Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Saba, a small island in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. Saba is the top of a volcano that became active during the Pleistocene era.



"Located about 140 kilometers east of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the active stratovolcano rises 1,500 meters above the sea floor," says NASA. "Above the water, rainforests cover the steep slopes of the volcano, home to many birds, orchids and reptiles, including an endemic spotted lizard, the Saban anole (Anolus sabensis). Below the water, corals and other species thrive."



"The largest city and the capital city of the island, called The Bottom, lies between the port and the higher elevations of the volcano."&nbsp;



Due to a lack of sandy beaches, Saba is not a major tourist destination like other Caribbean islands. However, it is a popular spot for divers to find corals and sea urchins.



According to NASA, sea urchins in the Caribbean started mysteriously dying off in early 2022. Dive shops in the region began reporting mysterious sea urchin die offs in February, particularly the long-spined sea urchin Diadema antillarum.&nbsp;



"Saba’s reef was once home to more than 5,000 D. antillarum. But in April 2022, in a section of Saba’s reef called 'Diadema City,' half of the long-spined sea urchins died off in just one week, and only 100 remained in June, according to reporting in ScienceNews."



"The massive loss of sea urchins is reminiscent of a die-off that started in 1983, in which virtually all of the D. antillarum population in the Caribbean was eliminated within a year. Although the exact cause of the 1983 and 2022 die-offs is still a mystery, many researchers agree that the speed and scope of the event in the 1980s indicates the spread of an unknown disease," says NASA.



The image was captured on August 16, 2022 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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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

The volcanic island of Saba

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

A sparkling galactic neighbour

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the galaxy ESO 300-16, which is located 28.7 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Eridanus



According to ESA, the galaxy is a ghostly assemblage of stars which resembles a sparkling cloud.&nbsp;



"A rogue’s gallery of distant galaxies and foreground stars complete this astronomical portrait, which was captured by the Advanced Camera for Surveys," said ESA.



"This observation is one of a series which aims to get to know our galactic neighbors; around three quarters of the known galaxies suspected to lie within 10 megaparsecs of Earth have been observed by Hubble in enough detail to resolve their brightest stars and establish the distances to these galaxies."



"A team of astronomers proposed using small gaps in Hubble’s observing schedule to acquaint ourselves with the remaining quarter of the nearby galaxies."



ESO 300-16 is a relatively small and remote dwarf galaxy. It is sometimes known as a "compact blue dwarf galaxy" because of its size and the intense blue colors indicating active star formation.&nbsp;



These galaxies are typically small, but they have high star-forming rates for their size. This kind of galaxy can provide insights into the process of star formation as well as galaxy evolution in general.



Dwarf galaxies are of particular interest to astronomers because they can help to provide understanding about the formation and evolution of galaxies in the early universe. They're also thought to play a role in the assembly of larger galaxies over cosmic time.



By studying galaxies like ESO 300-16, astronomers can hope to better understand how galaxies grow, evolve, and interact over time.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA



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A ghostly assemblage of stars make up the galaxy ESO 300-16

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut view of the Tunupa Volcano, a dormant volcano in southwestern Bolivia. The volcano is located on a peninsula between two of Bolivia’s largest salt flats - Salar de Uyuni and Salar de Coipasa.



"Tunupa Volcano is located at the center of the Southern Altiplano, or the Andean Plateau, and rises as high as 5.3 kilometers (3.3 miles) in elevation," says NASA. "The volcano is a composite cone - a large, complex volcano that is often covered by lava flows, pyroclastic and mudflow deposits, and domes. Last active about 1.4 million years ago, Tunupa is now considered dormant."



"The flanks of the volcano’s cone are incised by valleys that were eroded by ancient glaciers and stream flows. Domes and lava flows appear on the eastern side of Tunupa, and the volcano is adjacent to other eroded volcanic fields and craters, including Jayu Khota and Titivilla."



According to NASA. the salt flats are typically a bright white color when viewed from orbit - but during Bolivia’s rainy season, rivers can carry sediment rich in microbes and dark-colored volcanic minerals onto the flats.&nbsp;



The image was captured on February 5, 2022 by a member of the Expedition 66 crew.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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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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Tunupa Volcano in southwestern Bolivia

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2023/09/Earth_from_Space_Southern_Patagonian_Ice_Field">European Space Agency</a> features the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the Southern Andes. It is one of the world's largest continuous masses of ice outside the polar regions.&nbsp;



The Southern Patagonian Ice Field spreads across the border between Argentina and Chile and is an essential fresh water reservoir. Covering an area of about 12,363 square kilometers, it is home to numerous glaciers, including the well-known Perito Moreno and Upsala Glaciers in Argentina.



