar names in their languages. The Cree call it the Autumn Moon, while the Ojibwe refer to it as the Falling Leaves Moon. 



The names for the September full <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-supermoon-blue-moon-will-outshine-and-outsize-all-other-moons-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a> also echo the mating season of wildlife like deer, elk, and moose, with some tribes calling it the Mating Moon or the Rutting Moon.



According to <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/skywatching/the-next-full-moon-is-a-partial-lunar-eclipse-a-supermoon-the-corn-moon-and-the-harvest-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the first known written use of the name Harvest Moon in the English language was in 1706.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harvest-moon-a-time-of-celebration">Harvest Moon: A time of celebration </h2>



The Harvest Moon has traditionally been a time of celebration in many cultures around the world.



For centuries, communities have celebrated the abundance of food, giving thanks for the successful harvest. In Europe, this was often marked by harvest festivals, where feasting, singing, and dancing were common. 



In some Asian cultures, the Harvest Moon signals the Mid-Autumn Festival - a time for families to unite, share mooncakes, gaze at the moon, and reflect on unity and togetherness.



Simply put, the Harvest Moon is not just an astronomical showstopper; it's an invitation to bond with nature, loved ones, and age-old traditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-ready-to-view-the-2024-harvest-moon">Get ready to view the 2024 Harvest Moon</h2>



Eager to make the most of the Harvest Moon spectacle? Start by picking an open area, free from the intrusion of light pollution. 



Find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, as the Harvest Moon will appear low and large near the horizon just after sunset. A wide, open space like a hilltop, beach, or park away from buildings and trees is ideal.



Binoculars could further enhance your stargazing experience, unveiling the moon's craters and seas.



The Harvest Moon may appear orange or reddish when it first rises due to the scattering of light through the atmosphere. As it climbs higher, it will shift to its usual bright white or yellow.



Its glowing presence reminds us of the natural rhythms that shape our journey on Earth. Isn’t it amazing how our lives are so connected to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-moon-had-active-volcanoes-just-120-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> and planets above us?



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Harvest Moon 2024 will feature a partial lunar eclipse

As we bid farewell to the sweltering summer of 2024...

Fathers with unhealthy, high-cholesterol diets can predispose their daughters to cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a new study led by the University of California, Riverside.



Diets play a critical role in shaping overall health, and poor dietary habits - especially those high in cholesterol and saturated fats - have been linked to numerous chronic conditions.



The research demonstrates that unhealthy diets can carry profound consequences for future generations, particularly by increasing the risk of heart disease in offspring. The study is the first to demonstrate this effect, which seems to be exclusive to daughters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fathers-diets-alter-sperm">Fathers' diets alter sperm</h2>



Changcheng Zhou is a professor of biomedical sciences at <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a> and the study's lead author.



"It had been previously thought that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-sperm-structure-offers-new-insights-on-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sperm</a> contribute only their genome during fertilization," said Zhou.



"However, recent studies by us and others have demonstrated that environmental exposures, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unhealthy-diet-leaves-brain-feeling-foggy-frazzled-sad/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unhealthy diets</a>, environmental toxicants, and stress, can alter the RNA in sperm to mediate intergenerational inheritance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unhealthy-diets-and-heart-disease">Unhealthy diets and heart disease</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/depression-and-cardiovascular-diseases-are-genetically-linked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CVD</a>, the leading cause of death globally, impacts the heart and blood vessels - with conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart attacks being primary contributors.



These conditions often develop silently over time, fueled by poor lifestyle choices, including unhealthy diets high in fats and cholesterol, which can lead to significant blockages in the arteries. 



In 2022, nearly 703,000 people in the United States died from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-conditions-linked-hidden-brain-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>. This highlights the urgent need for better dietary awareness and prevention strategies.



The study sheds light on how fathers' diets, specifically high-cholesterol intake, can have long-lasting effects on the health of their children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-small-rna-molecules-in-sperm">The role of small RNA molecules in sperm</h2>



The researchers found that small RNA molecules in sperm are significantly altered by exposure to a high-cholesterol diet.



