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...

BurstCube, a shoebox-sized satellite designed by NASA, has made a historic breakthrough by detecting its first gamma-ray burst, one of the most powerful explosions in the universe. 



This achievement marks a significant step forward in the study of these cosmic phenomena, demonstrating the incredible potential of small satellite missions in space exploration.



According to NASA, while gamma rays are the most energetic form of light, they are difficult to detect because our eyes see only a narrow band of the electromagnetic spectrum



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-milestone-for-burstcube">A milestone for BurstCube </h2>



On June 29, in the southern constellation Microscopium, BurstCube observed GRB 240629A, marking a watershed moment for the mission. 



"We’re excited to collect science data," said Sean Semper, BurstCube’s lead engineer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. "It’s an important milestone for the team and for the many early career engineers and scientists that have been part of the mission." 



The announcement came on August 29, following BurstCube's deployment into orbit on April 18 from the International Space Station.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-galactic-gold-rush">The galactic gold rush</h2>



The mission’s objective extends beyond simply detecting and locating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-gamma-ray-burst-was-70-times-brighter-than-any-cosmic-explosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gamma-ray bursts</a>; it seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms behind short gamma-ray bursts - brief but intense flashes of high-energy light that occur when superdense cosmic objects, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-stars-may-hold-the-key-to-understanding-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron stars</a>, collide.



These cataclysmic events are not only among the most powerful explosions in the universe, but they also provide a unique opportunity to study the extreme conditions present during these rare occurrences.



When these massive cosmic bodies merge, they release a vast amount of energy, which results in the production of heavy elements such as gold, platinum, and iodine. 



These exotic elements, forged in the heart of such violent collisions, play a critical role in the cosmic cycle, contributing to the formation of planets and even life itself. 



Gold and iodine, for instance, are essential components for technological applications and biological processes, making these bursts not only fascinating from an astrophysical standpoint but also relevant to our understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks of life</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specialized-communication-satellite-system">Specialized communication satellite system</h2>



BurstCube has pioneered the use of NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) system among CubeSats. 



This constellation of specialized communications spacecraft assists in coordinating rapid follow-up measurements by relaying data to other observatories via NASA's General Coordinates Network (GCN). 



Additionally, BurstCube regularly beams <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-sending-data-to-earth-from-interstellar-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data back to Earth</a> using the Direct to Earth system, with both TDRS and Direct to Earth forming part of NASA's Near Space Network.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-hurdles-in-orbit">Navigating hurdles in orbit</h2>



Despite the initial setback of one solar panel failing to extend fully - obscuring the spacecraft’s star tracker and troubling its orientation - the team remains undeterred.



Increased drag caused by the panel issue may hasten BurstCube's re-entry into the atmosphere, which was initially planned for 12–18 months of operation. 



"I’m proud of how the team responded to the situation and is making the best use of the time we have in orbit," said Jeremy Perkins, BurstCube’s principal investigator at Goddard. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-team-behind-the-success">Collaborative team behind the success</h2>



BurstCube is the result of a collaborative effort led by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, and funded by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate’s Astrophysics Division. 



The project has been an invaluable opportunity for early-career engineers and scientists to develop cutting-edge technologies like the mission’s gamma-ray detector. 



The mission is supported by partners from the <a href="https://stories.ua.edu/graduateschool/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=performance_max&amp;utm_campaign=jumpstart_2025&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwiuC2BhDSARIsALOVfBLcyi9HuxfVnMLxd7gT4pyuWf2cTDtU09o1U7y8VxjuNYcObGtoAQUaAvskEALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alabama</a> in Huntsville, the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>, College Park, the Universities Space Research Association in Washington, the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville.



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



Despite the challenges faced during its mission, BurstCube’s initial success opens new doors for future advancements in gamma-ray burst research. 



As scientists continue to analyze the data collected, there is great potential to unlock further insights into the origins of these powerful cosmic events and their role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-shaped-the-universe-before-galaxies-existed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shaping the universe</a>. 



BurstCube’s innovative use of CubeSat technology also sets the stage for future small-satellite missions to explore even more complex astrophysical phenomena. 



The lessons learned from this mission will undoubtedly guide the development of next-generation space exploration tools, enabling researchers to study the most energetic events in the universe with increasing precision.



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Shoebox-sized satellite detects a gamma-ray explosion

BurstCube, a shoebox-sized satellite designed by NASA, has made a...

Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes across the globe, and North America is no exception. 



As weather extremes become more frequent, the impact on ecosystems and human infrastructure is becoming impossible to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-fuels-extreme-weather">Climate change fuels extreme weather</h2>



According to new research from <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>, extreme weather patterns - severe droughts in the American Southwest and Mexico, alongside more intense wet years in the Northeast - are the modern norm. The analysis also suggests these seasonal patterns will become more severe in the future.



The study highlights that the central United States can expect bigger swings between pluvials, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-events-in-the-northeast-are-set-to-increase-by-over-50-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-rainfall</a> years, and drier summers through the rest of this century. 



The findings, based on precipitation data, historical tree rings, and climate models stretching from 850 to 2100, suggest that climate change has pushed North America's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> toward extremes unseen before the industrial era.



"It’s very much a tale of the Southwest versus the Northeast for most of the seasons," said study senior author Professor James Stagge. 



"Mexico and the American Southwest tend to get drier across more or less all seasons, whereas we’re seeing in the Northeast – and Ohio is included in that - a trend toward wetter, particularly in the winter and early spring."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissecting-the-data">Dissecting the data</h2>



The study doesn’t just document the present-day shift but traces the pre-industrial patterns to predict future extremes. 



“The scale of the change we’re seeing now and into the future is dramatically larger in many areas than any natural climate variability we saw prior,” said study lead author Kyungmin Sung.



This variability is particularly concerning as it introduces unpredictability to weather management. 



"You might be going from, say, this year’s drought being really bad, and in five years, we might see the wettest pluvial we’ve had in a while," noted Professor Stagge. "That variability is concerning because it changes how we might need to manage water to prepare for more extremes in both ways."



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



The research team merged data from five sources: two modern precipitation datasets, tree ring reconstructions, and two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weather-in-dry-regions-isnt-behaving-as-climate-models-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a>. 



