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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

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

Ferruginous hawks that winter in California have shown an unexpected rise in numbers, despite a significant decline in their preferred grassland habitats over the past two decades. 



In contrast, many other grassland bird species have experienced sharp population declines, paralleling the loss of the open landscapes that once characterized much of western North America.



A recent study published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3356/jrr2370" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Raptor Research</a>, explores this surprising trend. The paper, authored by independent researcher Edward Pandolfino, along with Lily Douglas from the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a> and Chris Ray from <a href="https://www.birdpop.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Institute for Bird Populations</a>, suggests possible explanations for the hawks’ population growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicting-data-on-ferruginous-hawks">Conflicting data on ferruginous hawks</h2>



The research highlights how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizen-scientists-rare-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">citizen science</a> can reveal important insights about the lesser-studied aspects of a raptor’s life cycle, such as wintering grounds. These periods, although often overshadowed by the breeding season, are vital to understanding the overall health of a species.



Studying ferruginous hawks (Buteo regalis) can be difficult because they do not consistently appear at migration sites, unlike other hawks that follow more predictable paths along topographical features such as ridges. 



This has led to conflicting data on their population status, with their conservation status varying across different regions and countries.&nbsp;



For example, many of the hawks wintering in California come from breeding populations in Washington and Oregon, where they are classified as endangered and sensitive-critical, respectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-christmas-bird-counts-nbsp">Christmas Bird Counts&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate the species’ mixed population trends, the research team analyzed citizen science data from the Washington-Oregon population's wintering grounds. They focused on five Bird Conservation Areas in California, where Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) had been conducted between 1998 and 2022.



Christmas Bird Counts are organized by bird enthusiasts and related organizations every December, following a consistent method to record bird species' presence. These counts provide a rich dataset that offers a clearer picture of the ferruginous hawk’s winter range, far beyond what typical research efforts could achieve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-population-trends-of-ferruginous-hawks">Population trends of ferruginous hawks</h2>



The analysis revealed an intriguing result: while the quality of the hawks' habitat declined over the 25-year period, their winter numbers actually increased. This finding was unexpected, especially since the species has been in decline in Washington, where many of these hawks breed.



“Grassland species are nearly all in long-term, continent-wide declines. Our findings offer a small ray of hope these hawks can continue to persist,” Pandolfino said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raptors-in-open-habitats-nbsp">Raptors in open habitats&nbsp;</h2>



One potential reason for the hawks’ resilience in California could be their preference for larger prey, such as Black-tailed Jackrabbits (Lepus californicus), which thrive in open habitats, including areas affected by development and agriculture.&nbsp;



It’s also possible that ferruginous hawks have adapted by using inactive croplands as new habitat and expanded their diet to include a greater variety of prey.



Despite the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-predators-face-the-most-imminent-threat-from-habitat-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat losses</a>, these findings suggest that the population dynamics of raptors in open habitats can be more complex than expected. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-ferruginous-hawks-nbsp">Protecting ferruginous hawks&nbsp;</h2>



Since young ferruginous hawks face high mortality rates during their first year, understanding the conditions they encounter on their non-breeding grounds is crucial. Protecting these areas, especially in California, will require a collaborative conservation approach.



“Nearly every acre of ferruginous hawk habitat surveyed for this paper is on private cattle ranches,” Pandolfino explained. “In California, the survival of this hawk is completely dependent on cattle ranching continuing to be a viable way to make a living.”



As apex predators, ferruginous hawks serve as indicators of the overall health of their ecosystems, making their protection even more critical in a rapidly changing environment.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-the-habitats-of-grassland-birds-nbsp">Preserving the habitats of grassland birds&nbsp;</h2>



Pandolfino plans to continue his research in California to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wind-energy-facilities-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grassland birds</a> like the ferruginous hawk and raise awareness about the importance of preserving their diminishing habitats.



“This same approach of assessing population trends conducted in other parts of the winter range could shed more light on the overall population status of this species,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;



“In addition, telemetry studies of birds breeding in other parts of the range could clarify the source(s) of increasing numbers of Ferruginous Hawks wintering in California.”



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Resilient hawks manage to thrive despite shrinking habitats

Ferruginous hawks that winter in California have shown an unexpected...

Have you ever wondered why we say we're pulling our hair out when we feel stressed? While it may be a dramatic way to express frustration, there's more to this saying than you might think.



The persistent enemy in our lives, stress, has found a place in our hair follicles. Yes, you read it right; our hair can tell a tale of stress, more specifically - chronic stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cortisol-the-stress-hormone-in-hair">Cortisol: The stress hormone in hair</h2>



Cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," is our body's automatic reaction to stress. It's like an alarm that activates when we face threats or challenges. Traditionally, doctors used to measure cortisol levels in our blood, saliva, or urine, which could indicate momentary stress.



However, this could be likened to checking your car's speed at a specific instance – you can tell how fast you're going at that moment, but not the average speed of the whole journey.



Our hair, on the other hand, accumulates cortisol over time. This provides a unique window to peek into our longer-term, or chronic, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poverty-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress levels</a>. 



Think about it this way; knowing you've forgotten your wallet when you're about to buy bread is a moment of stress, but it's not the same as knowing you can't afford to buy bread on a daily basis. 



Ane Arregi-Otxotorena, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.ehu.eus/en/en-home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPV/EHU</a>’s Faculty of Psychology, uses this crystal-clear analogy to explain the difference between momentary and chronic stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tales-from-strands-of-hair">Tales from strands of hair</h2>



Arregi is part of the Basque Environmental Health Research Group (B-EHRG). The team used hair samples from 11-year-old children to measure chronic stress.



The researchers relied on data from the INMA project, a longitudinal study that collects various data on children and families for long-term research. What they found might come as a surprise.



The experts concluded that children with major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavioral problems</a> had higher levels of cortisol in their hair.



But that's not all; they also found that maternal stress is connected to children's behavioral problems, indicating that kids might be mirroring their mothers' stress through their own behavior. It's not exactly a comforting insight for moms already worried about the kind of world their children are growing up in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-noise-of-stress">Unseen noise of stress</h2>



Interestingly, the researchers also stumbled upon something unexpected. They found that children exposed to a higher level of environmental noise had lower levels of cortisol in their hair. 



But before you think about moving next to a construction site, remember this - the initial stress caused by noise might temporarily increase cortisol levels. However, chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-near-homes-reduce-emotional-problems-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure</a> to noise could potentially lead to a drop in cortisol levels.



