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.



-----



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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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...

A single million-strong population of Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) can consume up to two billion termites in just over two weeks, according to a new study.&nbsp;



These large numbers highlight the vital role that Northeast India plays as a stopover site for these falcons during their migration.&nbsp;



The region allows the birds to prepare for their non-stop flight across the Arabian Sea, a journey that gives the Amur falcon the distinction of making the longest known overwater flight of any raptor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fall-migration-of-amur-falcons">Fall migration of Amur falcons</h2>



Amur falcons are small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-falcons-are-highly-intelligent-and-eager-to-show-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds of prey</a> that migrate twice a year between northern Asia, where they breed, and southern Africa, where they spend the winter. Their autumn migration involves a 3,500 km (2,000 mile) journey across the Arabian Sea. 



To successfully complete this flight, the falcons must build up energy reserves by feeding on protein-rich food, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-are-natures-architects-building-well-ventilated-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termites</a> are their preferred choice. 



In the paper titled “Prey Species in the Diet of the Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis) During Autumn Passage Stopover in Northeast India,” lead author Amarjeet Kaur from the <a href="https://wii.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildlife Institute of India</a> and her co-authors identify the region of Nagaland in Northeast India as a critical stopover for the falcons. 



As insect-eaters, the Amur falcons likely rely on termites to fuel their migration, making this area a priority for conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dominant-prey-for-amur-falcons">Dominant prey for Amur falcons</h2>



To assess the role of insects in the falcons’ diet during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-of-peregrine-falcons-suggests-birds-have-a-migration-gene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>, Kaur and her team analyzed more than 1,000 regurgitated pellets collected from beneath an Amur falcon roost in Nagaland in October and November of 2017 and 2018. 



These pellets, which contain undigested prey remains, showed a high concentration of body parts from two species of fungus-growing termites, Odontotermes feae and Odontotermes horni. Termites were the dominant prey for the falcons across both years and at all three roosting sites studied.&nbsp;



The researchers also observed numerous Amur falcons feeding on termite swarms, providing further evidence that termites are a crucial food source.&nbsp;



Termites offer easily digestible protein and are rich in fat, a fact well-known to local hunters who historically called Amur falcons “loi,” meaning “insect eater.” In the past, hunters would capture the falcons late in the season, when their consumption of termites had resulted in a rich layer of fat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symbol-of-conservation-efforts-nbsp">A symbol of conservation efforts&nbsp;</h2>



Today, the local Naga communities have become active in protecting the falcons, moving away from hunting them during migration. 



Senior author Suresh Kumar initially began this research to raise local awareness about the falcons, and now he says the birds have become a symbol for regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildlife-conservation-can-help-stabilize-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts. 



“Local communities in Nagaland and neighboring States of Manipur and Assam have independently begun setting aside community lands for the protection of not only Amur falcons, but for all biodiversity in the area,” Kumar said. 



“Given that Nagaland is predominantly governed by community-owned land, conservation actions are significantly shaped by local residents.”



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



The study’s findings are significant because they underscore the importance of stopover sites in the yearly migration of the Amur falcon, especially the pre-Arabian Sea refueling site in Nagaland.&nbsp;



Kaur and her team were surprised by the strong connection between the Amur falcons and termites, noting that “it appears that termites are the exclusive prey in this region, and the synchronization between termite emergence and the presence of Amur Falcons is remarkable.”



As long-distance migrators, the falcons are on a strict schedule and could be vulnerable to changes in the environment that disrupt this synchronization.&nbsp;



Climate change has already affected other long-distance migrators, such as the Great Knots (Calidris tenuirostris) and Bar-tailed Godwits (Limosa lapponica).&nbsp;



The study also emphasizes the role that insect-eating raptors like the Amur Falcon play in controlling insect populations, a fact supported by research on their wintering grounds in southern Africa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-stopover-sites-nbsp">Critical stopover sites&nbsp;</h2>



Looking ahead, Kaur and her colleagues aim to identify specific features of Amur falcon stopover sites across Northeast India and use this data to develop a more comprehensive GIS-based model. They also plan to conduct a detailed study of termite populations at these sites.



“We need to determine if the termite swarming events are cyclic in nature and how they might be influenced by climatic factors, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-land-conditions-affect-the-asian-monsoon-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monsoonal rains</a>,” noted the researchers. 



Since the Amur Falcons may depend on just a few critical locations to gain the energy needed for their migration, understanding the connectivity between these sites is crucial. As the researchers conclude, “Amur falcon conservation requires a landscape-scale approach.”



The research is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3356/JRR-23-49" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Raptor Research</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

How do Amur falcons fuel their 2,000-mile flights?

A single million-strong population of Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) can...

Breathe in the crisp, September air alongside an astronomical feast, as Jupiter, Saturn, and their moons emerge in our night skies, putting on a brilliant display for skywatchers.



While we revel in our Luna, do not neglect her celestial counterparts. Spot them by gazing upward at their pinnacle in the night sky, and let your telescopes and binoculars take you on a journey across the cosmos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saturn-s-spectacle-in-september-skies">Saturn's spectacle in September skies</h2>



As the ninth month of 2024 unfolds, we find a spectacle awaiting us in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-rings-will-vanish-from-sight-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's orbit</a> with 146 identified moons, contrasting with Jupiter’s 95 moons. 



These cosmic bodies' dimensions span the spectrum from diminutive celestial pebbles a few hundred feet across, to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-tranquil-seas-of-saturns-moon-titan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">majestic Titan</a>, ranking second in size amongst the solar system's moons.



Even from a staggering distance of 900 million miles, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-moon-titan-has-shorelines-shaped-by-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titan</a> is a persistent beacon beside Saturn, teasing even the 4-inch telescope wielder stationed under urban or suburban skies. Its grandiose size and atmospheric composition of nitrogen, hydrogen, and methane render it a unique celestial body.&nbsp;



A brief exploration by the 2005 Huygens probe, part of the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cassini-Huygens mission</a>, peeled back the layers of Titan's surface, laying the foundation for NASA's upcoming <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/dragonfly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dragonfly mission</a>, set to further explore Titan in the 2030s.



Saturn's moon, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-sparking-energy-source-found-on-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a>, a shimmering world of ice, is another attraction. The Cassini mission's findings disclosed plumes of icy jets bursting out from below its surface, the ejected matter adding to the glory of Saturn's rings. 



Enceladus appears to share a characteristic with our Moon -- both are tidally locked to their host planets, their same faces perpetually directed towards their respective giants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-saturn-jupiter-s-galilean-glories">Beyond Saturn: Jupiter's galilean glories</h2>



Shifting our gaze from Saturn to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fresh-look-at-jupiter-through-an-ultraviolet-lens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King of planets, Jupiter</a>, we encounter a different spectacle. Although its 95 moons do not outnumber Saturn's, four of them definitely leave an indelible imprint on the skywatcher.



