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...

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have captured footage of a blue whale nursing its calf underwater. This project reveals the intimate family lives of these majestic creatures.



The footage provides new insights into blue whale behaviors and life patterns. It offers researchers a rare glimpse into the hidden world of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-whales-continue-their-battle-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean giants</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elusive-blue-whale-and-its-nursing">Elusive blue whale and its nursing</h2>



The Australian-based scientists' endeavor, starting over a decade ago in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Timor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timor-Leste</a>, has paved the way for understanding the mysterious lives of the world's largest and most elusive animals.



The project's success marks a significant milestone in marine biology and conservation efforts, shedding light on aspects of blue whale behavior that have long remained obscure to researchers.



"From newborn calves and nursing mothers to amorous adults in courtship, the waters of Timor-Leste really are providing blue whale scientists with some of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blue-whale_nursing-calf_first-time-captured_credit-Taichi-Mayurama_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first glimpses into the private lives</a> of one of the world's largest but most elusive animals," stated <a href="https://researchers.cdu.edu.au/en/persons/karen-edyvane" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Karen Edyvane</a>, an Associate Professor at ANU, and a UN-recognized expert on the Arafura and Timor Seas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-the-research-unfolded">Where the research unfolded</h2>



Charles Darwin University (<a href="https://www.cdu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDU</a>) and Australian National University (<a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a>) have teamed up for an exciting project. 



They discovered that the deep, nearshore waters of Timor-Leste, especially the narrow Ombai-Wetar Strait along the north coast, serve as a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-pollution-is-increasingly-disrupting-whale-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> path for blue whales.



The unique geography of this region makes it perfect for studying these elusive marine giants.



"Timor-Leste's deep, nearshore waters provide one of the most accessible and best locations for blue whale research in the world," disclosed Edyvane.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-findings-from-blue-whales-nursing">Findings from blue whales nursing</h2>



The extensive research has yielded extraordinary findings with global implications.



"Since 2014, our program has sighted over 2,700 blue whales in Timor-Leste's waters, monitoring their annual migration along the country's north coast. On a global level, these numbers are truly extraordinary," Edyvane said.



"The long-term blue whale monitoring in Timor-Leste is providing hugely valuable insights into blue whale movements and behaviors in tropical waters," shared Dr. Elanor Bell, a researcher at the Australian Antarctic Division and Australian Government representative within the IWC's Scientific Committee.



"Understanding of this population and the threats they face throughout their entire migratory range is fundamental for ongoing conservation and recovery of this species," emphasized Dr. Capri Jolliffe, with over a decade's experience studying blue whale.



"It also highlights the critical importance of collaboration between blue whale researchers in Australia and Timor-Leste."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-effort">Community effort</h2>



The Timor-Leste's blue whale monitoring program, known locally as "Baleia no Golfinhu iha Timor-Leste," has prospered largely thanks to volunteer efforts, "citizen science," and partnerships.



"Over the past decade, we've all shared a common purpose in finding out more about pygmy blue whale migration -- to support the sustainability of our rapidly growing whale tourism industry," shared Jose Filipe Dias Quintas, National Director for Tourism and Environment Research from the Ministry of Tourism and Environment (Timor-Leste).



The collective endeavor has grown into an extensive collaboration among researchers, whale tour operators, tourists, student volunteers, and local fishermen. 



The new information will be instrumental in ensuring full protection and conservation of these animals as they pass through Timor-Leste's waters and more widely. And for this, the initiative urgently needs cooperation and support from Australia and the wider international community.



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



Looking forward, ongoing research and conservation efforts would continue. These initiatives aim to create a sustainable future for the blue whale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-insights-into-the-behavior-of-antarctic-blue-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>. They also focus on benefiting local communities.



By integrating technology such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-tag-allows-long-term-tracking-of-whale-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite tracking</a> and acoustic monitoring, it is possible to gather more precise data on blue whale movements and behaviors beyond nursing.



This data will be crucial in crafting effective conservation strategies and policies. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on community education and involvement, ensuring that local populations are informed and engaged in the conservation process. 



With continued support and collaboration, the initiative strives to safeguard blue whales' migratory routes. Efforts also focus on protecting their habitats. These measures aim to secure a thriving future for these magnificent ocean giants.



The study is published by the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission (<a href="https://iwc.int/commission/commission-sub-groups/scientific-committee" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IWC</a>).



The footage can be viewed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whalesdolphinsoftimor.com/single-post/timor-leste-waters-reveal-the-intimate-private-lives-of-blue-whales-for-the-first-time" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr Edyvane's project website.</a>



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First ever footage of a blue whale nursing its calf captured

In a fascinating discovery, researchers have captured footage of a...

2024 is the year where the mercury is rising, and climate records are shattering. According to the EU's climate change monitoring wing, the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), last month was the hottest June we've ever experienced.



A quick rewind, it has now been 13 straight months -- right from June 2023 up until now - where every month was <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-is-expected-to-exceed-the-1-5c-warming-limit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotter</a> than any corresponding month in previous years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2024-incoming-the-hottest-year-yet">2024: Incoming the hottest year yet?</h2>



Human activities and natural weather phenomena, like El Niño, push temperatures to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new heights</a>. The possibility of 2024 outdoing its predecessor seems likely.



