In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-bioelectronic-medicine">Future of bioelectronic medicine</h2>



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



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Click here to <a href="https://youtu.be/j_0hZ8cUwgo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch a video interview...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp; Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries. Controlling the heart with light The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest. The external controller detects...

What if the frozen heart of Antarctica held secrets of a fiery past? A new study investigating ancient methane trapped in Antarctic ice has uncovering a shocking link between Ice Age wildfires and abrupt climate upheavals.



The findings highlight the interplay between wildfire surges, shifting rainfall patterns, and global temperature changes, and offers crucial insights into the dynamics of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-determining-ice-age-climate-trends">Determining Ice Age climate trends</h2>



Ice cores from Antarctica act like time capsules. Tiny air bubbles that were formed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thousands of years ago</a> are locked inside the ancient ice.



These bubbles contain atmospheric gases from the past that offer scientists a window into Earth’s historical climate conditions. By analyzing the air bubbles in these cores, researchers can trace changes in the planet's climate over millennia.



The study focused on a specific ice core from the Western Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide, which provides a detailed climate record spanning 67,000 years. This ice core is unique because it comes from a region with a high annual snowfall rate. 



While this limits how far back in time the record can go, when compared to other cores, the frequent snowfall ensured that more ice accumulated each year. This denser accumulation allows for a more detailed, year-by-year record of past climates.



“Because this ice is in a place where the annual snowfall rate is high, the record doesn’t go back as far in time as other ice cores, but you get more ice for each year, and you can better see the detail in those years,” explained Edward Brook, a paleoclimatologist from <a href="https://oregonstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, and a co-author of the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-spikes-wildfires-and-ice-age-climate">Methane spikes, wildfires and Ice Age climate</h2>



Previous studies have shown that methane, a potent greenhouse gas, spiked during abrupt climate changes, known as Dansgaard-Oeschger and Heinrich events, roughly 11,000 years ago. These events were marked by rapid temperature shifts and changes in tropical rainfall patterns.



“These spikes were notable because of how quickly the methane levels changed during these periods,” said lead author Ben Riddell-Young. He used a specialized system to extract air from the ice samples and analyze the isotopic composition of methane, which reveals its sources.



The findings suggest that wildfire emissions likely caused these methane surges. The study is the first to establish a direct link between abrupt climate events and wildfire activity during the Ice Age.



“This study showed that the planet experienced these short, sudden episodes of burning, and they happened at the same time as these other big climate shifts,” Brook explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cascading-effects-of-wildfire-activity">Cascading effects of wildfire activity</h2>



According to the study, abrupt climate changes triggered cascading <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-the-ice-age-can-tell-us-about-future-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">events</a> during the Ice Age, including increased wildfire activity. 



“It probably went something like: Ocean currents slowed down or sped up rapidly, the northern hemisphere cooled or warmed rapidly, and then this caused abrupt shifts in tropical rainfall that led to increased drought and fire,” Riddell-Young explained.



These findings shed light on the potential impact of shifting climate patterns on global ecosystems, particularly during periods of rapid change.



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



The research carries important implications for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">today’s climate dynamics</a>. Modern climate change could similarly amplify wildfire activity as temperature rises and rainfall patterns shift.



“This research shows that we may not be properly considering how wildfire activity might change as the climate warms and rainfall patterns shift,” Riddell-Young said.



Burning produces carbon dioxide, another greenhouse gas, which further contributes to climate warming. “Understanding what this burning really means for the carbon cycle is one of the places the research is headed next,” noted Brook.



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



While this study opens new avenues for understanding the Ice Age and its climate history, more research is needed to assess the broader implications of ancient wildfire activity. These insights can inform strategies to mitigate and adapt to modern climate challenges.



The study was supported by the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>) and involved contributions from researchers at several institutions, including the <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bern</a>, <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>, and the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado, Boulder</a>.



By analyzing ancient methane, scientists continue to uncover critical connections between past and present climate systems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-viruses-hold-clues-to-earth-past-future-climate-and-microbial-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global ecosystems</a> and the urgency of addressing today’s climate challenges.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08363-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Wildfire activity surged during Ice Age climate shifts

What if the frozen heart of Antarctica held secrets of...

Plants face the constant challenge of allocating energy between growth and defense. While growth ensures survival and reproduction, defense protects against harmful bacteria. 



Until now, scientists struggled to explain how plants achieve this balance. Researchers at Princeton University recently uncovered new insights into this process, revealing the surprising role of soil bacteria in managing plants' immune responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-soil-bacteria-help-plants">How soil bacteria help plants</h2>



Published in&nbsp;the journal Cell Reports, the study explores how certain soil bacteria impact plant immunity. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> produce enzymes that reduce immune activity in plants, enabling their roots to grow longer.



This discovery sheds light on how plants interact with microbiomes without triggering constant immune responses.



“This is trying to get at a really big biological question where there are not good answers - about how microbiomes interface with host immune systems,” said Jonathan Conway, the study’s senior author and an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering.



“It’s a small step in the direction of trying to understand how microbes live on hosts - either plants or humans or other animals - all the time and don’t activate our immune responses constantly.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-health-and-growth">Balancing health and growth</h2>



The team focused on Arabidopsis, a small mustard plant often used in research. They engineered Arabidopsis seedlings with heightened sensitivity to flagellin, a bacterial protein that typically activates immune responses. 



On exposure to flagellin, these plants directed energy toward immunity, resulting in stunted root growth.



To identify bacteria that could suppress this immune response, the researchers introduced 165 bacterial species to the seedlings. 



Remarkably, 41% of these isolates suppressed the stunted growth response, allowing roots to grow longer. Among these,&nbsp;Dyella japonica&nbsp;emerged as particularly effective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enzyme-regulates-immune-system-response">Enzyme regulates immune system response </h2>



The researchers discovered that&nbsp;D. japonica, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil bacterium</a>, produces an enzyme called subtilase. This enzyme breaks down flagellin, a protein that normally triggers a plant's immune response. 



By degrading flagellin, subtilase prevents the plant's immune system from activating unnecessarily, enabling the roots to grow without being stunted.



To confirm subtilase's role, the team used genetic and biochemical techniques. These methods demonstrated that subtilase directly modulates the plant's immune response, proving its critical function.



Purifying the subtilase enzyme posed significant challenges, as obtaining a pure protein is essential for detailed analysis. A breakthrough came when Todd Naumann, a <a href="https://www.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USDA</a> chemist, suggested purifying the enzyme using yeast cells instead of bacteria. 



This alternative approach worked effectively, allowing the researchers to proceed with advanced studies on the enzyme's properties and functions.



“Now we can do chemistry with it, and we can actually look at this in vitro,” said co-first author Samuel Eastman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-role-of-soil-bacteria">Dual role of soil bacteria </h2>



The findings suggest that many soil bacteria may use similar enzymes to influence plant growth and immunity. This raises intriguing questions about the potential benefits for both plants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-bacteria-makes-flowers-more-attractive-to-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a>. 



One theory is that the enzymes prevent pathogens from invading plant roots by disabling their flagella. Alternatively, the enzymes might help pathogens evade detection, potentially increasing the risk of disease.



“So, in that way it could be suppressing pathogens as well as the plant immune system,” Eastman noted. However, he warned of the risks in agricultural applications. 