The ice field is situated within the Andes mountain range and is part of two national parks: the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina and the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.&nbsp;



"Ice fields form as a result of accumulations of snow that turn into ice through years of compression and freezing. Shaped by the underlying topography, glaciers often form at the edges of an ice field," explained ESA.



"In this image, the ice mass feeds several smaller and bigger glaciers, including the Argentinian Perito Moreno Glacier in the top right corner. Located on a narrow channel, Perito Moreno feeds Lake Argentino and forms an ice dam that separates the main body of the lake, visible on top in turquoise, from its southern arm, which appears grey."



The Southern Patagonian Ice Field is crucial for the study of climate change as it reacts sensitively to temperature variations. Over recent years, it has experienced significant retreat and thinning due to global warming, leading to concerns over rising sea levels and loss of freshwater resources.&nbsp;



"Glaciers are the largest reservoirs of freshwater on our planet. The rate at which they may be melting or growing is one of the best indicators of climate change," said ESA. "The demise of glaciers is one of the main causes of sea-level rise. Many glaciers in Patagonia have retreated over the last 50 years."&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the Andes Mountains

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory </a>&nbsp;features a dust storm that moved across parts of Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan in mid-September.



"This image, acquired by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) instrument on the NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP satellite, shows thick plumes of dust blowing hundreds of kilometers across the arid region on September 22, 2023," said NASA.



"The dust appears to emanate from the ephemeral Hamun wetlands, which partially surround the Iranian city of Zabol. When dry, this area becomes a hotspot for dust storms due to a persistent weather feature known as the Levar wind (or “120-day wind”), which blows out of the northwest from late-May to late-September."



Across the Sistan-Baluchistan province in southeastern Iran, three people were killed in accidents related to poor visibility and more than 1,300 others sought medical assistance for respiratory, heart, and eye ailments.



According to NASA, more than two decades of low water levels in the Hamun wetlands have led to a significant increase in dust storms. This has been especially the case during the 120-day winds, strong summer winds that occur from late May to late September.



"Water levels are influenced by rainfall and the flow of the Helmand river, which runs from the Hindu Kush mountains across Afghanistan before terminating at the wetlands. More frequent drought since 1999, along with increasing upstream demands on water resources for agriculture and other uses, have amplified the drying," said NASA.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Brutal dust storm sweeps across Southern Asia

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory &nbsp;features...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust flowing through the Tokar Gap, where the easternmost extent of the African Sahel meets the Red Sea.



"Mountain chains border both sides of the Red Sea, the long narrow inlet of the Indian Ocean that separates Saudi Arabia to the east from Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea to the west. One major exception is the Tokar Gap, a 100-kilometer (60-mile) break in the Red Sea Hills that serves as a conduit for both winds and dust," says NASA.



"In the summer, strong surface winds frequently stream through the gap from the southwest, often funneling narrow plumes of dust from the Tokar Delta over the Red Sea."



The photo was captured on June 24, 2023 by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite. The image shows a plume of dust from Sudan pushing through the Tokar Gap.



"In the winter, the winds reverse and winds typically gather over the Red Sea and move through the gap toward the southwest," says NASA.



"A 2019 analysis of weather conditions that fuel summer dust storms indicated that stronger winds moving through the Tokar Gap - and warmer air and soil temperatures - have increased the amount of airborne dust found in this area since 2002."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/ Wanmei Liang



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Dust from Africa streams through the Tokar Gap

Upon seeing that there was a strange new ape present, the silverback needed to determine if he was a threat to the troop. In that moment, the spy gorilla would be put to the ultimate test...