"I now estimate that there is an approximately 95% chance that 2024 beats 2023 to be the warmest year since global surface temperature records began in the mid-1800s," said Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at U.S. non-profit <a href="https://berkeleyearth.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Berkeley Earth</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-tide-consequences">High tide consequences</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> isn’t all fun and games like a day at the beach, though — deadly heatwaves are becoming all too common. 



Last month, over 1,000 people didn't survive the extreme heat during the haj pilgrimage. Heat-related casualties were reported in New Delhi, known for its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relentless heatwaves</a>, and even among tourists in Greece.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-to-quit-fossil-fuels">Time to quit fossil fuels?</h2>



Joining the predictions for 2024's hot prospects, Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London's <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/grantham/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grantham Institute</a>, voices her agreement with Hausfather, signaling a "high chance" for 2024 to top the charts. 



However, she emphasizes that we can't do much about natural phenomena like El Nino, but we sure can quit burning oil, gas, and coal. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-el-nino-s-influence-on-2024-s-climate">El Nino's influence on 2024's climate</h2>



Although El Nino has prompted a rise in global average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-weaker-ocean-will-release-more-carbon-into-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>, the world is currently in neutral conditions, with cooler La Nina conditions expected towards the end of the year.



The C3S's dataset, which goes back to 1940, cross-references other data, thereby confirming last month as the hottest June ever, tracing back to the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gases">Greenhouse gases</h2>



Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels are the primary perpetrators of climate change. 



Despite global commitments to control this heating menace, the collective efforts of countries have not yet managed to reduce these emissions, which has led to temperatures steadily increasing for decades.



In the past year ending in June 2024, our world's average temperature was the highest ever recorded for any such period, at a concerning 1.64 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average, <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports C3S</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2024-climate-mitigation">2024 climate mitigation</h2>



While big industrial and governmental efforts are essential in fighting climate change, individual actions matter too. 



Have you thought about how small changes, like using less energy, choosing renewable sources, and cutting down on waste, can add up to a big difference?



Experts say these little actions can significantly contribute to global efforts. By making these changes, we can all help fight climate change while also backing larger initiatives.



Switching to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-lower-the-risk-of-major-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a>, using public transport, and buying sustainable products can gradually lower your carbon footprint.



Plus, getting involved in community awareness and environmental advocacy can make these efforts even more impactful. 



By adopting sustainable living habits, each of us can be part of a larger movement to tackle climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-action-beyond-2024">Climate action beyond 2024</h2>



The quest for innovative solutions to address climate change has spurred significant technological advancements. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Renewable energy</a> technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, have seen remarkable improvements in efficiency and affordability.



Plus, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are being developed. These help reduce emissions from our current fossil fuel infrastructure. 



The rise of electric vehicles is set to revolutionize our transportation sector. Improvements in battery storage are also significant.



These changes will cut down our dependence on fossil fuels. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial intelligence</a> and data analytics are now crucial in climate modeling. 



They provide better predictions and more effective climate strategies. Embracing these innovations is key. This will guide our global efforts towards a sustainable future.



As global temperatures keep climbing, let’s remember our actions shape our environment. With 2024 set to break new records, let's gear up for the challenges ahead and commit to eco-friendly choices. After all, it’s our beloved planet we're talking about.



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Climate records shatter as 2024 is set to be the hottest year ever

2024 is the year where the mercury is rising, and...

Let’s dive into the captivating realm of coral reefs, the kaleidoscopic underwater cities that currently are on the edge of a critical collapse. The chief culprits: swiftly rising ocean temperatures and coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a>. 



However, there's more to it than meets the eye. A recently published essay spins the spotlight around to the unappreciated roles of the coral reefs' tiniest inhabitants. The true heroes, or occasionally villains, in this tale are not who we typically expect.



A marine scientist duo from UC Santa Barbara and <a href="https://www.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> delves deeper into how these small yet integral players could make or break the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-coral-reef-fish-survive-in-the-worlds-warmest-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fate</a> of entire reefs, highlighting the complex dynamics between these varied aquatic dwellers. The research was led by Adrian Stier, a marine biologist at <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Barbara</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reefs-and-their-inhabitants">Coral reefs and their inhabitants </h2>



Adrian Stier’s passion lies in understanding the fundamental mechanisms guiding the assembly of ocean ecosystems, as he ardently seeks sustainable strategies for their management.



“It’s like a bustling city teetering on the edge,” explained <a href="https://msi.ucsb.edu/people/faculty/adrian-stier" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stier</a>. “We’re only now realizing that it’s a microcosmic battleground where seemingly insignificant creatures can be the difference between a reef thriving or succumbing to human impacts.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tiny-titans">The tiny titans</h2>



Let's consider the humble damselfish. According to a study published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0208545" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>, corals that are humble abodes to these tiny fish exhibit higher resilience against heatwaves, thanks to the crucial nutrient boost provided by the fish's ammonia-rich waste.