However, Arregi cautions that this correlation was significant only among the boys’ sample set, adding a whole new layer of complexity to the mystery of stress. To verify these unexpected results, the team is planning to replicate the research as part of a broader European Athlete (Horizon 2020) project.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-cortisol-and-hair">Stress, cortisol, and hair</h2>



In the grand scheme of things, stress is a product of various external and internal factors. These include environmental elements, like green spaces, air pollution, and noise, as well as social dynamics, like family and school relationships, and individual factors, like sleep patterns and physical activity.



According to Arregi, much remains to be investigated relating to the factors that influence hair cortisol levels in children and young people.



The model created by the team takes into account numerous factors to get a comprehensive picture. It helps determine which variables count and which can be benched when measuring cortisol in hair.



“From now on, the model will allow us to find out which variables should be taken into account when measuring the cortisol level in the hair and which should not," noted Arregi.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-road-ahead">The road ahead</h2>



Our understanding of cortisol in hair is still in its infancy. We need to explore further to truly grasp how multiple environmental, social, and individual factors simultaneously influence cortisol concentration in hair. Chronic stress impacts children and adolescents, some of the most vulnerable stages in life.



Being aware of how different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physically-active-children-cope-better-with-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors influence the health of children</a> and adolescents can help us make informed decisions. 



“We believe that hair cortisol may be a useful tool when assessing how environmental exposures impact chronic stress," said Arregi.



"In short, this may help in the deployment of effective public policies; in fact, knowing what can cause the chronic stress of the population in a specific location may make it easier to implement policies to prevent it."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0018506X24001004?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hormones and Behavior</a>.



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Kids with behavioral issues have high cortisol levels in their hair

Have you ever wondered why we say we're pulling our...

Let's be honest, if you're anything like most people, your trip to the dentist is all about keeping those pearly whites shining and your gum health in check. But what if there's more going on behind that dentist office door, like detecting sleep disorders?



The dentist's chair has become a platform for critical health interventions. This goes beyond routine procedures like extracting problematic teeth. Instead, it involves identifying sleep-related issues, such as those that may indicate serious, life-threatening conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dentists-and-sleep-disorders">Dentists and sleep disorders</h2>



Researchers from Rutgers Health suggest that dental professionals aren't just guardians of your chompers, but also potential lifesavers when it comes to diagnosing sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea.



This disorder makes breathing a Herculean task for its millions of American victims, triggering serious health risks including neurodegeneration and heart ailments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-going-beyond-the-enamel">Going beyond the enamel</h2>



"We have a great opportunity to change lives for the better," said Davis Thomas, a clinical associate professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://sdm.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers School of Dental Medicine</a>&nbsp;and senior author of the review. 



"Dentists can be the first line of defense in identifying sleep disorders. They often see symptoms long before physicians. Indicators like tooth grinding, tongue scalloping or even a patient dozing off in the chair can be early signs that something more is going on."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-sleep-disorders">Signs of sleep disorders</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sleep-day-2024-the-quest-for-a-well-rested-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep</a> disorders are no laughing matter; they play their nasty game with over half of Americans at some point in their lives. What's scarier is that many of these sneaky conditions remain undetected. It's high time to turn the tide, said Thomas.



The review lists a series of peculiar signs that dentists should watch out for. Some of them might seem odd - enlarged jaw muscles, scalloped tongue edges, teeth wearing down in distinctive patterns, and tiny cracks on teeth - but these are the clues that could potentially save lives.



When these physical signs are paired with the patient's history and simple screening tools, dentists can spot the danger signs with up to an astonishing 80% accuracy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-disorders-and-teeth-grinding">Sleep disorders and teeth grinding</h2>



One sign that stands out is bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding. Dentists have long thought this was a direct result of misaligned teeth. But recent studies suggest this nightly gnashing could be caused by something more ominous - underlying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-sex-differences-in-sleep-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep disorders</a>.



Professor Thomas makes it clear that the game needs to change. "We've been treating the symptoms without addressing the root cause for far too long," he said.



"By understanding the neuroscience behind sleep disorders, we can provide more comprehensive care and potentially prevent serious health complications."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-steps">The next steps</h2>



"It's not just about looking at teeth anymore," Thomas said. "We need to observe the whole patient, from their behavior in the waiting room to the subtle signs in their oral cavity." The shift in the dental perspective, as suggested by this new research, could lead to a transformation in sleep disorder detection. Early recognition of potential sufferers could prevent complications like hypertension, strokes, and heart disease.



So, what's the plan? Professor Thomas and his team propose a simple yet effective tactic - include sleep-related questions in patient history forms.



They also recommend training dental team members to recognize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changing-sleep-patterns-reveal-insights-about-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep disorder signs</a>, using tools like the STOP-BANG questionnaire, and teaming up with sleep medicine specialists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-for-action">Time for action</h2>



"We're not asking dentists to diagnose sleep disorders," said Thomas. "We're asking them to recognize the signs and make appropriate referrals. This simple act can be lifesaving."



Professor Thomas recommends that dentists looking to incorporate sleep screening into their practices start with education.



"Attend sleep medicine conferences, take continuing education courses, and stay up-to-date with the latest research," he said. "The more we learn, the more we realize how much we don't know - and how much we can do to help our patients."



So next time you're in a dentist's chair, remember it's not just about a dazzling smile, but a whole lot more. Your dentist is not just your tooth fairy but might also be your sleep savior.



The study is published in <a href="https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(24)00298-8/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of the American Dental Association</a>.



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Dentists can spot the signs of hidden sleep disorders

Let's be honest, if you're anything like most people, your...