“We don’t want to compromise the immune system, but we also want plants to save that immune response for when it matters.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-crop-growth-and-plant-health">Improving crop growth and plant health</h2>



The team’s work opens doors to harnessing beneficial bacteria for agriculture while minimizing risks. With further research, these findings could lead to innovative ways to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-soil-boosts-crop-growth-by-over-50/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop growth</a> without compromising plant health.



For now, scientists are one step closer to understanding the delicate balance of growth and defense in plants.



The study was a team effort involving nine <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton</a> researchers, including six undergraduates. Senior thesis projects played a vital role, such as that of Britley Jones from the Class of 2023.



Kaeli Ficco, another key contributor and a Princeton graduate, engineered mutant bacterial strains to confirm the genetic basis of immune suppression. 



“I really liked how discovery-based the project was,” Ficco said, reflecting on her contributions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(24)01414-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Soil bacteria help plants balance growth and immunity

Plants face the constant challenge of allocating energy between growth...

Ebola, a severe hemorrhagic disease caused by a virus endemic in parts of East-Central and West Africa, is generally known to spread through contact with bodily fluids from individuals who have the infection.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebola-virus-on-the-skin-surface">Ebola virus on the skin surface</h2>



More recent outbreaks, such as the 2013-2016 Ebola epidemic in West Africa, have shown that infectious Ebola virus (EBOV) is also found on the surface of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-tech-will-track-emotions-through-changes-in-our-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a> of those who have succumbed to infection or at late times during infection.&nbsp;



Although this suggests that the virus can be transmitted from skin contact with someone in the later stages of the disease, researchers have not yet fully understood how the virus exits the body and appears on the skin’s surface.



In a recent study, scientists at <a href="https://uihealthcare.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa Health Care</a>, working with colleagues at <a href="https://www.txbiomed.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas Biomedical Research Institute</a> and <a href="https://www.bu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston University</a>, have uncovered a cellular route that EBOV uses to traverse the inner and outer layers of skin and emerge onto the surface.&nbsp;



The researchers identified new cell types within the skin that are targeted by EBOV during infection and confirms that human skin tissues actively sustain EBOV infection.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-route-of-ebola-infection">Possible route of Ebola infection</h2>



The results, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr6140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>, suggest that the skin’s surface may be one possible route of person-to-person transmission.



“The skin is the largest organ in the human body yet is woefully understudied compared to most other organs. Interactions of EBOV with skin cells have not previously been extensively examined,” said study senior author Wendy Maury, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Iowa.&nbsp;



“Our work provides evidence for one mechanistic avenue that EBOV uses to exit from the human body. A comprehensive understanding of which cells are targeted during virus infection is critical for rational development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/willow-bark-may-contain-life-saving-antiviral-medications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antiviral</a> approaches.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-skin-model-for-tracking-ebola">Human skin model for tracking Ebola</h2>



The research team, guided by Maury and Kelly Messingham, a research professor of dermatology at the University of Iowa, designed a new method for discovering which skin cells are infected by Ebola virus.&nbsp;



They constructed a human skin explant system using full-thickness biopsies from healthy individuals, preserving both the deeper (dermal) and surface (epidermal) layers of skin.



Next, the team placed these explants dermal side down in culture media, adding virus particles to simulate how EBOV would move from the bloodstream outward toward the skin’s exterior.&nbsp;



This setup let the researchers use specialized tracing and labeling techniques to observe how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-covid-19-virus-travels-deep-inside-our-lungs/">virus</a> progressed from one layer of skin to the next, tracking which cells became infected as time passed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-cells-prone-to-ebola-infection">Skin cells prone to Ebola infection</h2>



Prior clinical and animal studies indicated that skin cells could become infected with EBOV, yet they did not identify the particular cells involved.&nbsp;



In this work, the authors showed that EBOV infects several cell types in the skin explant, including macrophages, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes.&nbsp;



Some of these cells are also infected by EBOV in other tissues, but keratinocytes - particular to skin - had not been previously recognized as an EBOV replication site.



Notably, the virus appeared to replicate more actively in the epidermal layer than in the dermal layer when compared on a per-gram basis. Within three days, infectious virus was detected at the epidermal surface, underscoring the virus’s ability to rapidly move through skin to the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tool-for-exploring-new-therapies">Tool for exploring new therapies </h2>



In addition to mapping how the virus travels through the skin, the scientists demonstrated that human skin explants offer a realistic, three-dimensional model for examining potential antiviral treatments against EBOV. This model could be an economical and valuable tool for exploring new therapies.



“This study explores the role of the skin as a potential route of Ebola virus infection and identifies, for the first time, several cell types in the skin that are permissive to infection,” Messingham said.&nbsp;



“In total, these findings elucidate a mechanism by which EBOV traffics to the skin’s surface and may explain person-to-person transmission via skin contact.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-ebola-infection-nbsp">New insights into Ebola infection&nbsp;</h2>



Beyond its discoveries about the skin, the research also zoomed in on interactions between the Ebola virus and two particular skin cell types, fibroblasts and keratinocytes.&nbsp;



The team found specific receptors on these cells that facilitate the virus’s entry, adding further clarity on how EBOV infects skin on a molecular level.



By clarifying one route the virus may take to exit the body, these findings expand our knowledge of Ebola’s spread and highlight why skin-to-skin contact in advanced cases of infection can pose such a risk.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-public-health-concern">Ongoing public health concern</h2>



Understanding these pathways, and identifying the cell types that the virus relies on, can influence future efforts to develop effective treatments and prevention measures.



This work also sets the stage for further investigations into how EBOV might exploit other organs or tissues and suggests potential ways to block the virus’s path at the skin level.&nbsp;



With Ebola remaining an ongoing global health concern, insights like these can help scientists target the virus more effectively and better protect those at risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-infection-equips-the-body-to-fight-off-the-flu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a>.



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Skin may play a hidden role in Ebola infection

Ebola, a severe hemorrhagic disease caused by a virus endemic...

The global livestock industry plays a significant role in the production of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change in ways that are often overlooked. 



Cows, sheep, and other livestock produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, during digestion through a process called enteric fermentation. 



In fact, methane has a much higher heat-trapping potential than carbon dioxide, making livestock farming a key driver of global warming. 



Additionally, the industry is responsible for large amounts of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions, mainly from the use of synthetic fertilizers and land-use changes like deforestation for grazing. 



Together, these emissions make the livestock sector one of the leading contributors to global greenhouse gas levels.



On top of direct emissions, the livestock industry also contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a> and other forms of environmental degradation through its high demand for resources like water and land.



A substantial amount of land - counting both grazing areas for cattle, pigs, and poultry, and agricultural fields for their feed crops - is devoted to sustaining the world’s 92 billion farm animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-pets-involved-with-livestock">How are pets involved with livestock?</h2>



A large portion of pet food is made from animal products, including meat, which requires significant land, water, and energy to produce. 



As a result, the pet food industry indirectly contributes to the environmental problems tied to livestock farming, such as deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.



Andrew Knight of the <a href="https://www.winchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Winchester</a>, writing for The Conversation, recently explored the potential environmental benefits of switching all pets to vegan diets. 