Additionally, research published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.16480" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a> demonstrated how damselfish foster the symbiosis between corals and their photosynthesizing zooxanthellae, helping the corals resist bleaching.



Other research published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0208545" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a> lays bare the defensive role of territorial damselfish, acting as coral bodyguards fending off predators - giving the corals a breather to focus on growth and survival.



“This new research serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest creatures can play a significant role in the health of our planet," Stier says. However, not all that glitters is gold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-culprits">Hidden culprits</h2>



While some residents work towards coral health, others don the villain's cap. For instance, a study published in Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution describes how parasitic snails weaken their coral hosts, leaving them more susceptible to bleaching. 



The vermetid snail, as noted in <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.3215" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology</a>, disrupts the reef's delicate balance by outcompeting corals for space and resources.



“It’s a constant dance between beneficial partnerships and harmful interactions. Deciphering this intricate web of life is critical if we want to effectively protect coral reefs,” said Stier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guardians-of-coral-reefs">Guardians of coral reefs</h2>



Sweeping away the silt and detritus, some creatures play the role of meticulous housekeeping staff in these underwater cities. At the forefront is the cleaner wrasse, a small yet remarkably effective fish that removes parasites and dead tissue from larger fish, promoting overall reef health. 



The presence of cleaners can significantly enhance fish diversity and abundance, fostering a balanced reef ecosystem. Without these tireless workers, the reefs could succumb to an overgrowth of harmful algae and pathogens, underscoring their indispensable role within the reef environment.



“Cleaner fish demonstrate the mutual benefits of symbiosis. Larger fish get a clean bill of health, while the cleaners receive both nourishment and protection,” noted Stier.



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



As we gaze into the future, the battle for these underwater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-could-vanish-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metropolises</a> continues, bolstered by remarkable research and conservation initiatives. 



Innovative techniques such as assisted coral evolution and detailed monitoring of reef health offer promising avenues to reinforce coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-reveal-the-health-of-coral-reefs-in-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a>. The deployment of artificial reefs and marine protected areas further exemplifies the confluence of science and policy aimed at preserving these vital ecosystems.



With interdisciplinary approaches and global cooperation, we can devise strategies that not only address immediate threats but also pave the way for long-term sustainability of coral reefs. Our efforts today will shape the seascape that future generations inherit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-coral-reefs-through-their-inhabitants">Saving coral reefs through their inhabitants </h2>



Science has only begun to uncover the veiled intricacies of coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>. As we continue to illuminate the nuances of these underwater cities, we edge closer to unlocking their secrets, and in doing so, finding new hope for their survival amid a rapidly changing world.



While combatting climate change remains the paramount solution to safeguarding coral reefs, understanding these complex dynamics offers an alternate lifeline. 



By identifying and protecting the heroes and mitigating the damage from the villains, we may just manage to tip the scales in favor of coral reef survival. Will we rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)00748-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Coral reefs' fate lies in the hands of their tiny inhabitants

Let’s dive into the captivating realm of coral reefs, the...

In an effort to save the endangered spotted owl, U.S. wildlife officials have proposed a controversial plan to kill nearly half a million barred owls. A looming question remains - can the intrinsic balance of nature be restored by tipping the scales?



According to a report from the Associated Press (AP), the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a> strategy is meant to prop up declining spotted owl populations in Oregon, Washington state and California.



Documents from the agency reveal the plan, involving the termination of up to 450,000 barred owls over a span of three decades.



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



Spotted owls have been wrestling for adaptation and survival. Their larger cousins, barred owls, have encroached from the eastern U.S. into their West Coast territory, pushing them to potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/california-spotted-owl-officially-listed-as-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> due to competition for resources.



Kessina Lee, the Fish and Wildlife Service Oregon state supervisor, emphasized the gravity of the situation. "Without actively managing barred owls, northern spotted owls will likely go extinct in all or the majority of their range, despite decades of collaborative conservation efforts," said Lee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-measures-for-spotted-owls">Protective measures for spotted owls </h2>



Previous attempts to safeguard the spotted owls leaned heavily on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-restoration-could-protect-spotted-owls-in-the-long-term/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preservation</a> of their native forests. These methods sparked intense discussions over logging practices but managed to curb the decline of the species to an extent. 



However, the recent proliferation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-move-their-eyes-and-bodies-separately-to-save-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">barred owls</a> has countered these efforts significantly.



The quandary of wildlife management now asks if one bird species should be sacrificed to ensure the survival of another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bitter-divisions-and-diverted-strategies">Bitter divisions and diverted strategies</h2>



With echoes of past government methods to protect West Coast salmon and warblers by eliminating their predators, the tumultuous idea of killing barred owls to save spotted ones has caused a ripple of dissent among wildlife advocates.



Critics have labeled this move as a diversion from more sustainable conservation strategies. Wayne Pacelle, the founder of Animal Wellness Action advocacy group, expressed strong disapproval.



