Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Messina Strait, a channel in the Mediterranean Sea that separates Sicily and Calabria. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station



The Messina Strait is 20 miles long with a depth of 820 feet, and joins the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the south.&nbsp;



"Waves that follow the tide from west to east are visible in the right half of the photo. These are caused by internal waves, a process where stratified water layers of changing density and increasing depth horizontally propagate beneath the water surface. The waves are illuminated by sunglint—an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is directly reflected off the water and into a satellite’s sensor, or in this case, the astronaut’s camera," explains NASA.



"Alternating currents, relatively low water temperature, and high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen contribute to the region’s aquatic biodiversity. The strait hosts several deep-sea fish species such as Sloane’s viperfish (a predatory dragonfish) as well as commercially valuable fish like yellowtail and snapper. On the left side of the image, thin, white lines are likely ship wakes, some of which may belong to fishing boats."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Messina Strait in the Mediterranean Sea

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Amazon River in Brazil. This particular stretch of river is located near the port city of Parintins.



"The river is the largest on Earth and allows seagoing ships to reach Parintins even though it is 800 kilometers (500 miles) inland from the Atlantic Ocean," says NASA.



"Seagoing ships can progress 3,600 kilometers (2,200 miles) up the Amazon River - more than halfway across the South American continent - to the port of Iquitos in Peru."&nbsp;



The muddy color of the river is tied to the Andes Mountains, a major source of sediments and mineral nutrients. According to NASA, the sediment erodes from the Andes Mountains located to the west and is carried generally eastward toward the ocean.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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The lower Amazon River in Brazil

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, a group of islands located in the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, off the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.&nbsp;



"Sunglint reflects off the water surface, accentuating wave movement, ship wakes, and cloud shadows," said NASA. "The islands appear rust-colored due to previous tectonic and volcanic activity that deposited layers of black lava and pink volcanic ash."



"The Baja Peninsula acts as a natural wind and wave break that protects islands in the Gulf of California from erosion. Slowed erosion has resulted in the preservation of rock shelters and caves."



"Exploration and excavation of these shelters contribute to understanding the geomorphology, geology, and ancient human patterns on the islands. Archeologists have found human artifacts artifacts dating back approximately ten thousand years, providing evidence of human activity on the islands."



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago is part of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur and consists of several islands, the largest and most well-known of which is Isla Espíritu Santo. The other main islands in the archipelago are Isla Partida, Los Islotes, and a few smaller islets.



Espíritu Santo and its surrounding islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, featuring dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. The region is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including sea lions, manta rays, whale sharks, and various species of whales and dolphins. It also supports a variety of bird species, such as blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and pelicans, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Mexican Protected Natural Area, which helps to preserve its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Ecotourism is popular in the area, with visitors participating in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and wildlife watching.



The islands are accessible by boat from the nearby city of La Paz, which is the capital of Baja California Sur. There are numerous tour operators that offer day trips and multi-day excursions to the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, allowing visitors to explore the islands and their remarkable natural features.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Espíritu Santo Archipelago in the Gulf of California

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Dark Canyon Complex, which is a rugged, remote area in southeastern Utah. It's part of the larger Cedar Mesa Plateau and includes both the Dark Canyon Wilderness and Dark Canyon Primitive Area.&nbsp;



These are areas of steep canyons, high plateaus, and rock formations that are characteristic of the Colorado Plateau.



"Deep, meandering canyons cut through the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah in this photograph, taken by an astronaut on the International Space Station on April 6, 2023," says NASA.



"These canyons, known as the Dark Canyon complex, have distinctive geology, ecology, and archeology. They are some of the only intact protected canyons in the United States."



"This rugged and remote landscape has been shaped by erosion. Over thousands of years, the Colorado River and smaller tributaries have eroded winding, steep-walled canyons into the sedimentary rock. Dark Canyon - one of seven canyons within the complex - cuts diagonally across the photo."



"Within this canyon, sandstone walls tower up to 3,000 feet, shading visitors from morning and afternoon sun - hence its name. The canyon’s steep walls expose roughly 250 million years of geologic history and contain deposits from the Permian period. Cockleshell and crinoid stem fossils have been found in the area."



The astronaut photograph is provided by the ISS Crew Earth Observations Facility and the Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, Johnson Space Center. The image was taken by a member of the Expedition 69 crew.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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The Dark Canyon Complex in southeastern Utah

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, and its surroundings. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on February 21, 2023.



"Situated some 50 km south of the North Korean border, the metropolitan area of Seoul appears as the grey area in the centre of the image," says ESA.



"The Han River runs through the city, and to the right of the image it can be seen partly covered by ice. It is one of the biggest rivers in the Korean peninsula. It flows westward through Seoul into the Yellow Sea, named so because of the yellowish sand that colours its water."



"Seoul is surrounded by forested mountains, which appear brown in this wintery image. Bukhansan National Park lies just north of the city. The park is like an island, acting as a big green lung for the surrounding urban environment."



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Seoul, South Korea 

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Typhoon Mawar as it approached Guam on May 24, 2023. According to NASA, the violent storm was one of the strongest in decades to lash the U.S. territory.



Mawar carried sustained winds of about 140 miles per hour, which is the equivalent of a Category 4 storm.&nbsp;



"The image shows the typhoon’s cloud bands completely covering the islands, which were already being lashed with powerful winds and heavy rain," says NASA.



"The typhoon maintained its category 4 strength as the storm’s center traversed the Rota Channel, between the islands of Guam and Rota, at about 9 p.m. local time on May 24."



"The eye’s southern wall passed over much of Guam, according to the U.S. National Weather Service, and delivered the most extreme winds to the northern-third of the island."