Fists of Fury

In 2018, underwater photographer Ryo Minemizu spotted an alien-like sea creature swimming off the coast of Okinawa. When the images were posted online, hundreds of exports struggled to identify the bizarre animal.&nbsp;



Minemizu collected a single sample of the animal and stored it in a formaldehyde solution at room temperature. Two years later, an international team of scientists performed morphological and genetic studies to identify the area creature, which was about the size of a ladybug.&nbsp;



The experts, led by neurobiologist Igor Adameyko of the University of Vienna, have finally solved the mystery. The team determined that the animal, Cercariae, was actually a colony of two types of parasitic worms swimming as one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cercariae-parasitic-flukes">Cercariae - Parasitic flukes</h2>



"After microscopy-assisted exploration of the unstained specimen, we established that the aggregate is composed of two types of cercariae, which are henceforth referred to as the “sailors” (large ones) and the “passengers” (small ones)," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"The single aggregation we studied included about 20 sailors and over 1,000 passengers. Passenger cercariae were arranged in a hemisphere, with their tails forming the bulk and their bodies at the periphery. The tail tips of the sailor cercariae were anchored at the flattened side of the hemisphere, resembling snake hair on the Gorgon’s head."&nbsp;



"The passengers were much smaller volume-wise, as compared to large sailors. The aggregate resembles a colony, being finely structured and optimized for functional performance at different levels."



According to the researchers, the parasites had essentially created a prey-like swimmer that would infect the intestines of an unsuspecting host (see <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/strange-sea-creature_credit-Ryo-Minemizu_2medium.jpg">image</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-aggregation-nbsp">Moving aggregation&nbsp;</h2>



"It is the sailor cercariae that provide the movement of the aggregation by wiggling their huge tails with wide lateral fin-folds," explained the experts.&nbsp;



"At the initiation of swimming, only one or few sailors start to wiggle tails, and the others join them soon after. Sailors have different collective activity regimes, as they can beat their tails in synchrony, causing pulsing or jumping movements of the aggregate, or asynchronously via alternating beating, which provides for a smooth motion without jumping patterns."



"The beating activity of sailors involves coordinated relaxation phases that occur in cercariae located exclusively at one specific side of the aggregate. When some of the sailor cercariae do not move, they are stretching behind, and their tails appear relaxed. Thus, the activity of sailors on one side and their inactivity on the opposite side can define the directionality of swimming."&nbsp;



"Altogether, the aggregate acts like a heteromorphic colony with integrated structure and coordinated behavior. We should note that studying a single specimen does not allow us to estimate the variations in locomotion patterns or in proportion between sailor and passenger cercariae."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cercariae-have-astonishing-strategies">Cercariae have astonishing strategies </h2>



The researchers pointed out that parasites have evolved a variety of astonishing strategies to survive within their hosts. 



They noted that the discovery described in this study provides a unique example of how morphologically and functionally heterogeneous individuals of the same species cooperate to build colonial organisms for the purpose of infection.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)01170-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



Image Credit: Ryo Minemizu



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Bizarre sea creature, Cercariae, is actually a colony of hundreds of parasitic worms

In 2018, underwater photographer Ryo Minemizu spotted an alien-like sea...

Female,Psychologyst,Therapy,Session,With,Client,Indoors,Sitting,Girl,Smiling

MDMA, often recognized by its street name, "ecstasy", is a popular recreational drug celebrated for its unique ability to enhance feelings of closeness and connection. While its party-drug reputation is widely known, researchers are now shining light on MDMA's promising role in therapy sessions.



In recent years, MDMA has been studied for its potential in assisted psychotherapy, particularly in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recent clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in this field, a promising stride for mental health treatments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-mdma-therapy">Benefits of MDMA therapy</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> delved into the pharmacological attributes of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-mdma-shows-promise-for-reducing-post-traumatic-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MDMA</a>, aiming to discern its influence on social interactions. 



Spearheaded by Hanna Molla, PhD, from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at UChicago, the study involved a series of controlled laboratory experiments. Volunteers under the influence of MDMA felt a heightened sense of connection during conversations compared to those who consumed a placebo.



“MDMA increased feelings of connection, or feeling in sync with their partner, and how meaningful the conversation was relative to when they took a placebo,” said Molla. “But interestingly, we found the same exact effect with methamphetamine. Pharmacologically, there are distinctions between the drugs, so there might be some differences in terms of the underlying mechanisms to how these drugs produce feelings of closeness.”