Small RNAs, which play a critical role in gene regulation, can be reshaped by paternal dietary habits, potentially setting off a chain reaction of changes in biological processes.



These modifications influence gene expression in embryonic stem cells, which can have lasting effects on the health of offspring.



The altered small RNAs increase the offspring’s vulnerability to conditions like atherosclerosis, a serious disease characterized by plaque buildup in arteries, which raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paternal-health-factors-are-often-overlooked">Paternal health factors are often overlooked </h2>



Zhou further emphasized that paternal factors must be considered in chronic disease studies, as research has historically centered on maternal influences, leaving the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fathers-diet-impacts-the-health-of-his-future-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fathers' health</a> on future generations underexplored.



"Men who plan to have children should consider eating a healthy, low-cholesterol diet and reducing their own CVD risk factors," said Zhou. "These factors appear to affect their sperm in influencing the health of their female offspring."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-specific-findings-in-the-lab">Gender-specific findings in the lab</h2>



According to the researchers, it is unclear why only female offspring are affected with cardiovascular disease. 



In laboratory experiments, genetically engineered mice were fed a high-cholesterol diet. This caused the mice to develop hyperlipidemia, a disorder that can lead to heart disease and stroke. 



These male mice were then mated with female mice that were on low-cholesterol diet. Even though the offspring were also fed a low-cholesterol diet, he females were found to have double or triple the risk of atherosclerosis.



The team, including researchers Rebecca Hernandez, Xiuchun Li, Junchao Shi, and Tejasvi R. Dave, will continue their investigations to better understand the gender-specific effects observed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-implications-of-the-study">Further implications of the study</h2>



The research opens the door to further investigations into the role of paternal health in shaping future generations' risk of chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease.



"Our study contributes to understanding the etiology of chronic diseases originating from parental exposures," Zhou concluded. "We hope our findings stimulate investigations of the impact of paternal exposures on offspring cardiovascular health in humans."



The findings of this study highlight the lasting consequences that unhealthy diets can have, not just on the individual but across generations.



With cardiovascular disease continuing to be a major global health concern, these results emphasize the importance of early intervention and dietary changes, particularly for those planning to have children. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.179291" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JCI Insight</a>.



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Fathers’ diets impact the heart health of their daughters

Fathers with unhealthy, high-cholesterol diets can predispose their daughters to...

Experts at Klick Labs have developed a novel, non-invasive technique that taps into the health screening potential of our voices. The researchers have demonstrated that it is possible to detect chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) with impressive accuracy using just a person's voice.



With its effortless simplicity, the new method could lead to substantial advancements in early detection of hypertension, a widespread health condition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voice-biomarkers-and-blood-pressure">Voice biomarkers and blood pressure</h2>



In this unique study, 245 individuals were assigned a straightforward task. Over two weeks, they recorded their voices multiple times a day using a specialized mobile app.



This app, a homegrown project from the Klick scientists, works on the principles of machine learning. The voice technology has exhibited an impressive 84 percent accuracy for females and 77 percent for males in detecting high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure</a>.



The magic lies in its unique capability to analyze vocal biomarkers that escape human ears. This includes pitch variations, patterns in speech energy distribution, and the distinctness in sound alterations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-blood-pressure-and-voice-recordings">High blood pressure and voice recordings</h2>



Yan Fossat is the senior vice president of Klick Labs and principal investigator of the study.



"By leveraging various classifiers and establishing gender-based predictive models, we discovered a more accessible way to detect hypertension, which we hope will lead to earlier intervention for this widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-raises-your-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health issue</a>," said Fossat.



"Hypertension can lead to a number of complications, from heart attacks and kidney problems to dementia."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battle-against-the-silent-killer">Battle against the silent killer</h2>



Hypertension, referred to as the "silent killer" by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a global health concern affecting over a quarter of the world's population.



Alarmingly, half of these people are not even aware of their condition. Furthermore, over 75 percent of those diagnosed with hypertension live in low or middle-income countries.



Traditionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-blood-pressure-drug-called-rilmenidine-dramatically-slows-aging-in-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure</a> is measured using an arm cuff or an automatic device, methods that need specialized equipment and expertise. Unfortunately, these are often inaccessible for people in disadvantaged areas. 