Brandon Aydlett, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said the central and northern parts of the island received more than two feet of rain as the eyewall passed, and most of Guam received about a foot of rain during the storm.



The image was captured by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-20 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Typhoon Mawar slams the U.S. territory of Guam

Minni and Joel’s eyes turned wide as the couple showed them photos of the wedding bands … and a gold necklace with an anchor pendant. Both sides couldn’t hold back the tears. It was fate … pure fate. But the old couple was about to do something extra-special.

The Necklace Too!

A recent study has uncovered a unique correlation that could aid in early detection of cognitive decline. <a href="https://www.psu.edu/">Penn State</a> researchers have discovered that reduced sexual satisfaction in middle-aged men could serve as a significant warning sign for future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-popular-songs-and-movies-shape-memory/">memory</a> loss.



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnac151">Gerontologist</a>, this study is an innovative contribution to scientific understanding. It delves into the dynamic relationship between erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and cognition, providing novel insights.&nbsp;



"We found that as sexual satisfaction and erectile function decreased, memory loss appeared to increase," the study reports. This correlation suggests a novel risk factor for cognitive decline.



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



Study co-author Professor Martin Sliwinski explained the study's unique methodology: "We measured memory function and sexual function at each point in the longitudinal study, allowing us to track how these factors changed together over time."



The study emphasizes middle age as a crucial period, where physical changes like microvascular alterations affecting erectile function and psychological shifts, such as decreased sexual satisfaction, begin to impact cognition. Professor Sliwinski and his team found a strong correlation between these factors but couldn't definitively determine the cause.



"Low satisfaction generally puts you at higher risk for health problems like dementia, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, and other stress-related issues leading to cognitive decline," said Sliwinski.&nbsp;



Notably, the team found that improvements in sexual satisfaction might trigger better memory function, emphasizing the importance of sexual satisfaction for overall health and quality of life.



<h2 id="h-several-other-factors-evaluated">Several other factors evaluated</h2>



The researchers utilized survey data from 818 men involved in the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging to conduct the study. By administering neuropsychological tests over a 12-year period (from age 56 to 68), they tracked participants' cognitive changes, adjusting for cognitive ability in young adulthood.&nbsp;



They also evaluated erectile function and sexual satisfaction in conjunction with cognition using the International Index of Erectile Function, a self-reported tool for male sexual health.



Study lead author Riki Slayday, a doctoral candidate at Penn State, commented on the unique focus of the study: "We were interested in the perception of sexual activity, how someone feels about their sex life, and how that influences cognitive function."



The analysis found both erectile function and sexual satisfaction were linked with memory decline, underscoring a connection between psychological and physical health.



"We found concurrent increases or decreases in erectile function and sexual satisfaction were associated with similar trends in cognitive function," said Professor Sliwinski. The researchers concluded that a clear link exists between sex lives and cognition, regardless of demographic and health factors.



<h2 id="h-more-questions-remain">More questions remain</h2>



Previous studies have highlighted a connection between microvascular changes and erectile function. "The active ingredient in Viagra (Sildenafil) was originally developed to treat cardiovascular problems," explained Sliwinski. However, the question of how erectile function relates to other health aspects remains an open question for future research.



Sliwinski suggests that regularly monitoring erectile function could help identify individuals at risk of cognitive decline before they reach their 70s. This recommendation comes at a crucial time when the older adult population in the U.S. is set to double over the next 30 years.&nbsp;



The implication is clear: as more people reach their 60s, we're likely to see more individuals experiencing declines in erectile function and sexual satisfaction.



"We already have a pill for treating erectile dysfunction. What we don't have is an effective treatment for memory loss," noted Sliwinski. He advocates for a shift in focus from merely treating symptoms, like erectile dysfunction, to improving sexual satisfaction and overall well-being.



The study's co-authors include researchers from the University of California San Diego and Boston University, and the research received funding from the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/">National Institute on Aging</a> at the National Institutes of Health.



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-links-between-sex-and-overall-health">More about the links between sex and overall health</h2>



Sexual activity and sexual health play significant roles in overall human health, spanning physical, psychological, and cognitive dimensions. Here's a more detailed look into each of these areas:



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



Sexual activity is not just about pleasure and procreation; it's also a form of exercise that benefits the body in several ways. Regular sexual activity can improve cardiovascular health, as it increases heart rate and blood flow. Some studies suggest that it can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. It also strengthens the immune system by boosting the levels of certain antibodies. Additionally, hormones released during sexual activity can help reduce pain and improve sleep quality.



<h3 id="h-psychological-health">Psychological Health</h3>



A healthy sex life can lead to improved mental health. It can enhance mood, reduce stress, and increase the overall quality of life. During sexual activity, the body releases hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins, which create feelings of happiness, bonding, and relaxation. This can foster intimacy between partners, improve relationship satisfaction, and promote a sense of well-being. Conversely, sexual issues like erectile dysfunction or a decrease in libido can often signal mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.



<h3 id="h-cognitive-health">Cognitive Health</h3>



Emerging research suggests a correlation between sexual activity and cognitive function. A study led by researchers at Penn State found a connection between sexual satisfaction in middle-aged men and memory function. While the relationship between sexual health and cognition is not fully understood, this study suggests that a satisfying sex life might have a positive effect on cognitive health.



<h3 id="h-overall-health-indicator">Overall Health Indicator</h3>



Sexual health can often serve as a barometer for overall health. For example, erectile dysfunction can be an early sign of cardiovascular problems, as both conditions involve blood flow. Similarly, changes in libido can sometimes indicate hormonal imbalances or other health issues.



