<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features Messier 82, a starburst galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> is actively forming new stars at a rate ten times that of the Milky Way.</p>



<p>In a groundbreaking study using the <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST), an international team of astronomers has taken an unprecedented look at Messier 82 (M82), revealing intricate details about its frenzied star formation. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-nircam-and-infrared-observations">The power of NIRCam and infrared observations</h2>



<p>The study, led by Alberto Bolatto, utilized Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) to penetrate the thick dust and gas veiling the galaxy's core, a region critical to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>. </p>



<p>"M82 has garnered a variety of observations over the years because it can be considered as the prototypical starburst galaxy," noted Bolatto. “With Webb’s size and resolution, we can look at this star-forming galaxy and see all of this beautiful new detail.”</p>



<p>Webb's NIRCam has proven crucial for observing areas like M82’s center, where layers of dust typically obscure the view in other wavelengths. The camera's ability to capture infrared light allows it to reveal the galaxy's core and its dynamic processes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messier-82-image-shows-the-power-of-webb-nbsp">Messier 82 image shows the power of Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This image shows the power of Webb. Every single white dot in this image is either a star or a star cluster. We can start to distinguish all of these tiny point sources, which enables us to acquire an accurate count of all the star clusters in this galaxy,” noted study second author Rebecca Levy from the University of Arizona.</p>



<p>One of the NIRCam's innovative features is its mode that prevents bright sources from overwhelming the detector, which was particularly useful in studying the intensely active center of Messier 82.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the image, the dark brown tendrils of dust weave through the galaxy's glowing white core, interspersed with small green specks that represent concentrated areas of iron from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> remnants. Red patches highlight regions where molecular hydrogen is illuminated by the radiation from nearby young stars.</p>



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



<p>The study also focused on understanding how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galactic wind</a>, driven by the rapid rate of star formation and subsequent supernovae, influences M82’s environment. The NIRCam images showed clumpy tendrils of gas, appearing in red, which extend above and below the galaxy's plane, marking the path of this wind rushing out from the starburst's core.</p>



<p>A key revelation came from the NIRCam’s tracing of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), sooty chemical molecules that map out the structure of the galactic wind. To the surprise of researchers, the PAH emissions closely resembled the patterns of the hot, ionized gas, suggesting a more complex interaction within the wind than previously understood.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It was unexpected to see the PAH emission resemble ionised gas," said Bolatto. "PAHs are not supposed to live very long when exposed to such a strong radiation field, so perhaps they are being replenished all the time. It challenges our theories and shows us that further investigation is required."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-observations-of-messier-82">Future observations of Messier 82</h3>



<p>The findings from Webb are just the beginning. The team plans to further analyze Messier 82 with additional data, including spectroscopic observations, to determine the ages of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and the duration of each star formation phase within the starburst environment. </p>



<p>These observations will also assist in a broader understanding of similar processes in early galaxies, which were common in the young universe.</p>



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



<p>Study co-author Torsten Böker of the European Space Agency (ESA) emphasized the broader implications of these findings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“With these amazing Webb images, and our upcoming spectra, we can study how exactly the strong winds and shock fronts from young stars and supernovae can remove the very gas and dust from which new stars are forming,” explained Böker.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“A detailed understanding of this ‘feedback’ cycle is important for theories of how the early universe evolved, because compact starbursts such as the one in M82 were very common at high redshift.”</p>



<p>The study not only illuminates the specific mechanics of star formation in M82 but also enhances our general understanding of galactic evolution and the lifecycle of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA</p>



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Messier 82: Unlocking the mysteries of star formation

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features the spiral galaxy IC 5332, which is located over 29 million light-years away from Earth and spans approximately 66,000 light-years in diameter. This makes it notably smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is about a third larger.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-look-at-ic-5332">Unprecedented look at IC 5332</h2>



<p>In a stunning photo release by NASA and ESA in 2022, the spiral galaxy IC 5332 was presented in an unprecedented level of detail in images captured by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-incredible-new-image-of-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>.</p>



<p>This feat was made possible through the use of the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captures images in the mid-infrared spectrum.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-perspective-from-earth">Unique perspective from Earth</h2>



<p>One of the most striking features of IC 5332, as revealed by these observations, is its almost perfect face-on orientation relative to Earth. </p>



<p>This unique perspective allows astronomers to clearly observe and admire the symmetrical arrangement of its spiral arms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-unveils-ic-5332-in-new-light">Webb unveils IC 5332 in new light</h2>



<p>The clarity of these images represents a significant advancement over previous observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope, which imaged IC 5332 in ultraviolet and visible light.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While Hubble’s images revealed the galaxy’s symmetrical spiral arms, James Webb’s MIRI has unveiled these structures as a complex web of gas that emits infrared light at various temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-miri-instrument-on-james-webb-nbsp">The MIRI instrument on James Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Capturing this range of infrared light is no simple task. It requires highly specialized instruments that must be maintained at extremely cold temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The MIRI instrument on the James Webb Space Telescope is specifically designed for this purpose and performs exceptionally well. Its capabilities allow astronomers to see aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> that are otherwise hidden in other wavelengths.</p>



<p>The detailed images provided by MIRI offer more than just a visual spectacle; they provide valuable data about the composition and temperature of the gases that make up the spiral arms of IC 5332. This can help scientists understand the processes of star formation within the galaxy and how these processes compare to those in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-finds-hidden-features-of-the-universe-nbsp">Webb finds hidden features of the universe&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Moreover, the images of IC 5332 serve as a critical test of the James Webb Space Telescope’s capabilities in observing the universe in infrared light. As astronomers continue to deploy Webb’s full suite of instruments to explore the cosmos, it is expected that many more hidden features of the universe will be revealed.</p>



<p>The information provided by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-second-most-distant-galaxy-in-pandoras-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> not only expands our understanding of the cosmos but also enhances our appreciation for the complex and beautiful structures that exist in our universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>We can anticipate many more insights from Webb that will deepen our understanding of the fundamental processes governing galaxies and the broader universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-spiral-galaxies-like-ic-5332">More about spiral galaxies like IC 5332</h2>



<p>Spiral galaxies are some of the most visually striking objects in the universe, characterized by their rotating arms that extend from a central nucleus, giving them a distinct spiral appearance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These galaxies are primarily made up of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, and a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. These are often surrounded by a much fainter halo of stars, many of which reside in globular clusters.</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies differ from other galaxy types, such as elliptical and irregular galaxies, in their structure and content. The spiral arms are sites of ongoing star formation and are brighter than the rest of the disk because of the young, hot stars that are typically found there. The arms appear distinct because of their density waves, which compress the gas and dust, leading to star formation.</p>