"A benefit of having very different types of data is they can fill in each other’s gaps," said Professor Stagge. "We consider trends to be significant only when they’re showing up across multiple datasets - so that increases our confidence."



This holistic approach paints a clear picture of the future: the Southwest will continue to experience worsening droughts, while the Northeast will face wetter winters and springs. 



At the same time, the central U.S. will see more dramatic swings between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expect-more-extreme-wet-and-dry-seasons-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wet and dry</a> periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ripple-effect">The ripple effect</h2>



The implications of these findings reach beyond weather prediction - they affect sectors from agriculture to city planning.



"In the Southwest, you’re going to have less water to deal with, and if you’re managing a farm in the middle of the country, you might be seeing wider swings between droughts and pluvials," noted Professor Stagge.



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GL107400" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>, emphasizes the urgency of proactive planning to deal with the ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. 



"Certainly, we’d like to arrest further climate change, but it takes a long time to turn that ship. In the meantime, we should be planning on where we’re headed to decrease impacts on people, the economy, and the environment," said Professor Stagge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-climate-change">Adapting to climate change</h2>



As the data points to worsening weather extremes, the urgency to address climate change grows ever more pressing. 



The combination of drier droughts and wetter pluvials presents significant challenges not only for managing water resources but also for sustaining agricultural productivity and protecting infrastructure. 



These shifts in weather patterns can strain ecosystems, create economic burdens, and increase the vulnerability of communities across North America.



While curbing climate change is a global priority, local and regional efforts to adapt to these emerging conditions are equally important. Preparing for the inevitable changes is critical to mitigating the impacts on people and industries alike. 



From investing in sustainable water management practices to rethinking urban planning and agricultural strategies, adaptation must be part of the solution.



By taking proactive steps now, governments, businesses, and communities can lessen the blow of future climate extremes, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for the next generations.



The research was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, and the Ohio Supercomputer Center..



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Droughts and extreme weather events are escalating

Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes...

Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have an unexpected link to a widespread environmental issue - light pollution.



As artificial illumination continues to fill our cities and suburbs, researchers are now exploring how constant exposure to nighttime light may influence public health. 



While streetlights and neon signs enhance safety and urban beauty, this constant glow could have hidden consequences, potentially contributing to an increased risk of Alzheimer's.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-pollution-and-alzheimer-s-disease">Light pollution and Alzheimer's disease</h2>



In the US, several states have implemented measures to mitigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>. Yet, some parts of the country continue to bathe in high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-exposure-is-extremely-harmful-to-our-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial night light</a>.



Suspecting a possible connection between this incessant light exposure and public health, researchers embarked on a study to investigate the association between outdoor light pollution and Alzheimer's disease prevalence.



"We show that in the US there is a positive association between AD prevalence and exposure to light at night, particularly in those under the age of 65," noted study lead author Dr. Robin Voigt-Zuwala, a professor at <a href="https://www.rush.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rush University Medical Center</a>.



"Nightly light pollution - a modifiable environmental factor - may be an important risk factor for Alzheimer's disease."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-higher-the-intensity-the-greater-the-risk">The higher the intensity, the greater the risk?</h2>



The investigative team scrutinized light pollution maps of the continental United States and considered various medical data known to influence Alzheimer's disease risk. 



They produced data reflecting the nighttime light intensity for each state, categorizing them into five groups based on the intensity level.



Among individuals aged 65 and older, the findings revealed a stronger correlation between Alzheimer's disease prevalence and nightly light pollution than with other established disease indicators such as alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease, depression, and obesity.



While other risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke did display a higher association with Alzheimer's disease, the impact of light pollution was undeniable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-vulnerability-in-younger-people">Increased vulnerability in younger people</h2>



Interestingly, this association was even more pronounced in the population under 65, indicating a higher sensitivity to the effects of nighttime light exposure. The reason behind this age-related sensitivity to light pollution remains unclear.



"Certain genotypes, which influence early-onset AD, impact the response to biological stressors which could account for increased vulnerability to the effects of nighttime light exposure," said Voigt-Zuwala.



"Additionally, younger people are more likely to live in urban areas and have lifestyles that may increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-light-during-sleep-can-damage-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure to light at night</a>."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-and-mitigation-techniques">Prevention and mitigation techniques</h2>



As a result of their findings, the researchers advocate for increased public awareness regarding the potential effects of light pollution.



"Awareness of the association should empower people – particularly those with risk factors for Alzheimer's disease – to make easy lifestyle changes,” said Voigt-Zuwala. Changes may include the use of blackout curtains or sleeping with eye masks, especially for those residing in high light pollution areas.



Moreover, internal light exposure would be as significant in this discourse. Although not examined in this study, the researchers pointed out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-effects-of-artificial-blue-light-remain-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue light</a>, in particular, disrupts sleep. 



The usage of blue light filters, transition to warm light, and installation of dimmers could effectively reduce light exposure within households.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-and-the-path-forward">Alzheimer's and the path forward</h2>



The team acknowledges that their study is based on a subsection of the U.S. population and that not everyone resides in areas with high light pollution throughout their lives. 



The experts noted that further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between nighttime light exposure and Alzheimer's disease.



As research continues to uncover the potential connections between Alzheimer's and light pollution, experts emphasize the importance of taking preventative steps. 



Communities can work to reduce outdoor light pollution by using shielded streetlights and promoting darker night skies, which may help minimize the risk of Alzheimer's disease in the population. 



On an individual level, simple adjustments such as reducing blue light exposure in the evening and prioritizing quality sleep can be vital in protecting long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-is-a-powerful-tool-to-boost-brain-health-and-overall-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. 



By addressing both external and internal sources of light pollution, there is hope for mitigating one of the many factors linked to Alzheimer's disease.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2024.1378498/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Neuroscience</a>.



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Light pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have...

Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great Salt Lake? As the lake shrinks and exposes more of its hidden wonders, one aspect has been grabbing the attention of scientists lately: the dust released from the dried lakebed.



This is not ordinary dust. It carries certain elements that have been raising eyebrows and, more importantly, concerns. Scientists from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a> have investigated what pollutants may be lurking within these airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drying-lake-beds-are-a-major-source-of-harmful-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediments</a>.