Meet the Galilean Moons -- Ganymede, Callisto, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lava-trails-captured-jupiters-volcanic-moon-io-new-images-shark-vis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Io with its volcanic lava trails</a>, and the most likely place to find <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-jupiter-moon-europa-deep-ocean-shifting-icy-shell/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life in our solar system, Europa</a>. 



Accidentally stumbled upon in 1610, these moons continue to captivate star-gazers worldwide with their unique features and visible formation along a distinct line. 



Easily observable with binoculars or even small telescopes, they extend a warm welcome to our inquisitive eyes.



Starting with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ganymede</a>, we find the largest moon in our solar system, out-sizing even the planet Mercury. It boasts a magnetic field of its own and possibly even a subterranean saltwater ocean.



Next, meet Callisto, the solar system's third-largest moon. Its surface, marred by countless craters, portrays an intense celestial history. Despite being the farthest of the Galilean moons, Callisto takes a mere 17 days to orbit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>.



The third gem in our line-up, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Io, is Jupiter's nearest moon</a>. The gravitational strain exerted by Jupiter keeps this rocky world abuzz with volcanic activity, a spectacle even visible from some of Earth's largest telescopes.



Lastly, we encounter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iron-snow-brings-hope-for-finding-life-on-jupiters-moon-europa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, Jupiter's moon with the highest chances of possessing a liquid ocean under its cold exterior. NASA's upcoming Europa Clipper mission launching in October 2024, hopes to confirm if Europa hosts conditions conducive to life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-saturn-and-jupiter-facts">Fascinating Saturn and Jupiter facts</h2>



Beyond their moons, both Saturn and Jupiter exhibit intriguing characteristics. Saturn, renowned for its extensive ring system, has rings composed mainly of ice particles, with some larger rocky debris. 



They span an astonishing 175,000 miles in diameter but are merely around 30 feet thick. In contrast, Jupiter boasts the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-great-red-spot-may-not-be-as-old-as-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Red Spot</a>, a colossal storm larger than Earth, persisting for over 350 years.



Interestingly, both Jupiter and Saturn emit more energy than they receive from the Sun, indicating significant internal heat. 



These features not only serve as themes of awe but also provide valuable insights into planetary formation and evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stargazing-in-september-skies">Stargazing in September skies</h2>



As nightfall approaches in September, the art of stargazing transforms into an exhilarating adventure. To truly savour the celestial wonders of Jupiter and Saturn, one should venture to darker locations, away from the oppressive glow of urban lights.&nbsp;



Equip yourself with a reliable star chart, which will guide you in identifying these magnificent moons amidst the brilliance of their parent planets. 



A good pair of binoculars can suffice for a closer look, although a small telescope will reveal even more intricate details of Saturn’s rings and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiter-and-the-moon-will-share-a-cosmic-kiss-on-valentines-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>’s cloud bands. 



Allow patience and curiosity to be your allies; the night sky is a dynamic tableau that changes with each passing moment. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, the September nights promise a profound connection to the mysteries of the universe, inviting us all to partake in this stellar celebration.



-----



Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.



-----

September stargazing: Celestial beauties visible in the night skies this month

Breathe in the crisp, September air alongside an astronomical feast,...

Ganymede,Largest,Moon,Of,Jupiter,,3d,Rendering,Science,Illustration,In

A catastrophic event roughly 4 billion years ago shook our solar system to its core. Kobe University researcher Hirata Naoyuki discovered that a massive asteroid impact on Ganymede, Jupiter's largest moon, drastically reshaped its surface and altered its geological history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ganymede-jupiter-s-largest-moon">Ganymede: Jupiter's largest moon</h2>



Bigger than the planet Mercury itself, Ganymede tops the charts as the largest moon in our solar system. But, it is not just the size that makes Ganymede intriguing. 



Scientists have found that Ganymede's surface has two main types of terrain: bright, ridged areas and darker, older sections filled with impact craters.



Splits and furrows, that resemble concentric circles around a specific spot, mark Ganymede's surface. These furrows, first noticed back in the 1980s, hinted at a monumental impact event.



What's most fascinating about this mammoth moon is that underneath its icy crust, there’s a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subsurface ocean</a> that might hold more water than all of Earth's oceans combined, sparking exciting possibilities about the potential for life.



Beyond its sheer size, Ganymede has its own magnetic field, which is pretty unique for moons in our solar system. This magnetic field interacts with Jupiter’s strong magnetosphere, creating some amazing and dynamic auroras.



Researchers are still studying Ganymede’s atmosphere, which has a thin layer of oxygen, to get a better grasp of its geological and magnetic features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-impact-on-ganymede">Asteroid impact on Ganymede</h2>



“The Jupiter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons Io</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iron-snow-brings-hope-for-finding-life-on-jupiters-moon-europa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, Ganymede and Callisto all have interesting individual characteristics, but the one that caught my attention was these furrows on Ganymede,” says the Kobe University planetologist HIRATA Naoyuki.



“We know that this feature was created by an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-large-asteroids-will-pass-near-earth-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> impact about 4 billion years ago, but we were unsure how big this impact was and what effect it had on the moon.”



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ganymede-asteroid-impact_illustration_Kobe-university_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ganymede-asteroid-impact_illustration_Kobe-university_1s.webp" alt="Kobe University HIRATA Naoyuki was the first to realize that the location of an asteroid impact on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede is almost precisely on the meridian farthest away from Jupiter. Credit: Kobe University" class="wp-image-1943689"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kobe University HIRATA Naoyuki was the first to realize that the location of an asteroid impact on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede is almost precisely on the meridian farthest away from Jupiter. Credit: Kobe University</figcaption></figure>



To solve the puzzle, Hirata analyzed how the impact location almost perfectly aligned with Ganymede's meridian farthest away from Jupiter. This alignment indicated a pattern similar to an impact event on Pluto that triggered an axis shift. 



Known for his expertise in simulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> and moon impacts, Hirata leveraged his knowledge to decipher the kind of impact that could have caused Ganymede's dramatic reorientation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulations-of-ganymede-asteroid-impact">Simulations of Ganymede asteroid impact</h2>



In the latest edition of Scientific Reports, Hirata revealed that the asteroid causing this colossal impact likely had a diameter of around 300 kilometers.



This figure is 20 times larger than the asteroid that ended the era of the dinosaurs on Earth by creating a transient crater between 1,400 and 1,600 kilometers in diameter. 



Simulations pointed out that only an asteroid of this monstrous size could cause a shift in Ganymede's rotational axis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ganymede-asteroids-and-the-future">Ganymede, asteroids, and the future</h2>



“I want to understand the origin and evolution of Ganymede and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-great-red-spot-may-not-be-as-old-as-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a> moons. The giant impact must have had a significant impact on the early evolution of Ganymede, but the thermal and structural effects of the impact on the interior of Ganymede have not yet been investigated at all. I believe that further research applying the internal evolution of ice moons could be carried out next,” explains Hirata.



