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...

A disturbing new study has provided direct evidence that the center of Greenland's ice sheet, not just its edges, melted away in the recent geological past. The melt, and resulting sea-level rise, revealed a once-green <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climate-turns-tundra-from-carbon-sink-to-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tundra</a> landscape across Greenland.



This discovery is particularly concerning, as it suggests the ice sheet is more vulnerable to melting than previously thought.



Scientists uncovered this evidence by re-examining a small section of sediment from a two-mile-deep ice core, known as GISP2, which was extracted from the center of Greenland in 1993 and stored in a Colorado facility for 30 years. The sediment contained pristine soil with willow wood, insect parts, fungi, and a poppy seed.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-s-ice-melted-recently">Greenland’s ice melted recently</h2>



“These fossils are beautiful,” said Paul Bierman, a scientist at the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a> (UVM), who co-led the study with UVM graduate student Halley Mastro and nine other researchers. 



“But, yes, we go from bad to worse,” he added, referring to the implications of human-caused climate change on the melting of Greenland's ice sheet.



The study, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2407465121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, confirms that Greenland’s ice melted during a warm period likely within the last million years. This suggests that the ice sheet is not as stable as once thought.&nbsp;



If the ice at the center of Greenland melted, then the majority of the island's ice must have also melted, possibly for thousands of years - long enough for soil formation and the development of an ecosystem.&nbsp;



“This new study confirms and extends that a lot of sea-level rise occurred at a time when causes of warming were not especially extreme,” said Richard Alley, a climate scientist at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a> who reviewed the research, emphasizing the study's warning about the potential damages from continued climate warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-and-sea-level-rise-nbsp">Greenland and sea-level rise&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea levels</a> are rising more than an inch per decade, with the pace accelerating. Bierman warned that if greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced, the near-total melting of Greenland’s ice sheet over the next few centuries could result in approximately 23 feet of sea level rise. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/greenland_tundra-fossils_ancient-ice-melt-revealed_UVermont_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/greenland_tundra-fossils_ancient-ice-melt-revealed_UVermont_1s.webp" alt="Willow bud scale, arctic poppy seed, fungal bodies, and rock spikemoss megaspores found in the GISP2 soil sample viewed under a microscope at the University of Vermont." class="wp-image-1940905"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Willow bud scale, arctic poppy seed, fungal bodies, and rock spikemoss megaspores found in the GISP2 soil sample viewed under a microscope at the University of Vermont.</figcaption></figure>



“Look at Boston, New York, Miami, Mumbai or pick your coastal city around the world, and add twenty plus feet of sea level,” Bierman cautioned. “It goes underwater. Don't buy a beach house.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-of-ice-sheet-instability-nbsp">Evidence of ice sheet instability&nbsp;</h2>



In 2016, Joerg Schaefer and colleagues from <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> analyzed rock from the bottom of the GISP2 core, proposing that Greenland's ice sheet could be less than 1.1 million years old and that significant ice-free periods occurred during the Pleistocene epoch.&nbsp;



The controversial study suggested that if the ice had melted at the GISP2 site, 90% of Greenland’s ice would have also melted. This challenged the long-held belief that Greenland's ice sheet has been a stable “fortress of ice” for millions of years.



Further supporting this, in 2019, Bierman and an international team re-examined another ice core extracted from Camp Century near Greenland's coast in the 1960s.&nbsp;



They found twigs, seeds, and insect parts, indicating that the ice had melted within the last 416,000 years, demonstrating that the ice sheet's stability had failed more recently than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ice-free-greenland">An ice-free Greenland</h2>



These findings prompted Bierman and his colleagues to investigate the bottom of the GISP2 core further. With the support of the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Science Foundation</a>, they obtained a sample from the National Science Foundation Ice Core Facility in Lakewood, Colorado.&nbsp;



The new study confirms that during a warm period, Greenland was not only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-is-approaching-a-critical-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice-free</a> but also supported a tundra ecosystem, potentially with stunted trees. 



“We now have direct evidence that not only was the ice gone, but that plants and insects were living there,” Bierman said. “And that's unassailable. You don't have to rely on calculations or models.”



The discovery of intact biological material, such as the bud scale of a young willow and the compound eye of an insect, was made by geoscientist Andrew Christ, who worked on the project during his PhD at UVM.&nbsp;



Halley Mastro continued the research, identifying various macrofossils, including spores from spikemoss and a seed from an Arctic poppy. “It was amazing,” Mastro said. “It lets us know that Greenland's ice melted and there was soil, because poppies don't grow on top of miles of ice.”



This research underscores the fragility of Greenland's ice sheet and the significant implications of climate change, highlighting the urgency of addressing global warming to prevent catastrophic sea level rise and the loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overtopping-threatens-the-future-of-coastal-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal habitats</a>.



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



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Increased risk of sea-level catastrophe confirmed by Greenland fossils

A disturbing new study has provided direct evidence that the...

Solar wind, a constant stream of charged particles from the sun, bombards our Earth much like a supersonic jet facing a high-speed windstorm, relentlessly driving against our planet's protective shield.



These powerful solar wind streams curve around the Earth's magnetosphere, creating a bow shock that deflects and channels these energetic particles.



Much like how wind flows around a jet or water moves around a boat, the solar wind sculpts our magnetosphere into its characteristic wind sock form, constantly shaping and reshaping its boundaries.



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



Zooming along at about a million miles per hour, the solar wind spreads throughout the solar system and consists of electrons, protons, and a mix of other particles. 



These particles get so hot in the Sun's corona that they can break free from its gravitational pull and drift into space.



When solar wind hits Earth, it creates stunning auroras near the poles -- those beautiful natural light shows happen when solar particles interact with our planet's magnetic field. 



But solar wind can also bring some real challenges for our technology. It can mess with satellites, cause radio blackouts, and even disrupt power grids. That’s why scientists keep a close eye on it, using spacecraft like the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/parker-solar-probe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parker Solar Probe</a> to study its behavior.



Getting a better grasp on solar wind is key to predicting space weather events. This info not only helps protect our tech but also keeps astronauts safe when they venture beyond Earth's magnetic shield. 



As we learn more, we get better at forecasting solar storms and reducing their impact. So while solar wind might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it's actually a real and powerful force shaping our cosmic environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-wind-dynamics">Solar wind dynamics</h2>



Alterations in the solar wind demand our attention, as they can significantly impact the structure and dynamics of the magnetosphere, influencing everything from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> to satellite operations. 



These changes provide a valuable glimpse into the behavior of other celestial bodies, such as Jupiter's moons and distant extrasolar planets, revealing the universal nature of these interactions.