Facial recognition plays a crucial role in shaping our self-image and how we interact with others. As digital technology advances, intriguing questions arise about how altering our facial identity impacts our sense of self and social interactions.&nbsp;



Shunichi Kasahara, a researcher at the Cybernetic Humanity Studio within the <a href="https://www.oist.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology</a> (OIST), is currently delving into these questions. His research focuses on real-time morphing of facial images, exploring what happens when our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-remember-5000-faces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faces</a> are transformed into someone else’s and vice versa.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-sense-of-identity-nbsp">Our sense of identity&nbsp;</h2>



Kasahara and his team have been investigating how our sense of identity is influenced by motor-visual synchrony - the coordination between our physical movements and the visual feedback we receive.&nbsp;



The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-63233-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Scientific Reports</a>, reveal that whether or not we have control over the movement of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-perception-accurate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-image</a>, our identification with our face remains consistent. This suggests that our sense of agency, or the feeling of control over our actions, does not significantly affect how we identify with our own facial image.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-identification-boundary-nbsp">Self-identification boundary&nbsp;</h2>



To explore these concepts, the scientists conducted psychological experiments using displays and cameras to determine where the “self-identification boundary” lies and what factors influence this boundary.&nbsp;



Participants were seated in front of screens showing their faces gradually morphing into another face. At a certain point, participants were asked to press a button when they felt the image no longer resembled them. The experiment was conducted in both directions: morphing from self to other and from other to self.



“It’s like watching your face in a mirror as you move it and you identify yourself, but your face slowly changes up to a point and you realize this is no longer you,” Kasahara explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-strong-sense-of-self">A strong sense of self</h2>



The researchers tested how different movement conditions - synchronous, asynchronous, and static - affected the facial identity boundary.&nbsp;



The experts hypothesized that synchronized movements would lead participants to identify more strongly with the images. However, the results were surprising.&nbsp;



Whether the movements were synchronized or not, the facial identity boundaries remained similar. Moreover, participants identified more with static images of themselves than with moving images.



Interestingly, the direction of morphing - whether from self to other or vice versa - also influenced participants' perceptions of their own facial boundaries. They were more likely to identify with their facial image when it morphed from self to other, rather than the reverse.&nbsp;



Overall, the findings suggest that our sense of agency over facial movements does not significantly impact our ability to recognize our facial identity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-identity-in-the-digital-age">Self identity in the digital age </h2>



“Consider the example of deepfakes, which are essentially a form of asynchronous movement. When I remain still but the visual representation moves, it creates an asynchronous situation. Even in these deepfake scenarios, we can still experience a feeling of identity connection with ourselves,” Kasahara explained.&nbsp;



“This suggests that even when we see a fake or manipulated version of our image, for example, someone else using our face, we might still identify with that face. Our findings raise important questions about our perception of self and identity in the digital age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-our-sense-of-agency">Testing our sense of agency</h2>



But what about the reverse? How does our sense of identity affect our sense of control or agency? In collaboration with Dr. Wen Wen, a psychology professor at Rikkyo University who specializes in research on the sense of agency, Kasahara conducted further experiments.&nbsp;



The goal was to investigate how recognizing oneself through facial features might influence perceptions of control over one's movements.



Participants in the experiments observed either their own face or another person's face on a screen, with the ability to interact and control facial and head movements. They were asked to observe the screen for about 20 seconds while altering their facial expressions and head movements.&nbsp;



The face on the screen was controlled either entirely by the participant’s own movements or by a combination of the participant's and the experimenter's movements (full control vs. partial control).&nbsp;



Afterward, participants were asked how much the face on the screen resembled them and how much control they felt over the face.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facial-movements-and-visual-identity-nbsp">Facial movements and visual identity&nbsp;</h2>



The results were intriguing: participants reported a higher sense of agency over the “other face” rather than their own. Additionally, controlling another person's face led to a greater variety of facial movements compared to controlling their own face.



“We gave the participants a different face, but they could control the facial movements of this face - similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepfake-detection-inauthentic-content-lacks-telltale-signs-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deepfake</a> technology, where AI can transfer movement to other objects. This AI technology allows us to go beyond the conventional experience of simply looking into a mirror, enabling us to disentangle and investigate the relationship between facial movements and visual identity,” explained Kasahara.



“Based on previous research, one might expect that if I see my own face, I will feel more control over it. Conversely, if it's not my face, I might expect to feel less control because it's someone else's face. That's the intuitive expectation.”



However, said Kasahara, the results are the opposite - when people see their own face, they report a lower sense of agency. On the other hand, they are more likely to feel a sense of agency when they see another person's face.&nbsp;



These surprising results challenge our previous understanding of how we perceive ourselves in images.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-technologies-shape-our-sense-of-self">Digital technologies shape our sense of self</h2>



Kasahara emphasized that the acceptance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a> in society plays a crucial role in technological advancements and human evolution.&nbsp;



“The relationship between technology and human evolution is cyclical; we evolve together. But concerns about certain computer technology may lead to restrictions. My goal is to help foster acceptance within society and update our understanding of 'the self' in relation to human-computer integration technology,” he said.



As technology continues to evolve, so too does our understanding of identity and control. This research opens new avenues for exploring how digital technologies can shape our sense of self and how we navigate the increasingly blurred boundaries between our physical and digital identities.



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Digital technology has a direct impact on our human sense of 'self'

Facial recognition plays a crucial role in shaping our self-image...

Ultrafine particles (UFPs) in wildfire smoke can significantly impact air quality, human health, and the environment, extending far beyond the immediate vicinity of the fires. These tiny particles can travel long distances, spreading their effects over vast regions.



While larger particles from fires are known to affect weather patterns and climate by altering cloud formation and the reflection or absorption of the sun's energy, the specific role of ultrafine particles has often been overlooked due to their elusive and transient nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlooked-impact-of-ultrafine-particles">Overlooked impact of ultrafine particles</h2>



The minuscule particles, measuring less than 100 nanometers in diameter, were thought to be quickly "scavenged" by larger particles, thus minimizing their influence on atmospheric processes and reducing their potential to linger in the atmosphere.



However, emerging research indicates that ultrafine particles are more resilient and influential than previously thought, suggesting their impact on climate and weather patterns might be far more significant than earlier assumptions.



This challenges traditional views on how wildfire smoke interacts with the atmosphere and calls for a deeper investigation into the role of ultrafine particles in environmental processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abundant-ultrafine-particles-in-smoke">Abundant ultrafine particles in smoke</h2>



A team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.pnnl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific Northwest National Laboratory</a> (PNNL), in collaboration with their partners using the specialized G-1 research aircraft, conducted comprehensive measurements and advanced model simulations to analyze ultrafine particles in detail.



The study revealed that UFPs were not only present but also highly abundant in smoke from vegetation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-old-growth-amazon-forests-increased-by-152-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires in the Amazon</a> rainforest, with specific atmospheric conditions favoring their formation, persistence, and survival.



The team's high-resolution modeling further demonstrated that these UFPs have the potential to intensify <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/smoke-infused-storm-cloud-over-the-northwest-territories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storm clouds</a>, leading to increased occurrences of heavy rainfall. 