"Early diagnosis and behavioral interventions have been shown to mitigate morbidity and mortality associated with this condition," noted the researchers.



"However, conventional methods of measuring blood pressure and accordingly identifying hypertension, such as sphygmomanometry, require technical expertise and may not be readily accessible, particularly in remote or underserved areas."



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



The introduction of voice-based high blood pressure detection extends beyond individual health assessments; it has significant implications for public health strategies. 



With the ability to uncover undiagnosed cases of hypertension through a simple app, healthcare systems can redirect resources toward prevention and education initiatives. 



The technology could empower individuals with the information they need to seek further evaluation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genes-influence-blood-pressure-from-early-childhood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a>. This is particularly the case in regions where traditional access to healthcare is limited.



By promoting greater awareness and early intervention, communities could effectively mitigate the risks associated with hypertension, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-blood-pressure-detection">Beyond blood pressure detection</h2>



Klick Labs is not a newcomer in the field of health tech. With a track record of using voice technology for detecting conditions like diabetes, the lab is continually expanding its research base.



Collaborations with numerous hospitals, academic institutions, and public health authorities globally are a testament to the lab's commitment to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-over-2000-genetic-markers-that-affect-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare advancements</a>.



Klick Labs previously demonstrated the effectiveness of AI algorithms combined with voice analysis in accurate screening for Type 2 diabetes. The research was published in <a href="https://www.mcpdigitalhealth.org/article/S2949-7612(23)00073-1/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Digital Health</a> in October 2023. 



The lab also identified a link between blood glucose levels and voice pitch. The research was published last week in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-69620-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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



"Voice technology has the potential to exponentially transform healthcare, making it more accessible and affordable, especially for large, underserved populations,” said Jaycee Kaufman, <a href="https://appliedsciences.klick.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Klick</a> Labs research scientist.



"Our ongoing research increasingly demonstrates the significant promise of vocal biomarkers in detecting hypertension, diabetes, and a growing list of other health conditions.”



By subtly wearing the cloak of technology, healthcare is quietly tiptoeing into the future. Only time will tell how these advancements will shape our lives.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10669945" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IEEE Access</a>.



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AI can detect high blood pressure by listening to your voice

Experts at Klick Labs have developed a novel, non-invasive technique...

Ever wondered why some girls seem to grow up faster than others? The puzzle of early puberty in girls is getting a fresh look, and you may be surprised by the suspects being rounded up -- environmental chemicals. 



This isn't a simple case of kids maturing too soon; the implications are far more profound and problematic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trend-on-early-puberty">Trend on early puberty</h2>



In the last few decades, girls have been reaching puberty earlier. This isn't just a matter of growing up quickly; it's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/younger-generations-getting-their-menstrual-periods-earlier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health concern</a> that could spell trouble. 



It turns out, early puberty may increase the risk of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/younger-generations-getting-their-menstrual-periods-earlier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health complications</a> like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even breast cancer. And, recent research indicates that certain environmental toxins might be behind this trend.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-the-culprits">Unmasking the culprits</h2>



The culprits are Endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs. These sneaky substances can mimic, block, or interfere with our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-caused-premature-aging-of-adolescent-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body's hormones</a>. 



Studies suggest that exposure to some EDCs may cause early puberty in girls. But, how does a chemical in your detergent or perfume impact human biology?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-mystery-of-early-puberty">Unveiling the mystery of early puberty</h2>



Natalie Shaw, M.D., M.M.Sc., of the National Institutes of Health’s (<a href="https://www.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH</a>) National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (<a href="https://www.niehs.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIEHS</a>) in Durham, N.C., was lead author of this study.



“We conducted a comprehensive screen of 10,000 environmental compounds with extensive follow-up studies using human brain cells that control the reproductive axis, and our team identified several substances that may contribute to early puberty in girls," Shaw explained.



The study identified some substances, such as musk ambrette (commonly found in detergents, perfumes, etc.) and a medication type called cholinergic agonists, that are potential contributors to early puberty in girls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-musk-ambrette">Musk ambrette</h2>



Musk ambrette is a scent often found in personal care products. Studies have hinted that it can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it a real concern. 