In an unexpected turn, the research team found that methamphetamine – a drug not typically linked to empathogenic effects – induced a similar feeling of connectedness. Both drugs may have unique pharmacological distinctions, but their similar impact on social bonding is evident. As Molla remarked, understanding these drugs' underlying mechanisms in fostering closeness is pivotal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-mdma-therapy-study-was-conducted">How the MDMA therapy study was conducted</h2>



The UChicago study methodology involved pairing up adult volunteers with unfamiliar partners. The participants were either given a dose of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mdma-makes-people-cooperative/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MDMA</a> or a placebo before therapy. This was done under double-blind conditions ensuring no expectancy bias. Conversations, prompted by light topics like favorite TV shows, ensued.



A parallel study was carried out with <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methamphetamine</a>. It's essential to note that methamphetamine, often notorious for its addictive potential, has clinical utilities in treating conditions like narcolepsy and ADHD. It shares certain pharmacological characteristics with MDMA, yet also possesses distinct differences.



Participants, post-interaction, provided feedback on their conversation experience. Saliva samples were also collected to gauge oxytocin levels, a hormone integral to fostering social bonds. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



The results? MDMA taken during therapy not only enhanced feelings of connection but also amplified oxytocin levels, correlating with the depth of felt connection. Methamphetamine also fostered feelings of closeness, but without the associated oxytocin spike.



Harriet de Wit, PhD, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at UChicago, highlighted the significance of these findings for the psychotherapy realm. The inherent qualities of MDMA could strengthen the therapy bond between patients and therapists. This provides a more conducive environment for emotional exploration.



“When we see that a drug like MDMA is used in a recreational setting, it may be because people believe it makes them more connected. As researchers, we’re interested in what psychological components are involved. Everything we’ve seen with MDMA in controlled laboratory studies suggests that these effects would facilitate psychotherapy and make the process go better,” de Wit said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-mdma-work">How does MDMA work?</h2>



Drawing parallels to its recreational use, de Wit posits that MDMA's popularity might root from its ability to foster connections. The drug's capacity to boost psychotherapy’s efficacy is supported by controlled lab studies, suggesting its utility in professional settings.



The underlying mechanisms remain a mystery – while MDMA's impact is linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-promotes-cooperation-among-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxytocin</a>, methamphetamine's pathway to connectedness seems different. Regardless of the processes, the sheer act of conversation might be the real magic in forging connections.



As we progress in the world of pharmacological research, drugs like MDMA present more than just recreational value. Their potential in medical treatments, especially psychotherapy, could be groundbreaking. As always, understanding and harnessing their potential responsibly is key.



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



As mentioned above, MDMA, popularly known as "ecstasy" or "molly", has for years danced its way into nightclubs and festivals. The drug has the ability to draw users into a web of intensified emotions and heightened sensations. But the story of MDMA is more intricate than its party-drug reputation suggests.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origin-story">Origin story</h3>



Synthesized in 1912 by Merck, a German pharmaceutical company, MDMA originally surfaced with the intent for pharmaceutical purposes. However, it didn't see any significant medical use until the 1970s. 



Psychologists and therapists began to recognize its potential to aid psychotherapy, given its ability to foster feelings of empathy and connection.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-effects">Psychological effects</h3>



At its core, MDMA functions as both a stimulant and a psychedelic. When ingested, it influences three primary neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This triad is responsible for the characteristic effects of MDMA, which include elevated mood, feelings of closeness, and increased energy.



However, the recreational use of MDMA is not without its risks. Users often face the dangers of dehydration, hyperthermia, and in rare cases, severe neurotoxicity. Additionally, what's sold on the street as "molly" or "ecstasy" can sometimes contain harmful adulterants, amplifying potential dangers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mdma-used-in-therapy">MDMA used in therapy</h3>



In recent years, a resurgence in research has unveiled MDMA's therapeutic promise, especially for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Clinical trials have showcased the efficacy of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, with patients reporting significant reductions in PTSD symptoms. 



Under the controlled conditions of these studies, therapists administer MDMA to create a trust-filled environment where patients can dive deep into traumatic memories and process them more effectively.



In summary, MDMA, while widely recognized for its recreational allure, has dimensions that extend beyond the dance floor. As research progresses and its therapeutic potential gets more spotlight, MDMA could redefine the boundaries of therapy through the use of psychotherapeutic treatments. However, understanding its benefits and risks remains paramount for both recreational users and the medical community.