And what do their findings suggest? These sediments could potentially be more harmful than other significant dust sources that affect air quality in the Wasatch Front.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-composition-of-the-salt-lake-dust">Composition of the Salt Lake dust</h2>



What exactly is in these sediments? When these particles become airborne or aerosolized, they exhibit higher levels of reactivity and bioavailability than sediments from other places upwind of Utah's major population center. 



Chemical analysis has helped uncover the presence of numerous metals and levels of arsenic and lithium exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's soil residential regional screening levels.



“You’re talking about a very large dust source located next to a very large population, and you’ve got elevated levels of manganese, iron, copper and lead. Lead is a concern for developmental reasons,” said senior author&nbsp;Kerry Kelly, a professor of chemical engineering.



“Manganese, iron and copper, these are transition metals and are known to be very irritating to your lungs. Once you get irritation, that can lead to this whole inflammatory response. And that’s part of the problem with particulate matter and it’s adverse health effects like asthma.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmful-dust-pollution">Harmful dust pollution </h2>



The Great Salt Lake is not a solitary entity; it receives runoff from a considerable drainage basin spread across northern Utah and parts of three other states.



Metals, both from natural sources and human disturbances, are pushed into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-drying-up-causing-major-dust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> from inflows or atmospheric deposition, accumulating in the lakebed. 



This potential for harmful dust pollution has caught the attention of Utah state officials, resulting in a set of priority goals to tackle the issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-impacts-of-the-dust">Social impacts of the dust</h2>



Dr. Sara Grineski, a professor of sociology, led another recent study which revealed that dust from the lakebed disproportionately impacts disadvantaged neighborhoods in Salt Lake County. It's not just about environmental impacts, but social ones too.



In a separate forthcoming study led by Michael Werner, a biologist at the University of Utah, a second team of researchers dug into the history of the lakebed. They surveyed levels of toxic metals in submerged lakebed sediments from the lake's record low-water year of 2021 and noticed changes from Utah's mining era years.



While concentrations of some metals, such as lead and zinc, appear to have decreased, mercury levels have strangely increased.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-are-the-pollutants-going">Where are the pollutants going?</h2>



However, here's a twist in the tale. Experts cannot conclusively say if these pollutants are being swept into populated areas during high-wind events. Why? The answer lies in the lack of sufficient monitoring equipment to capture the dust downwind of the lake.



Researchers in Dr. Kelly’s lab, who specialize in air quality, set out to unravel this mystery. They teamed up with colleagues in the U’s College of Science.



The experts analyzed sediment samples from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-the-great-salt-lake-is-a-matter-of-environmental-justice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Salt Lake</a>, comparing them with sediments from other dust sources in the Great Basin. Interestingly, only a small fraction of the exposed lakebed, around 9%, emits dust from areas where the lakebed crusts have been disturbed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-level-of-salt-lake-dust">Threat level of Salt Lake dust</h2>



So, should we be worried? The initial findings suggest that the broken layers of the lakebed reset fairly easily, implying that the threat to air quality might not be as severe as previously assumed.



However, the latest study brings forth a new perspective. It explores the dust's "oxidative potential," a measure of its ability to react with oxygen. "When you breathe in something that’s really reactive, it’s going to interact with the cells inside your lungs and cause damage," explained Dr. Kelly.



In the lab, the team aerosolized the sediment samples to isolate particles small enough to inhale and lodge in lung tissue. Further analyses showed high oxidative potential associated with certain metals, including copper, manganese, iron, and aluminum.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1352231024004035?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Environment</a>.



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Great Salt Lake is shrinking and releasing harmful dust

Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great...

Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate change, whether we like it or not, is affecting everything around us. Birds from North America are quite alarmingly showing us how they're feeling the heat rise. 



Their response? Well, birds have three main tricks up their wings: trotting towards the north, soaring up to higher altitudes, and tweaking their annual breeding cycles, or what we scientists prefer calling - making phenological changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-s-eye-view-of-climate-change">Bird's eye view of climate change</h2>



Researchers at UCLA set out to study the issue from all angles. They have spent 27 years examining data from 311 land-based species to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> deal with climate change. 



The results were startling, especially when they saw how these species were using all three strategies collectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-but-at-what-pace">Adaptation, but at what pace?</h2>



While our avian friends seem to be taking a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar approach to change</a> - moving away from the heat, they aren't adapting fast enough. 



According to the study, the adjustments made by these creatures barely cover a mere one-third of what's necessary to cope with the speed at which our world is warming up.



The research was led by Monte Neate-Clegg, an ecologist at <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> who sheds some light on the findings. "The amount of temperature tracking in birds that we've seen, 64% is due to phenology tracking alone," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-breeding-due-to-climate-change">Early breeding due to climate change</h2>



On average, our feathered friends have started breeding 0.08 days earlier. That's their way of dealing with a rise of one degree Celsius.&nbsp;



The experts believe this is easier and more efficient than moving 1,000 kilometers up north or climbing a few hundred meters in elevation every time there's a change in their habitat.



"This is a response we've hypothesized before, particularly for birds from California," said Morgan Tingley, a UCLA professor of ecology and evolutionary biology. 



"But now, for the first time, we can see how animals are using multiple ways simultaneously to adapt to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and shifting the timing of key life events may just be one of the first and easiest options."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-moving-in-climate-change">Birds moving in climate change</h2>



The study found that on average, birds are moving a small distance spatially: just 1.1 kilometers per year towards the north and 1.2 meters per year upward. But of course, such averages always hide surprising variations.



Here are the odd ones out in the flock: the lesser goldfinch is on a faster track north and breeding earlier than most. And then we have the black phoebe, oddly shifting south and downward, probably due to urbanization, precipitation changes, and habitat availability. 



So, while some are keeping up with the temperature changes completely, others are partially doing so, and some are even moving counterintuitively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-habitat-in-bird-adaptation">The role of habitat in bird adaptation</h2>



Habitat plays a crucial role in how birds adapt to climate change. The availability of suitable environments can either facilitate or hinder their ability to move northward or gain altitude. 



For example, many birds are limited by urban development, which fragments their habitats and can make it challenging for them to find new nesting grounds. 