One such event, a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME), serves as an intriguing case study of such changes, highlighting the profound effects these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steve-phenomenon-looks-like-an-aurora-acts-like-an-aurora-but-what-is-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar phenomena</a> can have on our space environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-anomaly-of-a-cme">Tracing the anomaly of a CME</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noaa-issues-severe-geomagnetic-storm-watch-first-time-since-2005/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coronal mass ejections</a> usually travel faster than the Alfvén speed, which represents the speed at which vibrating magnetic field lines travel through magnetized plasma.



This speed can be affected by the surrounding plasma environment. However, an exceptional CME in 2023 changed the game. It disrupted the ordinary configuration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetosphere</a> for a brief period of roughly two hours.



Thanks to the observations derived from NASA's MMS spacecraft, we now have a significantly clearer understanding of the event.



"In an instance on 24 April 2023, the MMS spacecraft reported that even though the streaming speed of the solar wind was high, the Alfvén speed during the strong CME was remarkably faster," the research team noted. 



This situation was unusual, as the solar wind typically travels faster than the Alfvén speed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temporary-disappearance">Temporary disappearance</h2>



The speed anomaly triggered a peculiar event -- Earth's bow shock temporarily vanished.



This absence allowed the plasma and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> from the sun to interact directly with our magnetosphere. Meanwhile, Earth's wind sock tail underwent a transformation. 



It was replaced by structures termed as Alfvén wings, which emerged as links connecting Earth's magnetosphere to the active region of the sun. 



Acting as a highway, this connection facilitated the transfer of plasma between the magnetosphere and the sun.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-and-future-research">New insights and future research</h2>



This singular CME event has been a valuable opportunity for unveiling how Alfvén wings form and evolve. 



Additionally, it has offered profound implications for the study of other magnetically active bodies in our cosmos. 



"Our observations suggest the formation of aurorae on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter's moon Ganymede</a> may also be due to Alfvén wings," the authors write, noting that future research could explore similar Alfvén wing aurorae occurring on Earth.



As a result, this extraordinary CME has opened up a novel latticework of possibilities in our exploration and understanding of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-winds-in-space-weather-forecasting">Solar winds in space weather forecasting</h2>



The recent observations related to the exceptional coronal mass ejection (CME) not only advance our understanding of Earth's magnetosphere but also carry significant implications for space weather forecasting. 



As our reliance on technology grows, especially in sectors like navigation, communication, and electrical grid management, predicting the effects of solar phenomena becomes crucial. 



The formation of Alfvén wings, as illustrated by this CME event, highlights a new facet of magnetic interactions that can influence space weather patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-constant-dance-with-the-sun">Earth's constant dance with the Sun</h2>



By comprehensively understanding how these wings behave during significant solar interactions, scientists can enhance predictive models that assess the potential impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-geomagnetic-storm-alert-issued-sun-begins-erupting-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar storms</a> on Earth's atmosphere and technological infrastructure. 



This knowledge could play a vital role in mitigating the adverse effects of solar events, such as satellite malfunctions or power grid failures. 



Therefore, the intricate dance between solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere is not merely an academic curiosity; it is a frontier for practical applications that safeguard our increasingly interconnected and technologically dependent world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://phys.org/journals/geophysical-research-letters/">Geophysical Research Lette</a><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL108894" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rs</a>.



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Earth's magnetic field dances a never-ending waltz with the solar wind

Solar wind, a constant stream of charged particles from the...

Scientists have developed a new model to gain insights into the formation of giant planets like Jupiter. 



The model, which provides a more comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in planet formation, could significantly expand our knowledge of planetary systems. The research was led by experts at <a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ludwig Maximilian University</a> (LMU). 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theories-on-giant-planet-formation-nbsp">Theories on giant planet formation&nbsp;</h2>



In our solar system, planets are categorized by their characteristics and positions relative to the Sun: the inner rocky planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars), followed by the asteroid belt, then the gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn), the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-comets-hidden-near-earth-ice-giants-can-be-both-friend-and-foe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice giants</a> (Uranus, Neptune), and finally the Kuiper belt with its comets. 



Traditional theories posited that giant planets formed through the collision and accumulation of small, asteroid-like bodies called planetesimals, followed by the gradual accretion of gas over millions of years.&nbsp;



However, these theories fail to adequately explain the existence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-gas-planets-are-cosmic-wrecking-balls-that-wreak-havoc-in-habitable-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gas giants</a> far from their parent stars or the formation of Uranus and Neptune.



The new model developed by LMU astrophysicists, in collaboration with the ORIGINS cluster and the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS), is the first to incorporate all the critical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical processes</a> that influence planet formation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-formation-of-gas-giants">Rapid formation of gas giants</h2>



According to the findings, annular perturbations in protoplanetary disks - referred to as substructures - can initiate the rapid formation of multiple gas giants.&nbsp;



These results align with recent observations and suggest that the formation of giant planets can occur more quickly and efficiently than previously believed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-the-stage-for-planet-formation-nbsp">Setting the stage for planet formation&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers demonstrated that millimeter-sized dust particles in the turbulent gas disk of a protoplanetary system can accumulate due to aerodynamic forces.&nbsp;



This initial disturbance traps the dust, preventing it from spiraling inward toward the star. As a result, a concentrated area rich in “building material” is created, setting the stage for planet formation.



“When a planet gets large enough to influence the gas disk, this leads to renewed dust enrichment farther out in the disk,” explained co-author Til Birnstiel, a professor of theoretical astrophysics at LMU and a member of the <a href="https://www.origins-cluster.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ORIGINS Cluster of Excellence</a>. 



“In the process, the planet drives the dust - like a sheepdog chasing its herd - into the area outside its own orbit.” This mechanism can lead to the formation of another giant planet as the process repeats itself from the inside out.&nbsp;



Tommy Chi Ho Lau, the lead author of the study and a doctoral candidate at LMU, noted that this is the first time a simulation has traced the process whereby fine dust grows into giant planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gas-giants-in-young-protoplanetary-disks-nbsp">Gas giants in young protoplanetary disks&nbsp;</h2>



In our solar system, the gas giants are located between five astronomical units (au) (Jupiter) and 30 au (Neptune) from the Sun, where one au is the distance from the Earth to the Sun, approximately 150 million kilometers.&nbsp;



The study reveals that in other planetary systems, similar perturbations could trigger planet formation at much greater distances and still occur rapidly. Observations from the ALMA radio observatory have frequently detected gas giants in young protoplanetary disks beyond 200 au from their stars.



Moreover, the model explains why additional planets did not form in our solar system beyond Neptune. According to the researchers, the available building material was depleted, halting further planet formation.