The research significantly enhances our understanding of how aerosols produced by vegetation fires can influence weather patterns, cloud dynamics, and long-term climate change, underscoring the need to incorporate ultrafine particles into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-in-earth-system-models">Limitations in Earth system models</h2>



Previously, Earth system models did not account for secondary UFPs formed through nucleation and the growth of atmospheric constituents resulting from chemical oxidation in smoke from burning biomass. Earlier assumptions suggested significant losses of nucleating species to primary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-particles-erode-the-ozone-layer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoke particles</a>.



However, the team identified efficient nucleation and growth mechanisms for secondary UFPs, highlighting how nucleating species in smoke could overcome these losses and maintain the presence of many ultrafine particles.



The study, published in the journal One Earth, fills a significant gap in our understanding of ultrafine particle processes. It opens new research opportunities by showcasing the potential impacts of ultrafine particles formed in biomass smoke on cloud formation, rain development, and both short-term weather and long-term climate conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-modeling-techniques">Advanced modeling techniques</h2>



Detailed analysis using the G-1 aircraft measurements of smoke tracer gas acetonitrile and particle size distributions over the Amazon rainforest revealed a large amount of ultrafine particles in smoke from fresh vegetation fires.



The multi-institutional team used the Weather Research and Forecasting Model coupled to chemistry (WRF-Chem) for regional modeling. The analysis identified key mechanisms explaining the formation of ultrafine particles in biomass smoke.



The researchers found that the inclusion of biomass burning emissions of dimethyl amines (DMA) in the model was necessary to maintain observed ultrafine particle concentrations and overcome the large losses of nucleating species to primary biomass burning aerosols.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultrafine-particles-and-storm-intensity">Ultrafine particles and storm intensity</h2>



The researchers also proposed adjustments to the model, such as increasing the emission rates of dimethyl amines (DMA), sulfuric acid, and extremely low volatility organic compounds to better reflect the particle size distributions observed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-has-affected-almost-every-lake-in-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire smoke</a>.



To understand how both ultrafine and larger particles influence cloud formation and precipitation, the team employed particle size data and hygroscopicity profiles generated by the WRF-Chem model, combined with a sophisticated cloud microphysics framework known as WRF with spectral bin cloud microphysics.



The simulations revealed that while ultrafine particles have the potential to strengthen storms, enlarge storm anvils, and lead to more intense rainfall, the presence of larger particles from fires tends to delay precipitation onset and reduce rainfall intensity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/one-earth/fulltext/S2590-3322(24)00258-6?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2590332224002586%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>.



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Ultrafine particles in wildfire smoke change weather patterns

Ultrafine particles (UFPs) in wildfire smoke can significantly impact air...

Terahertz technology is paving the way for the 6G revolution, promising to transform the way we communicate. An international team of scientists has made a major breakthrough by developing a tiny silicon device that could double the capacity of wireless networks.



This innovation brings us closer to the futuristic world of 6G, where ultra-fast downloads and immersive virtual reality experiences become everyday realities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wonder-of-terahertz-technology">The wonder of terahertz technology</h2>



Consider the possibility of downloading an entire season of your beloved series in mere seconds. Or a virtual reality experience so authentic it feels as real as your everyday interactions. These are the tantalizing prospects that terahertz technology promises to deliver. 



"This innovation not only enhances the efficiency of terahertz communication systems but also paves the way for more robust and reliable high-speed wireless networks," said Dr. Weijie Gao, a postdoctoral researcher at <a href="https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka University</a> and co-author of the study.



This diminutive wonder, a silicon chip that’s smaller than a grain of rice, operates in a part of the electromagnetic spectrum that’s mostly unexplored territory for many: the terahertz range. 



We are currently familiar with the slow lanes of the digital highway, 4G and 5G, but terahertz technology is a superhighway that dwarfs our current <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/scientists-are-using-light-to-speed-up-the-internet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speeds</a> by comparison.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-terahertz-waves-in-wireless-communication">Terahertz waves in wireless communication</h2>



Terahertz waves, which sit between microwaves and infrared light on the electromagnetic spectrum, have long been considered as likely candidates to revolutionize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smaller-more-powerful-wireless-devices-are-on-the-horizon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wireless</a> communication. 



Their ability to carry vast amounts of data is a major advantage, yet harnessing this potential has been met with technical hurdles. One such hurdle is managing different terahertz wave polarizations, or orientations of wave oscillations.



To tackle this issue, the researchers developed a “polarization multiplexer,” essentially a traffic control system for terahertz waves, allowing more data to be transmitted simultaneously without congestion. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doubling-data-capacity">Doubling data capacity </h2>



"Our proposed polarization multiplexer will allow multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously over the same frequency band, effectively doubling the data capacity," explained lead researcher Professor Withawat Withayachumnankul from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>.



Despite being just a few millimeters in size, this compact silicon chip can distinguish and combine different terahertz wave polarizations with remarkable accuracy. It's like having a tiny, incredibly precise sorting machine for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-leap-making-light-waves-stand-still-photonic-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light waves</a>. 



The team used a 250-micrometer-thick silicon wafer with high electrical resistance and a technique called deep reactive-ion etching to create intricate patterns that interact specifically with terahertz waves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pushing-boundaries-and-testing-limits">Pushing boundaries and testing limits</h2>



Using specialized equipment, including a vector network analyzer, the team subjected their device to rigorous testing. They demonstrated that it could manage two different polarizations of terahertz waves with high efficiency.



The device showed an average signal loss of only about one decibel, indicating minimal energy wastage. 



Moreover, the polarization extinction ratio - a measure of the device's ability to distinguish between polarizations - remained over 20 decibels, ensuring that data transmitted on different polarizations would not interfere with each other.



The researchers conducted real-world tests to highlight the potential of this technology. They successfully transmitted two separate high-definition video streams concurrently over a terahertz link, effectively doubling the information transmitted over a single channel. 



In more advanced tests, using on-off keying and more complex modulation schemes, they reached <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-data-transmission-speed-record-set-by-scientists-using-optical-cables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data</a> rates of up to 190 gigabits per second - enough to download six high-definition movies in a single second.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-road-to-6g-wireless-networks">Road to 6G wireless networks </h2>



The appeal of this technology extends beyond the prospect of 6G internet speed. The device is also incredibly versatile, capable of enhancing the efficiency of terahertz communication systems.