Additionally, alterations in vegetation due to changing temperatures affect food sources, thereby impacting breeding success. As habitats shift, so too must birds, but this transition is fraught with obstacles, leading to concerns about future population viability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-a-double-edged-sword">Human impact: A double-edged sword</h2>



While birds are showing remarkable adaptability in response to climate change, human actions often complicate these efforts. Factors such as deforestation, pollution, and climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions exacerbate the challenges that birds face. 



Notably, habitat conservation and restoration efforts can bolster bird populations and provide the necessary resources they need to thrive amid changes. 



Yet, these initiatives must be implemented swiftly and on a large scale, as the rate of environmental change continues to outpace the natural adaptive capacities of avian species. 



It is imperative that we take action to mitigate these effects and support birds in their struggle for survival in an increasingly hostile environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-for-survival-a-lesson-from-birds">Adapting for survival: A lesson from birds</h2>



How birds adapt to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-species-are-shifting-their-habitats-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a>&nbsp;is crucial to their survival, and it is equally essential for our conservation efforts.&nbsp;



The fact that birds are altering their breeding season timings means that we need to shift our focus not just to protect their habitats but also consider the timing of ecological events and how individual species are changing.



"In order to best target our conservation efforts, we need to know how species are and are not adapting to ongoing climate change," noted Tingley. "While shifting the timing of nesting may help <a href="https://phys.org/tags/birds/">birds</a> in the short term, if they do not move in the long term, greater conservation efforts are likely to be necessary."



So, our winged friends are giving us not just a bird's eye view of the ongoing climate change but also a peek into their world of adaptation under pressure. Can we, as humans, take a leaf, or rather, a feather out of their book? 



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02536-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Birds are moving north and breeding earlier in a changing climate

Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate...

When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated setting, we probably think of expensive cities or secluded beach resorts. The depths of the Pacific Ocean don't cross our mind. Yet, that is exactly where some northern elephant seals dine out, according to a new study led by University of Victoria researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-mysterious-mammal">Observing the mysterious mammal</h2>



Published in PLOS ONE, this study provides a unique, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented visual</a> insight into the rarely observed behaviors of these elusive mammals in the deep sea.



The focus? Their advanced feeding techniques, prey choices, and even their rest habits. 



At least eight male elephant seals, aged between 4 and 7, were observed using ONC’s observatory equipment during multiple visits to the research site situated 645 meters deep in Barkley Canyon. The observations were recorded between 2022 and 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprise-visitors">Surprise visitors</h2>



Researchers from the UVic, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar (ICM-CSIC), a Barcelona-based research institute, and ONC were initially studying the impact of light and bait on fish and invertebrate behavior. Little did they know, these clever seals had their eyes on the prize.



After reviewing camera footage, acoustic images, and sound data, the seals were discovered as unexpected visitors. The researchers surmised that the seals linked the sonar noise with potential prey, effectively considering it a "dinner bell."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-tactics-of-elephant-seals">Hunting tactics of elephant seals</h2>



"The seals appeared to use this sound to locate an area with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-hunting-fishing-connect-humans-with-nature-or-reinforce-superiority-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey</a> and may take advantage of fish disturbed by the camera lights, particularly targeting sablefish, their preferred meal, as seen in the video footage," said Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, the lead author of the publication.



Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, a visiting scientist at <a href="https://www.uvic.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UVic</a>'s biology department and assistant scientist at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, conducted this research with her colleagues, including Francis Juanes, a UVic biology professor and Liber Ero Chair for Fisheries Research, and adjunct professor Rodney Rountree. 



Other notable contributors were ICM-CSIC's Jacopo Aguzzi and ONC's Fabio De Leo Cabrera.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-observations-of-elephant-seals">Unique observations of elephant seals</h2>



The findings suggest that the seals quickly adapted to use the infrastructure for more efficient foraging. In a span of 10 days, four seals were repeatedly seen visiting the research site.



"They returned often to feed more efficiently," said Frouin-Mouy. "We became familiar with these seals, even distinguishing between their frequencies of visits and observed habits. We even ended up naming them after members of The Beach Boys."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discoveries">Remarkable discoveries </h2>



Their favorite dish? Actively swimming sablefish, ignoring all the other stationary or drifting prey options. The seals were even recorded on camera and hydrophone bobbing their heads and producing low-frequency sounds in pursuit of their prey.



In another fascinating revelation, these adolescent male northern elephant seals were found to be power napping on the ocean floor at Barkley Canyon - a sight never-before-seen.



The real-time monitoring capacity of NEPTUNE observatory played a crucial role in this discovery. It allowed the research team to adjust the use of ONC's underwater instrument - initially deployed for the fish study - to detect the presence of seals and observe them for nearly a year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-elephant-seal-behavior">Significance of elephant seal behavior</h2>



Understanding the foraging behaviour of northern elephant seals is not merely an academic exercise; it holds significant ecological implications. 



As apex predators of the deep sea, these seals play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Their prey choices, particularly for sablefish, can influence population dynamics within the ecosystem, thereby affecting the species that inhabit these underwater environments. 



Moreover, insights gained from monitoring their behaviour provide invaluable data on how marine species may adapt to changes in their environment, which is increasingly under threat from climate change and human activity.



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



The revelations from this study pave the way for further exploration of the habits and habitats of marine mammals. 



Future research could investigate not only the elephant seals but also the broader impacts of environmental changes on other deep-sea species.



By utilizing advanced technology similar to that employed in this study, researchers can delve deeper into marine behaviors and interactions, enriching our understanding of ocean dynamics.



This could ultimately inform conservation strategies aimed at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting these delicate ecosystems</a>, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephant-seals-beyond-the-ocean-floor">Elephant seals beyond the ocean floor</h2>



Northern elephant seal colonies can be found from as far north as Alaska to as south as the Baja Peninsula. Typically, tracking of the seals' movements is done using bio-tags, or primarily on land. 



This research provides a rare look into their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fascinating-mating-behaviors-of-leopard-seals-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater behavior</a>, unlocking a new perspective on these fascinating creatures that share our world.



"Understanding the underwater lives of marine mammals is still limited by our inability to fully study the animal’s behavior beneath the water, notably the tactics used by apex predators, such as pinnipeds, to capture their prey," noted the researchers.