The study's results correspond with current observations of young planetary systems, which often display pronounced substructures in their disks. These substructures are critical in the process of planet formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-planets-in-our-solar-system">Giant planets in our solar system</h2>



The study suggests that the formation of giant planets and gas giants is more efficient and occurs more rapidly than previously thought.&nbsp;



This new understanding could refine our comprehension of the origin and development of giant planets in our solar system and explain the observed diversity of planetary systems.



Overall, the LMU team's findings offer a more detailed and dynamic picture of how giant planets form, potentially reshaping our understanding of planetary system development and the conditions necessary for planet formation.



“Further code optimization is required to study the statistical effects and to model the diversity of planetary systems. And, planetary gas accretion is still an active field of research,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Further investigations specifically on gas accretion are required to model the formation time of the solar system’s giant planets.”



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How do giant planets form?

Scientists have developed a new model to gain insights into...

3d,Illustration,Of,A,Quantum,Computer,In,A,Lab.

Quantum computing is on the verge of a tech revolution, ready to tackle complex problems that classical computers just can't handle right now. As this field grows, it faces some challenges that researchers and engineers need to overcome to really unlock its potential.



One big issue is the fragility of qubits, which are the basic units of quantum info. These qubits are pretty sensitive to environmental changes, leading to calculation errors.



Recently, an impressive team of researchers has come up with a new material to stabilize qubits. This solution could protect qubits from outside interference, making quantum systems more reliable and getting us closer to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tapping into the full power</a> of quantum computing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-superconductors-for-quantum-computing">New superconductors for quantum computing</h2>



Superconductors are remarkable materials that enable electrons to flow with zero resistance at extremely low temperatures, yet they often struggle under high magnetic fields.



This new material, developed by a team at the <a href="https://cnsi.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California NanoSystems Institute</a>, challenges this limitation by retaining its superconducting properties even in the presence of significantly stronger magnetic fields than traditional superconductors can endure.



This innovative material exhibits the superconducting diode effect, allowing it to carry a much higher electrical current in one direction compared to the opposite.



In contrast, conventional superconductors lose their zero-resistance characteristic when current flows equally from both directions.



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



Quantum computers work on some pretty fascinating principles that govern subatomic particles, completely changing the way we handle information.



Unlike classical bits, which can only be a 0 or a 1, quantum bits -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-giant-leap-forward-breakthrough-ultra-pure-silicon-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">also known as qubits</a> -- can exist in multiple states at the same time, thanks to a cool phenomenon called superposition.



This confounding trait lets quantum computers explore a bunch of possibilities all at once, making them capable of tackling complex calculations that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-outperformed-new-type-traditional-computing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classical computers</a> just can't manage.



However, qubits are super delicate and can be really sensitive to their surroundings. Even small changes like temperature shifts or electromagnetic interference can mess with their quantum states, which usually last just millionths of a second. Their fragility poses some big challenges for researchers in the field of quantum computing.



To tackle these issues, scientists are looking into innovative solutions, like using chiral superconductors. These materials show some unique electron behavior that could help improve the stability and coherence of qubits, possibly making them last longer in operation.



By taking advantage of the properties of chiral superconductors, researchers hope to create <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-quantum-computers-just-got-easier-with-new-technique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stronger quantum systems</a> that can perform calculations with better accuracy and efficiency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-chiral-superconductors">Role of chiral superconductors</h2>



Chiral superconductors differ from their conventional counterparts in how electron pairs, known as Cooper pairs, behave. 



In conventional superconductors, Cooper pairs move and spin in opposite directions to adhere to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanical rules</a>.



In chiral superconductors, however, these pairs spin in the same direction, creating complex interactions that could be harnessed to control current flow and process information more efficiently.



The research team engineered a lattice structure with alternating layers. One layer, made of tantalum disulfide, a conventional superconductor, was as thin as three atoms.



Adjacent layers consisted of either "left-handed" or "right-handed" molecular compounds. This design encouraged the material to exhibit properties akin to those of a chiral superconductor.



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



The implications of this development are huge, to say the least. Quantum computing is set to bring about amazing advancements in various fields, from rock-solid cybersecurity to super<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> precise simulations of complex systems</a>.



Just think about it: quantum computers could change the game in modeling drug interactions in our bodies, optimizing traffic flow in cities, and predicting financial market shifts with incredible accuracy.



But for these cool applications to actually happen, quantum computers need to get better at resisting disturbances that can mess with qubit stability. 



The recent discovery of the superconducting diode effect in new materials shows real promise for boosting superconducting circuits, which are key to many quantum computing setups.



This effect could help create more efficient and stable qubits, bringing us closer to tapping into the full potential of quantum tech. How do you think these advancements might change our world? The future looks bright!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-quantum-computing">Beyond quantum computing</h2>



Chiral superconductors' potential extends beyond quantum computing. Their ability to facilitate faster and more energy-efficient electronics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-photons-create-vortex-when-they-collide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication technologies</a> is particularly appealing.



These materials could revolutionize specialized applications, such as computers operating at extremely low temperatures in space.



Given the rarity of naturally occurring chiral superconductors, the ability to engineer them from more common materials represents a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-quantum-light-detector-now-fits-on-silicon-chip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant step forward</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chiral-superconductors-and-quantum-computing">Chiral superconductors and quantum computing</h2>



In summary, this recent advancement in material science marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward making quantum computing a practical reality.



By addressing the challenges posed by traditional superconductors, researchers have unlocked new pathways for developing stable and efficient qubits.



This progress is vital for the future of quantum computing, which holds the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">promise of transforming various fields</a>, from cybersecurity to drug discovery and beyond.



The innovative material's capacity to operate under high magnetic fields, coupled with its unique superconducting diode effect, represents significant milestones that could lead to more robust quantum systems.



But the implications of this discovery extend well beyond quantum computing. The same principles that enhance qubit stability may also pave the way for faster, energy-efficient electronics and communication technologies.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07625-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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New material shows great potential for use in quantum computing

Quantum computing is on the verge of a tech revolution,...

Nxylon has emerged as a potentially revolutionary discovery in materials science, capturing attention with its extraordinary ability to absorb over 99% of visible light.



This super-black material, developed unexpectedly at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a>, is poised to revolutionize a range of industries, from optical devices to luxury consumer products. 



The serendipitous creation of this material has led to a new frontier in the exploration of ultra-black substances. 



Unlike traditional black paints, which absorb around 97.5% of light, Nxylon's unique structure inherently traps light, making it a marvel of modern technology and innovation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birth-of-a-dark-marvel">Birth of a dark marvel</h2>



During the course of an experiment aimed at making wood more water-repellent using high-energy plasma, Prof. Philip Evans and his Ph.D. student Kenny Cheng stumbled upon something extraordinary. 