<p>The rotation of the spiral arms also contributes to the galaxy's flat shape due to the centrifugal forces acting on the disk. The central bulge can vary in size and often contains older, red stars.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Barred spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Some spiral galaxies have a bar-shaped structure that extends from the central bulge, making them barred spirals. This bar affects the motion of stars and gas within the galaxy and can influence star formation activity.</p>



<p>The Milky Way, where our solar system resides, is an example of a barred spiral galaxy. Spiral galaxies are an important focus of study because they contain a significant amount of visible matter and play a crucial role in understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their distinct features also make them particularly useful for studying the laws of physics under extreme conditions, such as high densities and velocities.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, J. Lee and the PHANGS-JWST and PHANGS-HST Teams</p>



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Webb unveiled spiral galaxy IC 5332 in new light

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Corbassière glacier, a high-altitude glacier in Switzerland. The glacier originates on the northern slope of the Grand Combin, which is one of the highest peaks in the Pennine Alps.</p>



<p>Collectively, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alpine glaciers</a> of Switzerland have lost more than half of their volume since the 1930s.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-archives-of-past-climate">Natural archives of past climate </h2>



<p>"Glaciers are natural archives of past climate. In their frozen layers lies evidence of Earth’s changing temperature and atmospheric composition. But as the climate warms, some of the longest records of our changing planet are melting away," said NASA.</p>



<p>"In just over two decades, Corbassière has shrunk in area and surface mass. The glacier was darker in 2023 due to lack of snow, and the glacier’s tongue had retreated."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cores-from-the-corbassiere-glacier">Ice cores from the Corbassière glacier</h2>



<p>To reconstruct past concentrations of atmospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-aerosols-impact-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a>, a team of scientists analyzed ice cores that were collected from the Corbassière glacier in 2018 and 2020. </p>



<p>Aerosols are tiny airborne particles that are deposited in the ice. "Such information from glaciers around the world can provide clues about past environmental conditions thousands of years ago," noted NASA.</p>



<p>"Ice cores contain ammonium, nitrate, and sulfate ions - signatures of aerosols lacing the snow that’s deposited on glaciers year after year. Ion concentrations are lower in winter than in summer because less polluted air can rise from the valley when the air is cold."</p>



<p>When the researchers analyzed the ice core from 2018, they found seasonal fluctuations in the amount of ion deposits - which is what they expected to find.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"But when we went to core the glacier in 2020, we noticed melting on the surface right away,” said Margit Schwikowski, an environmental chemist at <a href="https://www.psi.ch/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paul Scherrer Institute</a> in Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-surface-melting-on-corbassiere-glacier">Rapid surface melting on Corbassière glacier</h2>



<p>The experts determined that melting on the glacier's surface likely penetrated the glacier layers below and carried away the aerosol ions. "This melting rendered the core unusable in the team’s research, and other attempts to core the glacier had the same result. The valuable information stored in the ice was destroyed," explained NASA.</p>



<p>Schwikowski has joined a team of other experts in an effort to preserve cores from the last remaining glaciers. Led by the <a href="https://www.ice-memory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Memory Foundation</a>, the goal of the project is to obtain ice cores from 20 endangered glaciers around the world in 20 years and collect them in a global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ice-has-a-history-of-rapid-and-unexpected-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate archive</a>.</p>



<p>“Glaciers are retreating worldwide, and we may find similar issues at other sites,” said Schwikowski. She added that even at the highest altitudes in the Alps, "glaciers are on the verge of becoming unsuitable as natural paleo-archives."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about the Corbassière Glacier</h2>



<p>The Corbassière Glacier is a captivating natural feature located in the Swiss Alps, part of the canton of Valais. This glacier stretches over approximately 9 kilometers, making it one of the significant glaciers in the region. It originates from the Grand Combin, an imposing mountain massif that reaches heights of over 4,300 meters, contributing greatly to the glacier's nourishment through snow and ice accumulation.</p>



<p>A distinct feature of the Corbassière Glacier is its accessibility and the dramatic scenery it offers, which attracts many hikers and nature enthusiasts. One of the most notable attractions near the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-seems-to-have-lost-its-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> is the Corbassière footbridge, a 210-meter long suspension bridge that provides stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. </p>



<p>This bridge not only enhances the experience for visitors but also serves as a crucial observation point for scientists studying glacier dynamics and the effects of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Swiss Alps&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Swiss <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-in-the-alps-could-soon-be-cut-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alps</a> are a majestic and expansive mountain range that stretches across the southern part of Switzerland, forming a part of the greater Alpine region that spreads across several countries in Europe. </p>



<p>Renowned for their stunning beauty and formidable peaks, the Swiss Alps are not just a geographical landmark but also a cultural symbol of Switzerland, epitomizing its identity as a nation of scenic landscapes and outdoor adventure.</p>



<p>The region is famous for its dramatic scenery, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and picturesque valleys. Among these peaks are some of the highest in Europe, such as the Dufourspitze, part of the Monte Rosa massif, which is the highest point in Switzerland. </p>



<p>The Matterhorn, perhaps the most iconic of all Swiss mountains, is celebrated for its unique, pyramid-like shape and is a magnet for climbers and tourists alike.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Corbassière glacier: Earth's climate archives are melting away

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust streaming from Lago Colhué Huapi, a shallow endorheic lake located in the Chubut Province in southern Argentina.</p>



<p>"Strong northwesterly winds often race down the eastern side of the Andes Mountains and whip across the central Patagonian Desert. In the process, they sometimes lift dust from Argentina’s drying Lago Colhué Huapi, fueling intense dust storms," said NASA.</p>



<p>"Lago Colhué Huapi is a particularly rich source of dust because the shallow lake regularly grows and shrinks with variations in the flow of the Senguer River and the pace of evaporation. When lake water levels are low, as they were when MODIS captured this image, fine-grained, lightweight particles are easily transported by the wind."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-activity-from-lago-colhue-huapi">Dust activity from Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dust storms</a> in this region are most common during the summer months from December to March. There are 15 to 30 dust storms in a typical year. </p>



<p>"Dust storms are frequent and persistent enough in this area that they have exposed an open-air archaeological site along the lake’s edge," said NASA.</p>