"Animal-borne tags have provided an opportunity to gain new insights into the diving and foraging behavior of pinnipeds."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0308461" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Elephant seals use sonar signals to dine deep underwater

When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated...

Have you ever watched a dragonfly zipping about, chasing its prey with pinpoint accuracy regardless of the shifting environmental conditions? Not even the hot summer sun or a cloud blockade seems to deter this nimble creature. And what else doesn't falter? A dragonfly's precision, even in extreme temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonflies-in-a-warming-world">Dragonflies in a warming world</h2>



These remarkable insects are the subject of an exciting new study by researchers at the University of Adelaide and collaborators from Lund University in Sweden.



The research team, including PhD candidate Mahdi Hussaini and Professor Steven Wiederman from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>'s School of Biomedicine, embarked on a mission to decipher how a dragonfly's brain functions in different temperatures. 



"Dragonflies are poikilothermic animals with limited thermoregulation, which means the temperature of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-developed-dark-wing-spots-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entire bodies</a>, including their brains, vary and change throughout the day," explained Hussaini, the paper's lead author.



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



So, what's their secret? How do they manage to maintain their accuracy even as their brain temperature changes throughout the day?



"They have the ability to chase prey successfully whether in sunlight or under cloud cover, most likely due to small target motion detector (STMD) neurons in the visual pathway of a dragonfly's brain," explained Hussaini.



These STMD neurons are not only sensitive to target contrast but also finely tuned to the target's size and velocity. As the temperature rises, these neurons adjust their sensitivity and speed. It's like they have an inbuilt thermostat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-develop-waxy-coating-to-withstand-warmer-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt to the environment</a>.



A summer's day can drastically increase the sensitivity of STMD neurons to small moving targets, almost a nine-fold increase, to be precise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonflies-predators-in-extreme-temperatures">Dragonflies: Predators in extreme temperatures </h2>



Dragonflies reign supreme as apex predators in their niche. They excel in chasing small prey within cluttered environments. 



Using brain recordings, the researchers aim to craft neuro-inspired, computational models for target-tracking applications. This could pave the way for artificial vision systems capable of detecting fast-moving, aerial drones from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonfly-space-mission-saturn-moon-titan-gets-greenlight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autonomous vehicles</a>.



But how is biology giving us the edge in engineering? "Inspiration from biology helps us to provide solutions to engineering problems from a different perspective," noted Professor Wiederman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-robotics">Implications for robotics</h2>



The insights gleaned from dragonfly neural mechanisms extend beyond mere fascination; they hold transformative potential for the field of robotics. 



Engineers are currently exploring how the principles observed in dragonflies can inform the design of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). 



By integrating neuro-inspired algorithms that mimic the dragonfly's predatory efficiency, future drones may achieve unparalleled agility and precision in complex environments. Such advancements could revolutionize not just military applications but also search-and-rescue operations, wildlife management, and agricultural monitoring.



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



As this groundbreaking study unfolds, it sets the stage for an array of future investigations into the fascinating world of insect neurobiology. 



Researchers aim to delve deeper into the specifics of how temperature variations affect other aspects of dragonfly behaviour and cognition. 



Questions remain about whether similar mechanisms are present in other poikilothermic species and how these principles can be generalized across the animal kingdom. 



By understanding the nuances of these natural systems, scientists hope to uncover further innovations that bridge biology, technology, and environmental sustainability, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drone-swarms-help-combat-forest-fires-natural-disasters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paving the way for solutions</a> inspired by the complexity and resilience of nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pathway-to-the-future">A pathway to the future</h2>



Despite our extensive knowledge about dragonflies, there are still unknown territories regarding the impact of external factors like temperature on a dragonfly's perception. 



"Given that biology rapidly changes in response to external factors like temperature, we need to understand what role this plays in information processing," said Professor Wiederman.



This provides an intriguing direction for future research. How the dragonfly brain interprets temperature-altered information to still provide a robust perception will be an exciting avenue to explore. Not only from a biological standpoint but also from an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-have-alarming-impact-air-quality-particulate-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engineering perspective</a>.



"Until now, no one understood how large the impact of external factors (like daily changes in temperature) is on the dragonfly's perception of the world (via changes in neurons' spiking activity)," noted Professor Wiederman.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)01083-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Dragonflies are perfect hunters, even in extreme temperatures

Have you ever watched a dragonfly zipping about, chasing its...

A pterosaur, one of the prehistoric giants of the skies, flew by either flapping its wings or soaring, according to a new study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.



For years, scientists have debated whether the largest pterosaurs could fly at all. However, “remarkable” and “rare” three-dimensional fossils of two large-bodied azhdarchoid pterosaur species, including one new-to-science, now suggest that not only could the largest pterosaurs fly, but their flight styles could vary significantly.



The study was led by researchers from the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, the Natural Resources Authority, <a href="https://www.yu.edu.jo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yarmouk University</a> in Jordan, and the Saudi Geological Survey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-dimensionally-preserved-pterosaur-bones">Three-dimensionally preserved pterosaur bones</h2>



The fossils, from the late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-dinosaur-fossils-discovered-from-the-end-of-cretaceous-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous period</a> (approximately 72 to 66 million years ago), were exceptionally preserved in 3D at two sites within a nearshore environment on the ancient landmass of Afro-Arabia.



“The dig team was extremely surprised to find three-dimensionally preserved pterosaur bones, this is a very rare occurrence,” noted Dr. Kierstin Rosenbach, lead author from the University of Michigan.



Since pterosaur bones are hollow and fragile, they are typically found flattened. “With <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D preservation</a> being so rare, we do not have a lot of information about what pterosaur bones look like on the inside,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ct-scans-reveal-flight-mechanics">CT scans reveal flight mechanics</h2>



Using high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scans, the team analyzed the internal structures of these wing bones. 



The scans revealed that Arambourgiania philadelphiae, an already-known giant pterosaur with a 10-meter wingspan, exhibited spiral ridges inside its humerus, resembling those in the wing bones of vultures. These ridges likely resisted torsional loadings associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-park-was-wrong-about-how-fast-pterosaurs-could-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soaring</a> flight. 