They found that when the plasma technique was applied to the cut ends of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-still-have-much-to-learn-about-tree-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wood cells</a>, the surfaces turned exceptionally black. 



Rather than dismissing this discovery, the team channeled their energies into developing super-black materials.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-journey-to-darkness">Unexpected journey to darkness</h2>



Tests carried out by the Physics and Astronomy department at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a> confirmed their findings.



The material reflected less than one per cent of visible light, thus absorbing nearly all light that it encountered. An entirely new vista of possibilities unfolded. 



“Ultra-black or super-black material can absorb more than 99 per cent of the light that strikes it – more than what normal black paint, which absorbs about 97.5 per cent of light, can achieve,” Dr. Evans explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-super-black">Potential of super-black</h2>



The applications of such super-black substances are boundless, especially in the field of astronomy, where ultra-black coatings on instruments can suppress stray light, aiding in improved image clarity. 



Moreover, they can augment the efficiency of solar cells, and even find their way into the production of art pieces and luxury items such as watches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nxylon-the-night-wood">Nxylon: The night wood</h2>



The dynamic team behind this breakthrough christened their discovery Nxylon - deriving from Nyx, the Greek goddess of the night, and xylon, the Greek term for wood. 



Nxylon retained its extraordinary blackness even when coated with an alloy, like gold, enabling it to be viewed through an electron microscope. 



Unlike other black materials that rely on pigments, Nxylon owes its darkness to its structure, which inherently traps light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nxylon-in-action">Nxylon in action</h2>



Nxylon has the potential to replace expensive, rare black woods like ebony and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rosewood-trees-in-southeast-asia-face-the-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rosewood</a>, and even the black gemstone onyx, in the production of items such as watch faces and jewelry. 



Furthermore, it's lightweight, easy to cut into intricate shapes, and can be made from not just basswood, but also other types of wood such as European lime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-on-the-wood-industry">Potential impact on the wood industry</h2>



Dr. Evans and his colleagues aim to establish Nxylon Corporation of Canada, intending to scale up the applications of Nxylon, in association with jewellers, artists, and tech product designers. 



They also envision developing a commercial-scale plasma reactor to manufacture larger samples of super-black wood suitable for non-reflective ceiling and wall tiles. This could breathe new life into the wood industry, inspiring new approaches and applications. 



“Nxylon can be made from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable</a> and renewable materials widely found in North America and Europe, leading to new applications for wood," added Dr. Evans.



"The wood industry in B.C. is often seen as a sunset industry focused on commodity products -- our research demonstrates its great untapped potential.”



In the brilliant spectrum of color and materials science, Nxylon shines, a testament to the power of black, the strength of wood, and the potential of unexpected discoveries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-promise-of-nxylon">Environmental promise of Nxylon</h2>



Beyond its innovative applications, Nxylon also holds promise for environmental sustainability. 



As the world increasingly seeks eco-friendly alternatives in various industries, Nxylon offers a viable solution. 



Since it can be derived from readily available wood sources and produced using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-practices-could-greatly-reduce-species-extinction-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable practices</a>, Nxylon not only minimizes reliance on endangered species like ebony and rosewood but also promotes responsible forestry. 



This aligns with a growing demand for products that are not only high-performing but also environmentally conscious. 



As Nxylon gains traction, it could lead to a shift in material sourcing, encouraging industries to prioritize sustainability without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adsu.202400184" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Sustainable Systems</a>.



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New super-black 'wonder wood' called Nyxlon absorbs almost all light

Nxylon has emerged as a potentially revolutionary discovery in materials...

Imagine a brain, the soft tissue inside your head, that is injured and can't heal. This is the harsh reality for millions worldwide dealing with neurological disorders like trauma, stroke, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases. The inability to regenerate neurons worsens these conditions.



The devastation results from the permanent loss of neurons. These cells are crucial for our brain and nervous system. 



When neurons are lost, it can lead to serious issues in how our brain functions. Sadly, this loss significantly impacts our abilities and daily life. Now imagine a world where we can regrow these neurons!



This is the promising horizon of research carried out by two teams of scientists led by Magdalena Götz, chair of physiological genomics at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (<a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LMU</a>), head of the Stem Cell Center Department at Helmholtz Munich.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regenerating-neurons">Regenerating neurons</h2>



At the heart of their research is a sophisticated process called direct neuronal reprogramming, wherein the function of one cell is changed into another.



In essence, within the brain, non-neuronal cells, known as glial cells, are converted into functional neurons.



This process holds great potential for treating neurological disorders, though it presents its own complexities and challenges. 



These factors spark excitement among neuroscientists and researchers in regenerative medicine, who are eager to overcome these hurdles and enhance our understanding and treatment options.



The research, published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, dives into the molecular mechanisms that come into play during the conversion of glial cells into neurons. 



The researchers brought into focus the small chemical modifications that occur in the epigenome during this process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-epigenetic-puzzle">Unlocking the epigenetic puzzle</h2>



The epigenome is the complex biological system that choreographs which genes are active in different cells at different times. 



For the first time, Götz, Bonev and their teams have managed to demonstrate how is this intricate pattern of the epigenome is directed by a single transcription factor.



During this feat of biological engineering, they employed novel epigenome profiling methods and managed to make a breakthrough discovery: the transcriptional regulator YingYang1.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-gamechanger-in-regenerating-neurons">A gamechanger in regenerating neurons</h2>



Much like the symbol it's named after, YingYang1 brings balance to the process of converting astrocytes to neurons. 



But how does it do it? Well, it opens up the chromatin for reprogramming and interacts with the transcription factor to drive the transformation of the cell.



This discovery is a leap forward in understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zombie-neurons-shed-new-light-on-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell reprogramming</a> and brings us tantalizingly closer to therapeutic solutions for a number of devastating neurological disorders.



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



The discovery of YingYang1 is a significant breakthrough. It helps us understand how neurons can regenerate. This finding could lead to new treatments for different neurological conditions. Overall, it opens up exciting possibilities for the future of brain health. 



While the findings from Götz and Bonev's teams spark enthusiasm within the scientific community, a number of challenges remain on the path to clinical application. 



Further research is essential to understand the comprehensive effects of manipulating the epigenome and to ensure the safety and efficacy of potential treatments. 



Additionally, establishing methods for targeted delivery of therapies to specific neuronal types will be critical in achieving successful outcomes. 