<p>"The Puesto Roberts 1 site, located in an old floodplain on the southeast side of Lago Colhué Huapi, was first identified in 2019 when archaeologists noticed that winds had exposed a five-centimeter layer of sandy loam soil littered with stone tools and the bones of a wild species of llama called guanaco."</p>



<p>"Archaeologists identified 427 artifacts at the site - including stone cutting blades, milling tools, scrapers, and egg-shaped bola stones used for hunting - spread across 15 square meters, according to a 2022 study led by Heidi Hammond, an archaeologist at the National University of the Patagonia San Juan Bosco."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lago-colhue-huapi">More about Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p>This lake is an interesting geographical feature primarily because it acts as a seasonal sink for the Senguerr River, which in turn gathers waters from various smaller streams in the region.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Due to its shallow nature, the size of Lago Colhué Huapi can vary significantly with the seasons and the amount of water it receives from its sources. During times of drought or reduced rainfall, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-lakes-to-their-boiling-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> can shrink considerably, affecting the local ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate">Climate</h3>



<p>The lake's surroundings are characterized by a semi-arid climate, which influences the type of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in the area. Despite the harsh conditions, the region around Lago Colhué Huapi supports a variety of bird species, making it a site of interest for birdwatchers and naturalists.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges">Environmental challenges </h3>



<p>In recent years, Lago Colhué Huapi has faced environmental challenges, including the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, which has led to lower water levels and increased salinity. These changes pose threats to the lake's ecological balance and the species that inhabit its waters and shores. The situation at Lago Colhué Huapi serves as a reminder of the broader environmental issues facing water bodies in arid and semi-arid regions around the world.</p>



<p>The image was captured on March 29, 2024 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



<p>"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said ESA.</p>



<p>"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby Universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."</p>



<p>"This concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



<p>NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>. </p>



<p>NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies, which includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



<p>Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.</p>



<p>“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.</p>



<p>"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."</p>



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



<p>Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. Elements heavier than helium are created in the cores of stars and spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material, either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-star-formation">Process of star formation</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



<p>The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion, the process that powers stars, to occur.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



<p>Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



<p>Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our Sun.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



<p>The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. </p>



<p>Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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NGC 604 is home to hundreds of hot, massive stars

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features thick haze over Thailand during the fire season. The photograph was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite on March 16, 2024.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waves-of-smoke-and-haze">Waves of smoke and haze</h2>



<p>"Each year in January and February, satellites begin to detect waves of smoke and fire in Southeast Asia, particularly in highland forests in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Fire activity continues to increase through March and April, reaches a peak during the height of the dry season, and then fades in May with the start of the rainy season," noted NASA.</p>



<p>"Individual fires are usually small and short-lived. But they are often so numerous that smoke, along with air pollution from rural and urban areas, mixes to produce thick layers of haze that blanket the landscape." </p>



<p>"Such hazes contain mixtures of small airborne particles called aerosols and gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone that degrade air quality and have harmful health effects."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-in-thailand-nbsp">Haze in Thailand&nbsp;</h2>



<p>An international field campaign - the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) - was recently launched to investigate the haze in Thailand.</p>



<p>"During the last two weeks of March 2024, NASA’s DC-8 and Gulfstream III aircraft flew several flights over Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and rural areas surrounding the cities to sample air quality with several sensors. At the same time, satellites observed the haze from above," said NASA.</p>



<p>James Crawford, ASIA-AQ’s principal investigator, said the team is collaborating closely with national and local government entities in Thailand.</p>



<p>“The goal is to take as many simultaneous measurements of pollutants as possible from the ground, air, and space,” said Crawford. The team will use the data to gain a better understanding of how the haze forms, evolves chemically over time, and moves throughout the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-and-public-health-in-thailand">Haze and public health in Thailand </h2>



<p>According to media reports, nearly 200,000 people have been hospitalized this year due to air quality in the region, with over 1.3 million people falling ill since January.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-root-causes">Root causes</h3>



<p>The root causes of the haze include agricultural burning, particularly of corn fields, as part of slash-and-burn practices to prepare land for the next planting cycle. This is exacerbated by the dry season when there's little rain to wash the pollutants away. </p>



<p>The situation is worsened by industrial emissions and vehicle fumes, particularly in urban areas like Bangkok​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-are-needed">Sustainable solutions are needed</h3>



<p>Efforts to address the crisis have been complex, involving local and transboundary issues. Much of the agricultural burning occurs not only within Thailand but also in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos, contributing to the transboundary nature of the haze. </p>



<p>Activists and local communities have called for sustainable solutions that do not exacerbate the poverty of smallholder farmers, emphasizing the need for affordable and realistic alternatives to burning​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-measures-nbsp">Mitigation measures&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Thai government has implemented a no-burning rule until the end of April to combat wildfires and haze, but enforcement and effectiveness remain challenges​​. </p>



<p>Some measures taken to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution in urban areas include spraying water and seeding clouds to encourage rain, although these have had limited success​​.</p>



<p>This ongoing environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are increasingly using public interest litigation to hold companies and the government accountable for environmental commitments. </p>



<p>With recent political changes, there is hope that the new administration will take more decisive action against the haze, possibly through more stringent regulations and international cooperation​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-haze">Health impacts of haze</h2>



<p>Haze poses several health hazards for those exposed to it, particularly when it contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Here are some of the main health risks associated with exposure to haze:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiratory-problems">Respiratory problems</h3>



<p>Haze can aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The fine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">particles</a> can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and reducing lung function.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-issues-and-haze">Cardiovascular issues and haze</h3>



<p>Exposure to fine particulate matter can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Particles can affect blood vessel function and promote the formation of blood clots.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-irritation">Eye irritation</h3>



<p>Haze can cause eye irritation, leading to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or exacerbated symptoms in people with existing eye conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-problems">Skin problems</h3>



<p>For some people, exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">polluted air</a> can cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-immune-function">Reduced immune function</h3>



<p>There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-mental-health">Impact on mental health</h3>



<p>There are growing concerns about the impact of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-multiple-chronic-health-conditions/">mental health</a>, with studies suggesting a link between exposure to polluted air and an increased risk of depression and anxiety.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnant-women-and-children">Pregnant women and children</h3>



<p>Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. There may be increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies, and children may experience delayed development and reduced lung function.</p>



<p>The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when air quality is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