“The ridges in Arambourgiania were completely unexpected, we weren’t sure what we were seeing at first!” noted Dr. Rosenbach. “Being able to see the full 3D model of Arambourgiania’s humerus lined with helical ridges was just so exciting.”



In contrast, the newly discovered species, Inabtanin alarabia, had flight bones adapted for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-equation-predicts-the-flapping-frequency-of-birds-insects-and-even-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flapping</a> flight, with internal struts similar to modern flapping birds. 



“The struts found in Inabtanin were cool to see, though not unusual,” said Dr. Rosenbach. With a five-meter wingspan, this pterosaur's bone structure indicates it was likely adapted for resisting bending loads during flapping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pterosaur-flight">Understanding pterosaur flight</h2>



The discovery of varying flight styles opens exciting new discussions about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how pterosaurs lived</a> and the correlation between body size and flight mechanics. 



“There is such limited information on the internal bone structure of pterosaurs across time, but looking at other flying vertebrates, we can see that flapping is the most common flight behavior," said Dr. Rosenbach.



Professor Jeff Wilson Mantilla from the University of Michigan and Dr. Iyad Zalmout from the Saudi Geological Survey, co-authors of the study, found the fossils in Jordan in 2007. 



“The variations likely reflect responses to mechanical forces applied on the pterosaurs’ wings during flight,” noted Professor Mantilla.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-framework-for-future-studies">A new framework for future studies</h2>



“This study provides a framework for further investigation of the correlation between internal bone structure and flight capacity in pterosaurs," said Dr. Rosenbach. 



With these discoveries, scientists hope to expand their understanding of vertebrate flight by examining more fossils and building on the knowledge of these prehistoric giants.



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



Although pterosaurs ruled the skies millions of years ago, their legacy continues to inspire scientists today. 



These creatures, the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, ranged in size from small, bird-like species to massive giants like Quetzalcoatlus, which had wingspans rivaling modern aircraft. Their hollow bones, lightweight frames, and varied flight adaptations allowed pterosaurs to conquer diverse environments, from coastal cliffs to inland forests.



Despite their extinction, pterosaurs offer invaluable insights into evolutionary biology, biomechanics, and flight mechanics. 



Ongoing discoveries, like those from this recent study, deepen our understanding of how flight evolved and what environmental pressures shaped the development of these remarkable creatures. 



The study of pterosaurs also contributes to broader scientific fields, helping researchers apply ancient lessons to modern questions, such as the physics of flight and the evolution of other flying animals, including birds and bats.



As more fossils are uncovered and new technologies emerge, the flight secrets of pterosaurs will continue to be unraveled, providing glimpses into the world of the prehistoric skies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02724634.2024.2385068" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</a>.



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Cracking the code of pterosaur flight: Soaring vs. flapping

A pterosaur, one of the prehistoric giants of the skies,...

Trees, shrubs, flowers, everything green and beautiful - they're all doing their bit above ground. But have you ever thought about the world beneath their roots? The organisms living below, like earthworms and bugs, are just as crucial to our ecosystem. Unfortunately, soil pollution affects them, and our knowledge about the issue is limited.



New research sheds light on the grossly underestimated impact of soil pollution on the creatures working tirelessly in the shadows - our earthworms, insects, and mites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-soil-pollution">Impact of soil pollution</h2>



The study was led by Dr. Victoria Burton at the Natural History Museum. Her team found that contrary to expectations, it's not farming intensification or climate change, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-and-drying-soils-are-losing-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> pollution that's bullying these underground dwellers the most. 



"Above ground, land use, climate change and&nbsp;invasive species&nbsp;have the greatest impact on biodiversity, so we assumed that this would be similar below ground. Our results show, however, that this isn't the case," said Dr. Burton.



"Instead, we found that pesticide and heavy metal pollution caused the most damage to soil biodiversity. This is worrying, as there hasn't been a lot of research into the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> pollution, so its effects might be more widespread than we know."



Dr. Burton noted that, amid concern over&nbsp;soil degradation, we need to investigate the impacts of other pollution sources - such as microplastics and persistent chemicals - on the life beneath our feet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bugs-battling-soil-pollution">Bugs battling soil pollution</h2>



"Soil isn't just a homogenous lump of dirt," said Dr. Burton. "It's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex environment</a> containing many different structures, nutrients and minerals. While the majority of life is found within 10 centimeters of the surface,&nbsp;some organisms can live much deeper."



"But with so few specialists who can identify subterranean organisms, we know much less about life below than above ground."



It's not all doom and gloom though. There are still ways to strengthen the soil and return the favor to these little heroes of ours. The use of organic fertilizers and mulch, for instance, introduces more carbon into the soil offering a feast to earthworms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revitalizing-our-soils">Revitalizing our soils</h2>



As we explore methods to heal our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-soils-produce-a-symphony-of-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soils</a>, it's essential to cultivate practices that support the delicate balance of underground ecosystems.&nbsp;



One effective approach is adopting crop rotation, which not only enhances soil structure but also disrupts the life cycles of harmful pests and pathogens. 



Incorporating cover crops can be invaluable too; these green protectors help prevent soil erosion and enrich the nutrient content, ultimately benefiting our hidden allies.&nbsp;



Also, cutting back on synthetic pesticides is really important for keeping our soil healthy. By doing this, we can help create a thriving community of earthworms and insects that play a vital role in our ecosystem.



By using these strategies, we work together to create healthy soil, which is vital for supporting life above ground.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-worms-and-bugs-from-soil-pollution">Saving worms and bugs from soil pollution</h2>



Raising awareness about soil pollution is a responsibility we all share. Community initiatives, educational programs, and outreach efforts are pivotal in informing the public about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical role</a> of soil organisms.&nbsp;



Engaging local farmers, gardeners, and policymakers in conversations about sustainable agricultural practices can lead to meaningful change.&nbsp;



Moreover, supporting research initiatives like Dr. Burton’s can help illuminate the complexities of soil ecosystems and the necessity of preserving them. By advocating for soil health, we not only enhance agricultural productivity but also ensure the well-being of our planet.&nbsp;



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



There's a lesson here for all of us. Issues we often overlook can be the ones causing the most harm to our environment.