<h3 id="h-sexual-satisfaction-and-longevity">Sexual Satisfaction and Longevity</h3>



There's some evidence suggesting that sexual satisfaction might contribute to a longer lifespan. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that men with high orgasmic frequency had a 50% lower mortality risk than those with lower frequencies.



Despite the benefits of sexual activity, it's important to remember that responsible sexual behavior, including safe sex practices and regular check-ups, is vital to avoid sexually transmitted infections and other complications that could negatively impact health.



Therefore, maintaining sexual health should be an integral part of overall healthcare, and any concerns about sexual health should be discussed openly with healthcare providers. It's not just about physical and psychological well-being - the potential cognitive benefits make this an area of increasing interest in the realm of public health.



—-



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Lack of sexual satisfaction linked to rapid memory decline

A recent study has uncovered a unique correlation that could...

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists from the <a href="https://www.swri.org/">Southwest Research Institute</a> (SwRI) have identified a mammoth plume of water vapor, spanning over 6,000 miles, gushing from Saturn's moon Enceladus.&nbsp;



This observation was made using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the plume's enormity is tantamount to the distance between the U.S. and Japan.



Led by Dr. Christopher Glein, the team has unveiled this remarkable discovery as part of NASA JWST Cycle 1. The experts will probe the plume and the moon's chemical compounds more in-depth in an effort to gauge Enceladus's potential habitability.



<h2 id="h-ocean-of-liquid-water-under-the-surface">Ocean of liquid water under the surface</h2>



Enceladus, a satellite known to have a subsurface ocean of liquid water, was under the observation of the Cassini spacecraft for 13 long years. This journey led to the revelation of the moon's icy surface, which occasionally shoots out plumes of ice grains and water vapor into the cosmos.



"Enceladus is one of the most dynamic objects in the solar system and is a prime target in humanity’s search for life beyond Earth," said Dr. Glein, who is renowned for his expertise in extraterrestrial oceanography. "In the years since NASA’s Cassini spacecraft first looked at Enceladus, we never cease to be amazed by what we find is happening on this extraordinary moon."



In this awe-inspiring expedition, the Near InfraRed Spectrograph of the Webb made noteworthy observations.



<h2 id="h-shock-and-awe-from-the-research-team">Shock and awe from the research team</h2>



Geronimo Villanueva from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center</a> said: “When I was looking at the data, at first, I was thinking I had to be wrong, it was just so shocking to map a plume more than 20 times the diameter of the moon. The plume extends far beyond what we could have imagined."



Webb’s sensitivity managed to unfold a new narrative about Enceladus. The moon, while orbiting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-now-leads-the-solar-system-moon-race-with-145/">Saturn</a> in a brisk 33 hours, scatters water, forming a donut-like halo in its trail. The findings revealed that this mammoth plume permeates Saturn’s dense E-ring. The JWST data indicates that while about 30 percent of the water lingers in the moon's wake, the other 70 percent drifts away to enrich the rest of the Saturnian system.



Dr. Silvia Protopapa, an icy bodies composition expert from SwRI, explained: “The Webb observations, for the first time, are visually illustrating how the moon's water vapor plumes are playing a role in the formation of the torus. This serves as a stunning testament to Webb's extraordinary abilities. I'm thrilled to be part of the Cycle 2 team as we initiate our search for new indications of habitability and plume activity on Enceladus.”



In light of these astounding revelations, Dr. Glein and his team are gearing up to conduct further studies on Enceladus using the JWST in the upcoming year.



“We will search for specific indicators of habitability, such as organic signatures and hydrogen peroxide," explained Dr. Glein. "Hydrogen peroxide is particularly interesting because it can provide much more potent sources of metabolic energy than what we previously identified. Cassini didn't give us a clear answer on the availability of such strong oxidants on Enceladus.”



<h2 id="h-looking-for-signs-of-life-on-enceladus">Looking for signs of life on Enceladus</h2>



This new endeavor will enhance the potential to spot signs of habitability on the surface and will amplify the signal-to-noise ratio up to ten times compared to Cycle 1. Recognizing the temporal variability of plume outgassing is crucial for future planetary missions targeting the plume.



"Webb can serve as a bridge between Cassini and the proposed search-for-life mission, Orbilander," said Dr. Glein. He expressed that after Cycle 2, we might have a clearer understanding of whether ocean samples are widely distributed across Enceladus’s surface, or concentrated near the south pole.



“These next observations could help us determine if Orbilander can access ocean samples near the equator, which may help us get back to Enceladus sooner,” said Dr. Glein, expressing the team's enthusiasm and hope for the subsequent explorations.



This momentous discovery underscores not only our advancing technological capabilities but also our relentless pursuit of unraveling the mysteries of our universe. The towering plume of water vapor on Enceladus offers a captivating glimpse into what lies beyond our earthly domain, raising the fascinating possibility of life existing in the far reaches of our solar system. As scientists delve further into these investigations, we eagerly await the revelations that lie ahead.



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



Saturn's moon Enceladus is one of the most intriguing objects in our solar system due to its geologic activity and potential habitability.&nbsp;



Discovered in 1789 by William Herschel, it's the sixth-largest moon of Saturn, with a diameter of about 500 kilometers (roughly 310 miles), making it small enough to fit within the length of the United Kingdom.



<h3 id="h-key-information-about-enceladus">Key information about Enceladus:</h3>



<h4 id="h-icy-surface">Icy surface</h4>



Enceladus is one of the brightest objects in our solar system due to its surface being composed of mostly clean, fresh ice, which reflects nearly 100% of the sunlight that strikes it. This icy surface is believed to sit atop a global ocean of liquid water.