"We anticipate that within the next one to two years, researchers will begin to explore new applications and refine the technology," noted Professor Masayuki Fujita of Osaka University. 



The potential applications are not limited to faster movie downloads. This innovation could redefine augmented reality, enable seamless remote surgery, and even create virtual worlds so captivating you might forget they're not real.



So, while the next <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teens-with-problematic-smartphone-use-suffer-from-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smartphone</a> upgrade may not yet feature a terahertz chip, the revolution of faster, more connected, and immersive technology is on the horizon.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lpor.202400270" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laser &amp; Photonics Review</a>.



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'Futuristic' 6G internet speed will arrive sooner than you think

Terahertz technology is paving the way for the 6G revolution,...

Green spaces are becoming essential lifelines as global temperatures continue to rise. Increasing levels of heat are turning our cities into insufferable melting pots, where concrete and asphalt amplify the issue.



Rising heat is especially severe across cities of the Global South. Here, a lack of greenery compounded by rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure exacerbates already harsh living conditions.



A recent study has revealed that these cities have only about 70% of their "cooling capacity" compared to cities in the Global North, making them significantly more vulnerable to heat stress.



The rising threat of global warming in urban areas of the South is further intensified by the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where dense construction and limited vegetation cause cities to be significantly warmer than their surrounding rural regions.



This worsens heat-related illnesses, disproportionately affecting low-income communities and creating a dire public health crisis for these vulnerable regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-green-spaces">The power of green spaces</h2>



However, a cure for the relentless heat might not be as far-fetched as it seems. The introduction of urban green spaces is proven to be a highly effective approach to combat scorching temperatures.



The research team - including experts from the universities of Nanjing, Exeter, Aarhus, and North Carolina State - has found that there is “vast potential” to enhance urban cooling in the Global South and reduce inequality.



"Urban greenery is a really effective way of tackling what can be fatal effects of extreme heat and humidity," said Professor Tim Lenton from the Global Systems Institute at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>.



“Currently, the people dying due to climate change are often in the slums of cities in the Global South, such as the hottest parts of India.&nbsp;Our analysis suggests green spaces can cool the surface temperature in the average city by about 3°C during warm seasons - a vital difference during extreme heat.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cooling-effect-of-urban-green-spaces">The cooling effect of urban green spaces</h2>



The cooling effect of green spaces in cities, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forests-benefit-from-diverse-native-tree-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban forests</a>, is attributed to shading and transpirational cooling, which is the evaporation of water.



The study utilized satellite data from the world's 500 largest cities to gauge their cooling capacity - the extent to which urban green spaces could reduce a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-turf-water-cooled-sustainable-solution-hot-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">city's surface temperatures</a>.



The top ten cities with the highest cooling capacity were all located in the United States, with Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina topping the list.



Many US cities benefit from their low population density, despite this causing a side effect of "urban sprawl." Low population density allows for larger green spaces and a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-measures-the-cooling-effect-of-shade-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cooling effect</a>.



On the opposite end of the spectrum, cities like Mogadishu in Somalia, Sana'a in Yemen, and Rosario in Argentina were found to have the lowest cooling capacity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-benefits-in-the-global-south">Cooling benefits in the Global South</h2>



The Global South, which spans Africa, Latin America, and large parts of Asia, is where the risk of exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-attribute-extreme-heat-and-wildfires-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme heat</a> is most severe. 



A prior study warns that existing climate policies may leave over a fifth of the world's population exposed to dangerously high temperatures by the year 2100 - with the most vulnerable sections located in India and Nigeria.



"The differences are mostly due to quantity of vegetation, but efficiency of cooling is also better in the Global North - possibly due to management of green spaces and different tree species," said Professor Chi Xu of <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-greener-future">A greener future</h2>



Despite the disparities in cooling capacity and benefits, there is still a silver lining. "The good news is that this nature-based solution to cooling can be substantially improved across the Global South, helping to tackle future heat stress for billions of people," said Professor Jens-Christian Svenning.



According to Professor Rob Dunn of NC State, creating a greener urban environment is not an easy task, but it's a critical step toward making cities habitable in the near future.



"It won’t be easy to regreen cities. It can be expensive in the short-term. Yet, it will be key to making cities liveable in the immediate future. Also key will be working to prevent the loss of green space in those cities that have it, or at least that have a little," said Professor Dunn.



“Changes could include ground-level green spaces and vertical and rooftop gardens, or even forests, to help protect city people from extreme heat.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51355-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Urban green spaces are urgently needed across the Global South

Green spaces are becoming essential lifelines as global temperatures continue...

One of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet might be closer than you realize - right inside your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-dislike-for-vegetables-caused-by-microbes-in-the-mouth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mouth</a>. This bustling environment hosts over 500 species of bacteria, which form structured communities known as biofilms. 



Almost all of these bacteria reproduce through binary fission, where a single mother cell divides into two daughter cells.



However, new research from the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> (MBL) and <a href="https://forsyth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ADA Forsyth</a> reveals an extraordinary mode of cell division in Corynebacterium matruchotii, a common bacterium found in dental plaque. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multiplying-mouth-bacteria">Multiplying mouth bacteria</h2>



Unlike typical bacteria, C. matruchotii undergoes multiple fission, a rare process where a single cell divides into multiple cells simultaneously. The study, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2408654121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, uncovers this unique division mechanism.



The research team discovered that C. matruchotii can produce up to 14 new cells at once, depending on the size of the original cell. Notably, these bacteria only extend growth from one end of the filament - a process known as “tip extension.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-community-of-dental-plaque-nbsp">Microbial community of dental plaque&nbsp;</h2>



Within the dental plaque biofilm, C. matruchotii acts as a structural scaffold. Dental plaque is just one of many microbial communities within the broader human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiome</a>, a complex environment of microorganisms living harmoniously within a healthy body. 



The research provides insight into how these bacteria proliferate, compete for resources, and maintain structural integrity within dental plaque.



“Just as coral forms reefs and trees create forests, Corynebacterium in dental plaque forms a dense, bushy structure that supports a variety of other bacterial species,” explained Jessica Mark Welch, a senior scientist at ADA Forsyth and adjunct scientist at MBL.