Good news is on the horizon for Hirata and other researchers. Ganymede, famous for its subsurface oceans, is the final target for the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA’s JUICE space probe</a>. 



The probe is expected to enter Ganymede's orbit by 2034, and will spend six months collecting data that might just answer Hirata's pressing questions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-liquid-water">Importance of liquid water</h2>



Liquid water is a critical element in the search for extraterrestrial life, and Ganymede's subsurface ocean places it firmly in the spotlight of astrobiological research. Beneath its thick icy crust, this ocean may provide the essential conditions for life as we know it. 



The presence of liquid water, combined with the potential for chemical interactions between the ocean and rocky mantle, creates a compelling environment for biological processes. 



This raises significant questions: Could extremophiles, organisms that thrive in harsh conditions, exist there? Investigating these possibilities not only enriches our understanding of Ganymede but also expands the parameters of habitability in the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborations-on-asteroid-and-jupiter-study">Collaborations on asteroid and Jupiter study</h2>



The study of Ganymede and its mysteries is not a solitary pursuit; rather, it underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations. 



Scientists across various fields -- including planetary science, geology, astrobiology, and even materials science -- are contributing to a holistic understanding of this moon.



By sharing insights and methodologies, researchers can tackle complex questions regarding the moon's formation, history, and the implications for life. 



As the JUICE mission approaches, the integration of diverse scientific expertise will be paramount in analyzing the data and further unraveling Ganymede's enigmatic characteristics, showcasing the collaborative spirit that drives cosmic discovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-space-odyssey">Ongoing space odyssey</h2>



Hirata's groundbreaking research was supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and the Hyogo Science and Technology Association. 



As we continue to unravel the enigmas of our universe, this remarkable finding takes us one step closer in understanding the mysteries of our solar system's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, Ganymede. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-69914-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

60-mile wide asteroid reshaped our solar system's largest moon

A catastrophic event roughly 4 billion years ago shook our...

Our world is changing, and among the most vivid signs of this change is the diminishing sight of beautiful butterflies dancing through our gardens and parks. Yet, don't lose hope just yet. Recent research indicates that specific butterfly species teetering on the edge of extinction can be given a fighting chance if humans intervene and actively manage habitats that can support butterflies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-loss-of-butterflies">Habitat loss of butterflies</h2>



Digging into the looming crisis faced by our winged companions, a team of researchers from Washington State University assessed data from 31 butterfly species across 10 U.S. states. The pattern they discovered was concerning.



Scientists have been sounding the alarm over declining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-butterfly-wings-acquire-their-breathtaking-colors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly populations</a> globally, attributing this trend to the impact of climate change, habitat loss, and prevalent pesticide use. The study's results reflected these concerns.



The butterfly species teetering on the brink of extinction exhibited an estimated annual decline rate of 8%. To put it in perspective, this translates to a staggering 50% decrease in less than a decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel">Light at the end of the tunnel</h2>



However, the world of butterflies isn't all descending into darkness. According to the study, habitat management interventions have the potential to slow down or even reverse these alarming declines in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly populations</a>.



Study co-lead author Cheryl Schultz, a professor of conservation biology at WSU, elaborated on the team's findings.



“The strongest signal we found is that in places where people are actively engaged with ways to manage the habitat, the butterflies are doing the best. That means that habitat management can make a difference, even in the face of stressors like climate change,” said Schultz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-decline-due-to-climate-change">Butterfly decline due to climate change</h2>



Climate change has been causing temperatures to soar incrementally. As a result, there's been an observable change in many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-create-silk-seatbelts-to-strap-in-for-metamorphosis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly species</a>' behavioral patterns, especially in terms of their seasonal activities.



In reaction to the changing environment, many species are stirring into action much earlier in the year. The long-term effects of these changes are not entirely clear.



“We found that for these butterflies, big shifts in timing were generally bad. Populations with greater shifts were more likely to be declining,” said Collin Edwards, a recent WSU postdoctoral fellow and  co-lead author on the study.



“However, we were excited to discover that habitat management appeared to be dampening the effect of climate change on butterfly timing. Populations that received more frequent management had smaller shifts in their timing.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conserving-butterfly-habitats">Conserving butterfly habitats</h2>



Even though the population trends for these species don't paint a rosy picture, the links discovered by the research team between population patterns, behavioral shifts, and management strategies pave the way for a solid butterfly conservation strategy.



"This might not solve the impact of climate change, but we can mediate some of the effects. It's within our power at the local level to do something positive for these populations," noted study co-author Professor Elizabeth Crone from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-showcasing-butterfly-resilience">Showcasing butterfly resilience</h2>



The study dissected the behavior of myriad species, such as the Oregon silverspot, Taylor's checkerspot, Karner blue, and frosted elfin. 



Among these, the Fender's blue butterfly deserves a special mention. This butterfly made a remarkable recovery, increasing from a few thousand butterflies in the 1990s to about 30,000 today, owing to the efforts of Schultz and others in the fields of public land management and private land ownership.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-interventions-for-butterflies">Habitat interventions for butterflies</h2>



The researchers concluded that the implemented habitat interventions, including prescribed burns, mowing, weeding, and planting of nectar or "host" plants for butterfly caterpillars, were aptly identified based on the individual needs of each area.



Schultz urges people to participate in natural area management activities, which could involve planting new flowers or weeding out invasive plant species.



"We really encourage people to plant an abundance of wildflowers and plants which are both hosts for caterpillars and provide nectar for butterflies. These should be 'clean plantings' meaning they are pesticide-free. The more we can reduce pesticides in our environment, the better it's going to be for butterflies and insects,” noted Schultz.



This research was funded by the U.S. Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2664.14735" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</a>. 



-----



Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.



-----

Butterflies can be saved if we manage their habitats

Our world is changing, and among the most vivid signs...

Gene therapy has long been a source of hope for the millions of people affected by genetic diseases, offering the promise of replacing faulty genes with healthy ones to treat conditions like the life-threatening blood clotting disorder hemophilia.



Despite its potential, the challenge has always been finding a safe, effective, and efficient method for delivering these therapeutic genes into the body. Now, a major breakthrough in gene-editing technology is poised to transform this dream into reality.



Researchers at the <a href="https://jabsom.hawaii.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hawai'i's John A. Burns School of Medicine</a> (JABSOM) have developed a new technique that ensures quicker, safer, and highly efficient delivery of healthy genes, potentially offering treatment for hundreds of genetic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-with-the-old-in-with-the-new">Out with the old, in with the new</h2>



Existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-gene-editing-gets-a-revolutionary-upgrade-with-new-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene-editing</a> techniques, while capable of rectifying errors in genes, potentially endanger the DNA by causing unintended breaks. Moreover, they falter when it comes to the insertion of larger genetic segments, including entire genes.