But take heart, some countries and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<a href="https://www.fda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA</a>) are aware of it, taking steps for its regulation.



Shaw's team employed a Tox21 compound library containing licensed pharmaceuticals, environmental toxins, and dietary supplements against a human cell line. 



Menghang Xia, Ph.D., highlighted the crucial role of using human hypothalamic neurons and zebrafish in identifying environmental substances that stimulate key receptors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-changes-in-early-puberty">Physical changes in early puberty</h2>



Early puberty isn't just about premature physical transformation. It can affect adolescents' psychosocial development and well-being. 



It's been linked to higher rates of mental health disorders like depression and low self-esteem. Therefore, it's essential that we understand and address these social implications, not just the physical ones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-families-and-communities">Empowering families and communities</h2>



Now that we know about EDCs, it's time to fight back. Families can lessen EDC exposure by preferring natural or organic personal care products, limiting the use of plastic containers, and avoiding known EDC products. 



Communities can empower parents and caregivers through educational programs about potential risks and making informed decisions.



Endocrinologists are leading the charge in solving some top health issues of our time, like this one. This research is a significant stride in understanding how environmental toxins influence early puberty in girls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-policy-and-regulation">Role of policy and regulation</h2>



Addressing early puberty caused by environmental chemicals needs a comprehensive approach, especially in policy and regulations. 



Governments and health organizations play a key role in managing risks from endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).



This involves not only monitoring harmful substances but also supporting research to identify new risks. 



By collaborating with scientists, lawmakers can establish clear guidelines for safe chemical use in everyday products, prioritizing public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunger-hormones-in-the-gut-can-change-our-eating-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a>.



Taking these proactive steps will help create a safer environment for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battling-challenges-in-early-puberty">Battling challenges in early puberty</h2>



The world of endocrinology is fascinating, albeit slightly eerie. It's like solving a complex jigsaw puzzle where even the tiniest changes can affect something as significant as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-behavioral-issues-have-high-cortisol-levels-in-their-hair/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human development</a>. 



But there's hope on the horizon. The dedicated efforts of scientists worldwide make us optimistic about navigating these health issues and working towards a healthier world.



Let's remember, every small choice we make, whether it's the personal care products we use or the food we eat, impacts our health. 



So the next time you pick up something, ask yourself, "What's in the stuff?" It might just be the first step towards a healthier future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/endo/article/165/10/bqae103/7749689" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Endocrinology</a>.



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More girls are starting puberty early due to exposure to chemicals

Ever wondered why some girls seem to grow up faster...

The universe is filled with secrets waiting to be unveiled. IC 4709, a spiral galaxy approximately 240 million light-years away in the southern constellation Telescopium, is one such cosmic mystery.



The <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> has revealed its stunning composition, featuring a faint halo and a swirling disk of stars and dust bands.



But what truly sets IC 4709 apart is its bustling active galactic nucleus (AGN), powered by a supermassive black hole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hidden-giant-of-ic-4709">The hidden giant of IC 4709</h2>



Contrary to expectations, the core of IC 4709 isn't merely a congregation of stars. Its unparalleled brightness is rather courtesy of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-holes-are-very-messy-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gargantuan black hole</a>, impressively 65 million times more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive than our Sun</a>.



A spectacle occurs as a disk of gas spirals towards this colossal black hole, heating up due to intense collisions. 



The disk eventually reaching such immense temperatures that it emits a vast spectrum of electromagnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/x-ray-radiation-from-black-holes-explained-after-50-year-struggle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radiation</a>. This spectrum extends from infrared to visible, ultraviolet light, and as far as X-rays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-between-the-galaxy-and-its-nucleus">Interactions between the galaxy and its nucleus</h2>



In the midst of the galaxy, a lane of dark dust is barely visible. This dust lane works as a barrier, blocking any visible light emission from the active galactic nucleus and obscuring it from view.



Fortunately, thanks to Hubble's spectacular resolution, astronomers are able to observe the interaction between the active galactic nucleus and its host galaxy.