"The Fish and Wildlife Service is turning from protector of wildlife to persecutor of wildlife,” said Pacelle. He predicts the program will fail, as more barred owls will likely migrate into areas where others have been killed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-the-strategy-work">Can the strategy work?</h2>



Despite the criticism, the mass culling of barred owls is scheduled to commence next spring. Outfitted with megaphones broadcasting recorded owl calls, trained shooters will target barred owls infiltrating spotted owl habitats.&nbsp;



Robin Bown, the barred owl strategy leader for the Fish and Wildlife Service, noted that approximately 4,500 barred owls have reportedly been removed since 2009.



While the plan aims to reduce the barred owl populace, complete eradication seems unlikely. Interestingly, supporters of the plan include some conservation groups.&nbsp;



Steve Holmer, vice president of the <a href="https://abcbirds.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Bird Conservancy</a>, noted that “barred owls don’t belong in the West." He believes that reducing their numbers could pave the way for peaceful coexistence with spotted owls over the long haul.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-extinction-of-spotted-owls">Potential extinction of spotted owls</h2>



The proposal intends to reduce North American barred owl numbers by less than 1% annually, a relatively small amount when measured against the potential extinction of spotted owls if the issue remains unaddressed.&nbsp;



Tom Wheeler, director of the Environmental Protection Information Center, suggests the plan might also benefit other West Coast species such as salamanders and crayfish, which barred owls prey on.



Yet while barred owls are seen as invaders from the East, their westward expansion could also be a natural ecological phenomenon influenced by climate change.



Opponents fear that the mass culling could disrupt forest ecosystems and inadvertently harm other species, including spotted owls.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waiting-for-a-verdict">Waiting for a verdict</h2>



As we await the final environmental study on the proposal and the opening of a 30-day comment period, the plan highlights the contrast between conservation efforts and commercial endeavors.&nbsp;



According to the AP, the proposal follows decades of conflict between conservationists and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-inventory-will-be-greatly-reduced-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timber</a> companies, which cut down vast areas of older forests where spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-silent-flight-of-owls-is-one-of-natures-great-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">owls</a> reside.



With former President Donald Trump's administration stripping habitat protections for spotted owls to support the timber industry, and President Joe Biden reinstating these protections, the conservation debate continues.&nbsp;



As we anticipate these crucial decisions, we are reminded of our essential role in nurturing and safeguarding the delicate balance of our ecosystems.



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U.S. plans to save spotted owls by killing 450,000 barred owls

In an effort to save the endangered spotted owl, U.S....

As climate change advances, the ocean’s overturning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-paradox-ocean-current-collapse-could-plunge-europe-into-cold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circulation</a> is predicted to weaken significantly. With this slowdown, scientists estimate the ocean will pull down less carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 



At the same time, slower circulation should also dredge up less carbon from the deep ocean that would otherwise be released back into the atmosphere. On balance, the ocean should maintain its role in reducing carbon emissions from the atmosphere, albeit at a slower pace.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-circulation-and-carbon-storage">Ocean circulation and carbon storage</h2>



However, a new study by an MIT researcher suggests that scientists may need to rethink the relationship between the ocean’s circulation and its long-term capacity to store <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-hinder-oceans-ability-absorb-carbon-worsening-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a>. As the ocean gets weaker, it could release more carbon from the deep ocean into the atmosphere instead.



The reason has to do with a previously uncharacterized feedback between the ocean’s available iron, upwelling carbon and nutrients, surface microorganisms, and a little-known class of molecules known generally as “ligands.”&nbsp;



When the ocean circulates more slowly, all these players interact in a self-perpetuating cycle that ultimately increases the amount of carbon that the ocean outgases back to the atmosphere.



“By isolating the impact of this feedback, we see a fundamentally different relationship between ocean circulation and atmospheric carbon levels, with implications for the climate,” said study author Jonathan Lauderdale, a research scientist in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences. “What we thought was going on in the ocean is completely overturned.”



The findings suggest that we cannot rely on natural ocean processes to mitigate climate change. “We must be proactive in cutting emissions now, rather than relying on these natural processes to buy us time to mitigate climate change,” said Lauderdale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-interactions-and-phytoplankton-growth-nbsp">Ocean interactions and phytoplankton growth&nbsp;</h2>



In 2020, Lauderdale led a study that explored ocean nutrients, marine organisms, and iron, and how their interactions influence the growth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phytoplankton-resilient-nutrient-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> around the world. Phytoplankton are microscopic, plant-like organisms that live on the ocean surface and consume a diet of carbon and nutrients that upwell from the deep ocean and iron that drifts in from desert dust.



The more phytoplankton that can grow, the more carbon dioxide they can absorb from the atmosphere via photosynthesis, and this plays a large role in the ocean’s ability to sequester carbon.



For the 2020 study, the team developed a simple “box” model, representing conditions in different parts of the ocean as general boxes, each with a different balance of nutrients, iron, and ligands - organic molecules that are thought to be byproducts of phytoplankton.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-ocean-circulation-nbsp">Modeling ocean circulation&nbsp;</h2>



The team modeled a general flow between the boxes to represent the ocean’s larger circulation - the way seawater sinks, then is buoyed back up to the surface in different parts of the world.