If this were somehow possible, how much impact would it have on the planet? Short answer - a lot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-considering-the-impacts-of-pet-diets">Considering the impacts of pet diets</h2>



Efforts to address these challenges have sparked interest in shifting human diets to plant-based alternatives. Yet, as experts increasingly argue, the environmental impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-owners-ages-and-beliefs-influence-their-pet-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet food</a> must also be considered.&nbsp;



This focus on pet diets stems from the fact that companion animals - dogs and cats in particular - often consume meat-based products comparable to those eaten by humans, ultimately contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and land use changes. 



The question arises: should our pets join us in transitioning to plant-based diets?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-environmental-costs-of-pet-diets">The environmental costs of pet diets</h2>



Quantifying how pet food affects the environment has long been hindered by sparse data on its ingredients. However, a 2020 report providing in-depth information on over 500 components used by the U.S. pet food industry enabled researchers to estimate its ecological footprint.&nbsp;



By examining this database, scientists calculated potential benefits if the global population of dogs and cats were fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diets</a>.



The results proved eye-opening. Transitioning all pet dogs to nutritionally sound plant-based diets could save an estimated 0.57 gigatons of CO₂ each year - more than what the United Kingdom emitted in 2023.&nbsp;



This transition would also free up land larger than Mexico’s total area, which could be reclaimed for habitat restoration, enhancing both biodiversity and carbon storage.&nbsp;



Furthermore, replacing livestock feed crops with plant-based alternatives for pets would yield enough calories to feed some 450 million people - more than the population of the European Union. Such a change could also spare as many as six billion land animals from slaughter annually.



A similar pattern emerges for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/switching-dogs-and-cats-to-vegan-diets-would-help-the-earth-tremendously/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cats</a>. Switching all cats to plant-based diets could prevent 0.09 gigatons of CO₂ emissions yearly - surpassing New Zealand’s total emissions - and would liberate land exceeding the size of Germany.&nbsp;



The freed-up food energy could feed around 70 million people, comparable to the entire population of the United Kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-use-of-byproducts">Rethinking the use of byproducts</h2>



Some have assumed that pet food’s reliance on byproducts of human meat consumption reduces its environmental impact, on the grounds that these are materials otherwise considered waste.&nbsp;



However, recent research suggests the situation is more complicated. Because a relatively small portion of each animal carcass is converted into these byproducts, sustaining pet food production can, in fact, raise the demand for livestock overall.&nbsp;



More animals being raised and slaughtered translates into more land cleared for grazing or feed crops, heavier freshwater consumption, and additional greenhouse gas emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-of-vegan-pet-diets">Health implications of vegan pet diets</h2>



While dogs are naturally omnivorous and cats are considered carnivorous, modern commercial pet foods already deviate from their ancestral diets.&nbsp;



In practice, these foods commonly blend plant materials - like grains and vegetables - with various animal-sourced ingredients, then add preservatives and flavor enhancers.&nbsp;



Meeting a pet’s nutritional needs fundamentally involves supplying adequate protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, rather than providing specific meat sources. As researchers have found, pets can thrive on meticulously formulated plant-based diets.



Several studies completed by late 2024 suggest dogs and cats can thrive on vegan meals. In certain cases, these diets may lead to improvements in areas such as obesity control and allergic responses.&nbsp;



Furthermore, investigations into feeding behavior indicate that pets generally accept vegan meals as readily as they do meat-based ones, based on measures of excitement and enjoyment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-broader-push-for-sustainability">A broader push for sustainability</h2>



Confronting climate change and curbing biodiversity loss requires far-reaching measures, as emphasized by international bodies.&nbsp;



While shifting human diets toward plant-based options is a commonly proposed solution, it may not go far enough on its own.&nbsp;



Integrating pets into these changes expands the potential for lowering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> and decreasing the strain on resources. If such diets are provided by reputable manufacturers that ensure complete nutrition, it is possible to preserve the health and welfare of companion animals.



For those contemplating this shift, websites like <a href="http://sustainablepetfood.info/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SustainablePetFood.info</a> can offer guidance in sourcing products that meet pets’ nutritional requirements.&nbsp;



By rethinking how companion animals are fed, pet owners can contribute to mitigating climate change while continuing to support the well-being of dogs and cats.&nbsp;



This aspect of dietary transition underscores that addressing global environmental challenges can be an inclusive effort, embracing not only human choices but also those made on behalf of the animals in our care.



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Changing how we feed our pets will improve their health and the environment

The global livestock industry plays a significant role in the...

Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity has revolutionized our understanding of gravity and the universe. However, it leaves some unanswered questions, particularly about singularities and black holes. 



Recent studies suggest quantum mechanics could help resolve these mysteries and offer new insights into the fundamental nature of space-time and black holes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-general-relativity">General relativity</h2>



General relativity is a theory developed by Albert Einstein to explain how gravity works. 



Instead of thinking of gravity as a force that pulls objects toward each other, like Isaac Newton suggested, Einstein proposed that gravity is the result of massive objects bending the space and time around them. 



Imagine space and time as a stretchy fabric, and when something heavy, like the Earth or the Sun, sits on it, the fabric bends around it. 



This bending is what we experience as gravity. So, objects like planets and moons move in curved paths because they are following the curves in this "fabric" created by mass.



One of the most mind-blowing predictions of general relativity is that time isn't the same everywhere. 



Time actually moves slower near a strong gravitational field, like near a planet or a star, and faster in areas with weaker gravity. 



This effect is known as time dilation. It's something that satellites in space have to account for because they experience time a little differently than we do on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-singularities-the-basics">Understanding singularities - the basics</h2>



The elegant framework of general relativity encounters a critical limitation at singularities - points in space-time where matter collapses to infinite density, and the curvature of space-time becomes infinitely sharp.



These singularities arise under extreme gravitational collapse, as shown by Nobel laureate Roger Penrose. When a massive star exhausts its fuel and collapses under its gravity, the result can be a singularity.



At a singularity, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fundamental laws</a> of physics, as we know them, no longer work. Concepts like time, space, and the behavior of matter lose their meaning, rendering physical predictions impossible. 



This unpredictability would challenge science’s foundation, which relies on consistent, testable laws to explain the universe.



Understanding and addressing singularities is, therefore, a major challenge in modern physics. 



Researchers aim to find ways to reconcile this breakdown, often looking to quantum mechanics or other advanced theories to fill the gaps left by general relativity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-holes-and-cosmic-censorship">Black holes and cosmic censorship</h2>



Black holes, nature's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enigmatic phenomena</a>, may conceal singularities. Their defining feature, the event horizon, prevents anything, including light, from escaping. 



According to Penrose's&nbsp;cosmic censorship conjecture, singularities resulting from gravitational collapse remain hidden behind these event horizons, preserving the predictability of physics elsewhere in the universe.



Despite its elegance, cosmic censorship remains unproven. Scientists have found no definitive counterexamples, making it one of the most significant open problems in mathematical physics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-mechanics-and-black-holes">Quantum mechanics and black holes</h2>



While general relativity focuses on large-scale structures, quantum mechanics governs particles and atoms. 



Combining these frameworks to understand black holes has proven complex. Recent research published in the journal Physical Review Letters suggests that Penrose's conjecture is supported by quantum mechanics.



Physicists have long speculated about "quantum black holes," where quantum effects play a significant role. These black holes raise questions about how cosmic censorship applies in the quantum realm. 



A potential answer lies in developing a theory of "quantum gravity," which integrates quantum mechanics with space-time. However, such a theory remains elusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advances-in-quantum-cosmic-censorship">Advances in quantum cosmic censorship</h2>



Quantum mechanics introduces new complexities such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negative-time-observed-measured-tangible-in-new-quantum-experiments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative energy</a>, a phenomenon allowed in quantum mechanics but absent in classical physics. 