<p>The concept of tectonic plates dominates our understanding of how mountains rise, continents drift, and the very face of our planet gets its shape. Yet, the forces sculpting the Earth run deeper. A new wave of research highlights the significant, albeit subtle, role played by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mantle-heat-shaped-earths-crust-3-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a> – the vast, viscous layer sandwiched between the planet's crust and its metallic core.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-earth-s-mantle">What is Earth's mantle?</h2>



<p>Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ancient-breath-study-links-atmospheric-oxygen-and-mantle-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a> is a key layer of our planet, critical to the geological phenomena we observe on the surface. Let’s dive into more detail about its composition, structure, and role in Earth's geodynamics.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Composition and structure of Earth's mantle</h3>



<p>The mantle is mostly composed of solid rocks and minerals, primarily made of silicates - a group of minerals containing silicon and oxygen, along with magnesium, iron, and other elements. Despite being solid, the mantle's composition allows it to behave plastically over geological time scales. This means it can flow, albeit very slowly, under high temperature and pressure conditions.</p>



<p>The mantle can be divided into several regions based on depth and behavior:</p>



<ol>
<li><strong>Upper Mantle</strong>: Extending from about 35 kilometers below the Earth’s surface to a depth of about 410 kilometers, the upper <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-mantle-may-contain-a-wealth-of-green-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a> is part of what is called the lithosphere (which includes the crust) and the more pliable asthenosphere below it. The asthenosphere is crucial for tectonic plate movements as it is less rigid and can flow more readily than the surrounding rock.</li>



<li><strong>Transition Zone</strong>: This zone lies between 410 kilometers and 660 kilometers deep. Here, changes in mineral structure lead to a marked difference in rock density, which affects the flow and behavior of mantle materials.</li>



<li><strong>Lower Mantle</strong>: Extending from the transition zone down to about 2,900 kilometers (near the core-mantle boundary), the lower mantle is hotter and experiences higher pressures, yet remains solid. The materials here are more compressed and therefore less likely to flow compared to those in the upper mantle.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Heat and movement</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ringwoodite-mineral-confirms-vast-ocean-exists-400-miles-under-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a> is a major conductor of heat within Earth, transferring heat from the core outward through convection. The process of convection occurs within the mantle when hotter, less dense material rises, cools as it nears the surface, and then sinks again as it densifies. These convection currents drive the movement of tectonic plates on the surface.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-earth-s-mantle-s-topography">Mapping Earth's mantle's topography</h2>



<p>The notion of residual topography challenges the idea that areas away from plate boundaries are geologically static. The mantle, far from being uniform, exhibits temperature variations and differences in chemical composition. </p>



<p>These variations translate into a hidden landscape of swells and basins, mimicking a subterranean world in slow motion. Imagine gentle hills and valleys stretching across continents, not formed by surface processes, but by the dynamics of the Earth's interior.</p>



<p>Solid Earth provides a clearer picture of this phenomenon. Researchers painstakingly compiled a wealth of data, including global measurements of crustal thickness and the speed at which seismic waves travel through the Earth. Coupled with laboratory experiments replicating the extreme conditions deep within the planet, this allowed scientists to unravel the mantle's distinct influence on the topography above.</p>



<p>The researchers discovered variations in the mantle's temperature and chemistry. These differences influence Earth's landscape, creating unique features. Swells arise in areas where the mantle is hotter. These can reach elevations up to 2 kilometers. </p>



<p>In contrast, cooler and denser <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-mantle-jackson-pollock-painting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a> areas form deep basins. These depressions can be more than 1.5 kilometers deep. Such features are distinct from those near tectonic plate boundaries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-the-earth">Shaping the Earth</h2>



<p>Understanding residual topography offers insights far beyond mapping curiosities deep below the surface. Hotter mantle swells may be the key to instances of volcanism occurring far away from the fiery seams of plate boundaries. Conversely, cooler mantle regions could drive subsidence, influencing the long-term fate of landmasses.</p>



<p>Importantly, these mantle-driven processes unfold at a geological pace – over millions of years. Yet, they significantly affect the patterns of erosion, where sediments are laid down, and the evolution of continents.</p>



<p>Recognizing the mantle's role in shaping our planet underscores the Earth's remarkable dynamism. Change doesn't just originate from the clash of tectonic plates. Instead, it's a symphony of forces, ranging from the dramatic shifts at the surface down to the gradual sculpting by the planet's molten heart. </p>



<p>As research continues, we'll undoubtedly gain a better grasp of how these deep, hidden processes mold the world we inhabit and perhaps even glimpse clues about the Earth's long-term geological future.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JB026735" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth</em>.</a></p>



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How Earth's mantle shapes surface topography

The concept of tectonic plates dominates our understanding of how...

<p>In the world of biological research, understanding the mechanisms that determine sex is fundamental. While genes of humans and other mammals rely on the familiar X and Y chromosomes, nature displays a remarkable diversity of solutions to this essential process. A new study sheds light on the genetic basis of sex determination in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly</a> – and reveals potential threats to endangered populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-sex-determination">Butterfly sex determination</h2>



<p>Butterflies, as well as moths, belong to the insect order Lepidoptera. Unlike humans who rely on the X and Y chromosome system for sex determination, Lepidoptera utilize a WZ system. </p>



<p>In this system, females possess two different sex chromosomes, a W and a Z, while males have two Z chromosomes. However, the story doesn't end there. The way this system translates into male or female development differs significantly between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-butterfly-sex-chromosomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly</a> species.</p>



<p>In some butterfly species, the presence of the W chromosome is the key factor that triggers development into a female. Conversely, other species lack a W chromosome in females altogether. </p>



<p>This remarkable diversity in sex determination mechanisms within Lepidoptera has puzzled researchers for quite some time. They've been  working to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how butterflies develop into males or females across this vast insect group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-squinting-bush-brown-butterfly">Squinting bush brown butterfly</h2>



<p>To delve into the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-genome-has-barely-changed-after-250-million-years-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly</a> sex determination, researchers from the <a href="https://www.avcr.cz/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences</a> and the <a href="https://www.liverpool.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liverpool</a> turned their attention to the squinting bush brown butterfly (<em>Bicyclus anynana</em>). This African species has become a favored organism for research for several reasons:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Genetic roadmap:</strong>&nbsp;Scientists have fully sequenced the squinting bush brown's genome, providing a detailed map for investigation.</li>