The new method developed by Dr. Jesse Owens and his team overcomes these limitations by using a novel super-active integrase to insert therapeutic genes without breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a>, achieving success rates as high as 96 percent.



"It's like having a 'paste' function for the human genome," said Dr. Owens. "It uses specially engineered 'integrases' to carefully insert healthy genes into the exact location needed, without causing breaks in the DNA. This method is much more efficient, with success rates of up to 96% in some cases." 



According to Dr. Owens, this technology could lead to faster and more affordable treatments for a wide range of genetic diseases, potentially impacting hundreds of conditions with a single faulty gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-gene-therapy">Beyond gene therapy</h2>



The implications of the research extend beyond the scope of gene therapy. The ability to efficiently insert large DNA fragments significantly speeds up the development process, opening up exciting possibilities in various other medical sectors.



When creating cell lines for therapeutic protein production, the gene encoding the protein is usually randomly inserted into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-mystery-50000-knots-found-in-the-human-genome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a>, making the process like "searching for a needle in a haystack." 



This often results in a time-consuming and inefficient process. Instead, Dr. Owens’ technique "makes a stack of needles," delivering the gene directly to the desired location, thereby accelerating the development process. 



This advancement could revolutionize how we produce biologics and advanced therapies like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibodies</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-global-impact-one-gene-at-a-time">Creating a global impact, one gene at a time</h2>



"JABSOM takes pride in nurturing talented researchers like Jesse Owens, whose work has the power to create a global impact," said Dr. Sam Shomaker, dean of the University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine.



The genetic engineering research led by Dr. Owens' team in their Pacific-based lab is set to significantly enhance our approach to treating genetic disorders.



The researchers are also exploring how this avant-garde technique can expedite the development and manufacturing of biologics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revolutionary-gene-therapy-shows-promise-in-treating-autism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced therapies</a>.



Existing methods for identifying efficient cell lines for production can be time-consuming. However, the newly developed genome engineering tool could reduce the cell line development timeline, accelerating the production of life-saving therapeutics.



To further promote the advancement of genetic engineering, Dr. Owens has established a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local research in Hawaii. This initiative emphasizes the importance of his work and its potential to revolutionize the future of genetic medicine.



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



As the experts continue to refine this innovative approach, the future of gene therapy looks promising.



The new method developed by Dr. Owens and his team not only enhances the safety and efficiency of gene editing but also opens up a world of possibilities for other medical applications.



By precisely inserting therapeutic genes without causing unintended DNA damage, this breakthrough can pave the way for treatments that were previously deemed too risky or challenging.



The potential of this technology goes beyond curing genetic diseases. It could revolutionize the production of therapeutic proteins, advance the development of advanced cell therapies, and even accelerate vaccine development.



With such wide-ranging applications, the advancements in gene therapy technology could significantly impact healthcare, making personalized medicine more accessible and effective for patients worldwide.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/nar/article/52/14/e64/7702507" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nucleic Acids Research</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

New technology could safely treat hundreds of genetic diseases

Gene therapy has long been a source of hope for...

Deep within the mysterious Genovesa Cave, a remarkable discovery is rewriting our understanding of early human settlement in the western Mediterranean. Encased in the heart of the idyllic island of Mallorca in Spain, an ancient submerged bridge discovered in the cave silently weaves a tale older than we could have ever imagined.



This discovery has not only provided startling new data about early human presence but also challenges established timelines, flipping our understanding of human history on its head.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cave-bridge-and-human-settlement">Cave bridge and human settlement</h2>



A new study led by the <a href="https://www.usf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of South Florida</a> reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-early-humans-great-migration-reached-america-challenged-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human migration</a> in the western Mediterranean happened much earlier than previously believed, challenging long-held assumptions and narrowing the gap between the settlement timelines of islands across the Mediterranean. 



This research, published in the journal Communications Earth &amp; Environment, focuses on a 25-foot submerged bridge discovered in Genovesa Cave, located on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-city-and-port-of-palma-mallorca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spanish island of Mallorca</a>.



Mallorca, despite being the sixth largest island in the Mediterranean, was long considered to be among the last to be colonized. 



While earlier research suggested human activity as far back as 9,000 years ago, inconsistencies and poor preservation of radiocarbon-dated materials, such as bones and pottery, cast doubt on these findings. 



Newer studies have used charcoal, ash, and bones found on the island to create a timeline of human settlement around 4,400 years ago. 



This aligns the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-used-lava-tubes-for-homes-middle-east-saudi-arabia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timeline of human habitation</a> with significant environmental events, such as the extinction of the goat-antelope genus Myotragus balearicus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-genovesa-cave-bridge">Studying the Genovesa Cave bridge</h2>



The discovery of the submerged bridge in Genovesa Cave has provided compelling evidence that pushes the timeline of human activity back even further. 



Led by USF geology Professor Bogdan Onac, an interdisciplinary team of researchers used this bridge to trace historical sea-level changes and date its construction. 



"The presence of this submerged bridge and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-migrations-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artifacts</a> indicates a sophisticated level of activity, implying that early settlers recognized the cave's water resources and strategically built infrastructure to navigate it," Onac explained.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Genovesa-Cave_submerged-stone-bridge_credit-Landreth_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Genovesa-Cave_submerged-stone-bridge_credit-Landreth_1s.webp" alt="Close-up view of the submerged stone bridge from Genovesa Cave, Mallorca, Spain. Credit: R. Landreth" class="wp-image-1943651"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Close-up view of the submerged stone bridge from Genovesa Cave, Mallorca, Spain. Credit: R. Landreth</figcaption></figure>



The cave, situated near Mallorca's coast, has passages now flooded due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caves-reveal-alarming-evidence-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising sea levels</a>. 



The submerged bridge, along with distinct calcite encrustations formed during periods of high sea level, serves as an accurate marker for dating. 



By analyzing the mineral overgrowths on the bridge and the elevation of a light-colored band, researchers concluded that the bridge was constructed nearly 6,000 years ago -- more than two-thousand years older than previous estimations.



This finding compresses the timeline gap between eastern and western Mediterranean settlements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-constructing-history-from-constructs-and-calcite">Constructing history from constructs and calcite</h2>



Professor Onac emphasized the significance of this interdisciplinary approach in uncovering these historical truths. 



"This research emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in uncovering historical truths and advancing our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/persian-plateau-fills-20000-year-gap-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human history</a>," he stated.



The findings not only enhance our knowledge of early human settlements but also highlight the role of scientific collaboration in reconstructing ancient timelines.