<h4 id="h-geologic-activity">Geologic activity</h4>



Enceladus is geologically active, with the most evident sign being the plumes of water vapor that spray into space from its surface. These plumes originate from the so-called "tiger stripes" near the moon's south pole - these are warm fissures in the icy crust, where the internal heat of Enceladus escapes.



<h4 id="h-subsurface-ocean">Subsurface ocean</h4>



The Cassini mission, run by NASA, ESA (European Space Agency), and ASI (Italian Space Agency), made the groundbreaking discovery that a salty ocean exists beneath Enceladus's icy surface. This liquid water ocean likely covers the entire moon, sitting between the core and the ice.



<h4 id="h-signs-of-hydrothermal-activity">Signs of hydrothermal activity</h4>



Enceladus has also shown signs of hydrothermal activity. Analysis of the moon's plumes by the Cassini spacecraft detected molecular hydrogen, a potential sign of hydrothermal reactions between the moon's rocky core and its ocean. This type of reaction is known to support microbial life at the bottom of Earth's oceans.



<h4 id="h-potential-for-life">Potential for life</h4>



Given the presence of a global ocean, heat, and organic molecules, Enceladus is considered one of the best places to look for extraterrestrial life within our solar system.



<h4 id="h-e-ring-of-saturn">E-ring of Saturn</h4>



The plumes from Enceladus are responsible for creating Saturn's E-ring, as the moon spews out icy particles that then orbit Saturn.



<h4 id="h-gravity-and-orbital-resonance">Gravity and orbital resonance</h4>



Enceladus orbits Saturn at a distance of 238,000 kilometers (roughly 148,000 miles), closer than our Moon orbits Earth. Its orbit is kept stable due to a 2:1 mean-motion orbital resonance with another of Saturn's moons, Dione. This means that for every orbit Dione completes, Enceladus completes two.



Remember that much of what we know about Enceladus comes from the Cassini mission, which explored the Saturn system from 2004 until its deliberate plunge into Saturn in 2017. As of my knowledge cut-off in September 2021, additional exploration missions like the James Webb Space Telescope will provide even more exciting insights into this intriguing moon.



<h2 id="h-more-about-james-webb-telescope">More about James Webb Telescope</h2>



The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), often dubbed as the successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, is one of the most ambitious space observatories ever constructed.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-key-details-about-the-jwst">Key details about the JWST:</h3>



<h4 id="h-partnership-project">Partnership project</h4>



JWST is an international collaboration between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). It's named after James E. Webb, who served as Undersecretary of State and Administrator of NASA from 1961 to 1968 and was a major advocate for space exploration.



<h4 id="h-launch-and-operation">Launch and operation</h4>



As of my last knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the launch was scheduled for December 2021. The JWST will be positioned near the second Lagrange point (L2), approximately 1.5 million kilometers (about 930,000 miles) from Earth – a position that allows it to stay in line with the Earth as it orbits the Sun.



<h4 id="h-mission-goals">Mission goals</h4>



The primary science goals of JWST are to study the formation of stars and galaxies, understand the formation of stellar and planetary systems, and investigate the potential for life in other planetary systems.



<h4 id="h-technology-and-instruments">Technology and instruments</h4>



JWST features a range of technologies and instruments that far surpass the capabilities of the Hubble Space Telescope. Its primary mirror, at 6.5 meters (21 feet) in diameter, is over two and a half times larger than Hubble's, allowing it to collect significantly more light.



<h4 id="h-infrared-focus">Infrared focus</h4>



JWST is primarily an infrared observatory, allowing it to see through dust clouds where stars are born, observe distant galaxies whose light has been redshifted into the infrared part of the spectrum, and study objects within our own solar system in extraordinary detail.



<h4 id="h-instruments">Instruments</h4>



JWST has four main instruments: The Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam), the Near-Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec), the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), and the Fine Guidance Sensor/Near InfraRed Imager and Slitless Spectrograph (FGS/NIRISS). These instruments will allow astronomers to perform a wide range of observations.



<h4 id="h-sunshield">Sunshield</h4>



JWST features a large, five-layer sunshield that is vital for its operation. This sunshield protects the telescope from the heat and light of the Sun, Earth, and Moon, keeping its instruments cooled down enough to observe faint infrared emissions.



The JWST represents a major leap forward in our capabilities to observe the universe, and the scientific community eagerly awaits the wealth of data and discoveries it will generate.



Image Credit: NASA



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Life on Saturn’s moon Enceladus? Massive water plume has scientists wondering

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists from the Southwest Research Institute...

A team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/">Columbia University</a> and <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/">Brigham and Women’s Hospital</a> has recently discovered that a diet low in flavanols – a type of nutrients found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and beverages such as tea, cocoa, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-wildfire-smoke-impact-wine-flavors/">wine</a> – plays a fundamental role in driving age-related memory loss. These findings suggest that the aging brain requires specific nutrients for optimal health in a similar way that the developing brain needs specific nutrients for proper development.



“The identification of nutrients critical for the proper development of an infant’s nervous system was a crowning achievement of 20th&nbsp;century nutrition science,” said senior author Scott Small, a professor of Neurology at Columbia.



“In this century, as we are living longer, research is starting to reveal that different nutrients are needed to fortify our aging minds. Our study, which relies on biomarkers of flavanol consumption, can be used as a template by other researchers to identify additional, necessary nutrients.”



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



The study builds on 15 years of research conducted at Small’s lab examining the relation between age-related memory loss and changes in the dentate gyrus – a region of the brain’s hippocampus that is vital for the formation of new memories. In a series of experiments on both mice and humans, Small and his colleagues discovered that flavanols improve function in the dentate gyrus by enhancing the growth of neurons and blood vessels.