Penrose's theorem assumes that all matter has positive energy, so the existence of negative energy introduces scenarios that the theorem does not address.



To explore these complexities, researchers use a hybrid approach called&nbsp;semi-classical gravity. In this model, the space-time structure still obeys Einstein's general relativity, but the matter within it is treated according to quantum mechanics. 



This allows scientists to study how quantum effects influence the behavior of space-time and black holes.



From this perspective, quantum mechanics might play a role in keeping singularities hidden. The concept, called&nbsp;quantum cosmic censorship, proposes that quantum effects could reinforce the "clothing" of singularities by black hole event horizons. 



This means that quantum mechanics may prevent singularities from becoming observable, thus modifying their behavior and preserving the predictability of the universe.



The idea builds on Penrose’s original cosmic censorship conjecture but extends it into the quantum realm, offering a potential bridge between classical and quantum physics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-energy-of-space-time">The energy of space-time</h2>



A key to understanding quantum cosmic censorship lies in the&nbsp;Penrose inequality. This mathematical relationship links the mass of space-time to the area of black hole horizons, assuming cosmic censorship holds. In quantum systems, a similar inequality could provide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/schrodingers-cat-survives-in-quantum-superposition-for-a-record-shattering-23-minutes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insights</a>.



In 2019, researchers proposed a quantum Penrose inequality. Building on this, the new study introduced a refined version that applies even in strong quantum effects.



The research shows that the energy of space-time relates to the combined entropy of black holes and quantum matter, which thus maintains the second law of thermodynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-theories-with-quantum-mechanics">Strengthening theories with quantum mechanics</h2>



The new quantum Penrose inequality strengthens the idea of cosmic censorship. While not a definitive proof, it shows that quantum mechanics reinforces the principles governing black holes and singularities. 



This advance bridges classical and quantum physics, and paves the way for deeper insights into the universe.



As space-time might end at singularities, quantum mechanics ensures we remain shielded from such extremes, preserving the predictability of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-instead-of-oil-or-coal-powers-a-new-kind-of-engine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.133.181501" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review Letters</a>.



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Why the universe remains predictable: Insights from "quantum black holes"

Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity has revolutionized our understanding...

If you've ever felt that modern movies seem to resonate with a chorus of ominous verbs that echo through scenes of action, drama, and suspense, you're not alone.



A recent study confirms an increase in the use of violent language and disturbing phrases in film dialogues over the past half-century, shedding light on how our cinematic landscape has shifted over time.



Remarkably, this trend is not limited to crime movies but seems to creep into all genres, and subtly infiltrates even the most unexpected narratives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increase-in-murderous-verbs">Increase in "murderous verbs" </h2>



The researchers embarked on a quest to unravel the mystery of this unsettling trend, driven by a desire to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/power-of-words-how-language-framing-shapes-our-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language</a> shapes our perception of violence in cinema.



The team used a large database of more than 160,000 movie subtitles, spanning five decades from 1970 to 2020, and meticulously analyzed and quantified the incidence of chilling words like “murder” and “kill” in the dialogues. Their findings revealed a startling linguistic evolution in the film industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-killer-words-across-all-films">"Killer words" across all films</h2>



According to study co-author Brad Bushman, the surge in these "killer words" has been unsurprisingly variable. Yet, there has been a noteworthy upward trajectory over the 50 years.



Interestingly, this trend isn't confined to crime flicks. Characters in other genres of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-watching-movies-affect-our-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">movies</a> have also been upping their "kill-talk" game.



"Characters in noncrime movies are also talking more about killing and murdering today than they did 50 years ago. Not as much as characters in crime movies, and the increase hasn’t been as steep. But it is still happening. We found increases in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-finds-no-evidence-that-video-games-promote-violence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">violence</a> cross all genres," noted Bushman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-dynamic-of-violent-language">Gender dynamic of violent language</h2>



Authored by researchers at the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> and The Ohio State University, the study was published as a research letter in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. The findings offer new insights into the evolving dynamics of film dialogue.



The study revealed that the rise in the use of violent language was not gender-specific, demonstrating a broad shift in cinematic trends.



Study lead author Babak Fotouhi highlighted an intriguing aspect of the findings. While men typically delivered more violent dialogues, women also showed a discernable increase over time, reflecting a significant shift in character portrayal across genders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steady-rise-in-violent-language">Steady rise in violent language</h2>



Using the subtitle database from opensubtitles.org, the researchers sifted through 166,534 movies, extracting references to murderous actions with painstaking precision.



The team calculated the proportion of "killer verbs" - semantics rooted in words like “kill” and “murder" which capture the darker tones of cinematic language.



The analysis painted a grim picture of evolving dialogue trends: close to 7% of the movies spewed murderous verbs over the study period, indicating a steady rise in violent language on the silver screen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-competitive-edge-of-violence-in-film">The competitive edge of violence in film</h2>



Pennsylvania-based post-doctoral researcher Amir Tohidi emphasized the team's focus on these ominous verbs to identify only the most severe forms of violence present in movie diologue, thus representing a conservative estimate. 



“We focused exclusively on murderous verbs in our analysis to establish a lower bound in our reporting,” said Tohidi. “Including less extreme forms of violence would result in a higher overall count of violence.“



The researchers noted that if they had incorporated less aggressive forms of violence in the analysis, the overall count of violent dialogue would have skyrocketed.



“We designed this to be a conservative estimate,” said Fotouhi. “It is likely there was more violence in the movies than what we calculated in terms of the dialogue.”



This research, backed by an enormous dataset, highlights the escalation in cinematic reference to violence.



"Movies are trying to compete for the audience’s attention and research shows that violence is one of the elements that most effectively hooks audiences," noted Fotouhi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-call-for-mindful-media-consumption">A call for mindful media consumption</h2>



Bushman weighed in with a cautionary note, suggesting that this unsettling trend may still be on an upward trajectory, with no clear peak in sight.



This observation highlights an urgent call to action: the need to promote greater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tweens-used-media-more-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">media</a> literacy and encourage mindful media consumption. 



By equipping audiences - especially vulnerable groups like young viewers - with critical thinking skills, we can mitigate the potential impact of violent language on impressionable minds.



So, the next time you cozy up for a movie night, take a moment to reflect - our screens are brimming with more killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-brain-uses-a-secret-thesaurus-to-find-the-right-words/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">words</a> than ever before, subtly shaping the narratives we consume.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/article-abstract/2828322" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Pediatrics</a>.



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Movies are using more violent language including 'murderous verbs'

If you've ever felt that modern movies seem to resonate...

The Quadrantid meteor shower is the first major celestial event of the year, offering a spectacular display of fireballs streaking across the sky. 



Known for its bright fireballs and intense bursts of activity, the Quadrantid meteor shower produces as many as 120 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. 



The meteor shower is unique due to its sharp peak, which lasts for only a few hours. This means that timing crucial for catching the display. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-meteor-showers">What are meteor showers?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/january-2025-stargazing-a-parade-of-bright-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Meteor showers</a> happen when Earth moves through a trail of debris left behind by comets or asteroids during their journeys around the sun. These small particles, often no larger than grains of sand, enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds. 