The full study was published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-43156-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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MDMA and methamphetamine spark human connections that prove beneficial in therapy

MDMA, often recognized by its street name, "ecstasy", is a...

German,Shepherd,Smiling,And,Looking,Happy,Standing,On,Top,Of

Gut microbes from wild wolves might be the solution for a severe gastrointestinal problem prevalent among domestic dogs. This new research from <a href="https://osucascades.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University – Cascades</a> is a significant stride towards resolving canine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).



Canine IBD is a chronic disorder marked by symptoms like vomiting, diminished appetite, weight reduction, flatulence, stomach rumbling, and abdominal pain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-cure-for-canine-ibd">No cure for canine IBD</h2>



Bruce Seal, from OSU-Cascades’ biology program, shed light on the gravity of this issue, stating, “At present there is no known cure for this ongoing dysbiosis of the gastrointestinal tract, and there are limited options for treatment.” 



The root causes span from an animal's genetics and environmental factors to the immunological state of the GI tract and notably, an altered gut microbiome.



This study is the result of a partnership between scientists at OSU-Cascades and Oregon State’s Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine. It signifies a move towards a food supplement or additive that can guide a domestic dog's gut microbiome back to its ancestral state, resembling that of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-and-wolves-have-social-learning-ability-and-can-remember-where-people-hid-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolf</a>.



“The modern dog diet, high in carbohydrates, does not mirror a wolf’s diet. For instance, starches in processed dog food are indigestible, adversely affecting the microbial community in a dog's GI tract and consequently its gastric physiology,” Seal emphasized, shedding light on the drastic shift from the dietary habits of their wild ancestors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



The crucial data for this research came from the gastrointestinal content of a deceased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eastern-wolves-and-grey-wolves-evolved-separately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolf</a>, which had tragically died from car-inflicted injuries. This specimen allowed the scientists to isolate 20 unique gut bacteria. 



Preliminary genetic examinations hinted at their probiotic properties. The study zoomed in on a newfound <a href="https://microbialcellfactories.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12934-016-0603-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paenibacillus</a> strain, completing its whole genome sequencing.



Seal elaborated on the significance of this bacterium: “It encodes enzymes adept at digesting complex carbs such as starches. Moreover, it possesses gene systems that express antimicrobials.” 



These non-toxic, spore-forming bacteria have the potential to foster anti-inflammatory responses in the gut and restrict pathogen growth. Seal concluded, “Considering all these factors, this bacterial isolate might emerge as an invaluable probiotic for our domesticated canine companions.”



In a promising direction, Seal divulged that the team is gearing up to undertake whole genome sequencing for another four or five bacterial species among the isolated 20.



The full study from the was published in journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applmicrobiol">Applied Microbiology</a>.



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Wolves have gut bacteria that can help dogs with canine IBD

Gut microbes from wild wolves might be the solution for...

Waters near the Antarctic contain high levels of dissolved salt and can remain just above, or even below, freezing points. However, certain organisms, like Antarctic octopus species, have evolved to thrive in these challenging conditions. This cold environment would be fatal to species accustomed to the warmer climes of the north. However, nature has a way of adapting to extremities.



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



A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> (MBL) has investigated the cold adaptations of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-social-mdma/">octopus</a> species residing in the Southern Ocean, a region surrounding Antarctica.&nbsp;



The experts examined how extreme cold had influenced a pivotal enzyme in the octopus’s nervous system, offering new insights into the vast array of adaptations that enable life in extreme settings.



“We looked in real detail at a very important enzyme for the nervous system, the sodium-potassium pump, and we asked, ‘Where do we see most of these sites of adaptation?,’” said Joshua Rosenthal, a senior scientist at MBL.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enzyme-activity-nbsp">Enzyme activity&nbsp;</h2>



For all living organisms, temperature plays a significant role since enzymes, which initiate myriad biochemical reactions, rely on thermal energy or heat. As temperatures drop, enzyme activity diminishes, coming to an eventual standstill.



Unlike some animals, such as humans, that can generate heat internally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-garden-thermal-springs-accelerate-octopus-egg-hatching-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses</a> lack this capability. 