This ability is instrumental in the study of supermassive black holes in more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-finds-a-second-lensed-supernova-in-a-distant-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant galaxies</a>, where such fine details are challenging to discern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multi-telescope-approach">A multi-telescope approach</h2>



Further enhancing our comprehension of IC 4709 is a combination of data from two Hubble surveys of nearby AGNs, initially identified by NASA’s Swift telescope. 



The Swift telescope, which houses multiwavelength telescopes, plays a critical role in collecting data in visible, ultraviolet, X-ray, and gamma-ray light. In particular, its X-ray component will enable Swift to see the X-rays from IC 4709’s AGN breaking through the obscuring dust.



Meanwhile, ESA’s Euclid telescope is currently surveying the dark universe in optical and infrared light and will also image IC 4709 and other local AGNs. 



The data collated from these telescopes, alongside that from Hubble, provides astronomers with an all-encompassing view across the electromagnetic spectrum.



This comprehensive view is crucial for improving our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-binary-black-holes-secrets-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a> and the significant influence they have on their host galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-black-holes-in-galaxy-evolution">The role of black holes in galaxy evolution</h2>



Understanding supermassive black holes, such as the one at the core of IC 4709, is pivotal for unraveling the intricate relationship between these colossal entities and their host galaxies. 



Observational evidence suggests that as galaxies form and evolve over cosmic time, supermassive black holes grow in tandem, influencing their surroundings through processes like the outflows they generate.



Such interactions can regulate star formation rates, ultimately sculpting the evolutionary path of the galaxy.



Recent studies also indicate that the mass of a supermassive black hole is closely linked to the properties of its host galaxy, particularly its bulge mass. This correlation, often referred to as the M-sigma relation, indicates that more massive black holes reside in galaxies with more substantial bulges.



This intriguing relationship invites scholars to consider whether black holes act as catalysts in the formation and evolution of galaxies, suggesting a symbiotic existence that shapes the very fabric of our universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-frontier-in-cosmic-research">The next frontier in cosmic research</h2>



As technology progresses, new telescopes and observational techniques hold promise for advancing our understanding of IC 4709 and galaxies like it. 



Next-generation observatories, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, will refine our capabilities to study cosmic phenomena across various wavelengths, including infrared light, which is pivotal for observing the dust-enshrouded regions surrounding active galactic nuclei. 



The wealth of data generated by these initiatives will undoubtedly amplify our knowledge, paving the way for discoveries that could potentially redefine our comprehension of the universe.



Collaborative international research efforts are also essential. By pooling resources and expertise, astronomers can undertake ambitious studies that explore the interplay between supermassive black holes and their host galaxies on a cosmic scale, ultimately illuminating the mysteries that lie hidden in the depths of space.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA, M. Koss, A, Barth



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Hubble reveals the supermassive black hole powering IC 4709

The universe is filled with secrets waiting to be unveiled....

Iron has played a fundamental role in life on Earth since the earliest days of single-celled organisms navigating the planet’s primitive seas. 



Employed in minute amounts, metals like iron support crucial biological processes, including respiration, DNA transcription, and metabolism. 



Nearly half of all enzymes - proteins that drive cellular chemical reactions - depend on metals, particularly transition metals, named for their position on the periodic table.



New research from a multidisciplinary team at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, <a href="https://www.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Institute of Technology</a>, and UCLA suggests that iron was the inaugural and exclusive transition metal of early life forms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-life-s-only-transition-metal">Iron: Life’s only transition metal</h2>



"We make a radical proposal: Iron was life’s original and only transition metal," said Jena Johnson, assistant professor in the U-M Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. 



The researchers argue that early life relied on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/metals-have-doubled-in-streams-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metals</a> that it could interact with in the iron-rich early ocean, leaving other transition metals practically invisible.



To explore this idea further, Johnson collaborated with <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> bioinorganic chemist Joan Valentine, whose curiosity about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early life’s evolution</a> and metal usage sparked the study. 



"When these guys told me that iron wasn't a trace element, that blew my mind," said Valentine, highlighting how surprising the iron-rich ancient oceans were in the context of biochemistry.