The current study was designed to investigate the impact of flavanols in a much larger group, consisting of 3,500 healthy older adults randomly assigned to receive either a daily flavanol supplement or a placebo for three years.&nbsp;



At the beginning of the study, each participant had to complete a survey assessing the quality of their diet. Afterward, the individuals performed a series of web-based activities in their own homes to assess the types of short-term memories structured by the hippocampus. These tests were repeated each year.&nbsp;



Finally, over a third of the participants supplied urine samples in order for researchers to measure a biomarker for dietary flavanol levels to determine if these levels corresponded to performance on the cognitive tests and make sure the participants were sticking to their assigned regimen.



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



The analyses revealed that, after one year, participants who had initially reported consuming a poor diet with lower flavanol levels saw an increase in their memory scores by an average of 10.5 percent compared to the placebo group and 16 percent compared to their memory at baseline. Such improvements were sustained for at least two more years. However, in the case of participants who did not have a flavanol deficiency at the beginning of the study, no significant increase in memory scores was found after taking the supplement.



These findings, which are published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, suggest that flavanol deficiency is a driver of age-related memory loss, although it is not yet clear what other factors are at play.&nbsp;



“We cannot yet definitively conclude that low dietary intake of flavanols alone causes poor memory performance, because we did not conduct the opposite experiment: depleting flavanol in people who are not deficient,” Small explained.



In future research, the scientists plan to confirm flavanols’ effect on the brain through a clinical trial aiming to restore flavanol levels in adults with severe flavanol deficiency.



“Age-related memory decline is thought to occur sooner or later in nearly everyone, though there is a great amount of variability. If some of this variance is partly due to differences in dietary consumption of flavanols, then we would see an even more dramatic improvement in memory in people who replenish dietary flavanols when they’re in their 40s and 50s,” Small concluded.



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



Flavanols are a type of flavonoid, a class of compounds with antioxidant effects. Flavonoids are a diverse group of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) found in almost all fruits and vegetables. They are known for their health benefits, which are often attributed to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.



<h3 id="h-foods-with-high-levels-of-flavanols">Foods with high levels of flavanols&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 id="h-cocoa-and-dark-chocolate">Cocoa and dark chocolate</h4>



These are perhaps the best-known sources of flavanols. It's important to note that the flavanol content can vary significantly, depending on the cocoa processing method. Dark chocolate and cocoa powders that have undergone minimal processing tend to have the highest flavanol content.



<h4 id="h-fruits-like-apples-grapes-and-berries">Fruits like apples, grapes, and berries</h4>



These fruits, especially their skins, are good sources of flavanols.



<h4 id="h-green-and-black-tea">Green and black tea</h4>



Both these teas are rich in a subclass of flavanols known as catechins.



<h3 id="h-potential-health-benefits-of-flavanols">Potential health benefits of flavanols</h3>



<h4 id="h-cardiovascular-health">Cardiovascular health</h4>



Flavanols might improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart and brain. They can also help make blood platelets less sticky, reducing the risk of blood clots.



<h4 id="h-brain-health">Brain health</h4>



Some studies have found that flavanols can improve blood flow to the brain, potentially protecting against age-related cognitive decline.



<h4 id="h-cancer">Cancer</h4>



Flavanols, like other antioxidants, can neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing the risk of cell damage and potentially the risk of certain types of cancer.



<h4 id="h-diabetes">Diabetes</h4>



Some research suggests that flavanols can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.



<h4 id="h-skin-health">Skin health</h4>



Flavanols in cocoa may improve the structure and function of skin, protect against sun damage, and improve hydration and complexion.



However, it's important to note that while the potential health benefits of flavanols are promising, many of the effects have been observed in laboratory studies or large-scale population studies, and further research, particularly in the form of randomized controlled trials, is needed to confirm these findings



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Flavanols: A key to slowing age-related memory loss in the brain

A team of researchers led by Columbia University and Brigham...

A team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.curtin.edu.au/">Curtin University</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://museumsvictoria.com.au/">Museums Victoria</a> has recently confirmed that the 107-million-year-old <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-pterosaurs-had-colorful-feathers/">pterosaur</a> bones discovered over three decades ago are the oldest of their kind ever found in Australia. The study of the fossils sheds new light on the life of these powerful, flying reptiles that lived among the dinosaurs during the Mesozoic era.



The experts examined a partial pelvis bone and a small wing bone discovered at the Dinosaur Cove in Victoria, Australia in the late 1980s by Dr. Tom Rich, Professor Pat Vickers-Rich, and colleagues.



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



The analysis revealed that the bones belonged to two different pterosaurs: while the partial pelvis bone belonged to a pterosaur with a wingspan exceeding two meters, the small wing bone belonged to a juvenile pterosaur (the first ever reported in Australia).



“During the Cretaceous Period (145–66 million years ago), Australia was further south than it is today, and the state of Victoria was within the polar circle — covered in darkness for weeks on end during the winter. Despite these seasonally harsh conditions, it is clear that pterosaurs found a way to survive and thrive,” said study lead author Adele Pentland, a PhD student in Paleontology at Curtin.



“Pterosaurs are rare worldwide, and only a few remains have been discovered at what were high palaeolatitude locations, such as Victoria, so these bones give us a better idea as to where pterosaurs lived and how big they were. By analyzing these bones, we have also been able to confirm the existence of the first ever Australian juvenile pterosaur, which resided in the Victorian forests around 107 million years ago.”



However, further research is needed to determine whether pterosaurs migrated north during the harsh winters to breed, or whether they managed to adapt to polar conditions. “Finding the answer to this question will help researchers better understand these mysterious flying reptiles,” Pentland concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/08912963.2023.2201827">Historical Biology</a>.