This groundbreaking revelation stands as a testament to the essence of scientific inquiry, showcasing how interdisciplinary research can redefine our understanding of the past. 



As we continue to delve deeper into the annals of our shared history, discoveries like those in Genovesa Cave remind us that history is often more complex and interconnected than we once believed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-human-settlements">Early human settlements</h2>



As we delve further into the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early human settlements</a>, the cultural implications of these discoveries cannot be overlooked.



The presence of advanced infrastructure, such as the submerged bridge, suggests that early settlers in the Mediterranean were not just surviving but thriving. 



Their ability to construct and utilize such structures indicates a level of societal organization and technological proficiency that challenges our existing narratives about prehistoric communities.



Artifacts uncovered alongside the bridge, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-ancestors-woodworking-sophisticated-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools and remnants</a> of what appear to be communal gathering spaces, hint at a rich cultural tapestry woven by these early inhabitants.



These findings provide new insights into the social dynamics and daily lives of people who lived thousands of years ago, offering a glimpse into their interactions, trade practices, and possibly even their belief systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-exchange">Cultural exchange</h2>



Researchers are now focusing on understanding the cultural exchange that may have occurred between these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-first-american-settlers-traveled-there-on-an-ice-highway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early settlers</a> of Mallorca and neighboring regions. 



The discovery of materials not native to the island suggests that there was some form of communication and trade with distant cultures, which could have influenced the development of their own customs and technologies.



This cultural exploration adds another layer to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-early-humans-great-migration-reached-america-challenged-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of human history</a>, illustrating how early communities were interconnected and how their innovations laid the groundwork for future civilizations.



As more discoveries come to light, we continue to piece together the story of human ingenuity and resilience in the face of environmental and societal challenges.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01584-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Ancient bridge found inside of a cave changes human migration timeline

Deep within the mysterious Genovesa Cave, a remarkable discovery is...

The modern world is marred by the constant presence of digital devices, which has provoked considerable discourse in the field of sleep science. It is widely believed that the use of screens before bedtime interferes with children's sleep, leading to issues including difficulty falling asleep, poor sleep quality, and reduced overall sleep duration.



However, a fascinating new study from the <a href="https://www.otago.ac.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Otago</a> is challenging our conventional wisdom, revealing that the timing of screen use is more critical than screen use itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-screen-time-but-screen-timing">Not screen time, but screen timing</h2>



Contrary to established sleep guidelines recommending no screen use for an hour or two before bed, this study suggests that it is screen time in bed, rather than before, that disrupts sleep.



Study lead author Dr. Bradley Brosnan, an expert at the Edgar Diabetes and Obesity Research Centre at Otago, said the most interesting findings were that screen time before bed had little impact on children's sleep that night.



"However, screen time once in bed did impair their sleep - it stopped them from going to sleep for about half an hour and reduced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seven-hours-is-the-ideal-amount-of-sleep-from-middle-age-on/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amount of sleep</a> they got that night."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-effects-of-screen-timing">Studying the effects of screen timing </h2>



To study the effects of screen timing, the researchers collected data from 85 adolescents aged 11 to 14 years. The participants wore a body camera on their chest for three hours before bed, up until bedtime, for a week.



An additional infrared camera was installed in their bedrooms to monitor screen time while in bed. They also wore a watch-sized sleep tracking device. 



"It quickly became obvious that adolescents spend a lot of their screen time while in bed," noted Dr. Brosnan, highlighting a significant finding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-using-screens-in-bed">Children using screens in bed</h2>



The study revealed that 99% of participants used screens in the two hours before bed. More than half used screens once in bed, and a third continued to use them after their first failed attempt to sleep.



Interestingly, it was screen time once in bed that delayed sleep onset by roughly half an hour, decreasing overall sleep duration. This effect was more pronounced with interactive activities like gaming or multitasking on multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devices</a>.



"Every additional 10 minutes of this type of screen time reduced the amount of sleep they got that night by almost the same amount," said Dr. Brosnan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-guidelines-are-needed">New guidelines are needed</h2>



The study’s findings suggest that the negative impact of screen time on sleep primarily results from time displacement that delays sleep onset rather than direct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-effects-of-artificial-blue-light-remain-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects of blue light</a> or interactive engagement. 



Dr. Brosnan proposes a practical approach: "A simple sleep guideline would be for devices to be kept out of the bedroom, allowing teenagers to use their devices before bed, but not in bed."



He further advocates for the revision of current sleep guidelines. "We need to revisit sleep guidelines, so they fit the world we live in and actually make sense - the current ones aren’t achievable or appropriate for how we live."



Ultimately, the research suggests that for better sleep, keeping devices out of the bedroom could strike a balance, allowing adolescents to use their devices before bed without the negative impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/best-measure-of-sleep-quality-is-how-you-feel-not-what-your-tracker-says/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a> that occurs when screens are used in bed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-routines-are-needed">New routines are needed</h2>



The University of Otago study offers important insights for parents and educators promoting healthier sleep habits among adolescents. Instead of focusing solely on limiting screen time before bed, this research emphasizes the importance of managing when and where digital devices are used.



Parents can help by creating screen-free zones, particularly in bedrooms, to reduce the temptation of using devices in bed. Encouraging kids to use screens for activities like homework, entertainment, and socializing in common areas can further separate screen time from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-moon-disrupts-sleep-among-men-more-than-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, making bedrooms restful, technology-free spaces.



Educators can also play a role by teaching students about the impact of screen timing on sleep. Schools might collaborate with parents to promote balanced technology use through initiatives like screen-free challenges, digital detox workshops, and sleep education, empowering students to make better choices about their screen habits.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/article-abstract/2822859#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Pediatrics</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Children who watch screens in bed have the most disrupted sleep

The modern world is marred by the constant presence of...

The "Eureka!" moment in the world of science doesn't always come with a bolt of lightning or an apple falling on a head. More often, it's the result of countless hours of careful lab research and painstaking work. One such momentous breakthrough in the field of blood stem cell research was recently accomplished by an industrious team of Melbourne researchers, bringing hope to the frontline of pediatric leukemia and bone marrow failure disorder treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landmark-blood-stem-cell-achievement">Landmark blood stem cell achievement</h2>



When you imagine medical science leaping forward, it is just this kind of breakthrough you picture. It is a world-first. A team led by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (<a href="https://www.mcri.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MCRI</a>) has, for the first time globally, developed lab-created blood stem cells that closely resemble those found in the human body.



This accomplishment has unlocked a challenging barrier in producing human blood stem cells, capable of creating red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, that closely match those in the human embryo.



MCRI Associate Professor Elizabeth Ng, one of the dedicated scientists on the team, expressed her excitement over this significant leap in human blood stem cell development, and for good reason. 