As they collide with the atmosphere, the friction causes the particles to heat up and burn, producing glowing streaks of light called meteors. Sometimes, larger fragments burn brighter, creating what we call fireballs, which are exceptionally vivid and long-lasting meteors.



To enjoy this celestial spectacle, you don’t need telescopes or binoculars. A dark, open area away from city lights provides the perfect setting to witness the beauty of meteors streaking across the night sky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-an-obsolete-constellation">Legacy of an obsolete constellation</h2>



Unlike other meteor showers named after active constellations, the Quadrantids derive their name from&nbsp;Quadrans Muralis - which is now obsolete.



"The Quadrantids take their name from a constellation that doesn’t exist anymore," said <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>’s William Cooke.



Introduced by French astronomer Jérôme Lalande in 1795, Quadrans Muralis was once positioned between Boötes and Draco. Though removed from modern star maps in 1922, its legacy endures through the Quadrantids meteor shower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-and-where-to-watch-the-quadrantids">When and where to watch the Quadrantids</h2>



The Quadrantid meteor shower will reach its peak during the early morning hours of January 3, 2025. The meteors appear to radiate from a point in the northern sky near the Big Dipper and the bright star Arcturus. 



This makes the shower ideal for observers in mid-northern latitudes, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere.



For the best viewing experience:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Time: The hours before dawn on January 3 offer the clearest view of the meteors.</li>



<li>Moon Phase: A waning crescent moon means the sky will remain dark with minimal interference.</li>



<li>Location: Choose a spot far from city lights to reduce artificial light pollution.</li>



<li>Preparation: Avoid using your phone or other bright screens. This helps your eyes adjust to the darkness and improves your ability to spot meteors.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parent-objects-of-the-quadrantids">Parent objects of the Quadrantids</h2>



The Quadrantid meteor shower has an intriguing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-meteor-showers-delta-aquarids-alpha-capricornids-light-up-night-skies-august-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex origin</a> involving several celestial objects.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-2003-eh1">Asteroid 2003 EH1</h3>



This asteroid, discovered in 2003, is the primary source of the Quadrantid meteors. It is believed to be a dormant comet, meaning it no longer exhibits the typical activity of a comet such as a visible tail.



The asteroid completes an orbit around the sun every 5.5 years, but no longer comes close to Earth’s orbit. Despite this, debris that was ejected in the past continues to intersect with Earth’s path, creating the meteor shower.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comet-96p-machholz">Comet 96P/Machholz</h3>



This active comet is another contributor to the Quadrantids. Its material produces a less intense and broader peak in the shower. 



The comet approaches the sun very closely, with a perihelion (closest point to the sun) of just 0.12 astronomical units (AU). Each astronomical unit represents the distance between Earth and the sun.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-machholz-complex">The Machholz Complex</h3>



Astronomers theorize that a massive comet likely fragmented centuries ago, giving rise to a group of related celestial bodies called the Machholz Complex. This group includes Comet 96P/Machholz, asteroid 2003 EH1, and other smaller fragments. 



Together, these objects are responsible for multiple meteor showers, including the Quadrantids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-significance-of-the-quadrantids">Historical significance of the Quadrantids</h2>



The Quadrantid meteor shower was first observed in 1825 by Antonio Brucalassi. He described "a multitude of luminous bodies" radiating from&nbsp;Quadrans Muralis. 



Later studies linked the shower to asteroid 2003 EH1 and Comet 96P/Machholz. These discoveries highlight the intricate connections between ancient celestial objects and modern astronomical phenomena.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stunning-start-to-the-new-year">Stunning start to the new year</h2>



The Quadrantids primarily favor the Northern Hemisphere due to their radiant's high northern position. However, some Southern Hemisphere observers occasionally report sightings of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meteor-showers-help-scientists-discover-where-comets-came-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteors</a>.



The Quadrantid meteor shower provides a stunning start to the new year, with its narrow peak and dazzling fireballs. Whether you're an avid stargazer or a casual observer, this celestial event is worth braving the cold January morning.



The fleeting beauty of the Quadrantids serves as a reminder of the vast and dynamic universe we call home.



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Quadrantid meteor shower peaks tonight, kicking off the new year

The Quadrantid meteor shower is the first major celestial event...

In the captivating world of archaeology, where discoveries often turn the tide of understanding, sea level changes have emerged as a powerful force that may have shaped human history.



A recent revelation reveals an intriguing connection between fluctuations in the Atlantic Ocean's sea levels and the rise and fall of early societies in southern Brazil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mystery-of-sambaquis">Unraveling the mystery of "sambaquis"</h2>



One could liken the work of an archaeologist to that of a detective, piecing together a puzzle from an array of diverse clues. 



This time, the evidence came from gigantic, prehistoric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indigenous-people-harvested-oysters-sustainably-for-thousands-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mounds of shells</a> known as sambaquis. 



Sambaquis were produced by pre-colonial people along a 3,000 km (1,800 mile) stretch of the Brazilian coastline, and contain the remains of shellfish and fish, along with plants, artefacts and charcoal.



When the scientists noticed a sudden decline in the size and frequency of these mounds around 2,500 years ago, they hypothesized that the coastal communities present in the region at the time had vanished or become reduced in number.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinguishing-the-pottery-paradox">Distinguishing the pottery paradox</h2>



Some experts believed the reduction in sambaquis resulted from the advent of ceramics and crop farming, which would have reduced the region's reliance on fishing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mollusks-evolution-shishania-aculeata-spiny-armor-no-shells-500-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mollusk</a> consumption.



However, a study published in December 2021 demonstrated that the decline in sambaqui-building and use commenced before pottery became prevalent in the society.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reading-the-tides-of-change">Reading the tides of change</h2>



Observations made by examining human and animal remains from Babitonga Bay, the largest repository of sambaquis in Brazil, opened doors to a fresh perspective. 



A timeline, based on over 400 radiocarbon dates, established the arrival of ceramics at around 1,200 years ago. The decline in sambaqui activity began significantly earlier, about 2,500 years ago, and culminated in a "dramatic abandonment" around 2,200 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-level-retreat-and-early-societies">Sea level retreat and early societies</h2>



During the Late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/welcome-to-humanitys-new-era-the-anthropocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Holocene era</a>, as icy cold fronts increased in southern Brazil, sea levels began to fall. 



The ocean receded by 1.6 meters (5 feet) between 7,000 and 1,000 years ago, resulting in the expansion of drylands and mangrove systems.



The scarcity of mollusks, fishing areas, and edible plants under these conditions would have pushed the shellfish-dependent societies to confront fierce competition for dwindling resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-the-past-insights-for-the-present">Lessons from the past, insights for the present</h2>



The authors suggested that the changing landscape forced communities to reorganize into more dispersed, independent social units. 



Warning bells should be sounding for us as well. With <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-that-climate-change-is-caused-by-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anthropogenic climate change</a> predicted to increase sea levels by about 0.3 meters (12 inches) by the turn of this century, we stand to lose roughly half of the world's sandy beaches and rocky coasts.



The repercussions could be disastrous for global communities relying heavily on oceanic, coastal, and marine resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ever-changing-sea-levels-a-force-of-transformation">Ever-changing sea levels: A force of transformation</h2>



Sea levels have long acted as both creators and destroyers of human civilizations, shaping landscapes and the societies that inhabit them. 