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



Pterosaurs, often referred to as pterodactyls, were a group of flying reptiles that lived during most of the Mesozoic Era, from the late Triassic to the end of the Cretaceous Period, approximately 228 to 66 million years ago. They were the first known vertebrates to have evolved powered flight, predating the birds and bats by millions of years. Pterosaurs are closely related to dinosaurs but are not considered dinosaurs themselves.



<h3 id="h-size">Size&nbsp;</h3>



Pterosaurs varied greatly in size, with wingspans ranging from a few centimeters to over 10 meters (33 feet). The largest known pterosaurs, such as Quetzalcoatlus, are among the largest known flying animals of all time. On the other hand, some smaller pterosaurs, like Anurognathus, were only about 50 centimeters (20 inches) in wingspan.



<h3 id="h-anatomy">Anatomy&nbsp;</h3>



Pterosaurs had a unique anatomy, which included a body covered by pycnofibres, a type of hair-like covering similar to but not identical with the fur of modern mammals. Some types of pterosaurs also featured crests of various sizes and shapes. Their wings were formed by a skin and muscle membrane that stretched from their elongated fourth finger to their hind limbs.



<h3 id="h-lifestyle">Lifestyle</h3>



The diet and lifestyle of pterosaurs varied significantly among species. Some were fish-eaters, others ate small dinosaurs or insects, and some species may have been scavengers. Despite their reptilian nature, many paleontologists believe that pterosaurs were warm-blooded, similar to modern birds and mammals, allowing them to sustain high levels of activity.



Pterosaurs became extinct at the end of the Cretaceous Period, about 66 million years ago, likely due to the same event that killed off the non-avian dinosaurs - the impact of a large asteroid or comet in what is now the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.



Pterosaurs remain a subject of active research, and new species and findings continue to expand our understanding of these fascinating prehistoric creatures.



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



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Oldest pterosaur bones found in Australia date back 107 million years

A team of researchers led by Curtin University in collaboration...

Astronomers have long known that our warm and yellow sun is a relative rarity in our galaxy, with the most common stars in the Milky Way being considerably smaller and cooler, and sporting just half of the mass of our sun at most. Although billions of planets orbit these common dwarf stars, in order to be warm enough to be habitable, they would need to huddle very close to their small stars, leaving them susceptible to extreme tidal forces.



Now, by using data collected by the Kepler and Gaia telescopes, which capture information about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-class-of-exoplanets-discovered/">exoplanets</a> as they move in front of their host stars, a team of astronomers led by the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a> has found that two-thirds of the planets orbiting these ubiquitous small stars are probably roasted by these tidal forces, leaving them uninhabitable.&nbsp;



However, one third of them – meaning hundreds of millions across the entire galaxy – could be in a so-called “goldilocks orbit” that is close enough and gentle enough to hold onto liquid water and thus possibly harbor life.



“I think this result is really important for the next decade of exoplanet research, because eyes are shifting toward this population of stars,” said study lead author Sheila Sagear, a doctoral student in Astronomy at UF. “These stars are excellent targets to look for small planets in an orbit where it’s conceivable that water might be liquid and therefore the planet might be habitable.”



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



The experts measured the eccentricity of over 150 planets around these M dwarf stars, which are about the size of Jupiter. The greater the oval shape of an orbit, the higher its eccentricity.&nbsp;



When a planet orbits in close proximity to its star - similar to Mercury’s distance from the sun - an eccentric orbit can lead to a phenomenon called tidal heating. Due to the varying gravitational forces acting on the planet as a result of its irregular orbit, it experiences stretching and deformation, which generates friction and subsequently raises its temperature. In the most extreme cases, this heating process can result in the planet being completely “baked,” eliminating any possibility of liquid water.



“It’s only for these small stars that the zone of habitability is close enough for these tidal forces to be relevant,” explained senior author Sarah Ballard, a professor of Astronomy at UF.&nbsp;



To measure the planets’ orbits, Ballard and Sagear used data collected by the Kepler telescope, focusing particularly on how long the planets took to move across the face of the stars. In addition, they also relied on new data from the Gaia telescope that measured the distance to billions of stars in our galaxy. “The distance is really the key piece of information we were missing before that allows us to do this analysis now,” Sagear said.



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



The investigation revealed that stars with multiple planets were the most likely to have the type of circular orbits allowing them to retain liquid water. By contrast, stars with only one planet were more often experiencing tidal extremes sterilizing the surface of the planet.



Since one third of the planets in this small sample had gentle enough orbits to potentially host liquid water, our galaxy may contain hundreds of millions of planets where life could develop.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2217398120">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



<h2 id="h-what-makes-a-planet-habitable">What makes a planet habitable?</h2>



A habitable planet is one that has conditions that are "just right" for life as we understand it. However, the exact conditions required for a planet to be habitable can depend on a variety of factors, some of which we may not yet fully understand.



Generally, though, scientists consider a few main factors when considering if a planet is potentially habitable:



<h3 id="h-distance-from-its-star">Distance from its star</h3>



The planet needs to be at the right distance from its star where it's not too hot and not too cold. This region is often called the "habitable zone" or the "Goldilocks zone." If a planet is in its star's habitable zone, it could potentially have liquid water on its surface, a key ingredient for life as we know it.



<h3 id="h-presence-of-water">Presence of water</h3>



Liquid water is essential for life as we know it. Therefore, for a planet to be considered habitable, there must be a likelihood of the presence of water. This means the planet should not only be in the habitable zone of its star but also have the right atmospheric pressure to maintain water in liquid form.