<li><strong>Laboratory-friendly:</strong>&nbsp;The butterfly thrives in controlled laboratory settings, readily reproducing and offering researchers ample material to study.</li>
</ul>



<p>The research team's investigation yielded a vital discovery. They identified a single gene, which they named <em>Masculinizer</em>, as the primary factor controlling sex determination in <em>B. anynana</em>. The specific variations of this gene, known as alleles, determine whether an individual butterfly develops as a male or a female.</p>



<p>One allele of <em>Masculinizer</em> triggers female development. When a butterfly inherits two different alleles of the gene, male development ensues. However, embryos possessing two identical <em>Masculinizer</em> alleles do not survive. This lethal combination underscores the importance of genetic diversity: in large populations with a rich variety of <em>Masculinizer</em> alleles, encounters between identical versions are rare.</p>



<p>"These species have different sex-determining mechanisms which are not known yet. The mechanism we discovered in Bicyclus anynana is very different from the W chromosome-dependent mechanism discovered earlier in the silkworm Bombyx mori," explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convergent-evolution-with-honeybees">Convergent evolution with honeybees</h2>



<p>The study on the squinting bush brown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-when-butterflies-evolved-and-what-plants-they-used-for-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly</a> revealed a surprising twist. The sex determination system identified in this butterfly closely resembles the mechanism at play in honeybees. This remarkable similarity is a prime example of convergent evolution, which is when unrelated organisms develop strikingly similar traits due to facing similar environmental pressures. </p>



<p>In this case, both butterflies and honeybees, despite belonging to distinct insect groups, appear to have arrived at the same solution for sex determination through independent evolutionary pathways.</p>



<p>This shared sex determination system suggests the possible existence of fundamental genetic pathways that govern sex differentiation across a wider range of insects. The discovery in <em>B. anynana</em> hints at a deeper evolutionary connection, where these pathways might have originated from a common ancestor and then diverged over time as these insect groups evolved separately.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-sex-and-conservation">Butterfly sex and conservation</h2>



<p>The discovery has significant implications for butterfly conservation. Many butterfly species are strongly in decline. Population declines lead to reduced genetic diversity. </p>



<p>This, in turn, increases the likelihood of embryos inheriting identical, incompatible <em>Masculinizer</em> alleles. The potential loss of offspring could exacerbate the challenges faced by dwindling butterfly populations.</p>



<p>This study highlights the value of fundamental research into seemingly simple biological questions. Understanding the mechanics of sex determination in an unassuming butterfly species has uncovered hidden risks to vulnerable populations – a testament to the far-reaching impact of seemingly small genetic variations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj6979" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Study reveals the genetic basis of butterfly sex

In the world of biological research, understanding the mechanisms that...

<p>As our global population ages, the pursuit of longevity is often overshadowed by an equally important goal: maintaining a high quality of life throughout our later years. A new study offers promising insights into how midlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-exercise-routine-can-cut-your-risk-of-early-death-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> can play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-midlife-exercise">The importance of midlife exercise</h2>



<p>A research team led by experts at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/">University of Sydney</a> conducted a long-term study tracking over 11,000 women, providing a wealth of data over an extended period. </p>



<p>Their findings indicate that consistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/metamorphosis-exercise-triggers-molecular-changes-in-major-organs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> during midlife (ages 40 - 50s) is strongly associated with better physical health outcomes in later years, such as improved strength, reduced risk of falls, and enhanced cardiovascular health. </p>



<p>Importantly, even women who had not been consistently active in their younger years experienced significant benefits from adopting an exercise routine in their 50s. These benefits highlight the potential for positive lifestyle changes to impact our health trajectory later in life.</p>



<p>"Our findings suggest that to maintain good physical health-related quality of life at around age 70, one may be able to 'make up' for not being active earlier by becoming active in the mid-50s," noted the researchers. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-findings-of-midlife-exercise">Surprising findings of midlife exercise</h2>



<p>Women who consistently met the recommended physical activity guidelines (150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise like brisk walking or cycling per week) for approximately 15 years scored significantly higher on tests measuring physical functioning in their later years. These tests evaluate things like balance, strength, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.</p>



<p>Midlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sit-stand-exercise-sleep-this-amount-each-day-optimal-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> has the potential to counteract the negative health impacts of prior inactivity. Participants who began exercising consistently in their 50s achieved similar physical health scores to those who had exercised regularly throughout their entire adult lives. This suggests that it's never too late to make changes that can benefit your health.</p>



<p>"This finding supports public health initiatives for messaging around "turning back the clock" in midlife through lifestyle changes such as physical activity," explained study lead author Binh Nguyen. This means that, despite some earlier less-healthy choices, making positive changes in your midlife years can have a profound impact on your future well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-midlife-exercise-and-beyond">Benefits of midlife exercise and beyond</h2>



<p>Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in combating age-related health risks such as:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-osteoporosis">Osteoporosis</h3>



<p>Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like walking, running, or strength training, helps build and maintain bone density. Stronger bones are less likely to fracture, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, a condition marked by brittle and fragile bones.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-disease">Cardiovascular disease</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-significantly-lowers-heart-disease-risk-by-reducing-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exercise</a> strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood flow, and helps regulate blood pressure. These exercise benefits may lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions in midlife.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-decline">Cognitive decline</h3>



<p>Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can help protect cognitive function and memory. Studies suggest that exercise may even reduce the risk of developing dementia.</p>



<p>By improving muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and balance, exercise helps maintain our ability to perform everyday activities independently as we age. This translates to a better quality of life and greater self-sufficiency.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations-and-considerations">Recommendations and considerations</h2>



<p>The research suggests the following measures:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aim-for-consistency">Aim for consistency</h3>



<p>The study emphasizes that reaping the maximum benefits of exercise requires a long-term commitment. Sporadic bursts of activity, while helpful, may not provide the same level of protection against age-related health decline.</p>



<p>Aim to incorporate moderate-intensity exercise into your routine most days of the week, striving for at least 150 minutes total over the week.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choose-what-you-enjoy">Choose what You enjoy</h3>



<p>Finding activities you genuinely enjoy will make exercise more sustainable in the long run. Don't feel limited to traditional gym workouts. </p>



<p>Explore different options like brisk walking, swimming, dancing, gardening, or even active household chores. Variety can help keep your routine fresh and prevent boredom.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consult-your-physician">Consult your physician</h3>



<p>Before embarking on a new exercise program, it's essential to consult your doctor. They can assess your current health status, identify any potential risks, and help you tailor an exercise plan that's safe and appropriate for your individual needs.</p>



<p>This is especially crucial if you have any existing health conditions. Your doctor may recommend specific types of exercise or adjustments to ensure you have a positive experience.</p>



<p>"Combined with existing evidence, this study contributes to growing evidence of the benefits of maintaining or adopting an active lifestyle in mid-age," concluded the researchers.</p>



<p>This study underscores the profound impact our choices can have on our future well-being. Midlife offers a valuable window of opportunity to invest in our long-term health through exercise. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1004384" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLOS Medicine</em></a>.</p>



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Exercising in midlife can reverse years of inactivity

As our global population ages, the pursuit of longevity is...