The modeling revealed that, even if scientists were to “seed” the oceans with extra iron, that iron wouldn’t have much of an effect on global phytoplankton growth. The reason was due to a limit set by ligands. It turns out that, if left on its own, iron is insoluble in the ocean and therefore unavailable to phytoplankton.&nbsp;



Iron only becomes soluble at “useful” levels when linked with ligands, which keep iron in a form that plankton can consume. Lauderdale found that adding iron to one ocean region to consume additional nutrients robs other regions of nutrients that phytoplankton there need to grow.&nbsp;



This lowers the production of ligands and the supply of iron back to the original ocean region, limiting the amount of extra carbon that would be taken up from the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weak-ocean-circulation-increases-atmospheric-carbon-nbsp">Weak ocean circulation increases atmospheric carbon&nbsp;</h2>



Once the team published their study, Lauderdale worked the box model into a form that he could make publicly accessible, including ocean and atmosphere carbon exchange and extending the boxes to represent more diverse environments, such as conditions similar to the Pacific, the North Atlantic, and the Southern Ocean. In the process, he tested other interactions within the model, including the effect of varying ocean circulation.



He ran the model with different circulation strengths, expecting to see less atmospheric carbon dioxide with weaker ocean overturning - a relationship that previous studies have supported, dating back to the 1980s. But what he found instead was a clear and opposite trend: The weaker the ocean’s circulation, the more CO2 built up in the atmosphere.



“I thought there was some mistake,” Lauderdale recalls. “Why were atmospheric carbon levels trending the wrong way?”



When he checked the model, he found that the parameter describing ocean ligands had been left “on” as a variable. In other words, the model was calculating ligand concentrations as changing from one ocean region to another.



On a hunch, Lauderdale turned this parameter “off,” which set ligand concentrations as constant in every modeled ocean environment, an assumption that many ocean models typically make. That one change reversed the trend, back to the assumed relationship: A weaker circulation led to reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide. But which trend was closer to the truth?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unexpected-discovery">An unexpected discovery</h2>



Lauderdale looked to the scant available data on ocean ligands to see whether their concentrations were more constant or variable in the actual ocean. He found confirmation in <a href="https://www.geotraces.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOTRACES</a>, an international study that coordinates measurements of trace elements and isotopes across the world’s oceans, that scientists can use to compare concentrations from region to region. 



Indeed, the molecules’ concentrations varied. If ligand concentrations do change from one region to another, then his surprising new result was likely representative of the real ocean: A weaker circulation leads to more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.



“It’s this one weird trick that changed everything,” Lauderdale said. “The ligand switch has revealed this completely different relationship between ocean circulation and atmospheric CO2 that we thought we understood pretty well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-important-role-of-phytoplankton-nbsp">The important role of phytoplankton&nbsp;</h2>



To see what might explain the overturned trend, Lauderdale analyzed biological activity and carbon, nutrient, iron, and ligand concentrations from the ocean model under different circulation strengths, comparing scenarios where ligands were variable or constant across the various boxes.



This revealed a new feedback: The weaker the ocean’s circulation, the less carbon and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/excess-nutrients-are-creating-ocean-dead-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a> the ocean pulls up from the deep. Any phytoplankton at the surface would then have fewer resources to grow and would produce fewer byproducts (including ligands) as a result. 



With fewer ligands available, less iron at the surface would be usable, further reducing the phytoplankton population. There would then be fewer phytoplankton available to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and consume upwelled carbon from the deep ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-biology-and-climate-change-nbsp">Ocean biology and climate change&nbsp;</h2>



“My work shows that we need to look more carefully at how ocean biology can affect the climate,” Lauderdale explained. “Some climate models predict a 30 percent slowdown in the ocean circulation due to melting ice sheets, particularly around Antarctica.”&nbsp;



“This huge slowdown in overturning circulation could actually be a big problem: In addition to a host of other climate issues, not only would the ocean take up less anthropogenic CO2 from the atmosphere, but that could be amplified by a net outgassing of deep ocean carbon, leading to an unanticipated increase in atmospheric CO2 and unexpected further climate warming.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-49274-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Weaker ocean will release more carbon into the atmosphere

As climate change advances, the ocean’s overturning circulation is predicted...

In 2022, an international research team aboard the MARIA S. MERIAN made a remarkable hydrothermal field discovery. They found it 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) below the ocean surface.



The team uncovered the first known hydrothermal field along the 500-kilometer (310-mile) Knipovich Ridge. 



This ridge is near Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. Scientists have long studied this region for its harsh climate and unique ecosystems.



This finding revealed a hidden underwater landscape teeming with intense geological activity and unique marine life. 



The discovery of such a vibrant ecosystem in the deep, cold waters of the Arctic challenges our understanding of where life can thrive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-hydrothermal-fields">Science behind hydrothermal fields</h2>



Essentially, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal vents</a> are underwater leaks, spewing hot, mineral-rich fluids back into the ocean. These vents play a crucial role in the Earth's geochemical cycles and support diverse ecosystems.



According to a key figure in the expedition, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-are-hydrothermal-vents-an-unlikely-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vents</a> occur as water seeps down into the ocean floor, gets heated by magma, and later resurfaces carrying its mineral loot.