Yet, these marine creatures have managed to exist in Antarctic waters, where the cold reduced the rate of their enzymatic reactions up to 30-fold. This poses a challenge for their nervous systems, which depend on a series of well-synchronized reactions.&nbsp;



“When you slow them all down to such a degree, it’s a big question: How do they adapt?” Rosenthal pondered.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-octopus-cold-adaptation">Antarctic octopus' cold adaptation</h2>



While scientists have previously explored cold adaptation in numerous proteins, they often overlooked those embedded in cellular membranes.&nbsp;



These proteins are crucial for tasks like ion transport within cells. The focal protein of this study, the Na+/K+-ATPase, plays a role in maintaining electrical gradients essential for neuron communication.



In past studies, Rosenthal, alongside Miguel Holmgren from the <a href="https://www.ninds.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke</a> and a summer Whitman investigator at MBL, discovered that the sodium-potassium pumps of an Antarctic octopus (genus Pareledone) were less hindered by cold compared to those of the two-spot octopuses (Octopus bimaculatus) living in temperate regions, such as near California.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amino-acid-variations">Amino acid variations</h2>



The researchers compared the amino acid composition of the two pumps to identify differences. They pinpointed specific amino acid variations, assessing their significance by exchanging them between pumps. This exchange revealed three pivotal variations enabling the pump to function efficiently in nearly freezing conditions.



One specific variation, termed L314V, emerged as particularly crucial. Modifying this amino acid could eliminate the pump’s cold-resilient nature.



Upon examining these variations within the pump’s structure, the scientists found them located at the protein’s edge, adjacent to the lipid-rich membrane. For instance, the L314V variation might optimize the pump’s movement against the membrane, thus enhancing its efficiency.



“It makes sense to us” that the interface between the protein and the membrane would be a site for such adaptations, Holmgren explained. “Once we have studied more membrane proteins, I think we will see more examples of this.”



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



Image Credit: Tom Kleindinst/Marine Biological Laboratory



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Antarctic octopus has special cold adaptations in their nervous systems

Waters near the Antarctic contain high levels of dissolved salt...

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as long as you compliment your co-workers too, according to a new study published in the <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-96750-001">Journal of Personality and Social Psychology</a>.&nbsp;



The researchers suggest that this type of "dual promotion" strikes the proper balance of competence and warmth, whereas self-promotion does not typically make the best impression.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-credit-to-others">Giving credit to others</h2>



"To create favorable impressions and receive credit, individuals need to share information about their past accomplishments," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Broadcasting one’s past accomplishments or claiming credit to demonstrate competence, however, can harm perceptions of warmth and likability."&nbsp;



"In fact, prior work has conceptualized self-promotion as a hydraulic challenge: tactics that boost perceptions along one dimension (e.g., competence) harm perceptions along other dimensions (e.g., warmth)."&nbsp;



"In this work, we identify a novel approach to self-promotion: We show that by combining self-promotion with other-promotion (complimenting or giving credit to others), which we term “dual-promotion,” individuals can project both warmth and competence to make better impressions on observers than they do by only self-promoting."



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



The researchers - from Vanderbilt, George Mason University, and the University of Pennsylvania - emphasize the distinction between dual-promotion and ingratiation, which is when an individual speaks highly of someone in their presence to get in their good graces.



Dual-promotion, on the other hand, is when an individual praises the achievements of another person whether or not he or she is present for the conversation.&nbsp;



"With dual-promotion, the goal isn't directly about improving relationships with the person being complimented, but rather about demonstrating that you care about this other person to a third party to demonstrate your own warmth and competence," said study co-author Dr.&nbsp; Eric VanEpps, an associate professor of Marketing at Vanderbilt University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-promotion-dilemma">Self-promotion dilemma</h2>



The researchers suggest that dual promotion is a good strategy to use at a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/money-job-matches-personality/">job</a> interview, but most people don't.&nbsp;



They said that previous studies have identified "so many behaviors" people use to self-promote that academics have coined the term the "self-promotion dilemma."



The team initiated the research with surveys targeting hiring managers. These employers reported that the majority of job candidates they interviewed used only self-promotion (69.1 percent), while the vast minority (12.6 percent) used dual-promotion.



"It seems like people either don't think of talking positively about others in the moment, or they're worried that they would look worse by comparison," said Dr VanEpps.&nbsp;



"But we find over and over that it's good to compliment your colleagues, especially - this is the 'dual' part of dual-promotion - alongside claiming credit for your own abilities and achievements."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-favorable-impressions-nbsp">Favorable impressions&nbsp;</h2>



The team also completed seven experiments involving 1,488 participants.