“These biofilms are like miniature rainforests. Bacteria interact dynamically as they grow and divide. We believe that C. matruchotii’s unique cell cycle helps it establish dense networks at the core of the biofilm,” added lead author Scott Chimileski, a research scientist at MBL.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growth-strategy-of-mouth-bacteria-nbsp">Growth strategy of mouth bacteria&nbsp;</h2>



The study builds on a 2016 research paper that utilized an imaging technique known as CLASI-FISH (combinatorial labeling and spectral imaging fluorescent in situ hybridization) to visualize the spatial organization of dental plaque.&nbsp;



The earlier study revealed that filamentous C. matruchotii cells form the backbone of structures resembling “hedgehogs” within the plaque.



The current research delves deeper into the biology of C. matruchotii, using time-lapse microscopy to observe how these filamentous cells grow.&nbsp;



Rather than providing a static image of this microbial environment, the scientists captured real-time dynamics of bacterial growth, interactions, and the remarkable growth strategy of C. matruchotii.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fundamental-biology-of-mouth-bacteria">Fundamental biology of mouth bacteria</h2>



“To understand how various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-and-imprint-new-era-dna-transformation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> collaborate in the plaque biofilm, we need to grasp the fundamental biology of these microorganisms that reside exclusively in the human mouth,” Welch said.



Despite regular brushing, dental plaque reappears, which led the scientists to estimate that C. matruchotii colonies can grow up to half a millimeter per day.&nbsp;



Although other Corynebacterium species are found in different parts of the human body, such as the skin and nasal cavity, these species do not exhibit the same elongation or multiple fission behavior.



“This unique growth strategy might have evolved due to the competitive nature of the dental plaque environment,” Chimileski suggested.



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



C. matruchotii lacks flagella, which means it cannot move actively. Researchers speculate that its distinctive elongation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cells-shape-successfully-reproduce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell division</a> strategies might serve as a means to explore its environment, similar to how fungal mycelia or soil-dwelling Streptomyces bacteria operate.



“If these cells can move towards nutrients or interact with other species to form beneficial relationships, it could help us understand how the spatial organization of plaque biofilms develops,” Chimileski said.



Study co-author Gary Borisy, a principal investigator at ADA Forsyth and former director of the MBL, noted that it is remarkable that our mouths harbor a microbe with such a unique reproductive strategy. "The next step is to explore how this strategy impacts oral and overall health.”



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Bacteria in your mouth multiply in a very unique way

One of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet might...

Each year, a new spotlight shines on the different facets of youth culture - whether it's the newest fashion trend, the hottest technology, or the latest mental health concern. 



For the last couple of years, experts have illuminated a growing phenomenon: the widespread use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, among teens.



But there's an added complication that's now emerging, and it's one that chills the blood a bit more than the cool vapor these devices expel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teens-vaping-and-mental-health">Teens, vaping, and mental health</h2>



Concerning evidence from a recent study on vaping behavior among Australian high school students has revealed a distressing link between depressive symptoms and the likelihood of e-cigarette use.



The research shows that students who reported severe depressive symptoms were more than twice as likely to have used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-use-increases-smoking-vaping-risks-among-youth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarettes</a> than those who reported none of these symptoms.



A broad brush was used in this study, not narrowing in on one specific mental health issue but casting a wider net to include facets like severe depressive symptoms, moderate and high stress levels, and low well-being.



The data painted a consistent picture: higher e-cigarette use among those with poorer mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-and-vaping-prevention">Mental health and vaping prevention</h2>



This data serves as a wake-up call for the need to address mental health hand-in-hand with vaping prevention, precisely at the critical juncture when these issues first rear their heads - early adolescence.



The research team surveyed over 5,000 7th and 8th grade students across 40 schools in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia from May to October 2023.



By doing so, they created one of the largest datasets on adolescent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaping-linked-to-lower-sperm-counts-and-testicular-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaping</a> in Australia, and the results offer us valuable insights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teen-vaping-rates">Teen vaping rates </h2>



Ultimately, 5,157 students contributed to the study, of which 8.3 percent admitted to having used e-cigarettes before.



But here's the crunch: e-cigarette use was 74 percent higher among students who reported moderate stress. In those reporting high levels of stress, it was 64 percent higher. 



And when we look at students reporting low well-being, e-cigarette use jumps to a staggering 105 percent higher compared to their counterparts with high well-being.



Surprisingly, anxiety symptoms seemed to break this trend, showing no association with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-vaping-exposes-teens-to-toxic-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarette use</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ourfutures-vaping-trial">OurFutures vaping trial</h2>



The data collected was part of a larger initiative - the OurFutures Vaping Trial. This initiative holds the distinction of being the first, and currently only, clinical trial of a school-based e-cigarette prevention program in Australia.



Under the stewardship of Dr. Lauren Gardner from the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre and Professor Nicola Newton, the OurFutures Vaping Trial aims to test if vaping uptake can be thwarted in Australian adolescents.



Gardner highlights the lack of data that exists on the relationship between adolescent vaping and mental health, particularly within the unique Australian context. 



This is alarming, considering the concurrent rise of vaping and mental health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teen-vaping-rates-surge-despite-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issues among youth</a>. Hence, there is a sense of urgency to navigate this complex landscape and to develop prevention and early intervention strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-global-perspective">Building a global perspective</h2>



The findings of this study are not exclusive to Australia. They echo the results of research conducted in the United States and other countries, which show a link between adolescent e-cigarette use and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.



“There is a growing body of evidence of a relationship between vaping and mental health: vaping has been linked with the onset of mental health problems, and vice versa,” noted co-author&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/about/our-people/academic-staff/emily-stockings.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Associate Professor Emily Stockings</a>&nbsp;from the Matilda Centre.



“Although not explored in our study, it is possible that this relationship can be explained by shared social, environmental and genetic risk factors, or it may point to possible self-medicating behaviors.



“In the short term, nicotine may reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, and young people may be reaching for vapes as a coping mechanism.



“Regardless of whether mental ill-health influences smoking or vice-versa, it is clear that if we are to prevent vaping onset, we need to address mental health at the same time.”



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00048674241267908" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian &amp; New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry</a>. 



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Teen vaping rates are doubled by stress and depression

Each year, a new spotlight shines on the different facets...

Did you know there is a lot more to our planet than meets the eye? We're talking about a completely new, doughnut-shaped region discovered within the Earth's liquid core by scientists from The Australian National University (ANU).