The ascending fluid becomes enriched with minerals and other materials from the crustal rocks before exiting through tube-like chimneys known as "black smokers". 



These smokers are responsible for the precipitation of metal-rich minerals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jotul-field-in-knipovich-ridge">Jøtul field in Knipovich Ridge</h2>



The investigated field, christened "Jøtul" after a Nordic mythological giant, is nestled within the Knipovich Ridge. 



The Ridge is part of a larger geological network formed by Greenland, Norway, and Svalbard, at the boundary of the North American and European tectonic plates. 



Dubbed as a "spreading ridge," this boundary is characterized by the gradual separation of two tectonic plates. 



Intriguingly, the Jøtul Field is located on a slow-spreading ridge, which adds more significance to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydrothermal-vents-earths-first-living-beings-hydrogen-gas-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discovery</a>.



The expedition's chief scientist from the <a href="https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bremen</a>, Gerhard Bohrmann, reveals the Jøtul Field's scientific significance.



Its unique location and high methane concentrations attribute it an invaluable role in climate studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-link-to-climate-change">Link to climate change</h2>



The Jøtul Field’s intense methane concentrations suggest an intense interaction between magma and oceanic sediments. 



As methane travels through the water column, it is converted into CO2, thereby increasing oceanic CO2 concentration and contributing to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-acidification-endangers-ecologically-important-seaweed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean acidification</a>.



Additionally, when it reaches the atmosphere, it behaves like a greenhouse gas impacting climate change. However, the exact magnitude of methane from the Jøtul Field reaching the atmosphere is yet to be closely studied.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-the-absence-of-light">In the absence of light</h2>



Notably, the Jøtul Field provides a home for special organisms that rely on chemosynthesis for survival. 



In the complete absence of sunlight at such profound depths, it's the hydrothermal fluids that form the base for a unique ecosystem thriving in the dark.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-exploration-at-the-jotul-field">Future exploration at the Jøtul field</h2>



To understand the Jøtul Field much better, a new expedition is set to sail in the upcoming summer, once again under the leadership of Professor Gerhard Bohrmann. 



The primary goal is to explore and sample unknown areas of the Jøtul Field. With comprehensive data from the field, researchers aim to draw comparisons with other known hydrothermal fields in the Arctic province.



The findings of the study form a part of the Bremen Cluster of Excellence titled "The Ocean Floor -- Earth's Uncharted Interface", aimed at exploring complex processes on the sea floor and their impacts on global climate.



Certainly, the Jøtul Field will continue to be a center of attention in future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> endeavors within the Cluster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-innovations">Technological innovations</h2>



The exploration of the Jøtul Field and similar hydrothermal realms has been made possible by remarkable advancements in deep-sea technology. 



State-of-the-art remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) equipped with high-definition cameras, sophisticated sensors, and sampling tools allow scientists to delve into previously unreachable underwater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-giant-riftia-tubeworms-survive-on-deep-sea-hydrothermal-vents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">territories</a>.



These innovations provide real-time data collection and enable high-resolution mapping of the seafloor, crucial for understanding the complex interactions within hydrothermal systems. 



The integration of advanced laboratory techniques onboard research vessels further facilitates immediate analysis and interpretation of samples. 



As technology advances, we're discovering incredible new insights into the ocean's depths. This progress is leading us into an exciting new era of marine science.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-60802-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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New hydrothermal field in the Arctic has intense geological activity

In 2022, an international research team aboard the MARIA S....

DNA has long been held in high regard as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-building-block-of-life-called-tna-created-in-the-lab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blueprint of life</a>, but there is another unsung hero of genes that is now coming to the forefront: RNA.



Scientists have traditionally viewed certain sections of RNA, notably the 3’ untranslated regions (3'UTRs), as nonessential fragments - genetic "junk," if you will.



However, a recent study has just thrust these pieces into the spotlight, proving them to be indispensable regulators of genes.



The study has given us the most comprehensive map of these so-called "junk" parts in any living organism, offering unprecedented insights into the intricate process of gene control.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-rna-in-gene-regulation">The role of RNA in gene regulation</h2>



Researchers at <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> have made a significant advancement in understanding how genes are controlled in living organisms. The new study focuses on critical snippets of RNA in the tiny, transparent roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans).



The research has demystified the role of these critical RNA snippets, typically found in the 3'UTR regions of RNA.



The 3’UTRs, once dismissed as inconsequential, have been revealed as pivotal players in gene regulation. They are the puppeteer that pulls the strings of gene behavior, controlling the stability and efficiency of messenger RNA (mRNA), and thus influencing protein production.



“This monumental work represents a culmination of 20 years of hard work. We finally have the complete picture of how genes are formed in higher organisms,” said study co-author Marco Mangone.



“With this complete dataset, we can now pinpoint and study all the regulatory and processing elements within these gene sections. These elements determine the duration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-has-a-profound-influence-on-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene expression</a>, their specific locations within cells, and the level of expression required.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-c-elegans-the-unassuming-supermodel">C. elegans: The unassuming supermodel</h2>



The ASU scientists chose the simple nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as their star subject.