Nevertheless, the promise of neuronal regeneration through direct reprogramming invites a renewed sense of hope for those affected by neurological disorders, as scientists work tirelessly to translate these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cleaning-the-brain-neurons-flush-out-waste-while-we-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discoveries into viable treatments</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cleaning-the-brain-neurons-flush-out-waste-while-we-sleep/">.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-promise-for-tomorrow">A promise for tomorrow</h2>



"The protein YingYang1 is crucial for achieving the conversion from astrocytes to neurons," explains Götz. "These findings are important to understand and improve reprogramming of&nbsp;glial cells&nbsp;to neurons, and thus bring us closer to therapeutic solutions."



This breakthrough research reminds us of the power of human curiosity and determination. It highlights that even in the face of daunting complexities, we can decipher intricate mechanisms of life and harness them to improve human health.



While the pathway to an effective and reliable treatment for neuronal loss is long, each discovery like this marks a critical stepping-stone in our journey. The research opens up entirely new possibilities and enlightening insights into ways we might regenerate the neurons necessary for human beings to live healthy, fulfilling lives.



Today, regeneration of neurons might still be confined largely to the world of research, but tomorrow, it could be a reality that transforms millions of lives.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01677-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>.



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Scientists find a way to regenerate old neurons

Imagine a brain, the soft tissue inside your head, that...

Who doesn't love the allure of the iconic Egyptian pyramids? Their grandeur and mystery have captivated us for centuries. But, the means through which they were built has remained perplexing, until now.



Xavier Landreau from <a href="https://www.cea.fr/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEA</a> Paleotechnic Institute, France, and his stellar team have recently published a fascinating study to solve this mystery. 



The spotlight? Pyramid of Djoser, the hero of all the Egyptian pyramids. The team has come up with a unique theory suggesting water-powered engineering may have played a significant role in its construction. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydraulic-lift-for-building-pyramids">Hydraulic lift for building pyramids</h2>



In essence, the study suggests that Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid, was possibly built with the aid of a hydraulic lift system. 



Yes, a hydraulic lift system – in 2680 BCE! The team believes that water was guided to flow into two shafts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/egypts-pyramids-were-built-along-a-buried-branch-of-the-nile-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">within the pyramid itself</a>. 



This water, in turn, could have been used to elevate a float that carried the monumental building stones.



The Djoser Pyramid was constructed during the reign of the Third Dynasty pharaoh Djoser and has always been a subject of debate among historians and archaeologists. 



The hydraulic lift theory now adds a compelling new perspective to this ongoing discourse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gisr-el-mudir-dam">Gisr el-Mudir dam</h2>



Landreau and his team suggest that the mysterious Gisr el-Mudir enclosure near the pyramid may have functioned as a "check dam" to capture water and sediment. 



This brings us to another unique part of the theory - a likely water treatment facility. This presumed facility, made up of several compartments dug into the ground outside of the pyramid, would allow sediment to settle as water passed through each subsequent compartment.



So, how does this relate to the pyramid? Well, once treated, the water could possibly flow into the pyramid-shafts. 



Here comes the fascinating part. The force of the rising water could be used to help transport the building stones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pyramid-building">Understanding pyramid building</h2>



The novel hydraulic lift theory not only sheds light on the construction of the Pyramid of Djoser but also invites a reevaluation of the broader context of ancient Egyptian engineering practices. 



By positing that such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/476000-year-old-ancient-woodworking-discovery-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sophisticated technologies</a> may have existed thousands of years ago, this research challenges preconceived notions about the capabilities of ancient civilisations. 



Furthermore, it encourages scholars to explore other monuments and structures through a similar lens, potentially uncovering further hidden secrets of engineering ingenuity. 



As we delve deeper into the methods employed by the ancient Egyptians, we enrich our understanding of their society, reflecting not just their technological prowess, but also their deep connection to the natural resources that surrounded them. 



This study, therefore, is not merely about a single pyramid; it represents a gateway to understanding the dynamic interplay between environment, technology, and culture in ancient times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-still-in-the-making">Mystery still in the making</h2>



However, we need to remember that the journey of discovery is far from over. There are still many questions to answer, like how exactly the water flowed through the shafts, or how much water was even available at that time. 



Furthermore, the authors of this study also point out that traditional building methods like ramps were probably used alongside this unique hydraulic lift system. Additional investigations and research are necessary to paint a complete picture.



But there is no denying the excitement surrounding this new understanding. 



“A collaborative effort between the newly established research institute, Paleotechnic, and several national laboratories (INRAE, <a href="https://www.univ-orleans.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Orléans</a>) has led to the discovery of a dam, a water treatment facility, and a hydraulic elevator, which would have enabled the construction of the Step Pyramid of Saqqara," the authors added.



"This work opens a new research line for the scientific community: the use of hydraulic power to build the pyramids of Egypt."



The takeaway here is that the past doesn't always have to remain a mystery. With the right tools and a determined mindset, we can uncover long-hidden truths. 



In the end, while the pyramids continue to stand tall, echoing tales from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-homo-sapiens-stone-tools-preserved-volcanic-ash-grotta-di-castelcivita/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annals of time</a>, our quest for knowledge remains as fervent as ever. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0306690" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>.



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Mystery of how ancient Egyptians built the pyramids may be solved

Who doesn't love the allure of the iconic Egyptian pyramids?...

Comet Olbers has captured the imagination of astronomers and enthusiasts alike with its unexpected journey through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/devil-comet-is-hurtling-towards-earth-but-poses-no-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a>. 



In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where science and mystery often intertwine, the peculiar pathway of this icy wanderer has sparked a wave of fascination. 



Recently, the stargazing community was thrilled by the sight of Comet Olbers zigzagging across the summer sky - a phenomenon that was captured by photographer Dan Bartlett.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galactic-snowball-s-twisted-tale">Galactic snowball's twisted tale</h2>



Unassuming in name, this less-than-famous icy wanderer put on a fascinating show this summer as it continuously changed form.



"This is the first time we've been able to witness this creature's behavior with modern day technology. And what a creature this comet has been," said Bartlett, an astrophotographer based in east-central California.



Though the comet's tangled tail may seem strange, it is actually a well-understood phenomenon amidst the comet community.



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



Comets, often referred to as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/comet-nishimura-may-approach-earth-so-closely-that-it-will-be-visible-to-the-naked-eye/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowballs of space</a>, are vast conglomerates of ice, dust, and rock. They hail from the outer recesses of the solar system and carry remnants from the early days of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary formation</a>, around 4.6 billion years ago, according to NASA.



As these icy bodies draw nearer to the sun, they begin to disintegrate, skipping from solid to gas without entering a liquid phase. This process spawns their signature tails- trails of debris sprawling millions of miles.