In the case of Brazil's Sambaqui societies, fluctuating sea levels during the Late Holocene were a driving force behind dramatic societal changes.



As the ocean decreased in vertical height by 1.6 meters over millennia, shellfish-dependent communities faced dwindling resources, with mollusks and fish becoming scarce and food insecurity taking hold.



This transformation was not merely about the physical loss of coastline but also reflects a profound reshaping of the environment itself.



The retreating seas exposed new drylands and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mangrove-forest-reveals-ancient-climate-change-effects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mangrove</a> systems, forcing communities to rethink their reliance on coastal ecosystems. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societies-changing-with-sea-levels">Societies changing with sea levels</h2>



These changes triggered a reorganization of society, with dispersed settlements replacing the centralized shell mound communities that had thrived for thousands of years. Such historical events highlight the lasting impact of sea level changes on human history. 



Today, the world faces a parallel challenge: rising sea levels driven by anthropogenic climate change. 



Unlike the gradual retreat that impacted the sambaqui builders, the current rate of sea level rise is accelerating, posing an even greater threat to modern coastal populations. 



Entire cities could be inundated, and vital ecosystems may collapse, leading to mass displacement and economic turmoil.



The sambaqui story serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between humans and their environment. It highlights the urgency of understanding and mitigating sea level changes - not just to protect infrastructure - but to safeguard cultural and ecological heritage for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-02888-7#Sec7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Sea levels linked to the rise and fall of early human societies

In the captivating world of archaeology, where discoveries often turn...

NSF NOIRLab has begun the New Year by unveiling a remarkable deep-space image of the Antlia Cluster. The image was captured with the Dark Energy Camera (DECam), which is mounted on the Víctor M. Blanco 4-meter Telescope at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory in Chile.&nbsp;&nbsp;



This ultra-detailed view reveals hundreds of galaxies in the cluster, each belonging to a larger cosmic structure that continues to fascinate astronomers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-clusters-and-cosmic-evolution">Galaxy clusters and cosmic evolution</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Galaxy clusters</a> rank among the biggest assemblies of matter in the universe. They come into being when dark matter gravitationally pulls galaxies together, typically forming groups of dozens.&nbsp;



Over time, these groups coalesce into clusters containing hundreds or even thousands of galaxies.&nbsp;



Researchers can learn a great deal about cosmic evolution by studying these superstructures, as their formation and organization shed light on how dark matter operates on vast scales.



Located around 130 million light-years away in the direction of the constellation Antlia (the Air Pump), the Antlia Cluster is one such assembly.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-features-of-the-antlia-cluster-nbsp">Exploring the features of the Antlia Cluster&nbsp;</h2>



Over the last two decades, scientists have turned to multiple <a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOIRLab</a> programs to explore the cluster’s features.&nbsp;



Researchers in Chile employed the Blanco telescope using an earlier camera, known as MOSAIC II, as well as the Gemini South telescope, which is part of the International Gemini Observatory under NOIRLab’s purview.&nbsp;



More recently, data from both ground-based and space-based observatories have expanded knowledge of Antlia’s makeup, revealing a lively variety of galaxy types.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjWijtOA3g-4180568-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-the-antlia-cluster">Observations of the Antlia Cluster</h2>



Astronomers discovered that the Antlia Cluster is dominated by two large elliptical galaxies, NGC 3268 and NGC 3258. Around these giants, numerous faint <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happened-when-a-dwarf-galaxy-clashed-with-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dwarf galaxies</a> circle, adding to the cluster’s complexity.&nbsp;



There is also evidence that these two massive galaxies may be in the process of merging, based on X-ray studies that found a line of globular clusters in the region of peak luminosity between them.&nbsp;



Some experts propose that what is currently labeled as the Antlia Cluster might actually be two smaller clusters on the path to merging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-diverse-range-of-galaxies">A diverse range of galaxies</h2>



Looking more broadly, the cluster includes a range of additional galaxy types, such as lenticular galaxies with little gas or dust for star formation, irregular galaxies, and many lower-luminosity systems like ultra-compact dwarfs, compact ellipticals, and blue compact dwarfs.&nbsp;



Researchers think the cluster could also hold dwarf spheroidal galaxies and ultra-diffuse galaxies, though these remain to be confirmed with further observations.&nbsp;



The ability to detect these small and often dim objects has only emerged in the last few decades, thanks to continual improvements in telescope instrumentation and data analysis approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-evolution-of-the-antlia-cluster-nbsp">The evolution of the Antlia Cluster&nbsp;</h2>



The assorted galaxies in Antlia are more than just visually striking; they also provide a window into how galaxies take shape, evolve, and possibly fade.&nbsp;



Some galaxy varieties found in the cluster are associated with higher levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/existence-of-dark-matter-confirmed-by-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>, giving researchers further clues about how dark matter influences galactic development.&nbsp;



As scientists trace the origins and transformations of these objects, they gain a richer understanding of the cluster’s evolutionary history, as well as the universe’s larger-scale dynamics.



An additional benefit of more advanced instruments, such as DECam, is that astronomers can now detect faint intracluster light - the hazy glow of stars that have been gravitationally pulled out of their original galaxies during interactions and collisions.&nbsp;



This faint glow sometimes overlaps with residual light from regional features, such as the Antlia Supernova Remnant discovered in 2002, which adds yet another dimension to the overall cosmic picture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-light-of-galaxy-clusters">Studying the light of galaxy clusters </h2>



As scientists delve more deeply into clusters like Antlia, they look to upcoming projects and observatories to unlock even greater insights. The NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s Legacy Survey of Space and Time, set to commence in the near future, will mark a major leap forward.&nbsp;



For the first time, astronomers will have the data to examine intracluster light in thousands of galaxy clusters, shedding more light on how dark matter is distributed and how these structures have evolved across cosmic epochs.



By comparing results from a wide range of clusters, astronomers can piece together the events and processes that shaped today’s vast galactic formations.&nbsp;



This level of detail supports or challenges existing theories and refines the overall model of how galaxies gather and transform over billions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-large-scale-structures-in-astronomy">Importance of large-scale structures in astronomy</h2>



The Antlia Cluster, as portrayed in the new image, stands out for its remarkable diversity of galaxies and ongoing processes. From the central elliptical giants that may be merging, to the smaller dwarf galaxies circling on the fringes, the cluster captures the drama of cosmic evolution.&nbsp;



Advances in observing technology and data analysis have made it possible to study these objects in greater depth than ever before, setting the stage for even more detailed research in the years to come.



Ultimately, these efforts underscore the broader importance of large-scale structures in astronomy. By examining the architecture and composition of galaxy clusters, researchers glean essential clues about the mechanics of dark matter, the fate of stripped stars, and the origins of galaxy populations.&nbsp;



Images like the one provided by DECam not only captivate astronomers and the public alike, but they also fuel the quest to understand the forces and processes that shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.



Image Credit: Dark Energy Survey/ DOE/ FNAL/ DECam/ CTIO/NOIRLab/ NSF/ AURA.Dark Energy



Video Credit: NSF NOIRLab



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Hundreds of glittering galaxies captured in the Antlia Cluster

NSF NOIRLab has begun the New Year by unveiling a...

A new study from Tel Aviv University has uncovered how bacterial defense mechanisms can be neutralized, facilitating more efficient genetic material transfer between bacteria.&nbsp;



Researchers believe this discovery could significantly aid in combating antibiotic resistance and advancing genetic engineering for medical, industrial, and environmental applications.