Ted Present from Caltech contributed to the study by designing a model to estimate metal concentrations in early Earth's oceans, which revealed the stark decrease in dissolved iron levels following the Great Oxygenation Event.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-oceans-of-iron">Navigating oceans of iron</h2>



This radical proposition arose from the intersection of diverse research interests. 



Valentine, intrigued by how early life evolved, wondered what metals were incorporated into enzymes during primitive times to support essential life functions. She repeatedly encountered evidence suggesting the oceans were full of iron for the first half of Earth's history.



Johnson, whose team studies iron formations and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-ocean-water-discovery-is-unlocking-secrets-of-earths-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient ocean</a> biogeochemistry, worked closely with Valentine and Present to explore these early conditions. 



Geological evidence points to an iron-dense ocean during the Archean Eon from about 4 to 2.5 billion years ago when Fe(II), a soluble form of iron, was the dominant metal.



Present's model allowed the team to estimate the availability of various metals like iron, manganese, cobalt, nickel, copper, and zinc in the oceans when life first emerged.



"The thing that changed most dramatically as the Great Oxygenation Event occurred was not really the concentration of these other trace elements," Present explained. 



"The thing that changed the most dramatically was a decrease in dissolved iron concentrations. The implications for what that meant for life and how it 'sees' elements in water hadn't really been wrestled with."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-s-unseen-lifeline-of-iron">Life’s unseen lifeline of iron</h2>



The study revealed that early biomolecules likely interacted almost exclusively with iron and magnesium, given the high concentrations of Fe(II) in early oceans. 



"We realized iron would have to do almost everything. Biomolecules could capture magnesium and iron, but zinc's not getting in - maybe nickel can get into some biomolecules in the right circumstances, but zinc's not competitive. Cobalt is invisible. Manganese is pretty invisible," Johnson noted.



This understanding challenged the prevailing view that certain metals were irreplaceable in biological processes. For example, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zinc-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-ocean-processes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zinc</a>, which is crucial for life today, was not widely available in the iron-saturated ancient oceans. 



"The idea of life without zinc was really hard for me to think about until we dug into this and realized that as long as you have no oxygen around to oxidize your iron from Fe(II) to Fe(III), iron is often better than zinc in these enzymes," Valentine explained.



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



As oxygen levels increased following the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/it-took-200-million-years-for-earth-to-get-its-oxygen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Oxygenation Event</a>, the dominant metal in the oceans became less soluble, prompting life forms to adapt by incorporating other elements into their enzymes.



"Life, in the face of orders of magnitude more iron than other metals, couldn't know to evolve toward such a sophisticated way of managing them," said Present. 



"The fall of the abundance of iron forced life to manage these other metals to survive, but that also enabled new functions and the diversity of life we have today."



The study, published in the <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2318692121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, offers a new perspective on the elemental composition of early life forms and the evolution of life on Earth.



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Iron was life’s first essential metal and shaped early evolution

Iron has played a fundamental role in life on Earth...

The dawn of a new era in space exploration is upon us, and it's not led by seasoned astronauts but a crew of civilians. The successful launch of SpaceX's latest endeavor, Polaris Dawn, just took to the skies in what can only be described as a blend of bravery and cutting-edge technology.



The mission was launched at 5:23 a.m. ET, a sight captured live on X, the social media platform acquired by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk in 2022.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-launch-of-polaris-dawn">Successful launch of Polaris Dawn</h2>



SpaceX launch director Frank Messina and his team of ground controllers watched with bated breath as the capsule began its journey into Earth's orbit. 



The Polaris Dawn crew, comprising the first ever <a href="https://www.spacex.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a> employees to voyage into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/take-a-glimpse-at-our-planets-new-ai-satellite-phsat2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a>, was showered with words of encouragement as they embarked on their mission. 



The message was clear - the crew's courage would pave the way for future explorers, with their bravery and teamwork trusted to carry out the mission at hand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-delays-and-other-challenges">Weather delays and other challenges</h2>



The launch, following several weather delays, was not without its fair share of complications. 