<h3 id="h-stable-atmosphere">Stable atmosphere</h3>



A planet needs a stable and suitable atmosphere for life to exist. The atmosphere plays a role in maintaining the right temperature range and pressure for liquid water. It also helps protect the planet (and any potential life) from harmful radiation from space.



<h3 id="h-suitable-size-and-composition">Suitable size and composition</h3>



The planet needs to be of the right size and composition. It should be rocky (like Earth), and have a sufficient mass to maintain its atmosphere. Planets that are too small (like Mars) can lose their atmospheres over time.



<h3 id="h-geological-activity">Geological activity</h3>



Geological activity such as volcanism and tectonic activity can play a role in maintaining a planet's habitability over long timescales, by cycling important elements and maintaining a planet's magnetic field.



<h3 id="h-stable-orbit-and-rotation">Stable orbit and rotation</h3>



A planet with a stable orbit and rotation is more likely to have a stable climate. A stable rotation could prevent temperature extremes between day and night.



<h3 id="h-magnetic-field">Magnetic field</h3>



A strong magnetic field can protect a planet's atmosphere from being stripped away by solar wind, and shield the surface from harmful cosmic and solar radiation.



It is important to note that these are the conditions necessary for life as we know it. There could be other forms of life that have adapted to conditions we would find inhospitable.



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



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One third of our galaxy’s planets could be habitable

Astronomers have long known that our warm and yellow sun...

A groundbreaking study conducted by the <a href="https://www.umd.edu/">University of Maryland</a> School of Public Health has revealed the remarkable benefits of regular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-may-actually-be-the-fountain-of-youth/">exercise</a>, specifically walking, for the health of our brain. According to the researchers, the positive cognitive impacts of walking are especially noticeable in older adults.&nbsp;



The study unveiled how this simple, low-impact physical activity can fortify connections within three pivotal brain networks, including one associated with Alzheimer's disease. This discovery adds a significant dimension to a growing collection of evidence which confirms the powerful role of regular exercise in promoting brain health and delaying the onset of cognitive decline.



The study, recently published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3233/ADR-220062">Journal for Alzheimer's Disease Reports</a>, scrutinized the narrative recall abilities of older adults who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), as well as those with normal brain function. MCI is characterized by a mild decline in mental faculties such as memory, reasoning, and judgment, and is considered a risk factor for Alzheimer's.



Professor J. Carson Smith, the study's principal investigator, explained: "Historically, the brain networks we studied in this research show deterioration over time in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. They become disconnected, and as a result, people lose their ability to think clearly and remember things. We're demonstrating that exercise training strengthens these connections."&nbsp;



Professor Smith's previous studies have also suggested that walking can reduce cerebral blood flow and improve brain functionality in older adults diagnosed with MCI.



In this new study, thirty-three participants, aged between 71 and 85, were asked to walk on a treadmill under supervision for four days a week over a period of 12 weeks. Prior to and beyond this exercise regimen, the researchers evaluated the participants' recall abilities by asking them to read a short story and then repeat it out loud with as much detail as possible.



In addition to this, the researchers employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to monitor and measure changes in communication within and between the three crucial brain networks responsible for cognitive functions. These networks include:



The default mode network, which activates when a person isn't engaged in a specific task. This network is linked to the hippocampus, a brain region first affected by Alzheimer's, and the first location where Alzheimer's and amyloid plaques appear.



The frontoparietal network, which regulates decisions made when a person is completing a task. This network also plays a role in memory retention.



The salience network, which monitors the external world and stimuli, and determines what requires attention. It also facilitates the transition between networks to optimize performance.



Post 12 weeks of regular walking, the tests were repeated and the researchers observed substantial enhancements in the story recall abilities of the participants.&nbsp;



"The brain activity was stronger and more synchronized, demonstrating exercise actually can induce the brain's ability to change and adapt," noted Professor Smith. "These results provide even more hope that exercise may be useful as a way to prevent or help stabilize people with mild cognitive impairment and maybe, over the long term, delay their conversion to Alzheimer's dementia."



Furthermore, the researchers observed intensified activity within the default mode network, within the salience network, and in the connections between the three networks. This exciting revelation highlights the potential of regular physical activity as a powerful tool to bolster cognitive health and slow the progression of debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's.



<h2 id="h-additional-health-benefits-of-walking">Additional health benefits of walking&nbsp;</h2>



Walking is a simple and accessible form of exercise that offers a plethora of health benefits beyond its positive impact on brain health. Here are some of the additional health advantages of walking:



<h3 id="h-cardiovascular-health">Cardiovascular health</h3>



Regular walking increases the heart rate, strengthens the heart, and enhances overall cardiovascular fitness. Numerous studies have shown that walking reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke.



<h3 id="h-blood-pressure-and-cholesterol">Blood pressure and cholesterol</h3>



Walking helps to lower blood pressure and reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. This leads to improved blood circulation and overall heart health.



<h3 id="h-bone-health">Bone health&nbsp;</h3>



Regular walking, being a weight-bearing exercise, can slow the loss of bone mass for those with osteoporosis. It improves bone density and decreases the risk of fractures.



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



Walking burns calories, and thus can contribute to maintaining a healthy weight. It boosts metabolic rate and helps in fat burning, which is crucial for weight management and obesity prevention.



<h3 id="h-muscle-strength-and-endurance">Muscle strength and endurance</h3>



Walking, especially speed walking or walking uphill, can strengthen the leg muscles, improve endurance, and increase flexibility.



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



Walking, like other forms of exercise, releases endorphins, often known as "feel-good hormones." This can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, boost mood, and promote a sense of well-being.