"In seven preregistered studies, including analyses of annual reports from members of Congress and experiments using social network, workplace, and political contexts, we show that individuals who engage in dual-promotion create more favorable impressions of warmth and competence than those who only engage in self-promotion," wrote the researchers.



"The beneficial effects of dual-promotion are robust to both competitive and noncompetitive contexts and extend to behavioral intentions."



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Dual promotion: Bragging on your co-workers makes a good impression

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as...

During a recent deep-sea dive off the coast of Hawaii, scientists encountered a rare and mesmerizing ocean creature known as the “Dumbo octopus."&nbsp;



This remarkable sighting occurred approximately a mile below the ocean's surface, on an unnamed seamount located within the <a href="https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Papahānaumokuākea</a> Marine National Monument.



The expedition was funded by the <a href="https://nautiluslive.org/video/2023/09/27/cute-dumbo-octopus-eyes-rov-hercules">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association</a> (NOAA).&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dumbo-octopus">Dumbo octopus</h2>



The Dumbo octopus, also known as Grimpoteuthis, belongs to the umbrella <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-and-squid-senses-linked-to-human-brain-evolution/">octopus</a> family. The nickname "Dumbo" comes from its resemblance to the character in Disney's 1941 film, due to the prominent ear-like fins situated on top of its head. The octopus utilizes these fins to gracefully propel itself through the water, as it searches for food.



The Dumbo <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-garden-thermal-springs-accelerate-octopus-egg-hatching-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopus</a> is usually found in the deep waters of the central Pacific at depths ranging from 1,300 to 13,000 feet. However, some of these intriguing animals have been found as deep as 23,000 feet.&nbsp;



Because they live in such deep, dark environments, their coloration can vary, often appearing in shades of red, pink, brown, or white.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-footage-nbsp">Fascinating footage&nbsp;</h2>



The footage of the Dumbo octopus was captured by the Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus, providing a unique opportunity to observe the creature as it effortlessly drifts in the ocean's depths.&nbsp;



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The crew aboard the E/V Nautilus was fortunate enough to witness not just one, but five of these creatures in a single night.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-beautiful-experience">A beautiful experience</h2>



Jaina Galves, a video engineer intern who played a role in this discovery, shared her excitement about the experience.



“Each time, you’re kind of just roaming around with the ROV,” said Galves. “Somebody’s like, wait, what is that in the corner, and then everybody starts to gasp, everybody starts to freak out. And everybody’s like Dumbo octopus!"



"So we take the ROV over, we go, and we follow them. They move very slowly and very gracefully, so we get to follow them for quite a while.”



“It depends on what we’re doing and how long we can hang out. But for one of them, we just got to stay for quite a while. Just watched it kind of glide through the water, and it was beautiful.”



Galves told ABC News: “When I saw it on the screen, I couldn’t even say anything. My jaw was just on the floor.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-characteristics">Unique characteristics</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size">Size</h3>



Overall, scientists have discovered more than a dozen species of dumbo octopuses. The largest individual captured on film was nearly six feet long, according to the environmental group Oceana, but most are much smaller, with an average length of 8 to 12 inches.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance">Appearance</h3>



Dumbo octopuses are characterized by their unique umbrella-shaped appearance when their arms are spread. They possess a soft, gelatinous body, which is an adaptation to the deep-sea environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet">Diet</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-octopuses-smart/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses</a> feed on crustaceans, benthic worms, and other small organisms found on the ocean floor. They often swallow their prey whole.



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



Unlike many other octopus species, Dumbo <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-octopuses-dream-a-recent-study-shows-octopuses-sleep-is-very-similar-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses</a> do not have a defined breeding season. They can lay eggs at any time, and the young are developed enough to survive on their own immediately after hatching. While their exact lifespan is unknown, it is believed to be about 3 to 5 years.



The species is known for its gentle and passive demeanor, and since it inhabits regions difficult for humans to access, it has not been extensively studied, and much about it remains a mystery.



The E/V Nautilus, owned by the nonprofit organization <a href="https://nautiluslive.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean Exploration Trust</a>, is currently exploring the expansive Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. This protected marine area spans over 500,000 square miles in the Pacific, making it larger than all U.S. national parks combined.