"The ability to take any cell from a patient, reprogram it into a stem cell, and then turn these into specifically matched blood cells for transplantation will have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-accurately-predicts-cardiovascular-heart-disease-risk-30-years-into-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive impact</a> on these vulnerable patients' lives," she shared.



“Prior to this study, developing human blood stem cells in the lab that were capable of being transplanted into an animal model of bone marrow failure to make healthy blood cells had not been achievable. Importantly, these human cells can be created at the scale and purity required for clinical use.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-stem-cells-success-story">Blood stem cells success story</h2>



The method has been successful for many, including Riya Mahajan, who was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a dangerous blood disorder, at age 11. Riya's journey is one of pain, uncertainty, and hope.



A perfect bone marrow donor eluded them, forcing her mother, Sonali, to step in as a partial match. Despite the complications, Riya's family clung to hope, and today Riya, now 14, is back at school with her friends, her painful ordeal behind her.



Reflecting on her family's experience, Sonali had high praise for MCRI's research. "This research will come as a blessing to so many families. 



The fact that one day there could be targeted treatments for children with leukemia and bone marrow failure disorders is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-failure-creates-a-lasting-stress-memory-in-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life changing</a>," noted Sonali.



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



The implications of this research are tantalizing. Imagine the relief of being told that your child's treatment can be personalized, potentially sparing them the harsh rigmarole that Riya, and countless other kids, have had to endure.



This research paves the way for a future where scientists can take patient-specific cells, reprogram them as stem cells, and then create specifically matched blood cells for transplantation. 



The capacity to replicate this process safely and productively places countless lives on the precipice of hope and relief.



There's a lot to be said about the relentless spirit of researchers like Professor Ng, Professor Ed Stanley, and Professor Andrew Elefanty, all principal investigators at the Melbourne node of the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (<a href="https://renew.ku.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reNEW</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



The task ahead is by no means small. Assuring the safety and effectiveness of the technology forms the crux of the next stage. 



But the dedication and determination of this team of researchers are not to be underestimated. With government funding, they aim to conduct a phase one clinical trial to test the safety of using these lab-grown cells in humans, possibly within five years.



It's heartening to see how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-cancers-defense-against-itself-using-novel-car-t-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medical science's cutting-edge developments</a> have the potential to impact lives, especially those of children with blood disorders. 



For families like Riya's, caught in the whirlwind of diagnosis, treatment, and uncertainty, these strides in blood cell research offer a beacon of hope.



Never underestimate the determination of those in pursuit of medical breakthroughs. As we witness this pioneering research unfold, it's incredible to think of the countless lives that stand to be impacted. 



So, let's continue celebrating these achievements in science, for they are our stepping stones to a healthier, brighter future!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-024-02360-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Biotechnology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Blood stem cells grown in the lab for the first time ever

The "Eureka!" moment in the world of science doesn't always...

Life throws curveballs. From the trials and tribulations of daily living to major life events that pull the rug out from under our feet, we are all too familiar with setbacks. However, are you aware that our ability to cope with life's challenges, known as resilience, could hold the key to longevity?



There is new proof that overcoming life's adversities may lead to a longer life. This revelation stems from a thorough study released in the open access journal BMJ Mental Health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-mental-resilience-in-life">Power of mental resilience in life</h2>



The "bounce-back" factor, scientifically known as mental resilience, is more of a dynamic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-learn-resilience-from-stressful-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">active process</a> than you might think.



Growing evidence points to various influencers such as sex, state of health and even genes that govern your body's response to stress. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilience-is-surprisingly-linked-to-gut-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors contribute to your resilience</a>, molding it across different life stages.



As we age, the ability to overcome difficulty plays a vital role in managing long-term conditions and the prevailing likelihood of disability.



There is no denying that muscle and heart recovery after a bout of sickness or trauma is considered a sign of slow aging and a reduced risk of mortality. However, it's yet to be seen if mental resilience has a similar superpower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted </h2>



The researchers tapped into a wealth of information from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), an ongoing project that started in 1992, tracking US adults aged 50 and above.



The study reports on various aspects, such as the economic status, health, and family life of these adults, with updates every two years.



The researchers specifically looked at datasets for 2006-08 because this period first saw the inclusion of questions probing mental resilience. For the analysis, they selected 10,569 participants with complete data. The average participant was 66 years old, and women represented 59 percent of the group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gauging-mental-resilience">Gauging mental resilience </h2>



Moreover, the team used a recognized scale to gauge mental resilience, looking at qualities that signify strength, such as persistence, calmness, independence, and the understanding that certain trials must be faced solo. The resilience scores ran between 0 and 12, with the average score across the sample hitting 9.18.



The participants were tracked until either their passing or May 2021, whichever came first. Over an average monitoring span of 12 years, 3,489 individuals passed away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-verdict-high-resilience-longer-life">The verdict: High resilience = longer life</h2>



Interestingly, the data showed a near-linear relationship between resilience and mortality: the higher the resilience score, the lower the risk of death, with this link stronger in women than men.



When categorized into quartiles (25% sections), resilience scores linked directly to the chances of living for another 10 years. Those who scored in the bottom quartile had a 61% survival rate, while those in the middle quartiles saw percentages of 72% and 79%. However, participants in the top quartile boasted an impressive survival rate of 84%.



Drilling down, people in the top quartile were found 53% less likely to die in the next decade compared to those in the lowest quartile. After making adjustments for sex, race, marital status, and BMI, this connection held firm, although it dropped to 46% and 38% after considering ill health and lifestyle habits respectively.



Overall, those with higher resilience scores faced considerably lower death rates: 20% lower (2nd quartile), 27% lower (3rd), and 38% lower (4th), compared to those with the lowest scores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-limitations">Study limitations </h2>



This study is observational, so we can't jump to conclusions about cause and effect just yet. In addition, the research team did not account for the potential influence of hormonal factors, genetic elements, or the effects of childhood adversity.



They also relied on baseline data, which means changes during the watching period weren't factored into the analysis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-resilience-for-improved-life">Psychological resilience for improved life</h2>



“Various factors, including but not limited to, meaning in life, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-training-improves-mental-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">positive emotions</a>, self-rated health and satisfaction with social support, have been identified as potential influences on psychological resilience,” noted the researchers.&nbsp;



“Triggering these positive emotions may enhance the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protective effects</a> of psychological resilience and mitigate the negative impact of accumulated adversity on mental health in adults.”



The findings strongly suggest that initiatives aimed at boosting psychological resilience might help in reducing mortality risks. So, next time you face a setback, remember to stand back up because it could very well add years to your life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://mentalhealth.bmj.com/content/27/1/e301064" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Mental Health</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

People with high resilience live up to ten years longer

Life throws curveballs. From the trials and tribulations of daily...

Quantum technology is making it possible to send secret messages through holograms, with the added ability to selectively erase parts of them even after they've been dispatched. 



While this might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it's becoming a reality. 