The study was conducted by PhD student Bruria Samuel, under the guidance of professor David Burstein at the Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research at <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>'s Wise Faculty of Life Sciences.&nbsp;



The study also involved contributions from Dr. Karin Mittelman, Shirly Croitoru, and Maya Ben-Haim - all members of Burstein's lab.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-dna-transfer-in-bacteria-survival">The role of DNA transfer in bacteria survival</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-trees-protect-their-genetic-diversity-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetic diversity</a> is critical for organisms to adapt and survive in changing environments. While humans and many other species achieve this through sexual reproduction, bacteria rely on alternative mechanisms.&nbsp;



One key method is the direct transfer of DNA between cells, a process that enables rapid genetic exchange and adaptation. This mechanism is exemplified by the swift spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-could-cause-a-health-crisis-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic resistance</a> among bacterial populations.



Despite its prevalence, the process of DNA transfer has remained somewhat mysterious. Bacteria possess sophisticated defense systems designed to destroy foreign DNA, raising the question: How do plasmids, the carriers of genetic material, evade these defenses?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-conjugation-and-plasmid-behavior">Investigating conjugation and plasmid behavior</h2>



The study focused on conjugation, a primary mechanism for DNA transfer in bacteria. During this process, a bacterium connects to another via a microscopic tube, through which genetic material called plasmids is passed.&nbsp;



“Plasmids are small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecules classified as 'mobile genetic elements.' Like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a>, plasmids move from one cell to another, but unlike viruses, they do not need to kill the host bacterium to complete the transfer,” explained Burstein.



Since plasmids are technically foreign DNA, they must find ways to evade bacterial defenses to survive and replicate within cells.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genes-associated-with-anti-defense-systems">Genes associated with anti-defense systems</h2>



Samuel began her research by analyzing 33,000 plasmids, identifying genes associated with anti-defense systems that allow plasmids to bypass bacterial defenses. The location of these genes proved to be a crucial discovery.



“The genes for the anti-defense systems that I identified were found to be concentrated near that cutting point, and organized in such a manner that they would be the first genes to enter the new cell,” noted Samuel.&nbsp;



“This strategic positioning allows the genes to be activated immediately upon transfer, giving the plasmid the advantage needed to neutralize the recipient bacteria's defense systems.”



When Samuel first presented her findings, Burstein admitted that he found it “hard to believe that such a phenomenon had not been identified before.” After an extensive review of the scientific literature, they confirmed that no prior studies had observed this pattern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plasmids-evading-defense-systems">Plasmids evading defense systems</h2>



To test the computational findings, the team conducted laboratory experiments. They introduced antibiotic-resistant plasmids into bacteria equipped with CRISPR, a well-known bacterial defense system.&nbsp;



This setup allowed the researchers to observe whether the plasmids could evade CRISPR and confer antibiotic resistance to the recipient bacteria.



Samuel's experiments demonstrated that plasmids with anti-defense genes positioned near the DNA entry point successfully overcame the CRISPR system, enabling the bacteria to develop resistance.&nbsp;



Conversely, plasmids with anti-defense genes located elsewhere were destroyed, and the bacteria succumbed to antibiotics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-antibiotic-resistance-nbsp">Implications for antibiotic resistance&nbsp;</h2>



Understanding the strategic positioning of anti-defense genes could lead to the discovery of new anti-defense systems, a topic of active research. 



The findings may also enhance the design of plasmids for genetic manipulation in industrial and research settings.



“Our study can contribute to designing more efficient plasmids for genetic manipulation of bacteria in industrial processes," said Burstein.



"While plasmids are already widely used for these purposes, the efficiency of plasmid-based genetic transfer in lab conditions is significantly lower than that of natural plasmids."



Potential applications include designing plasmids to block antibiotic resistance genes in hospitals, enabling bacteria in soil and water to degrade pollutants, or improving human health by modifying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-have-very-clever-ways-of-supporting-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut bacteria</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-breakthrough-in-biotechnology-nbsp">Major breakthrough in biotechnology&nbsp;</h2>



The study has been described as a major breakthrough in biotechnology. Dr. Ronen Kreizman, CEO of Ramot, Tel Aviv University's technology transfer company, highlighted its potential.&nbsp;



“The new research opens revolutionary possibilities in areas such as developing drugs against resistant bacteria, synthetic biology, agritech, and foodtech,” said Dr. Kreizman.



“The ability to control and fine-tune genetic material transfer between bacteria could become a powerful tool for addressing environmental, agricultural, and medical challenges.”



By unveiling the mechanisms that allow plasmids to overcome bacterial defenses, this research sets the stage for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges, including antibiotic resistance and environmental sustainability.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07994-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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How bacteria share genes and defy defenses

A new study from Tel Aviv University has uncovered how...

From a distance, it might seem like just another part of your eye, but the pupil is a gateway to understanding how and when the brain forms long-lasting memories.



Experts at Cornell University have discovered a key to understanding memory formation and retention: pupil size.



By analyzing pupil dynamics during sleep, the researchers identified a sophisticated mechanism in the brain that prevents "catastrophic forgetting," a phenomenon where forming new memories disrupts older ones.



The study, led by assistant professors Azahara Oliva and Antonio Fernandez-Ruiz, reveals that memory consolidation occurs during specific moments of non-REM sleep. These findings offer insights into human memory enhancement and artificial intelligence training techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-of-sleep-and-memory">Science of sleep and memory</h2>



Sleep plays a critical role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consolidating memories</a> and organizing information in the brain. Non-REM sleep is particularly essential for strengthening new memories and integrating them with existing knowledge.



During this stage, neural activity reactivates learned information, transferring it from temporary storage to long-term memory networks. REM sleep, on the other hand, contributes to emotional processing and creativity. 



This study highlights how the brain alternates between consolidating new memories and revisiting old ones, using brief micro-structures within non-REM sleep. 



By understanding these processes, scientists gain insights into how the brain preserves knowledge and prevents interference between different types of memories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-pupils-and-neural-activity">Tracking pupils and neural activity</h2>



The researchers conducted their study on a group of mice, teaching them various tasks over the course of a month. These tasks included navigating a maze to earn rewards like water or treats. 



During this period, the mice were fitted with special equipment: brain electrodes to monitor neural activity and tiny cameras positioned near their eyes to track changes in pupil size.



After the mice learned a new task, they were allowed to sleep. While they slept, the researchers recorded their brain activity and observed how their pupils changed during different sleep stages. This data on pupil dynamics provided insights into how the brain consolidates memories.



“Non-REM sleep is when the actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgetting-things-is-a-natural-part-of-the-memory-process/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> consolidation happens, and these moments are very, very short periods of time undetectable by humans, like 100 milliseconds,” explained Professor Oliva.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pupil-dynamics-and-memory-consolidation">Pupil dynamics and memory consolidation</h2>



The researchers discovered that during a specific substage of non-REM sleep, when a mouse's pupil contracts, the brain focuses on replaying and strengthening newly learned memories. 



This process consolidates recent experiences, making them more stable and long-lasting.



In contrast, when the pupil dilates during another substage of the same sleep phase, the brain revisits <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-our-brains-neurons-make-and-retrieve-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older memories</a>, integrating them into the broader knowledge base. 