While these celestial bodies were once regarded as harbingers of doom, the tide of understanding has since turned. Comets are now seen as time capsules, preserving clues about the ancient solar system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comet-olbers-and-its-ever-changing-tail">Comet Olbers and its ever-changing tail</h2>



Besides their tails of dust, comets also drag plasma, often painted with a bluish hue, across the sky. The charged particles within this trail are very susceptible to changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-peak-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storm-expected-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar activity</a>.



Researchers at the Planetary Science Institute liken the solar wind to a constantly flowing river. "The ion tail is basically caught up in that river," explained researcher Henry Hsieh.



"You see a straight tail most of the time, but then every so often, you'll have this bit of a hiccup in the sun - these coronal mass ejection events - where it'll just kind of send a particularly large or denser bunch of material outward."



When the comet encounters these massive solar explosions (coronal mass ejections), it causes a disruption in the "nice flowing river." Imagine a rock coming loose in a river, momentarily increasing the flow rate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-activity-and-comet-behavior">Solar activity and comet behavior</h2>



With the sun being in the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, its magnetic field can be quite chaotic. 



As the comet traverses these tumultuous changes within the inner solar system, the tail continuously tries to realign. This results in zigzags and bends observed in the comet's tail.



"There are even occasions when the comet passes through a region where the magnetic field completely changes direction (called a sector boundary), and the plasma tail will 'disconnect' from the comet, to be followed by the formation of a new tail over the next few days," noted <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>'s astronomers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-comet-olbers">The future of Comet Olbers </h2>



Olbers, officially known as 13P/Olbers, is named after its first observer, German astronomer Heinrich Olbers, who spotted it back in 1815. It was last sighted from Earth in 1956 but has recently reappeared, displaying its twisted tail for all to see.



Having made its closest approach to the sun on June 30, Olbers is now on a return journey to the Oort Cloud at the outer edge of the solar system. 



The oddly distorted tail may reflect the object's reaction to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canyon-of-fire-solar-eruption-extended-more-than-60000-miles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun's intense activity</a>. However, it's also possible that something inherently unusual about Olbers is at play.



The astrophotographers and astronomers studying the comet will know more in the coming months as they complete their analyses.



"All comets are kind of like different beasts. They're all special, and that's what makes them fun to study," noted Hsieh.



Each comet, including Olbers, continues to offer new insights into the cosmos, keeping astronomers on their toes and the rest of us gazing up in wonderment.



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Shape-shifting comet has been zigzagging through space

Comet Olbers has captured the imagination of astronomers and enthusiasts...

An intense game of genetic chess is taking place beneath our very eyes, in the soil where our beloved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/potato-threatening-pathogens-discovered-in-pennsylvania/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potato crops</a> grow. This evolutionary battle between the humble potato plant and its mortal foe, Phytophthora infestans - the pathogen responsible for the devastating Irish potato famine in the 1840s - has puzzled scientists for years.



Now, research conducted at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> is shedding new light on this "arms race" with an innovative study using fragments of historic potato leaves to examine both the plant's resistance genes and the attacking pathogen's effector genes simultaneously.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-walls-a-revolutionary-approach">Breaking down walls: A revolutionary approach</h2>



The experts utilized small, 80 base-pair chunks of DNA, akin to magnets, to isolate similar pieces within the complex "soup" of DNA found on historic leaf samples.



Previously, researchers would focus on either the host (the potato) or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-produced-by-potato-pathogen-offers-new-hope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogen</a>, but this dual enrichment strategy has opened a new front in understanding this host-pathogen relationship.



"It's a first for looking at both potato and pathogen changes at the same time," noted Jean Ristaino, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor of Plant Pathology at North Carolina State University.



This radical method of investigation has only become possible recently, as the necessary genomics weren't sequenced until around 15 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pathogen-evades-potato-defenses">Pathogen evades potato defenses</h2>



Findings from the study indicate that the pathogen, Phytophthora infestans, is surprisingly skillful at dodging the potato's defenses against late blight disease. 



For instance, the FAM-1 strain of the pathogen was capable of overcoming the plant's R1 resistance gene before it was even introduced into potato strains by plant breeders.



Such discovery suggests that the pathogen could have resisted the R1 gene even if it had been deployed much earlier, potentially owing to exposure to the wild potato variant harboring that resistance gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battlefield-for-pathogens-and-potatoes">Battlefield for pathogens and potatoes</h2>



The study sheds light on how the pathogen’s effector genes have largely remained steady over time, with selective mutations enhancing its infectious capabilty. 



This was particularly noticeable post-1937, when structured potato <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sugarcane-genome-finally-mapped-new-crop-breeding-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeding programs</a> began in the United States and elsewhere, in an effort to boost disease resistance.



Additionally, the researchers found that the pathogen managed to add a set of chromosomes to its arsenal between 1845 and 1954, the period during which the plant samples for the study were collected.



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



This research is immensely valuable, as it provides breeders with critical information about how the pathogen has transformed over time. 



This knowledge could potentially be utilized to implement more stable resistance genes or to combine multiple resistance genes from different wild hosts.



"We now know what effectors have changed over time," Ristaino stated. "Breeders may be able to use resistance genes that are more stable or pyramid multiple resistance genes from different wild hosts." 



And so, the game of genetic chess continues with new strategies and renewed hope of winning the game against the pathogen.



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



Potatoes are not just a beloved comfort food; they are a vital staple crop that nourishes millions around the world. 



Originating from the Andean region of South America, potatoes have transcended borders and cultures, becoming an essential part of diets in various countries. 



Their versatility allows them to be prepared in countless ways, from mashed potatoes to fries, making them a culinary favorite across the globe.



Moreover, potatoes are packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber, making them a healthy choice for many. 



As the global population continues to grow, ensuring the resilience of potato crops against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-bacteria-can-help-farmers-control-crop-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a> like late blight is crucial for food security. 



The NC State research not only aids in understanding the complex interactions between potatoes and their pathogens but also plays a vital role in developing sustainable agricultural practices.



By improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-are-breeding-more-resilient-potatoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potato resilience</a>, we can help secure a reliable food source for future generations and support the livelihoods of millions of farmers who depend on this crop. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50749-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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How a pathogen outsmarted the potato

An intense game of genetic chess is taking place beneath...

DNA holds the fundamental blueprint for life, encoding essential information for the development and functioning of organisms. Deciphering how this information is stored and organized has been a monumental scientific challenge. 



A new tool, GROVER, developed by researchers at the <a href="https://tu-dresden.de/cmcb/biotec" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biotechnology Center</a> (BIOTEC) of Dresden University of Technology, offers an unprecedented approach to understanding the complex language of DNA. 