Besides needing clear weather conditions, calm waters and winds were crucial for the safe return of the crew from their five-day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cwise-j1249-unknown-object-found-speeding-over-1-million-miles-per-hour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> adventure. 



With a spacewalk planned that will deplete oxygen supplies, timing the spacecraft's return was imperative to ensure there will be enough life support for five or six days in space.



When the countdown clock finally read zero, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket came alive, lighting up the launch site at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida with a blinding blaze. The civilian crew was strapped inside a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, an igloo-shaped structure about 13 feet across at its base.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategy-to-save-fuel">Strategy to save fuel</h2>



The bottommost part of the Falcon 9 rocket, called the first stage, spent most of its fuel in the first 2 ½ minutes of the journey. 



As the first stage separated from the second, the upper portion fired up its engine, propelling the Crew Dragon spacecraft at an accelerated speed into space. 



The first stage, meanwhile, guided itself back to Earth, to be refurbished and reused - a typical SpaceX strategy that helps lower the cost of rocket launches.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/polaris-mission_spacex-dragon-launchpad_091024_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/polaris-mission_spacex-dragon-launchpad_091024_1s.webp" alt="On September 10, the crew of Polaris Dawn began their historic mission aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to expand commercial space exploration at 5:23:49 AM EDT as SpaceX’s Falcon 9 lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Credit: SpaceX" class="wp-image-1944240"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">On September 10, the crew of Polaris Dawn began their historic mission aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to expand commercial space exploration at 5:23:49 AM EDT as SpaceX’s Falcon 9 lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Credit: SpaceX</figcaption></figure>



To enter Earth's orbit, the Falcon 9 rocket had to hit over 17,000 miles per hour, a velocity required to maintain a stable orbit around the Earth. 



Upon reaching the desired speed, the Crew Dragon set its course into space, relying solely on its onboard thrusters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polaris-dawn-is-breaking-records">Polaris Dawn is breaking records</h2>



Polaris Dawn is the brainchild of Jared Isaacman, billionaire founder of financial technology firm Shift4 Payments. 



Along with Isaacman, former US Air Force pilot Scott “Kidd” Poteet and SpaceX engineers Anna Menon and Sarah Gillis form the ambitious team on this mission.



The objective was to break the height record for an Earth orbit held by NASA’s 1966 Gemini 11 mission while also setting the record for the highest any woman has ever ventured into space.



By Tuesday, the second day of the trip, the team smashed these records. Polaris Dawn officially flew higher than the 853-mile-high altitude achieved by astronauts Pete Conrad and Richard Gordon during the Gemini 11 mission.



In addition, Gillis and Menon have now ventured farther from Earth than any other women in history. 



On day three, the crew, while orbiting at about 435 miles (700 kilometers) above Earth, will attempt to make history with a commercial spacewalk. The endeavor, though fraught with risks, signifies a crucial step in the democratization of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/space-exploration-progress-impact-forecast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space exploration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spacex-and-civilians-uniting-for-exploration">SpaceX and civilians uniting for exploration</h2>



The Polaris Dawn mission is not merely a solitary venture; it embodies a spirit of collaboration that unites experts across various fields. 



The involvement of SpaceX engineers alongside the civilian crew illustrates a growing trend in space exploration, wherein traditional boundaries are blurred, allowing for a more inclusive approach.



This collaboration fosters innovation, leveraging diverse skill sets and perspectives, which, in turn, enhances the robustness of the mission's execution. 



As we witness this evolution, it becomes increasingly clear that the future of space exploration thrives on unity, where every contributor plays a vital role in unlocking the mysteries of the cosmos.



Each stride taken by missions like Polaris Dawn redefines our boundaries, both literally and metaphorically.



Space explorations, once restricted to highly trained astronauts, are now becoming increasingly accessible to civilians, ushering in a new age in our quest for knowledge and understanding of the cosmos.



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SpaceX launches Polaris Dawn civilian crew on historic spacewalk mission

The dawn of a new era in space exploration is...

Artificial intelligence (AI), a term light years ahead of its time, provides us with revolutionary opportunities that could forever change our understanding of intelligence and the very fabric of human cognition.