This alternating pattern of pupil contraction and dilation represents a previously unknown micro-structure of sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-pupils-for-retaining-memory">Significance of pupils for retaining memory </h2>



This mechanism is crucial because it keeps new and old <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-rhythms-help-strengthen-memories-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> separate, preventing them from interfering with one another. 



By alternating between consolidating new information and revisiting old knowledge, the brain avoids "catastrophic forgetting," ensuring both types of memories are preserved and well-organized.



“It’s like new learning, old knowledge, new learning, old knowledge, and that is fluctuating slowly throughout the sleep,” said Professor Oliva.



“We are proposing that the brain has this intermediate timescale that separates the new learning from the old knowledge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-memory-and-ai">Implications for memory and AI</h2>



The study's findings have significant implications for improving memory in humans. 



By understanding how the brain consolidates memories during specific moments of non-REM sleep, researchers could develop techniques to target and enhance these critical processes.



For example, therapies or interventions might help strengthen memory consolidation by focusing on these brief but vital phases of sleep.



Additionally, the discoveries could influence the development of artificial intelligence. Neural networks, which mimic how the brain processes information, often struggle with "forgetting" older data when learning new information. 



By applying the brain's method of alternating between processing new and old memories, AI systems could become more efficient at retaining prior knowledge while integrating new data, making them more reliable and robust.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-critical-function-of-sleep">A critical function of sleep</h2>



The research was supported by multiple organizations, including the National Institutes of Health (<a href="https://www.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH</a>), the <a href="https://sloan.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sloan Foundation</a>, and the <a href="https://www.whitehall.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whitehall Foundation</a>.



The discovery of this intricate sleep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-pinpoint-the-exact-timing-of-memory-formation-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mechanism</a> and pupil dynamics redefines our understanding of memory consolidation. 



By identifying the brain's ability to alternate between processing new and old memories, researchers have illuminated a critical function of sleep.



The study not only bridges gaps in neuroscience but also opens doors to innovations in technology and human cognitive enhancement.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08340-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Pupil size during sleep decides if new or old memories are replayed

From a distance, it might seem like just another part...

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), plastic particles and fibers sized from nanometers (≥ 1 nm) to micrometers (≤ 5 mm), have emerged as critical environmental pollutants. While their impact on marine ecosystems has been widely studied, research on the effects of microplastics on terrestrial ecosystems remains underdeveloped.



A recent study&nbsp;by researchers from the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden at the Chinese Academy of Sciences sheds light on this overlooked issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-terrestrial-ecosystems">Microplastics in terrestrial ecosystems</h2>



Micro- and nanoplastics are ubiquitous in terrestrial ecosystems, bioaccumulating in plants and organisms connected through aboveground (AG) and underground (BG) food webs.



These tiny particles not only impact individual plants but also disrupt multi-trophic interactions, biodiversity patterns, and ecosystem processes.



According to the researchers, MNPs interact with plants and associated AG-BG biota at multiple trophic levels. These interactions include herbivores, pollinators, and mycorrhiza fungi, which are essential for plant health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-steadily-increasing-in-freshwater-environments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> stability.



By transferring across trophic levels, MNPs can harm biodiversity and affect ecosystem multifunctionality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-transfer-in-terrestrial-ecosystems">Microplastic transfer in terrestrial ecosystems </h2>



The study identifies several trophic and non-trophic pathways for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-linked-to-health-issues-including-cancer-and-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MNP transfer</a> within and between AG-BG food webs. 



These include:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Leaves to herbivores: Herbivores that feed on plant leaves inadvertently ingest MNPs present on the surface of these leaves. This exposes them to potential toxic effects of these tiny particles.</li>



<li>Flowers to pollinators: Pollinators, like bees and butterflies, come into contact with MNPs when they land on flowers to collect nectar or pollen. These interactions can impact pollinator health and their role in pollination.</li>



<li>Prey to predators: Predators consume prey that has already ingested MNPs, leading to the transfer of these plastics up the food chain. This can accumulate and potentially harm predator species.</li>



<li>Roots to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi: Mycorrhizal fungi, which form symbiotic relationships with plant roots to aid in nutrient absorption, can absorb MNPs present in the soil. This impacts the fungi and their role in plant health.</li>



<li>Roots to herbivores: Soil-dwelling herbivores that feed on plant roots may ingest MNPs present in or around the roots, exposing them to the harmful effects of these plastics.</li>



<li>Leaf litter to decomposers: When leaves containing MNPs decay, decomposer organisms like fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates break them down, absorbing or ingesting the embedded plastics.</li>



<li>Aboveground litter to belowground decomposers: Plant litter from aboveground, such as fallen leaves or flowers, carries <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-is-everywhere-even-in-newborns-and-getting-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MNPs</a> into the soil, where they are processed by belowground decomposers like earthworms and microbes.</li>



<li>Belowground prey to aboveground predators: MNPs present in soil-dwelling prey (like insects or larvae) transfer to aboveground predators (like birds or spiders) when they consume these organisms.</li>



<li>Belowground larvae to aboveground adults: Insects that spend their larval stages underground and then emerge as adults aboveground may carry microplastics they absorbed in their earlier stages into aboveground ecosystems.</li>
</ul>



These pathways illustrate the complexity of microplastic interactions within ecosystems and highlight their potential to disrupt ecological functions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecotoxicological-effects-of-microplastics">Ecotoxicological effects of microplastics </h2>



The study emphasizes that MNPs pose ecotoxicological threats across trophic levels. 



When plants absorb MNPs, these particles can affect the interactions between plants and organisms, leading to cascading effects in food webs. 



The researchers noted significant impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem processes, and multifunctionality. However, the extent of these effects remains uncertain due to limited research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-urgent-research-and-mitigation">Call for urgent research and mitigation</h2>



The researchers argue that terrestrial ecosystems urgently require more attention to fully assess the ecological impacts of MNPs. 



They emphasize the need for research to identify the long-term effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-nanotechnology-is-fighting-microplastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MNPs</a> on plants and food webs, mitigation strategies to reduce MNP exposure in terrestrial ecosystems, and policies to manage MNP pollution effectively.



Such research will be critical to safeguarding plants and the intricate food webs they support.



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



To bridge the knowledge gap, researchers recommend focusing on the following areas:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>MNP detection methods:&nbsp;Developing advanced techniques to identify and measure MNPs in terrestrial environments.</li>



<li>Long-term monitoring:&nbsp;Establishing long-term studies to understand MNP bioaccumulation and ecosystem impacts.</li>



<li>Mitigation strategies:&nbsp;Designing solutions to reduce MNP exposure, such as improved waste management and soil remediation techniques.</li>
</ul>



In sum, micro- and nanoplastics have emerged as a hidden threat to terrestrial ecosystems, affecting plants and interconnected AG-BG food webs. The findings emphasize the urgency of expanding research on this topic to mitigate their ecological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hotspots-of-microplastic-pollution-found-in-the-north-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact</a>.



This study highlights the interconnected nature of ecosystems and the critical role of plants in maintaining balance. Addressing MNP pollution in terrestrial systems will be vital for protecting biodiversity and ensuring ecosystem sustainability.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/trends/plant-science/abstract/S1360-1385(24)00335-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Plant Science</a>.



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Silent invasion: How microplastics are disrupting land ecosystems

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), plastic particles and fibers sized from...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&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> Staff Writer 



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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.

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" 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.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video 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



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.

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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