Because the worm is surprisingly similar to humans in terms of genetic structure, C. elegans has proven to be an unassuming supermodel, illuminating the dark alleyways of gene regulation.



C. elegans has been instrumental in shedding light on the enigmatic world of gene regulation. Like a transparent window, this roundworm has allowed researchers to observe cellular processes in real time, and its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-dna-secrets-revealed-by-genomic-time-machine-and-transposable-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic makeup</a> has paved the way for the precise manipulation of genes.



The newly mapped 3'UTRs in C. elegans are expected to enhance understanding of gene function, development, and disease processes, ultimately benefiting human health.



The novel insights from the study challenge existing beliefs, and update predictions of how microRNAs - tiny RNA molecules, interact with genes.



Furthermore, the experts found that the switching between different 3'UTRs is less common in C. elegans than previously thought. This revelation underscores the complexity of gene regulation and the importance of these "junk" parts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-human-health">Implications for human health</h2>



The implications of the new study are enormous. Faulty gene control is implicated in a host of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders. The detailed map of 3'UTRs and their associated regulatory elements could potentially lead to the development of revolutionary treatments.



The ASU team plans to continue their research, delving deeper into how these vital regulatory elements work and their influence on gene control, with the ultimate objective of advancing human health. 



The dataset produced from this study is expected to serve as an invaluable resource for scientists seeking to engage in further genetic and medical research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rna-interference-key-mechanism-in-gene-silencing">RNA interference: Key mechanism in gene silencing</h2>



The comprehensive mapping of 3'UTRs paves the way for a deeper comprehension of RNAi's functionality, facilitating more precise genetic interventions and therapies.



As researchers continue to uncover layers of complexity within RNA regulation, the humble 3'UTRs and RNAi highlight the process of genetic control, emphasizing their roles as far more than mere "junk."



RNAi is a natural process that helps control cell functions. It's also a powerful tool in research and medicine. Scientists use RNAi to lower the expression of problematic genes. This approach offers promising treatments for diseases like viral infections, cancers, and genetic disorders.



The recent study will enhance our understanding of how RNAi operates. With this knowledge, scientists can develop more precise genetic interventions. It will also allow for improved therapies.



As researchers continue to uncover the layers of complexity within RNA regulation, the contributions of 3'UTRs and RNAi highlight the intricate dance of genetic control, emphasizing their roles as far more than mere <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-viral-infections-viruses-may-lurk-dna-cause-mental-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"junk" DNA</a>. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/nar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/nar/gkae543/7698929" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nucleic Acids Research</a>.



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RNA 'junk' is crucial for human health

DNA has long been held in high regard as the...

The world of electric vehicles (EVs) might be on the brink of a dramatic shift thanks to a recent discovery from Nyobolt, a promising British startup focused on batteries. 



This innovation could make the inconvenience of extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thermal-cloak-keeps-electric-vehicles-cool-in-the-summer-warm-in-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">battery-charging</a> durations a thing of the past, bringing electric vehicle convenience closer to that of traditional gas-powered cars.



Headquartered in Cambridge, Nyobolt has recently made headlines with their novel 35kWh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-based-battery-may-ultimately-replace-lithium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lithium-ion battery</a>. The first live demonstration indicated that it could charge from 10% to 80% in just over four and a half minutes. 



This is a significant leap from the usual 20 odd minutes spent on fast chargers like Tesla's Supercharger, and it's well on the way to the average gasoline fill-up time of two minutes.



"Our extensive research here in the UK and US has unlocked a novel battery technology that is ready and scalable right now. We are enabling the electrification of new products and services currently considered inviable or impossible," said Nyobolt CEO Sai Shivareddy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-of-research">Decades of research</h2>



This extraordinary technology is not an overnight success, but the culmination of a decade of research steered by scientists from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>. Its unique design minimizes heat generation during charging, reducing overheating risks that could lead to battery fires and explosions.



Moreover, the materials used in the battery's anodes enhance electron transfer speed, contributing to faster charging times. Currently, Nyobolt is engaging with eight electric car manufacturers to potentially integrate their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-recover-energy-from-discarded-batteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">batteries</a> into future vehicles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-the-ev-market">Revolutionizing the EV market</h2>



Long charging times have been a persistent drawback of EVs, often hindering their adoption by many potential users. For those unable to charge their vehicles at home, the time taken for charging can also disrupt their daily routines.



This innovation from Nyobolt, tested in the firm's sports car prototype, offers great prospects especially for drivers who rely on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/direct-evidence-electric-vehicles-measurably-reduce-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric cars</a> for their work and commercial EV fleets, notes Paul Marchment of Arval.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-the-new-ev-battery">Challenges for the new EV battery </h2>



While exciting, the realization of Nyobolt's battery potential is not without challenges. Jack Evans of Blackball Media pointed out that the ultra-rapid chargers required to charge these batteries are currently scarce in the UK. To make a significant impact, the provision of such ultra-rapid chargers needs to expand.