From advancements in machine learning to breakthroughs in neural networks, AI is steadily progressing toward capabilities once thought to be science fiction.



According to AI technology analyst Eitan Michael Azoff, humans are on the cusp of developing artificial intelligence that will not only match - but surpass - our own cognitive abilities once we unlock the mysteries of the "neural code." This refers to the human brain's ability to process information for complex cognitive tasks.



Azoff, a leading specialist in AI analysis, notes that understanding the neural code will unlock a giant leap in technological capability. It will enable us to engineer superior forms of intelligence with far greater capacity, speed, and adaptability than the human brain, fundamentally reshaping how we perceive and interact with the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cracking-the-neural-code">Cracking the neural code</h2>



At the core of this concept is the neural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-internal-gps-system-neural-compass-navigation-directions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">code</a> - the complex mechanisms through which the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-computer-that-operates-just-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human brain</a> processes and transmits sensory information to carry out functions like reasoning, learning, problem-solving, and mental visualization.



By decoding this complex system, researchers hope to replicate the brain’s remarkable efficiency in artificial intelligence.



In his <a href="https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.1201/9781003507864/toward-human-level-artificial-intelligence-eitan-michael-azoff" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">book</a> Towards Human-Level Artificial Intelligence: How Neuroscience Can Inform the Pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence, Azoff emphasizes that cracking the neural code is the pivotal step toward unlocking AI’s full potential, enabling machines to emulate not just human thinking but the deeper layers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognition</a>.



"Once we crack the neural code, we will engineer faster and superior brains with greater capacity, speed, and supporting technology that will surpass the human brain," explains Azoff.



"We will do that first by modeling visual processing, which will enable us to emulate visual thinking. I speculate that in-the-flow-consciousness will emerge from that. I do not believe that a system needs to be alive to have consciousness."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-to-human-level-ai">Journey to human-level AI</h2>



One of the critical steps towards attaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-ai-systems-learn-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-level AI</a>, according to Azoff, is simulating consciousness in machines.



Scientists have long acknowledged that even simpler creatures like bees possess a degree of consciousness - though without self-awareness.



This form of flow-like consciousness helps animals strategize their actions, predict potential scenarios, and recall relevant instances from the past.



Azoff believes that computer simulations can emulate this type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machines-and-consciousness-are-ai-systems-really-awake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consciousness in AI</a>, laying the groundwork for conscious technology.



Visual thinking, which predates language in humans, is another key factor. Azoff highlights the need for AI to move beyond large language models (LLMs) and explore visual processing to fully unlock human-level consciousness. 



"Visual thinking could also be the key to unlocking the mystery of what is consciousness," says Azoff.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-the-exploitation-of-future-technology">Preventing the exploitation of future technology </h2>



While the potential of AI is profound, Azoff emphasizes the importance of regulating this technology. He warns that society must take steps to channel AI development and prevent its exploitation. 



"Until we have more confidence in the machines we build, we should ensure two points are always followed," says Azoff.



"First, we must make sure humans have sole control of the off switch. Second, we must build AI systems with behavior safety rules implanted."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethics-of-ai-supremacy">Ethics of AI supremacy</h2>



As AI technology advances toward surpassing human intelligence by cracking the neural code, ethical considerations are becoming increasingly significant.



The possibility of machines with consciousness raises important questions about responsibility, control, and the impact on society. 



If AI systems with human-level capabilities start making decisions with real-world consequences, determining accountability becomes critical. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-concerns-about-autonomy">Broader concerns about autonomy </h2>



There are also broader concerns about whether such advanced systems should have autonomy or remain strictly controlled by humans.



These issues require careful attention from policymakers, ethicists, and technologists alike. Establishing a clear framework for ensuring that AI operates within ethical guidelines is essential as the technology continues to evolve. 



This framework should prioritize safety, human oversight, and alignment with societal values to prevent unintended consequences. 



While AI has the potential to transform industries and enhance human capabilities, it must be developed responsibly to maintain control and prevent harm.



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AI will outsmart humans when we crack the neural code

Artificial intelligence (AI), a term light years ahead of its...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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How the immune system responds to injury

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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