<p>In a study involving zebrafish, a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> (UCL) has explored how the brain manages synaptic connections during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cleaning-the-brain-neurons-flush-out-waste-while-we-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts found that the brain weakens new neural connections that were forged during waking hours, but this process only accounts for the first few hours of sleep.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-function-of-sleep-is-still-unclear-nbsp">Function of sleep is still unclear&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Although sleep is conserved across the animal kingdom, the precise functions of sleep remain unclear. As sleep deprivation leads to acute impairment of cognitive performance, many theories posit that synaptic plasticity associated with learning and memory preferentially occurs during sleep," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"For example, the synaptic homeostasis hypothesis (SHY) proposes that synaptic potentiation during wakefulness results in an ultimately unsustainable increase in synaptic strength and number that must be renormalized during sleep through synaptic weakening and pruning. Such sleep-dependent renormalization has been postulated to broadly affect most excitatory synapses throughout the brain."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-synaptic-homeostasis-hypothesis">The synaptic homeostasis hypothesis</h2>



<p>The findings support the synaptic homeostasis hypothesis, positing that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-impairs-the-brain-potentially-causing-neurological-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> functions as a crucial reset mechanism for the brain, ensuring energy sustainability and readiness for new learning.</p>



<p>"Some studies examining either large neuronal populations or small patches of dendrites have found evidence consistent with the synaptic homeostasis hypothesis, but whether sleep merely functions as a permissive state or actively promotes synaptic downregulation at the scale of whole neurons is unclear," wrote the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-brain-goes-offline">The brain goes offline</h2>



<p>“When we are awake, the connections between brain cells get stronger and more complex. If this activity were to continue unabated, it would be energetically unsustainable,” said senior author Jason Rihel, a professor in the UCL Cell &amp; Developmental Biology department.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Too many active connections between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cells</a> could prevent new connections from being made the following day. While the function of sleep remains mysterious, it may be serving as an ‘offline’ period when those connections can be weakened across the brain, in preparation for us to learn new things the following day.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synaptic-connections-in-the-brain-nbsp-during-sleep">Synaptic connections in the brain&nbsp;during sleep</h2>



<p>The researchers used optically translucent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-zebrafish-heart-regeneration-could-transform-human-cardiac-care/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zebrafish</a> with genes that allow for easy imaging of synapses - the structures enabling communication between brain cells.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"To examine the scope and selectivity of sleep-linked synaptic plasticity, it is vital to comprehensively track the synaptic changes of individual neurons through sleep-wake states," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"To that end, we used in vivo synaptic labeling tools in larval zebrafish to image the same neurons and their synapses repeatedly over long timescales, enabling us to map single-neuron synapse changes across sleep and wake states."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-changes-in-the-first-half-of-the-night">Significant changes in the first half of the night</h2>



<p>By observing these fish over multiple sleep-wake cycles, they discovered that synaptic connections increase during wakefulness and decrease during sleep, particularly when sleep was postponed, indicating that sleep pressure intensifies this reduction.</p>



<p>The study revealed that the significant synaptic changes primarily occur during the first half of the night, coinciding with the peak period of slow-wave activity, a critical phase of the sleep cycle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-dampens-connections-in-the-brain">Sleep dampens connections in the brain</h2>



<p>“Our findings add weight to the theory that sleep serves to dampen connections within the brain, preparing for more learning and new connections again the next day,” said lead author Anya Suppermpool from UCL Cell &amp; Developmental Biology and UCL Ear Institute.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“But our study doesn’t tell us anything about what happens in the second half of the night. There are other theories around sleep being a time for clearance of waste in the brain, or repair for damaged cells – perhaps other functions kick in for the second half of the night.”</p>



<p>This research not only deepens our understanding of sleep’s role in synaptic management but also poses new questions about the functions of its later stages, paving the way for future investigations into the full spectrum of sleep's impact on <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>.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07367-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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

Sleep resets brain connections for a few hours, but then what happens?

In a study involving zebrafish, a team of scientists led...

<p>A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.uoguelph.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Guelph</a> in Canada has found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-the-biggest-threat-to-wild-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> is increasingly posing a significant threat to bumblebee populations worldwide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the experts, the perils that rising temperatures pose to bumblebee nest viability and larvae development should urgently be taken into account in order to protect these insects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-bumblebee-populations-nbsp">Decline in bumblebee populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“The decline in populations and ranges of several species of bumblebees may be explained by issues of overheating of the nests and the brood. The constraints on the survival of the bumblebee brood indicate that heat is likely a major factor, with heating of the nest above about 35 degrees Celsius being lethal, despite the remarkable capacity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bumblebees-increasingly-stressed-over-the-past-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bumblebees</a> to thermoregulate,” explained Peter Kevan, an expert in environmental sciences at Guelph.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimal-temperature-range-for-bumblebee-nests">Optimal temperature range for bumblebee nests</h2>



<p>Bumblebees, diverse in species and widespread across various climates, have consistently shown an optimal nest temperature range between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius. This similarity across species suggests a limited ability to adapt to rising temperatures outside of their thermal neutral zone, where they can maintain body temperature without expending much energy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Excessively <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/death-valley-may-reach-the-hottest-temperature-ever-recorded-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high temperatures</a> are more harmful to most animals and plants than cool temperatures. When conditions are cool, organisms that do not metabolically regulate their body temperatures simply slow down, but when temperatures get too high metabolic processes start to break down and cease. Death ensues quickly,” Kevan said.</p>



<p>Through an extensive review spanning 180 years, the researchers have found that bumblebees can survive temperatures up to 36 degrees Celsius and thrive best around 30-32 degrees Celsius, though variations exist depending on species and geographic conditions. However, their innate ability to thermoregulate may not suffice against the escalating challenges posed by global warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collective-health-of-the-bumblebee-colony">Collective health of the bumblebee colony</h2>