By harnessing the unique properties of quantum light signals, scientists are developing methods to ensure secure communication where any interception or tampering is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">instantly detectable</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unravelling-quantum-light-signals">Unravelling quantum light signals</h2>



Before we discuss the study, it’s important to understand the concept of quantum light signals. These signals act as highly secure carriers of information.



What makes them truly fascinating is that any attempt to intercept these signals disturbs their delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-quantum-light-detector-now-fits-on-silicon-chip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a>, which in turn compromises the encoded information.



This unique property ensures that the integrity of the original message is preserved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-hologram">Quantum hologram</h2>



Now, how are scientists using this quantum feature to their advantage? The answer lies in a research project by a team of scientists headed by Jensen Li from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> in the UK.



Their focus was to capitalize on this inherent security without resorting to voluminous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smaller-more-powerful-wireless-devices-are-on-the-horizon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devices</a>.



To achieve this objective, they toyed with the idea of Metasurface -- a two-dimensional material that can be engineered to exhibit distinct properties.



The goal was to create "quantum holograms" using these metasurfaces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holographic-process">Holographic process</h2>



Traditionally, holograms are capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unbreakable-encryption-brings-quantum-internet-communication-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">encoding complex information</a> that can be retrieved when illuminated in the right way.



For instance, a 2D holographic paper card can present <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/augmented-reality-ar-glasses-bring-3d-holograms-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D images</a> when light falls on it at the correct angle. The Exeter team followed a similar concept with a quantum twist.



They took a particle of light, known as a photon, and encoded information into its quantum state. This was done through a process starting with the employment of a laser to make a particular crystal emit two photons that were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantumly entangled</a>.



These entangled photons followed separate paths. One photon encountered the metasurface, including thousands of nano-sized components, which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformed the quantum state of this photon</a> in a predefined way, thus encoding a holographic image.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-holograms-disappearing-act">Quantum holograms disappearing act</h2>



Simultaneously, the sibling photon encountered a polarized filter. This filter controlled which parts of the hologram would be revealed and which parts would vanish.



Since the first photon's state was a superpositional assembly of holograms, it contained many possible variants of the message. 



The entangled photons' specialty meant that polarizing one impacted the image created by the other.



As an experiment, a test hologram was created that contained the letters H, D, V, and A. By including a filter for horizontally polarized light, the letter H was erased from the final image.



Li believes that more complex information could be encoded into the photons using the metasurface, potentially as a part of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum cryptography</a> protocol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perspectives-from-andrew-forbes">Perspectives from Andrew Forbes</h2>



Li's revolutionary work was presented at the prestigious SPIE Optics + Photonics conference in San Diego, California, and earned attention from luminaries in the field like Andrew Forbes from the <a href="https://www.wits.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Witwatersrand</a> in South Africa.



“Everybody's dream is to see all this quantum technology ... be compact enough to sit in your smartphone. Metasurfaces seem to be a good way to go", he said, indicating a formidable future for the technology.



Forbes also hinted at the practical implications of Quantum holograms, including imaging tiny biological structures in medical science, a rapidly growing field. 



This breakthrough could serve as an unprecedented milestone in secure and efficient communication technology, thereby revolutionizing the field of information technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-possibilities-and-challenges">Future possibilities and challenges</h2>



The potential applications of quantum holograms are vast, spanning from ultra-secure communications to advanced imaging techniques in medicine and beyond. 



As researchers continue to explore this technology, several challenges must be addressed to bring it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closer to mainstream use</a>.



One key hurdle is the scalability of the metasurface technology, as creating metasurfaces with consistent quality at a large scale remains a technical challenge. 



Additionally, integrating these quantum systems with existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/graphene-superhighway-allows-electronic-devices-to-use-much-less-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electronic devices</a>, such as smartphones or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computers</a>, requires significant innovation in miniaturization and power efficiency. 



Despite these challenges, the ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advances in quantum technology</a> and materials science promise a future where the seamless integration of quantum holograms into daily life may become a reality, paving the way for new innovations in secure data transmission and beyond.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Quantum holograms: The future of secure messaging

Quantum technology is making it possible to send secret messages...

Tropical forests play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, accounting for over half of the world's terrestrial carbon sink. However, climate change poses a significant threat to the carbon balance within these ecosystems.



A new study has revealed that the warming and drying of tropical forest soils could heighten the vulnerability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil carbon</a>. This is primarily due to the increased degradation of older carbon stores.&nbsp;



The research was led by scientists from <a href="https://www.llnl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory</a> (LLNL), in collaboration with researchers from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> and the <a href="https://stri.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-storage-in-tropical-forests-nbsp">Carbon storage in tropical forests&nbsp;</h2>



“These findings imply that both warming and drying, by accelerating the loss of older soil carbon or reducing the incorporation of fresh carbon inputs, will intensify soil carbon losses and negatively impact carbon storage in tropical forests under climate change,” said study lead author Karis McFarlane, a scientist at LLNL.



Tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-destruction-of-tropical-forests-is-much-worse-than-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> exchange more carbon dioxide (CO2) with the atmosphere than any other terrestrial biome, and they hold nearly a third of global soil carbon stocks. These ecosystems are characterized by a short carbon residence time, typically between 6 to 15 years.&nbsp;



This short duration means that changes in carbon inputs or outputs, including CO2 emissions from soil, can have significant and relatively rapid effects on the carbon balance of tropical ecosystems, potentially exacerbating carbon-climate feedback loops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-warming-and-reduced-rainfall-nbsp">Soil warming and reduced rainfall&nbsp;</h2>



Projections for tropical regions suggest a future with warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall, leading to longer and more intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a>, particularly in the Neotropics, which spans from southern Mexico through Central America and into northern South America, including the Amazon rainforest.



The research, which involved climate manipulation experiments in Panama’s tropical forests, demonstrated that both soil warming - by 4°C - and a reduction in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> - by 50% - increased the age of carbon released from the soil by 2 to 3 years, as reflected by higher carbon-14 levels in the emitted CO2.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-effects-of-warming-and-drying">Varying effects of warming and drying</h2>



Interestingly, the processes behind this carbon shift differed between warming and drying. Soil warming sped up the breakdown of older carbon by increasing CO2 emissions, as newer carbon was quickly depleted. 



In contrast, drying reduced the decomposition of fresh carbon inputs, leading to a decrease in overall soil CO2 emissions but a higher contribution of older carbon to the CO2 being released.



“Field and laboratory experiments suggest that climate warming will stimulate a net loss of global soil carbon to the atmosphere, but how climate warming and drying will interact to influence carbon balance in forests and other ecosystems is less clear,” explained McFarlane.