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Video and image credit: NOAA Ocean Exploration via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute



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.

Rare "Dumbo octopus" captured on film and video in Hawaii

During a recent deep-sea dive off the coast of Hawaii,...

Red,Aurora,(northern,Lights),Over,Mono,Lake,In,A,Rare

This week, the world bore witness to a spectacular celestial display of red auroras, as a powerful solar storm collided with Earth’s magnetic field, painting the night sky with vibrant hues of red. 



Skywatchers from Europe to North America were treated to this stunning light show, particularly those in regions with clear skies. Some observers described the display as the '<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/aurora-borealis_red_green_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Holy Grail of Northern Lights</a>', given the rarity of witnessing red auroras, especially as far south as France and Kansas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collision-of-natural-forces">Collision of natural forces</h2>



Solar storms result from the expulsion of charged particles from the Sun, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar winds</a>. These winds interact with Earth's magnetosphere, and our planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> captures and directs these particles toward high-latitude regions near the magnetic poles. 



The collisions between these charged particles and atoms and molecules in Earth’s atmosphere, like oxygen and nitrogen, energize them. This results in beautiful light shows in various colors, creating the mesmerizing phenomenon known as <a href="https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/aurora/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auroras</a>.



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



Different gases and altitudes result in the emission of different colors. Oxygen at higher altitudes emits red light, while at lower altitudes it produces green light. Nitrogen, on the other hand, can produce purples, blues, and pinks. 



Green is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/catch-the-aurora-borealis-in-iceland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most prevalent aurora color</a> due to the optimal conditions and altitudes for producing the green wavelength. This often creates a breathtaking spectacle as the lights ripple, dance, and shimmer across the night sky. However, during strong auroral displays, red, purple, and blue may also appear, adding to the splendor of the visual feast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-auroras-a-scarlet-spectacle">Red auroras -- A scarlet spectacle</h2>



Red auroras are particularly enchanting, resulting from high-energy electrons colliding with oxygen atoms at altitudes above 200 miles. The longer wavelength of red light allows it to travel farther distances and often appear at the lower edges of an aurora. 



The red hue isn’t as common as green, occurring less frequently due to its reliance on collisions at higher altitudes. During active displays, the red dances above the green, creating an unparalleled natural light show.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-impact">Unexpected impact</h2>



Although experts had predicted a solar storm for September 24, the strength of the impact surpassed expectations. The flare from the Sun triggered a potent geomagnetic storm above Europe, illuminating the skies of Scotland, Iceland, and the Netherlands with bright green and red auroras. It later traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to North America, extending as far south as Kansas and Nebraska.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-year-of-celestial-wonders">A year of celestial wonders</h2>



For aurora chasers, this year has been notably thrilling, with several astonishing displays of northern lights reaching unusually far south. The last red aurora observed was in February, and the frequency of such events is attributed to a surprisingly active <a href="https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/solar-cycles/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar cycle</a>. 



Some eruptions were so powerful that they triggered radio blackouts in the US in June. As we are heading toward the peak of an approximately 11-year cycle of solar activity, more spectacular displays might be on the horizon.



Experts at <a href="https://earthsky.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSky</a> noted on September 26, “Sun activity is back to low, but we saw filament eruptions all over the solar disk, particularly in the northeast and northwest. These filaments hurled ejecta into space, and we await the results of specialist analysis to determine if a component of those blasts is coming our way.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-red-auroras-expected">More red auroras expected</h2>



Aurora enthusiasts are indeed in eager anticipation for more of these celestial ballets in the sky, a vivid reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our universe. This extraordinary display of red auroras, historically perceived by some as ominous harbingers of war or tragedy, today unites people in wonder, illuminating the skies with its rare and ethereal beauty.



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Vibrant red northern lights ignited the skies this week

This week, the world bore witness to a spectacular celestial...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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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...

As you might assume, a new gorilla appearing in the mountains is going to attract some attention. Unsurprisingly, the troop&#8217;s dominant male noticed the visitor and came over to check it out. Photo Credit: Fodors

Alpha Male

Once on the ground in Africa, the team headed into a sanctuary where they knew gorillas could be found. They set up the camera and, before long, its powers of disguise were put to the test. Photo Credit: African Budget Safaris