This region, with its unique doughnut-shaped structure, provides vital insights into the dynamics of our planet's magnetic field.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-doughnut-in-earth-s-liquid-core">Discovering the 'doughnut' in Earth's liquid core</h2>



The doughnut-shaped region is nestled only at low latitudes and lies parallel to the equator, residing where the liquid core meets the mantle. 



This area could only be revealed recently, thanks to the meticulous efforts of <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a> seismologists. The Earth's core comprises two parts: a solid inner core and a liquid outer core. 



Both are enveloped by the Earth's mantle. Our newly discovered region sits at the top of Earth's outer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">core</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seismic-waves">Seismic waves</h2>



Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić, the study's co-author and a geophysicist at ANU, shares some insights into this unusual feature. 



Seismic waves, he says, move slower in this newfound region than anywhere else in the liquid outer core.



"The region sits parallel to the equatorial plane and is confined to the low latitudes, forming a doughnut shape," remarks Tkalčić. 



However, the precise thickness of the 'doughnut' still eludes the team. They estimate that it could stretch a few hundred kilometers beneath the core-mantle boundary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-approach">Innovative approach</h2>



Tkalčić and his team took a unique approach to this discovery by deviating from traditional seismic wave observation techniques. 



Rather than focusing on signals generated by earthquakes within the first hour, the ANU scientists chose to delve deeper, analyzing similarities in waveforms several hours after the earthquake's origin. This innovative method led to their breakthrough discovery. 



By meticulously scrutinizing the geometry of the waves' paths and their journey through the outer core, they successfully reconstructed their travel times, thus revealing the previously unknown region with low seismic speeds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-liquid-core-doughnut-mysteries">Earth's liquid core 'doughnut' mysteries</h2>



Dr. Xiaolong Ma, another study co-author, explains that this discovery sheds light on some yet unsolved mysteries of Earth's magnetic field dynamics. 



Dr. Ma emphasizes that understanding the Earth's outer core still requires multidisciplinary efforts from seismology, mineral physics, geomagnetism, and geodynamics.



The outer core, predominantly composed of liquid iron and nickel, plays a crucial role in generating Earth's magnetic field. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/earth-magnetic-field_doughnut-shaped-region_schematic_credit-Science-Advances_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/earth-magnetic-field_doughnut-shaped-region_schematic_credit-Science-Advances_1s.webp" alt="Ray path of K* feature, schematic of the OC heterogeneity, and absolute PKIKP travel time residuals. Credit: Science Advances" class="wp-image-1943533"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ray path of K* feature, schematic of the OC heterogeneity, and absolute PKIKP travel time residuals. Credit: Science Advances</figcaption></figure>



This is primarily due to the vigorous movement of the electrically conductive liquid within the core. The magnetic field thus created acts as a protective shield around Earth, sustaining life by shielding us from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-dances-with-solar-wind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar winds</a> and harmful radiation.



Tkalčić suggests that understanding the Earth's outer core's composition, particularly the presence of light chemical elements, is pivotal for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comprehending the magnetic field</a> and predicting its potential weakening or cessation.



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



The discovery of the doughnut-shaped region not only enriches our understanding of Earth’s inner workings but may also have far-reaching implications for geophysical research and our comprehension of tectonic activities. 



By providing a more nuanced view of the outer core, scientists can refine existing models of mantle dynamics and improve forecasts regarding seismic activities. 



This knowledge could also enhance our ability to interpret historical seismic data, allowing researchers to draw parallels between current and past geological events, thus offering a clearer picture of Earth's developmental timeline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-earth-s-liquid-core">Future research on Earth's liquid core</h2>



As researchers continue to investigate the characteristics of this newly uncovered region in Earth's liquid core, several exciting avenues for future study emerge. 



For instance, advancing imaging techniques and computational models will be paramount in accurately determining the doughnut's thickness and understanding its material properties. 



Additionally, interdisciplinary collaborations that involve not only seismologists but also geochemists and mineralogists will be essential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-should-you-care">Why should you care?</h2>



We all know that Earth's magnetic field plays no small role in shrugging off the sun's damaging solar particle storms. 



But did you know that the explored low velocity within the liquid core hints at a high concentration of light chemical elements that can slow down seismic waves? 



These light elements, coupled with temperature variations, stir the liquid in the outer core, and we have our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weak-magnetic-field-may-have-set-the-stage-for-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>.



The importance of Earth's magnetic field cannot be emphasized enough -- it's one of the key reasons life thrives on our beautiful planet.



From scientists to laymen, the dynamics of Earth's magnetic field continues to pique interest worldwide. Findings like these can open doors to more research about the magnetic field on Earth and beyond.



The findings from this exciting study have been published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn5562" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Doughnut-shaped region discovered in Earth's liquid core impacts our magnetic field

Did you know there is a lot more to our...

Children and screens are seen together more often than peanut butter and jelly these days. However, this seemingly innocent combination is cause for concern. Sweden's emphatic message to parents is that toddlers should not have any screen exposure. 



Yes, you heard that right, not even a minute. This extends to older children as well, with screen time recommended only in moderation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-recommendations">Screen time recommendations</h2>



The Public Health Agency in Sweden has advised that children under the age of two should not be exposed to any form of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-screen-time-changes-the-brain-based-on-23-years-of-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital media or television</a>. It does sound like a lot to ask in our tech-saturated world, but the authorities are firm in their stance. 



As children grow, electronic indulgence should be restricted. For ages two to five, a hard cap of one hour a day should be adhered to, the agency counsels. Six to twelve-year-olds could afford a couple of hours in front of the screen, but not a minute more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tv-dinners-a-recipe-for-childhood-obesity">TV dinners: A recipe for childhood obesity?</h2>



A recent study has uncovered a link between screen time during meals and increased chances of overweight children.



It appears that the seemingly harmless act of watching television or fiddling with phones at the dinner table tips the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scale against children's health</a>. The Swedish Public Health Agency extends this safeguard to children under the age of two as well.



"For too long, smartphones and other screens have been allowed to enter every aspect of our children's lives," said Jakob Forssmed, Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health. With this statement, he echoes the recommendations of the public health agency, reinforcing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">need for digital discipline</a> in kids' lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-among-children-and-teens">Screen time among children and teens</h2>



The agency’s recommendations extend to teenagers as well, suggesting that 13 to 18-year-old teens limit their screen time to two to three hours per day. 



This is a daunting task considering Swedish teens aged 13 to 16 spend an average of six and a half hours a day on screens, outside of school hours.