<h3 id="h-diabetes-management">Diabetes management</h3>



Regular walking has been found to help lower blood sugar levels and overall help in the management of type 2 diabetes.



<h3 id="h-digestion">Digestion</h3>



Regular walking helps improve gastric mobility, aiding the digestive process. It can help prevent constipation and other digestion-related problems.



<h3 id="h-immunity-boost">Immunity boost</h3>



Walking can boost the immune system, leading to a better defense mechanism against various diseases and infections.



<h3 id="h-improved-sleep">Improved sleep</h3>



Walking, especially when done in the morning or afternoon, can help individuals fall asleep more quickly and enjoy better quality sleep.



The beauty of walking is its simplicity and versatility; it requires no special equipment and can be done almost anywhere – around your neighborhood, in parks, on a treadmill, or even while shopping. Incorporating walking into your daily routine can lead to substantial health improvements over time.&nbsp;



—-



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Walking is a powerful tool to boost brain health and overall well-being

A groundbreaking study conducted by the University of Maryland School...

In a recent study conducted in the lowland rainforests along the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, researchers have unraveled fascinating details about the behavior and activity patterns of two sympatric sloth species, Bradypus variegatus and Choloepus hoffmanni. These revelations not only shed light on the ecological dynamics of these intriguing creatures, but also highlight their remarkable ability to adapt to a myriad of environmental conditions.



The elusive nature of sloths has historically posed significant challenges to conducting long-term observational research on them. A team led by Dr. Rebecca Cliffe, Founder and Executive Director of <a href="https://slothconservation.org/">The Sloth Conservation Foundation</a>, set out to use micro data loggers to continuously monitor the activities of both three-toed (Bradypus) and two-toed (Choloepus) sloths.&nbsp;



The observation period spanned over days to weeks, which allowed the researchers to explore how these slow-moving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-will-happen-if-modern-large-mammals-become-extinct/">mammals</a> adjusted their activities in response to fluctuating environmental conditions and how such behavior correlated with their unique low-energy lifestyle.



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15430">PeerJ Life &amp; Environment</a>, the study's findings reveal that both Bradypus and Choloepus sloths display cathemeral activity patterns, which are marked by irregular and variable periods of activity throughout the 24-hour day. This behavior pattern allows the sloths to optimize favorable environmental conditions while minimizing their exposure to predation.



One of the most intriguing findings of this study was the significant variability observed in the activity levels of the sloths. Such flexibility is suggestive of the various strategies these sloths have evolved to adapt to their surroundings, which improves the odds of survival in fluctuating environmental conditions.



Contrary to initial expectations, the researchers found that the daily temperature did not notably influence the sloths' activity. However, the Bradypus sloths displayed an interesting trait: they were more active at night when the temperature dropped, and the nights following colder days saw increased nocturnal activity as well. This observation implies a potential link between temperature variations and the behavioral tendencies of these sloths.



Dr. Cliffe stressed how vital this research is for conservation efforts and for better understanding the repercussions of anthropogenic activities and climate change on the tropical ecosystems of South and Central America. As these ecosystems become increasingly vulnerable, understanding the behavioral ecology of their inhabitants, such as sloths, becomes vital for formulating effective conservation strategies.



The use of micro data loggers in this study has undoubtedly offered unprecedented insights into the behavioral patterns and adaptations of these enigmatic creatures, demonstrating a revolutionary way to investigate the behavioral ecology of elusive species. These findings not only contribute valuable knowledge about sloth ecology, but also underline the importance of preserving and protecting tropical rainforests and their unique inhabitants.



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



Sloths are fascinating creatures that inhabit the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Belonging to the family Bradypodidae, there are six species of sloths, divided into two groups: the two-toed sloths and the three-toed sloths.



Sloths are arboreal mammals known for their slow movements and unique energy-saving adaptations. These adaptations are part of their survival strategy, as they allow sloths to spend most of their lives in trees, feeding on leaves, twigs, and buds. Their low-energy diet and slow metabolism allow them to conserve energy, which is critical for their survival in resource-poor environments.



One of the most distinctive traits of sloths is their ability to hang from branches with their strong and long claws. This behavior helps protect them from predators like eagles and jaguars. Additionally, sloths are excellent swimmers and can drop from a tree into a river to swim across it.



Sloths have a highly unusual trait: they have the lowest and most variable body temperature of any mammal, ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. This variability allows them to better regulate their energy usage. Also, sloths only descend from their tree dwellings about once a week to defecate and urinate, a unique behavior among arboreal mammals.



Sloths have a symbiotic relationship with the algae that grow on their fur. The algae provide sloths with camouflage, helping them blend in with the green foliage of their habitat and avoid predators. In return, sloths provide the algae with shelter and water. Additionally, the fur of sloths houses a variety of insects, including beetles and moths.



Sloths are not just slow movers, but they also sleep a lot. Depending on the species, sloths sleep for around 15 to 20 hours a day. This extreme sleep schedule is another energy-saving adaptation.



Conservation efforts are crucial for sloths as they face numerous threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and illegal pet trade. While some sloth species are listed as vulnerable, others, like the critically endangered Pygmy Three-toed Sloth, are on the brink of extinction. Therefore, understanding the behavior and ecological needs of sloths, as demonstrated in the study conducted by Dr. Rebecca Cliffe and her team, is key to ensuring their survival.



—-



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Study reveals the secret survival strategies of sloths

In a recent study conducted in the lowland rainforests along...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

It was an unbelievable series of events that had connected two families over many years and miles.

Lost Long Ago

The family piled into their minivan and made the 3-hour trip north to where the couple was waiting. As they pulled into the driveway, Minni could feel the tears build. An old man and woman stood on the porch, holding hands – their faces bright with excitement.