<p>The study also emphasizes the concept of the bumblebee colony as a “superorganism,” highlighting that the reproductive success of the colony hinges on the collective health and survival of its members, not just individual bees. High nest temperatures, therefore, jeopardize the entire colony's future by potentially reducing the health and viability of new offspring.</p>



<p>“The effect of high nest temperatures has not been studied very much, which is surprising,” Kevan remarked. “We can surmise that nest temperatures above the mid-30s Celsius would likely be highly detrimental and that above about 35 Celsius death would occur, probably quite quickly.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elevated-nest-temperatures-nbsp">Elevated nest temperatures&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Parallel findings in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-carrying-nectar-avoid-overheating-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> have shown that elevated nest temperatures can weaken bee queens and result in smaller, less robust worker bees. A similar impact on bumblebees could directly contribute to their decline, suggesting an urgent need for further research.</p>



<p>The scientists advocate for deeper exploration into the understudied areas of bumblebee ecology such as nest morphology, material properties, and temperature regulation strategies. Innovative methods like ground-penetrating radar and flow-through respirometry analysis might reveal how different colonies and species manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humidity-increases-urban-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thermal stress</a>, potentially uncovering broader thermal neutral zones in some species that could confer greater resilience.</p>



<p>“We hope that future scientists may take the ideas we present and apply them to their own research on bumblebee health and conservation,” Kevan concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bumblebee-nests-nbsp">Bumblebee nests&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Bumblebee nests are unique and fascinating structures usually found underground or in dense grass. Unlike honeybees, which build extensive hives, bumblebees often repurpose abandoned rodent burrows or thick grass clumps to create their homes. These nests are less populous, typically housing anywhere from 50 to 400 bees, which is considerably smaller than honeybee hives.</p>



<p>The queen bumblebee initiates the nest by laying the first batch of eggs, which she incubates with her body. As these hatch and mature into worker bees, they take over the duties of expanding the nest, foraging for food, and caring for subsequent broods laid by the queen. The interior of a bumblebee nest contains wax pots built by the workers for storing food and rearing young bees.</p>



<p>These nests have a relatively short lifespan. They are usually active for only a few months each year, from spring to late summer. At the end of the season, new queens are produced, which leave to mate and then find a place to hibernate through the winter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The original nest is abandoned and generally does not get reused the following year. This cycle highlights the bumblebee's vital role in pollination and the ecosystem, despite their nests being less permanent than those of some other bee species.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/frbee.2024.1351616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Frontiers in Bee Science</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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Rising temperatures are overheating bumblebee nests

A recent study led by the University of Guelph in...

<p>Recent research has revealed a fascinating detail about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-smoke-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud</a> formation that might significantly deepen our understanding of climate change. This collaborative study, which utilized global satellite data and direct observations off the California coast, shows that aerosol particles as small as 25-30 nanometers - considerably smaller than previously believed - are crucial for cloud development.</p>



<p>"Clouds in Earth's atmosphere are of fundamental importance for the climate by regulating the reflection of sunlight into space and interacting with thermal radiation from Earth," noted the study authors. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focusing-on-the-behavior-of-cloud-condensation-nuclei">Focusing on the behavior of cloud condensation nuclei</h2>



<p>Clouds, complex and pivotal components of Earth’s atmosphere, present the greatest challenge in accurately predicting climate changes. Their formation is influenced by large-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-clouds-may-be-affecting-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> systems that span hundreds of kilometers and by interactions at the molecular level.</p>



<p>"Clouds are an essential part of Earth's climate system. At the same time, clouds constitute one of the largest uncertainties in our understanding of climate change," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>The study, focusing on the behavior of cloud condensation nuclei within marine stratus clouds, reveals that the size threshold required for these nuclei to trigger cloud formation is much smaller than the established norm of 60 nanometers. </p>



<p>Cloud formation occurs under two primary conditions: the atmosphere must be supersaturated with water, and there must be a seed particle or nucleus around which water can condense. </p>



<p>Traditionally, it was believed that these nuclei had to be relatively large. However, researchers from The <a href="https://www.dtu.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Denmark,</a> the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>, and the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a> have found that even smaller proto-seeds can serve as effective nuclei.</p>



<p>"Here, we show that the supersaturation in marine liquid clouds is significantly higher than in the conventional view. As a consequence, much smaller aerosols can serve as cloud condensation nuclei. This can make cloud formation more sensitive to changes in aerosol properties than previously thought," wrote the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-role-of-smaller-aerosols-in-cloud-formation">Surprising role of smaller aerosols in cloud formation</h2>



<p>Henrik Svensmark, a senior researcher at DTU Space and lead author of the study, emphasized the sensitivity of cloud formation to these smaller aerosols, especially in regions dominated by marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-co2-levels-stratus-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stratus clouds</a>. </p>



<p>"Since the proto seeds can be much smaller than previously thought, cloud formation is more sensitive to changes in aerosols than previously thought, especially in pristine areas," said Svensmark.</p>



<p>This sensitivity arises because smaller aerosols can be activated into cloud droplets in conditions where water is highly supersaturated. </p>



<p>Essentially, the denser the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-vapor-buoyancy-mitigates-climate-warming-in-the-tropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water vapor</a>, the smaller the necessary seed particle. This means that in areas with higher water supersaturation, even minuscule aerosol particles can catalyze cloud formation.</p>



<p>The research utilized measurements from marine stratus clouds gathered in 2014 by Nevada researchers, alongside global data from the MODIS satellite instrument. </p>



<p>These combined observations revealed a consistent pattern of higher-than-expected supersaturation across the globe, which in turn adjusts the scale of critical seed size downwards.</p>



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



<p>"About half of all cloud condensation nuclei are formed by tens of thousands of molecules clumping together one by one, forming an aerosol particle. That takes time; the longer it takes, the larger the risk of getting lost," explained Svensmark. </p>



<p>"Current models show that due to the growth time, most of the small <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=aerosols&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a> are lost before they grow to the critical size, and thus, cloud formation is rather insensitive to changes in the production of small aerosols. Our results change this understanding as aerosols must grow much less, which is important for modeling clouds and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-clouds-influence-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> predictions."</p>



<p>In simple terms, the discovery that smaller aerosols can effectively contribute to cloud formation suggests that climate models need to be recalibrated to account for these dynamics. This could potentially improve our predictions of future climate scenarios and provide a clearer picture of how atmospheric changes are influencing our environment.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study not only challenges established paradigms in climatology but also opens the door for further investigations into the delicate interplays at the heart of our planet’s climate system.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL108140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Tiny aerosols have a major influence on cloud formation

Recent research has revealed a fascinating detail about cloud formation...