This large language model, trained on human DNA sequences promises to revolutionize genomics and personalized medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysteries-of-dna">Mysteries of DNA</h2>



Since the discovery of the double helix structure, scientists have sought to unravel the mysteries encoded in DNA. Seventy years later, it is evident that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a>'s information is intricate and multilayered, with only 1-2% consisting of genes that code for proteins. 



“DNA has many functions beyond coding for proteins. Some sequences regulate genes, others serve structural purposes, and most sequences serve multiple functions at once,” said senior author Anna Poetsch, a research group leader at BIOTEC.&nbsp;



“Currently, we don’t understand the meaning of most of the DNA. When it comes to understanding the non-coding regions of the DNA, it seems that we have only started to scratch the surface. This is where AI and large language models can help.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-as-a-language">DNA as a language</h2>



Drawing inspiration from the success of large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mind-reading-technology-transforms-thoughts-into-text/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language models</a> like GPT in natural language processing, Poetsch and her team approached DNA as a form of language. 



“DNA is the code of life. Why not treat it like a language?” she asked. The team trained GROVER (short for Genome Rules Obtained via Extracted Representations) on a reference human genome, enabling the model to decode and extract biological meaning from DNA sequences.



“GROVER learned the rules of DNA. In terms of language, we are talking about grammar, syntax, and semantics. For DNA, this means learning the rules governing the sequences, the order of the nucleotides and sequences, and the meaning of the sequences,” said lead author Melissa Sanabria, a scientist at BIOTEC.&nbsp;



“Like GPT models learning human languages, GROVER has basically learned how to ‘speak’ DNA.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-information-on-biological-function-nbsp">Information on biological function&nbsp;</h2>



GROVER can not only predict subsequent DNA sequences but also extract contextual information, such as identifying gene promoters or protein binding sites, and even understanding epigenetic processes - regulatory mechanisms that act on top of the DNA sequence.



“It is fascinating that by training GROVER with only the DNA sequence, without any annotations of functions, we are actually able to extract information on biological function. To us, it shows that the function, including some of the epigenetic information, is also encoded in the sequence,” said Sanabria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-dictionary-for-dna-language-nbsp">A dictionary for DNA language&nbsp;</h2>



To enable GROVER to interpret DNA, the team had to create a “DNA dictionary.” Unlike human languages, DNA has no predefined words; it consists of four letters (A, T, G, and C) that form sequences with various biological functions.&nbsp;



The researchers employed a technique from compression <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-personality-algorithm-will-improve-work-and-home-placement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algorithms</a> to identify common combinations of these letters. 



“We analyzed the whole genome and looked for combinations of letters that occur most often. We started with two letters and went over the DNA, again and again, to build it up to the most common multi-letter combinations,” said Sanabria.



“In this way, in about 600 cycles, we have fragmented the DNA into ‘words’ that let GROVER perform the best when it comes to predicting the next sequence.”



The creation of this DNA dictionary was a crucial step that set GROVER apart from previous attempts to model DNA language. This innovative approach allows the model to uncover the deeper layers of genetic information, providing insights into human biology, disease predispositions, and treatment responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-meaning-hidden-in-dna">Biological meaning hidden in DNA</h2>



GROVER's potential impact on genomics and personalized medicine is immense. By decoding the rules of DNA as one would a language, researchers can gain a more profound understanding of the biological meaning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-dna-secrets-revealed-by-genomic-time-machine-and-transposable-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hidden</a> within our genetic code. 



“We believe that understanding the rules of DNA through a language model is going to help us uncover the depths of biological meaning hidden in the DNA, advancing both genomics and personalized medicine,” Poetsch said.



As GROVER continues to analyze and interpret genetic data, it holds the promise of unlocking the mysteries of our genome, paving the way for new discoveries and advancements in medical science.&nbsp;



This tool not only enhances our understanding of the human genome but also sets the stage for a new era in genomics, where AI-driven insights can lead to more personalized and effective treatments for a wide range of conditions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42256-024-00872-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Machine Intelligence</a>.



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



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h--0">-----</h3>

Cracking the code of life: AI translates the secret language of DNA

DNA holds the fundamental blueprint for life, encoding essential information...

Doctors are increasingly recommending that fruits and vegetables become a central component in the treatment of patients with hypertension.&nbsp;



A diet rich in these foods has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and improve<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-pollutants-kidney-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> kidney health</a>, largely due to their base-producing effects. 



A recent study published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.06.006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The American Journal of Medicine</a> highlights these benefits, based on findings from a five-year interventional randomized control trial.



Despite advancements in pharmacological treatments for hypertension, related conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD) and associated cardiovascular mortality are on the rise. Notably, heart disease remains the leading cause of death among patients with chronic kidney disease.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-healthy-fruits-and-vegetables">Heart-healthy fruits and vegetables </h2>



The <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/dash-eating-plan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension</a> (DASH) diet, known for its high content of fruits and vegetables, is recommended as the first-line treatment for primary hypertension. 



However, this diet is often under-prescribed and, even when recommended, not fully implemented, despite substantial supportive evidence from epidemiological studies.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-fruits-and-vegetables-improves-overall-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diets</a> rich in fruits and vegetables are associated with lower blood pressure, reduced risk and progression of CKD, and lower cardiovascular disease risk and mortality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-acid-and-health">Dietary acid and health</h2>



The study, led by Dr. Donald E. Wesson of the Department of Internal Medicine at <a href="https://dellmed.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dell Medical School</a>, University of Texas at Austin, explored the effects of an acid-producing versus a base-producing diet on kidney health. 



“As a nephrologist, my acid-base laboratory studies ways by which the kidney removes acid from the blood and puts it into the urine,” said Dr. Wesson.



“Our animal studies showed years ago that mechanisms used by kidneys to remove acid from the blood can cause kidney injury if the animals were chronically exposed to an acid-producing diet.”&nbsp;



Dr. Wesson said that studies in human patients showed similar findings: an acid-producing diet (one high in animal products) was kidney-harmful, and one that is base-producing (one high in fruits and vegetables) is kidney-healthy.&nbsp;



“Other investigators showed that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is heart-healthy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research-nbsp">Focus of the research&nbsp;</h2>



To test the hypothesis that fruits and vegetables reduce dietary acid and thereby benefit kidney and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-environments-and-sidewalks-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a>, the study focused on participants with hypertension but without diabetes, who also had high levels of urine albumin excretion (macroalbuminuria). 