This overindulgence in screens does not leave a lot of time for communal activities, physical activity or adequate sleep, said Forssmed. He also pointed to the worrying reality of a Swedish "sleep crisis," with more than half of 15-year-olds not getting enough sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guarding-children-from-excessive-screen-use">Guarding children from excessive screen use</h2>



Furthermore, the health agency advised against using screens before bedtime and recommended that all digital devices remain outside bedrooms at night. This suggestion is based on research showing that excessive screen use can lead to poor sleep, depression, and body dissatisfaction.



Sweden's government is not stopping at recommendations. They have expressed intentions of exploring a ban on smartphones in primary schools. In January, a study elucidated that even an hour of iPad use per day in toddlers can impact their understanding of the world around them.



Researchers at <a href="https://drexel.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drexel University</a> in Philadelphia found a two-fold increased risk of unusual sensory behaviors in children exposed to any amount of screen time starting at a year old. The risk escalated with each additional hour of screen time. This highlights the severity of the issue at hand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engaged-parents-can-model-healthy-habits">Engaged parents can model healthy habits</h2>



To effectively tackle the growing concern of excessive screen time, parental involvement is paramount. Engaged parents who actively participate in their children's activities are better positioned to model healthy habits. 



This includes not only limiting screen exposure but also encouraging alternative pursuits - such as reading, playing outside, or participating in community events - that promote creativity and social skills.



Furthermore, parents can facilitate open discussions about digital media, helping children understand its impact and their own consumption habits. 



By setting boundaries and providing guidance, families can collectively work towards a balance that promotes mental and physical well-being, creating a healthier environment for the next generation amidst the digital age's rapid evolution.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swedish-pediatricians-no-screen-time-for-children-under-two/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Screen time</a> and its effects on children is a Pandora's box that we've unwittingly opened. The recommendations and initiatives by the Swedish Public Health Agency and Minister Jakob Forssmed are steps in the right direction. 



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Children under two should not be exposed to TV or screen time

Children and screens are seen together more often than peanut...

As much a tradition as the sight of costumed trick-or-treaters and lawns decorated with makeshift graveyards, the early appearance of Halloween candy and decorations in stores has become a familiar scene. 



Even before summer fully fades, grocery aisles are lined with candy corn and jumbo bags of Snickers, prompting many to lament the rush to end one season and usher in another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-trigger-for-early-halloween-shopping-nbsp">Psychological trigger for early Halloween shopping&nbsp;</h2>



But what drives this seasonal shift? While the obvious answer might be profit -- eye-catching displays increase consumer interest, and extending the holiday season boosts sales -- there’s another, more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holiday-stress-can-take-a-major-toll-on-health-and-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychological</a> reason at play. 



Daniele Mathras, an associate professor of marketing at <a href="https://www.northeastern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northeastern University</a>, has suggested that as the days shorten and the calendar edges closer to Halloween, we begin to think more about our own mortality. This awareness, known as “mortality salience,” can actually make us more inclined to shop.



“The theory is that we buy more as a compensatory mechanism for the fear of dying,” Mathras explained. “The changing of the seasons and end of summer is one of those time periods where mortality is salient, so retailers may benefit by reminding us fall is here early.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capitalizing-on-fear">Capitalizing on fear</h2>



In recent years, retailers have increasingly capitalized on this psychological trigger. Since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted trick-or-treating, retailers have extended the candy shopping season, with Halloween displays appearing as early as the second week of August.



This year, Disney World in Orlando kicked off its “Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party” on August 9th, and Starbucks launched its iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte on August 22nd, three days earlier than last year. These early launches reflect a broader trend of leveraging mortality salience to drive consumer behavior.



The concept of mortality salience influencing consumer behavior has been extensively studied in academia. In 2021, the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> funded research examining how the fear of mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shopping-habits-have-remained-consistent-for-3500-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buying habits</a>.&nbsp;



Previous studies have shown that when people are reminded of their mortality, they sometimes cope by making conspicuous purchases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mortality-salience-and-personality-types">Mortality salience and personality types </h2>



Alexander DePaoli, an associate teaching professor in marketing at Northeastern, noted that this dynamic affects different personality types in distinct ways, which can be particularly evident during Halloween.&nbsp;



DePaoli, who has studied indulgent purchases and mortality salience, explained that contemplating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cardiovascular-disease-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">death</a> can prompt people to buy items that reinforce their self-perception.



“Essentially, if you identify as a 'fun person' - if it's an important source of your self-esteem to be a fun person - mortality salience makes you more likely to buy indulgent things, like chocolate,” DePaoli said.&nbsp;



“If that's not the case, then your focus is actually drawn to more functional products instead. Mortality salience leads you to be like, OK, I need to use my time and money more wisely.”



In other words, those who see themselves as fun-loving may be more prone to picking up Halloween candy in late summer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-aesthetics-of-halloween-shopping-nbsp">Cultural aesthetics of Halloween shopping&nbsp;</h2>



However, DePaoli also emphasizes that there are many other, more tangible reasons for the early arrival of Halloween merchandise. 



Retailers have established seasonal sections in their stores, and holidays with strong visual themes -- like Christmas, Halloween, and Easter -- naturally occupy these spaces for longer periods.



“The cultural aesthetics that have been built up around Christmas and holiday shopping are very recognizable, very attention-grabbing,” DePaoli explained. 



“Same thing with Halloween. If it can grab attention, then in theory it will help you move some units and generate some hype.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prolonged-holiday-product-sales">Prolonged holiday product sales</h2>



Moreover, prolonged exposure to seasonal products increases the likelihood of purchase. The more often shoppers pass by 12-foot skeletons at Home Depot, the more tempted they might be to buy one.



“It gives you a long runway to buy things,” DePaoli said. “The first time you see the giant skeleton you might think 'Oh, that's ridiculous, that's a joke.' The second or third time it's 'Oh, I could see myself being the sort of person who gets that. Will it fit on my front porch?'”



So, while we may roll our eyes at the sight of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/christmas-toxic-environmental-day-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christmas</a> songs playing on November 1st, Valentine’s Day cards appearing in January, or Reese’s peanut butter pumpkins hitting shelves before Labor Day, these early product launches do have a purpose: they drive sales. “It does move product,” DePaoli concluded.



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Fear of death is the key driver of early Halloween shopping

As much a tradition as the sight of costumed trick-or-treaters...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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