"I'm excited to include <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-soil-boosts-crop-growth-by-over-50/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> biodiversity work within the National Education Nature Park," said Dr. Burton. "It's a good opportunity to get young people excited about the life under their feet, and to get them interested in the life cycles of animals like craneflies and beetles which they might not know about."



"It's not just an opportunity to inspire them, but to do some important science that is currently being overlooked."



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)01765-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Soil pollution is harming worms and bugs to an unknown degree

Trees, shrubs, flowers, everything green and beautiful - they're all...

In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach is being explored that holds the potential to revolutionize the future of personalized cancer treatments.



The technology, which is an amalgamation of artificial intelligence, molecular dynamics simulations, and network analysis, aims to predict the binding sites on cancer-related proteins. This will pave the way for a faster development of treatments tailored for individual cancer patients.



The study was led by Dr. Rafael Bernardi, an associate professor of biophysics in the Department of Physics at Auburn University. As part of a collaborative effort with the <a href="https://www.unibas.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Basel</a> and <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>, the team is breaking barriers on how we understand and fight cancer.



"Our research underscores the potential of employing dynamic network analysis to enhance AI-based structure predictions for more accurate identification of protein-protein interaction interfaces," noted the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-biophysics-in-cancer-therapy">AI and biophysics in cancer therapy</h2>



The team’s primary focus was understanding the interaction between therapeutic proteins and PD-L1, a protein that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unique-fingerprint-of-cancer-cells-revealed-in-hydrogen-atoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer cells</a> use to hide from the immune system. 



This insight could dramatically improve immunotherapies, making treatments like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) more effective.



“Utilizing computational tools to engineer proteins represents the next frontier in cancer therapeutics,” explained Dr. Bernardi. “Our integrated approach combining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-research-ai-will-change-the-way-we-see-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>, molecular dynamics, and network analysis holds immense potential for developing personalized therapies for cancer patients.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-manipulated-by-cancer-cells">Protein manipulated by cancer cells</h2>



The most significant obstacle in this field of study is predicting the precise point where a drug can bind to its target protein. In this instance, the researchers concentrated on PD-L1, a checkpoint protein that cancer cells cleverly manipulate to suppress our immune defenses.



Modern drugs that block PD-L1 empower our immune system to attack these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumors</a>, but knowing where precisely to target PD-L1 has remained elusive until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-computation-and-experimentation">Merging computation and experimentation</h2>



Dr. Bernardi and his team have innovatively combined AlphaFold2-based AI tools with molecular dynamics simulations and dynamic network analysis to predict and verify crucial binding regions in the PD-L1 protein. 



“This work showcases the importance of collaboration between the computational team at Auburn University and the experimental validation efforts of our colleagues at the University of Basel and ETH Zurich, Switzerland, driving forward breakthroughs in the field,” said study lead author Dr. Diego Gomes.



To confirm the accuracy of their predictions, the team relied on cutting-edge experimental techniques, such as cross-linking mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing. 



These experiments have shown how powerful it can be to combine computational models with laboratory validation to unravel the complexity of protein-protein interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-future-of-targeted-treatments">Expanding the future of targeted treatments </h2>



The impact of this study is expected to extend well beyond PD-L1. The methods developed can be applied to numerous other proteins, potentially leading to the discovery of new drug targets for various diseases, including different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-linked-to-32-cancer-types-that-could-drive-40-of-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">types of cancer</a> and autoimmune conditions.



Moreover, it opens the door for more cost-effective and swift development of therapeutics, an area where traditional experimental methods have often been slow and costly.



“This research stresses the potential of computational tools like NAMD and VMD, combined with cutting-edge hardware such as NVIDIA DGX systems, to advance cancer therapeutics. Our findings mark a significant step toward developing new, targeted treatments for cancer,” noted Dr. Gomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-ai-driven-cancer-treatment">Advancing AI-driven cancer treatment </h2>



While this research offers significant promise, the road to clinical application is not without its challenges.



Translating computational findings into effective cancer therapies requires extensive testing and collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies. 



However, the team remains optimistic about the potential of these AI-driven approaches to fast-track drug development.



The next phase of this research will focus on refining the accuracy of these predictions and expanding the scope of study to include other cancers and autoimmune diseases. 



As personalized medicine continues to evolve, AI-powered approaches like this one could soon become a standard tool in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-plant-species-show-great-promise-in-fight-against-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fight against cancer</a>, offering patients faster, more effective treatments tailored to their specific genetic makeup.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacs.4c05869" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Chemical Society</a>.



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AI is the next frontier in cancer treatment

In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach...

The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for dieticians and individuals, with some questioning its nutritional value. 



As interest in low-carb diets skyrockets, it is increasingly important to dispel any misconceptions that undermine the potential benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-low-carb-diets">New perspective on low-carb diets</h2>



Recently, a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition busted one of the top myths about low-carb diets - that they leave you undernourished. Contrary to this belief, the research reveals that strategically planned low-carb diets can meet, and sometimes surpass, one’s dietary needs.



According to Dr. Beth Bradley, a co-author of the study from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/cals/nfs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences</a>, many Americans struggle to get the nutrients they need from typical food choices. 



"Low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality and close critical nutrient gaps," said Dr. Bradley. 



The researchers evaluated the nutritional composition of three distinct 7-day low-carb meal plans. Two of these were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-and-keto-diets-rapidly-transform-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ketogenic diets</a>, comprising roughly 20 grams and 40 grams of net carbs daily, while the third had around 100 grams of net carbs daily.



All three diets meet the key requirement for low-carb diets, which is under 130 grams of carbs per day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-packed-with-nutrients">Packed with nutrients</h2>



Each of these meal plans exceeded the average nutrient needs for essential vitamins such as A, C, D, E, K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12. This was applicable for men and women aged 31-70. 



Dr.Bradley emphasized that low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality, further dismissing the belief that these diets result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/micronutrient-deficiency-rates-are-soaring-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient deficiency</a>.



However, for specific sub-populations with higher needs, such as younger women and older adults, a few nutrients like iron and calcium might fall slightly short. This highlights the importance of individualized nutritional planning when adopting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-exactly-constitutes-a-low-carb-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-carb lifestyle</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-about-fiber">How about fiber?</h2>



One of the most notable findings from the study revolved around fiber. The meal plans with 40 grams and 100 grams of net carbs succeeded in meeting the daily fiber needs of women aged 31-70.