<p>The Arctic has always been a realm of ice and snow, a starkly beautiful counterpoint to the vibrant life further south. But this seemingly pristine wilderness is ground zero for an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-new-clues-about-rapid-arctic-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alarming transformation</a>. The North Pole, the heart of this frozen world, is warming at a breakneck pace that scientists are struggling to fully understand.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-north-pole-warming-faster-than-we-thought">North Pole warming faster than we thought</h2>



<p>The fact that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic is warming</a> several times faster than the global average isn't just a scientific curiosity; it's a red flashing siren indicating major disruption. This intense warming translates into rapid, unpredictable transformations for both the Arctic and the broader planetary systems it influences.</p>



<p>Dr. Barten's research doesn't stop at simply acknowledging the severity of Arctic warming. His work is about dissecting the precise processes that accelerate this change. </p>



<p>Understanding these processes won't tell us <em>if</em> the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-impacts-dust-levels-on-a-global-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> will change drastically – we know that's inevitable – but it will crucially reveal <em>how fast</em> this change will happen.</p>



<p>The speed of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-could-speed-up-global-2c-temperature-rise-by-eight-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic warming</a> is the crucial factor determining our response. Knowing whether we have decades or mere years to adapt makes the difference between a planned transition and full-blown crisis management. </p>



<p>Every fraction of a degree of warming that we can prevent will translate to more time to prepare our infrastructure, protect vulnerable communities, and shift global systems for a changing world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-driving-the-warming">What's driving the warming?</h2>



<p>The Arctic atmosphere is far from the pristine image we might hold. Instead, it's a dynamic mix of various compounds, some of which are now <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-amplification-is-destabilizing-the-delicate-balance-of-the-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amplifying warming</a> in an unexpected way. Dr. Barten's research highlights two primary culprits:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ozone-s-unexpected-impact">Ozone's unexpected impact</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-exposes-wildlife-to-harmful-uv-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ozone</a> plays a vital role high in the atmosphere, shielding us from harmful solar radiation. However, closer to the Earth's surface, it acts as a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to the warming of the planet. In the Arctic, unique atmospheric conditions allow ozone to linger longer than anticipated, magnifying its warming effect.</p>



<p>"There, the ozone is absorbed by seawater, snow and ice, but this process is much slower than was assumed. This causes the ozone to remain in the air," explained Dr. Barten.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warm-intrusions">Warm intrusions</h3>



<p>The Arctic's historically stable, cold air is being increasingly disrupted by warmer air masses from lower latitudes. These warm spells are becoming more frequent and intense due to broader climate change. They transport additional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1987-ozone-treaty-had-an-unexpected-benefit-for-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a> into the Arctic and accelerate ice melt through their heat alone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-snow-problem-in-north-pole-warming">The snow problem in North Pole warming</h2>



<p>The notion of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-waters-are-emitting-more-carbon-as-they-continue-to-warm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> as a pristine, untouched wilderness is fading fast. The reality is that our industrial activities leave a long shadow, even reaching the farthest corners of the globe. </p>



<p>Microscopic particles called soot, a byproduct of fossil fuel combustion from factories, vehicles, and other sources, travel vast distances on air currents. These tiny, dark specks end up settling on the Arctic's once-pristine snow and ice.</p>



<p>Soot acts like a miniature heat sponge. Unlike the reflective white snow and ice, which bounce sunlight back into space, soot absorbs solar radiation. </p>



<p>This absorption translates into a warming effect, similar to wearing a dark-colored shirt on a hot day. The presence of soot significantly accelerates the melting of Arctic ice, contributing to rising sea levels and disrupting delicately balanced ecosystems.</p>



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



<p>It's easy to dismiss the melting Arctic as a distant concern with little impact on our everyday lives. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. The Arctic plays a crucial role in Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex climate system</a>. Changes in this cold, white expanse have cascading effects way beyond the polar regions. </p>



<p>Every chunk of ice that melts in the Arctic translates directly into higher ocean levels. Coastal communities worldwide are vulnerable to this creeping crisis. We're not just talking about more frequent flooding – we're talking about the long-term displacement of millions and the loss of precious land.</p>



<p>The Arctic plays a crucial role in regulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-arctic-ice-changing-global-climate-warm-arctic-cold-eurasia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global weather patterns</a>. Think of it as influencing the major currents of air and water that distribute heat and moisture around the planet. As the Arctic's systems are thrown off, we experience effects like:</p>



<ul>
<li>More intense storms in regions accustomed to mild climates.</li>



<li>Prolonged droughts that decimate crops and threaten food supplies.</li>



<li>Heatwaves and temperature swings that push infrastructure (and human bodies) to their limits.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do-about-north-pole-warming">What can we do about North Pole warming?</h2>



<p>While the situation is far from hopeless, it's definitely urgent. The good news is that we have powerful tools to slow and potentially limit the Arctic's transformation. Each choice we make, and every policy change we support, directly impacts the speed and extent of further warming. </p>



<p>Our reliance on fossil fuels is the primary driver of global warming, including the accelerated changes in the Arctic. Prioritizing clean, renewable energy sources, investing in energy efficiency, and rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuel dependance are essential. These aren't abstract goals – they directly impact the fate of the Arctic.</p>



<p>Small acts, when repeated and amplified across millions of people, make a substantial difference. Conserving energy at home, opting for sustainable transportation like public transit or biking, and consciously demanding environmentally responsible practices from businesses all add up.</p>



<p>The Arctic's plight needs to be front and center in climate conversations. Make your concerns heard by leaders, representatives, and businesses. Demand bolder climate action and policies that align with the urgency of the situation.</p>



<p>Read the entire study <a href="https://edepot.wur.nl/640900" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



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



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Why the North Pole is warming faster than the rest of our planet

The Arctic has always been a realm of ice and...

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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


<p>Elissa stayed low as she combed through the grass, checking for signs of dug holes or even a nest. Unfortunately, her search was turning up nothing. When she saw Bobo coming back, Elissa quickly exited the foliage and hid empty-handed. Where was the thing he&#8217;d been holding? Photo Credit: Facebook / Ape Action Africa</p>


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