Previous studies in tropical forests primarily focused on the total amount of CO2 being released, which is important for understanding the overall carbon balance but falls short of explaining the underlying mechanisms.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-of-carbon-released-by-soil">Age of carbon released by soil</h2>



By analyzing carbon-14 values, this study was able to determine the age of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-pool-of-global-soil-carbon-alters-climate-change-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> being metabolized and emitted as CO2, offering insights into these processes.



In this context, “new” or “young” carbon refers to carbon that has been fixed from the atmosphere in recent years, while “decadal aged” carbon contains higher levels of carbon-14 relative to the current atmosphere. Even older carbon, from centuries to millennia, is depleted in carbon-14.



The team studied the effects of warming and drying on the amount and age of carbon released as soil CO2 in two distinct lowland tropical forest areas in Panama, where experimental soil warming and drying were conducted. They measured the carbon-14 and carbon-13 isotopes of the CO2 emitted from the soil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-warming-releases-older-carbon-nbsp">Soil warming releases older carbon&nbsp;</h2>



Utilizing the Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry at LLNL, the team found that soil warming increased carbon-14 in CO2 emissions during the wet season, indicating a greater release of older carbon, including “bomb” carbon from nuclear testing in 1963, under both warm and wet conditions.&nbsp;



The warming accelerated the breakdown of older carbon as microbial communities shifted to using older carbon after depleting fresh organic matter.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-drying-limits-access-to-fresh-carbon">Soil drying limits access to fresh carbon </h2>



On the other hand, drying decreased the total release of CO2 from the soil but also increased the carbon-14 in the remaining emissions by limiting the availability of fresh carbon from sources like leaf litter and roots.



“This limitation of microbial access to fresh carbon explains the shift toward increased contributions of older carbon in total soil CO2 emissions with warming and drying,” said McFarlane.



“Our results suggest that climate change will increase the vulnerability of previously stored soil carbon in tropical forests by stimulating the decomposition and loss of old carbon.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51422-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Warming and drying soils are losing more carbon

Tropical forests play a crucial role in the global carbon...

Virtual reality (VR) video games that combine exercise with screen time - often called “exergames” - offer a fun way to get fit. However, similar to traditional exercise routines, adherence to exergames is low, with many users dropping out once the activity becomes too uncomfortable or monotonous.



Computer scientists at the <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bath</a> believe they may have found a solution to this problem: developing exergames that continuously monitor a user's emotional state through advanced sensors and adjust the game in real time to keep players engaged. 



For example, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-violent-video-games-impact-the-human-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game</a> could be made easier if the user is struggling or ramped up with more obstacles when they’re ready for a challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-video-games-and-physical-exercise">Video games and physical exercise</h2>



Dominic Potts, lead author of a new study exploring this innovative use of sensor technology to maintain user motivation, noted that when it comes to physical exercise in all forms, motivation and exercise adherence are huge problems. 



"With exergaming, we can address this issue and maximize a person's enjoyment and performance by adapting the challenge level to match a user's abilities and mood," said Potts.



“Exercise games that are completely adaptive will sense a person's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27-different-human-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a> and give them more ‘rewards’ when they’re struggling, and more obstacles when they’re ready for a new challenge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-fitness-games-nbsp">Personalized fitness games&nbsp;</h2>



The findings, published in the <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3613904.3642611" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems</a>, represent a significant step toward developing personalized fitness games that can keep users engaged longer.



Game designers have long aimed to create personalized exergames that adapt to a user’s changing emotions and challenges as they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-in-a-pill-is-now-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a>. However, accurately measuring a user’s emotional state during physical activity has been a difficult hurdle to overcome. 



Most available technologies have been unreliable, especially during intense movement, making it hard to gauge whether a person is feeling happy, stressed, or bored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensors-to-track-user-emotions">Sensors to track user emotions</h2>



The research team at Bath made a breakthrough by utilizing an innovative range of sensors - embedded in VR headsets or wearable devices like smartwatches - that track physical changes during exercise.&nbsp;



The sensors can measure various physiological indicators, including pupil size, facial expressions, heart rate, sweating, and skin inflammation. This data allows the game to understand how the user feels in real-time and adjust accordingly, creating a more engaging experience.



Potts noted that traditional sensor technologies, while effective when users are sedentary, often fail to deliver accurate readings during exercise because of the “background noise” generated by the user’s movements and the virtual environment (VE). For instance, pupil dilation might be triggered by lighting changes in the virtual world rather than reflecting a user's emotions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-different-emotions-affect-exercise-performance-nbsp">How different emotions affect exercise performance&nbsp;</h2>



In the study, 72 participants took part in a VR cycling race. The researchers employed a specific combination of sensors to track various physiological factors.&nbsp;



The cyclists raced through four distinct VEs, each designed to evoke a particular emotion: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-path-to-happiness-the-science-is-still-not-clear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">happiness</a>, sadness, stress, and calmness. The participants experienced these emotional states while exercising at low, medium, and high intensities.



Through these observations, the team could map how different emotions affected each user’s performance and how well the game's difficulty level aligned with their emotional and physical responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotionally-engaging-exergames-nbsp">Emotionally engaging exergames&nbsp;</h2>



As a result of this study, the researchers developed eight key guidelines for creating more emotionally engaging exergames, including:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Correcting for lighting changes: Pupil-detecting sensors should account for luminosity shifts in the virtual environment, ensuring they accurately reflect emotional changes rather than external factors.</li>



<li>Taking pre-existing conditions into account: Pre-existing levels of sweating should be considered when predicting stress and arousal in the nervous system.</li>



<li>Filtering data: Sensor data should be regularly cleaned during gameplay to remove unrelated signals, making sure the game is appropriately tailored to each user’s emotional state.</li>



<li>Using multiple sensors: Employing a variety of physiological sensors can improve the accuracy of predicting a user's emotional state, creating a more personalized experience.</li>
</ul>



“In the long run, our objective is to make VR exercise emotionally intelligent,” said Christof Lutteroth, director of the <a href="https://revealcentre.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">REVEAL</a> research center and co-investigator at <a href="https://www.camera.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAMERA</a>, both based at the University of Bath.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-popularity-of-vr-fitness-games">Rising popularity of VR fitness games</h2>



Lutteroth also highlighted the growing popularity of VR physical activities, noting their use in various settings, including schools, rehabilitation, and sports science.&nbsp;



“We fully expect VR physical activities to explode in popularity in the years ahead - school children are already using them as part of their exercise programs, and they are also being used in rehab and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watching-live-sporting-events-increases-wellbeing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a> science - so it’s important to focus on making technology that’s emotionally intelligent and adaptive to differences between users,” he said.



By developing exergames that adapt to the user’s emotional and physical state, the researchers hope to create more immersive fitness programs that can keep people pedaling, running, or lifting weights long after they might have given up in a traditional setting.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Emotionally intelligent VR will change the way you exercise

Virtual reality (VR) video games that combine exercise with screen...

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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

News coming your way