“The idea that a low-carb diet must also be low in fiber is simply not supported by the data,” noted Dr. Bradley. She emphasized that “high-fiber foods are actually an important part of a low-carb lifestyle, in part because <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fiber-rich-diets-reduce-antimicrobial-resistance-in-the-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber-rich</a> food choices can help lower net carbohydrate intake.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-and-fat-consumption">Protein and fat consumption</h2>



While the protein content of these meal plans exceeded the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), they still fell within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range of 10-35% of daily calories. The diets were lower in saturated fat and sodium compared to the average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthier-american-diets-could-greatly-benefit-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American diet</a>.



However, the diets slightly exceeded recommendations for these components, providing more beneficial omega-6 to omega-3 and sodium to potassium ratios.



“Which foods your nutrients come from and how they fit within the broader context of your overall diet may play a more important role in determining health outcomes," said Dr. Bradley. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-low-carb-lifestyles">A new era of low-carb lifestyles</h2>



The research ultimately reinforces evidence that supports the role of a low-carb lifestyle in promoting a balanced diet, overall well-being, and controlling or even reversing diet-related diseases.



While some individuals may need dietary supplements to meet their personal needs, a low-carb diet provides a robust nutritional foundation for a healthy lifestyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-health-implications-of-low-carb-diets">Broader health implications of low-carb diets</h2>



Low-carb diets go beyond improving nutrient intake; they also have significant implications for managing chronic conditions. For individuals with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, low-carb diets help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.



These diets are also linked to better cardiovascular health, as they can improve omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and balance sodium and potassium intake, reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.



In terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight management</a>, low-carb diets can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie consumption, making them a sustainable option for those aiming to manage their weight. 



While not a universal solution, the potential benefits of low-carb diets make them a valuable tool in supporting overall health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1449109/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a>.



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Low-carb diets have more nutritional value than expected

The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for...

Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond mere physical sensations. How we perceive and process pain shapes our overall experience, and this is where meditation plays a pivotal role.



Traditionally, it’s been assumed that mindfulness meditation, a centuries-old practice, alleviates pain by activating the placebo response - where an improvement in symptoms is attributed to an inactive treatment.



However, recent research challenges this long-held belief, revealing that mindfulness meditation operates through distinct neurobiological mechanisms, separate from the placebo effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-mechanisms-of-mindfulness-meditation">Brain mechanisms of mindfulness meditation </h2>



A breakthrough study unveiled in the Biological Psychiatry journal uncovers that mindfulness meditation uses separate brain mechanisms than those activated by the placebo response to alleviate pain.



Researchers from the <a href="https://medschool.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego School of Medicine</a> used sophisticated brain imaging techniques to distinguish between the pain-relieving effects of mindfulness meditation, placebo cream, and a counterfeit mindfulness meditation method, referred to as "sham" mindfulness meditation among healthy participants.



The experts found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-can-lead-to-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> meditation resulted in significant reductions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-can-reduce-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> intensity and unpleasantness, and also downregulated brain activity patterns associated with pain and negative emotions.



However, the placebo cream only affected the brain activity pattern synchronized with the placebo effect, leaving the person's primary experience of pain untouched.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-meditation-in-pain-management">Power of meditation in pain management</h2>



“The mind is extremely powerful, and we’re still working to understand how it can be harnessed for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain management</a>," noted Fadel Zeidan, an anesthesiology professor at the UC San Diego Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion.



"By separating pain from the self and relinquishing evaluative judgment, mindfulness meditation is able to directly modify how we experience pain in a way that uses no drugs, costs nothing and can be practiced anywhere.”



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



Engaging 115 participants from two separate clinical trials, the researchers explored the effects of four interventions. These included guided mindfulness meditation, sham-mindfulness meditation with only deep breathing, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-energy-boost-from-your-morning-cup-of-coffee-may-be-a-placebo-instead-of-the-caffeine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placebo</a> cream (petroleum jelly) that participants were led to believe reduces pain, and an audiobook serving as a control.



After administering a painful yet harmless heat stimulus to the back of the participant's leg, their brains were scanned before and after the interventions.



Using a novel method, multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA), the experts analyzed the brain activity patterns of participants. These patterns revealed whether mindfulness meditation and placebo engaged similar or separate brain processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-placebo-mindfulness-overlap-myth">The placebo-mindfulness overlap myth</h2>



The findings indicate that although the placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation decreased pain, mindfulness meditation was markedly more effective at pain reduction as compared to the other tested methods and controls. 



Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-and-yoga-reduce-chronic-pain-and-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness-based pain relief</a> reduced synchronization between brain areas involved in introspection, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, known collectively as the neural pain signal (NPS).



On the other hand, placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation failed to show a significant change in the NPS compared to controls, interestingly engaging separate brain mechanisms with minimum overlap.



These findings challenge the commonly held view that the placebo effect overlaps with brain mechanisms triggered by active treatments, specifically regarding pain. 



“Instead, these two brain responses are completely distinct, which supports the use of mindfulness meditation as a direct intervention for chronic pain rather than as a way to engage the placebo effect," said Zeidan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-and-chronic-pain-relief">Meditation and chronic pain relief</h2>



In conventional medicine, therapies are usually deemed effective if they surpass the placebo in their effects. As this study found mindfulness meditation to be more potent than a placebo and not engaging the same neurobiological processes, it opens up new avenues for developing treatments for chronic pain.



Further research is needed to validate these results in individuals living with chronic pain, not just healthy participants.



In the long run, the researchers aspire to create more effective and accessible interventions by understanding the distinct brain mechanisms underlying mindfulness meditation and its power to reduce pain in people with various health conditions.



"Millions of people are living with chronic pain every day, and there may be more these people can do to reduce their pain and improve their quality of life than we previously understood,” said Zeidan. "We are excited to continue exploring the neurobiology of mindfulness and how we can leverage this ancient practice in the clinic.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0006322324015567" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Psychiatry</a>.



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Mindfulness meditation is a powerful weapon against chronic pain

Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond...

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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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[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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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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How the immune system responds to injury

[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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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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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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