These participants were at high risk for worsening kidney disease and developing cardiovascular diseases.&nbsp;



The researchers divided 153 participants into three groups: participants adding 2-4 cups of base-producing fruits and vegetables to their daily intake; participants prescribed NaHCO3 (sodium bicarbonate, common baking soda) tablets; and participants receiving standard medical care from primary care clinicians.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-benefits-of-fruits-and-vegetables-nbsp">Heart benefits of fruits and vegetables&nbsp;</h2>



The results of the analysis revealed that both the fruit and vegetable group and the NaHCO3 group experienced improvements in kidney health. However, only the group consuming fruits and vegetables showed a reduction in blood pressure and improvements in cardiovascular disease risk indicators.&nbsp;



“Importantly, fruits and vegetables achieved the latter two benefits with lower doses of medication used to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular disease risk,” noted Maninder Kahlon, a co-investigator from the Department of Population Health at Dell Medical School.



“This means that one can get the kidney health benefits with either fruits and vegetables or NaHCO3, but we get the blood pressure reduction and reduced cardiovascular disease risk with fruits and vegetables, but not with NaHCO3.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-need-for-medication-nbsp">Reducing the need for medication&nbsp;</h2>



The findings support the recommendation that fruits and vegetables should be the foundational treatment for patients with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-noise-increases-the-risk-of-hypertension/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypertension</a>. This approach achieves multiple health benefits - kidney protection, blood pressure reduction, and lower cardiovascular risk - with potentially lower medication doses. 



The research team emphasizes that current clinical practice often prioritizes pharmacological treatment, with dietary changes being secondary. However, this study suggests the opposite: dietary interventions should be the first step in managing hypertension, with medications added as needed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-fruits-and-vegetables-more-accessible">Making fruits and vegetables more accessible </h2>



“Dietary interventions for chronic disease management are often not recommended and even less often executed because of the many challenges to get patients to implement them. Nevertheless, they are effective, and in this instance, kidney and cardiovascular protective,” said Dr. Wesson.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“We must increase our efforts to incorporate them into patient management and more broadly, make healthy diets more accessible to populations at increased risk for kidney and cardiovascular disease.”



The study also advises that patients with hypertension should ask their clinicians to measure their urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) to assess for underlying kidney disease and potential increased cardiovascular risk.&nbsp;



This proactive measure can help tailor treatment plans to better manage hypertension and its associated risks.



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



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How fruits and vegetables improve heart health

Doctors are increasingly recommending that fruits and vegetables become a...

Sometimes, you might hear a colleague or a friend grumble, "It hurts to think!" Likely, you'd casually dismiss this as exaggerated hyperbole. But what if, they aren't blowing things out of proportion? What if the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-does-creativity-start-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">act of thinking</a> and putting mental effort really does make us uncomfortable?



A recent study published by the <a href="https://www.apa.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Psychological Association</a> reveals this intriguing possibility. According to the research, mental exertion is surprisingly linked to unpleasant feelings across a slew of situations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-one-likes-mental-effort">No one likes mental effort</h2>



At the heart of this research is Dr. Erik Bijleveld of <a href="https://www.ru.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Radboud University</a>. A seasoned researcher, Dr. Bijleveld led the study with a clear and vital question: Do people enjoy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-maps-help-the-brain-remember-places-and-paths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thinking hard</a>? He found that, in general, people aren't fans of mental effort.



"Managers often encourage employees, and teachers often encourage students, to exert mental effort. On the surface, this seems to work well: Employees and students do often opt for mentally challenging activities," noted Dr. Bijleveld. "But our results suggest that people typically dislike mental effort."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-effort-across-communities">Mental effort across communities</h2>



This study wasn't a mere observational venture. The researchers carried out a meta-analysis of an impressive 170 studies published between 2019 and 2020, involving over 4,670 participants. Each of these studies was examined to determine how people generally perceive mental effort.



Participants from different walks of life – healthcare employees, military personnel, college students, and even amateur athletes – participated in these studies spanning 29 countries. 



The studies involved a wide array of cognitive tasks. From learning a new technology to navigating an unfamiliar environment and practicing golf swings – the gamut of tasks was broad.



One commonality across all these varied studies? Participants consistently reported increased unpleasant feelings such as stress, annoyance, and irritation when they exerted greater mental effort.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thinking-is-unpleasant">Thinking is unpleasant</h2>



What sticks out from the research is crystal clear: the greater the mental effort, the greater the unpleasantness experienced by people. No matter the task or the population, this remained consistently true across the board.



However, Dr. Bijleveld underscores an intriguing disparity. The nexus between mental effort and unpleasant feelings was notably less vivid in studies conducted in Asian countries compared to those in Europe or North America.



This can be attributed to the learning history of individuals; students in Asian countries typically dedicate more time to schoolwork, learning to endure higher mental exertion levels early in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-effort-and-learning-environments">Mental effort and learning environments</h2>



Understanding the relationship between mental effort and unpleasant feelings offers a new lens through which educators and managers can evaluate their approaches. 



If students and employees are generally averse to intensive cognitive tasks, it calls for a reevaluation of how we structure learning and work environments. 



Instead of promoting sheer effort, educators might benefit from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-wishful-thinking-impacts-our-decisions-in-times-of-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integrating strategies</a> that frame challenges as exciting opportunities for growth, thereby mitigating negative feelings associated with thinking hard. 



Furthermore, creating a supportive atmosphere that celebrates small wins and fosters collaboration can empower learners and workers to engage with difficult tasks more openly. 



Recognizing that the discomfort of mental effort is a shared experience may not only enhance motivation but also encourage resilience, ultimately leading to more productive outcomes in both academic and professional spheres.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-millions-play-chess">Why do millions play chess?</h2>



Despite the discord between mental effort and enjoyment, there’s a caveat: people still voluntarily opt for mentally challenging activities. The million-dollar question, "Why do millions of people play chess?" asks Dr. Bijleveld.



The answer lies in the intriguing balance of costs and benefits. When the gratification resultant from an activity outweighs the mental exertion involved, people opt for it. Take the chess example; the joy that stems from an immersive, engaging game could certainly outweigh the mental strain it involves.



However, Dr. Bijleveld warns against misinterpretations. People choosing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-adult-depression-linked-to-worse-memory-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mentally</a> rigorous activities doesn't necessarily translate to them enjoying the mental effort. It is perhaps a matter of choosing an activity despite its mental strain, rather than because of it.



In conclusion, the research highlights an essential conundrum: we're often nudged to engage our brains, to think harder, to challenge our minds. 



Yet, such exertion might not be as pleasant as we'd like to believe. As we navigate through an increasingly cognitive-driven world, it's vital to remember this interesting dichotomy. 



Perhaps we might also spare a sympathetic nod the next time someone says, "It hurts to think!"



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fbul0000443" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psychological Bulletin</a>.



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Sometimes it really does hurt to think

Sometimes, you might hear a colleague or a friend grumble,...

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.



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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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> (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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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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

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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



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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 



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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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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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

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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

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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"

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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

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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

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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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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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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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