Nevertheless, Shivareddy is optimistic about the growth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biden-lays-out-plan-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fast charger</a> availability, both in the US and European Union. He envisions these chargers to be "pretty much everywhere" by the end of the decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nyobolt-s-game-changing-battery">Nyobolt's game-changing battery</h2>



At present, three out of four fast chargers in North America are Tesla's Superchargers. Nyobolt’s battery is compatible with these Superchargers. The company is open to collaborations with Tesla and other leading manufacturers to realize their vision - matching recharging times to refueling times.



While promising, Nyobolt's battery technology is not yet ready for widespread use. Independent testing has shown promising results, with batteries achieving over 4,000 fast-charge cycles (equivalent to 600,000 miles) while retaining more than 80% of capacity.



However, significant challenges remain in manufacturing these batteries on an industrial scale, especially due to the scarce availability of niobium, a crucial element in Nyobolt's batteries. The industry still has much to decode about niobium battery technology.



Despite these hurdles, innovation like Nyobolt's is a significant stride forward in addressing the pain points of the EV industry – slow charging, range anxiety, and relatively high prices. As these solutions become mainstream, the prospects of a greener and more sustainable transportation future shine even brighter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-nyobolt-s-innovation">Broader implications of Nyobolt's innovation</h2>



Nyobolt's battery technology is a game-changer for both the environment and the economy. As the automotive world shifts toward greener energy, cutting our dependence on fossil fuels is crucial. Nyobolt’s ultra-fast charging batteries could be a big step in that direction, making electric cars more common and cutting down carbon emissions.



This technology aligns perfectly with global sustainability goals and reinforces our dedication to a cleaner, greener planet. By staying informed and supporting these innovations, we can all play a part in nurturing a more sustainable world for future generations.



Image Credit: Nyobolt/Callum



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New electric car battery charges in just 4.5 minutes

The world of electric vehicles (EVs) might be on the...

Rooftop,Garden,In,Urban,Setting

When tackling the heat of urban environments, a fresh approach is making waves: cool roofs.



This innovative and low-tech solution could be the key to managing rising city temperatures, as found in a recent study overseen by researchers at <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-roofing-solutions-vary">Roofing solutions vary</h2>



The study, which leveraged a cutting-edge, three-dimensional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-urban-heat-experts-plan-to-cool-a-desert-city-by-4-5c/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban climate</a> model of Greater London, investigated the thermal effects of a variety of urban heat management systems.



The models examined included painted cool roofs, green roofs, rooftop solar panels, ground level tree vegetation and air conditioning. 



They were simulated to run during the two hottest days of the summer in 2018, which set a record high temperature for the city.



The results were revealing. Widespread implementation of cool roofs had the potential to reduce outdoor temperatures across the entire city by an average of 1.2 degrees C (2.2 degrees F), peaking up to 2 degrees C (3.6 degrees F) in some locales.



Other systems, including extensive street-level vegetation and solar panels, produced a smaller net <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-need-resilient-electricity-networks-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cooling effect</a>, reducing temperatures by just about 0.3 degrees C (0.54 degrees F) on average throughout the city.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-cost-of-air-conditioning">Hidden cost of air conditioning</h2>



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-conditioning-is-both-a-cause-and-effect-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air conditioning</a> is a popular and seemingly effective solution, it carries with it a significant drawback.



The process transfers heat from within buildings to the outside, potentially warming the outdoor urban environment by about 0.15 degrees C (0.27 degrees F) for the city as a whole. 



In the densely populated center of London, this increase could be as much as 1 degree C (1.8 degrees F).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-winning-advantage-of-cool-roofs">Winning advantage of cool roofs</h2>



Discussing the research findings, Dr. Oscar Brousse, the lead author, emphasized the effectiveness of cool roofs in combating urban heat. 



He noted, "We comprehensively tested multiple methods that cities like London could use to adapt to and mitigate warming temperatures, and found that cool roofs were the best way to keep temperatures down during extremely hot summer days." 



Dr. Brousse also mentioned that while other strategies offered various important advantages, they were not as effective in reducing outdoor urban heat as cool roofs.



Clearly, the climate is changing, and urban dwellers are particularly vulnerable. 



Cities are notorious for trapping heat, leading to the Urban Heat Island effect that heightens discomfort and can even increase mortality rates during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-are-threatening-the-health-of-people-in-the-uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heatwaves</a>.



Adapting to this reality has become a pressing concern for city planners and architects, spurring them to explore options like cool roofs, green roofs, expanded urban vegetation and interior methods like air conditioning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-every-solution-has-its-place">Every solution has its place</h2>



Though cool roofs emerged as the clear overall winner, other methods also have their merits. 



For instance, green roofs contribute to water drainage and wildlife habitats, even though their net cooling efficiency was negligible on average. 



Similarly, photovoltaic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-increase-the-value-of-solar-panels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar panels</a> could theoretically power an extensive distribution of air conditioning units if installed to their maximum extent.



As cities continue to search for solutions to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures, cool roofs appear to be a promising and effective tool to maintain a comfortable, sustainable urban environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investing-in-cool-roof-technology">Investing in cool roof technology</h2>



As we move towards broader implementation, the economic and environmental benefits of cool roofs are becoming increasingly evident. 



Not only do they reduce urban temperatures, but they also lead to substantial energy savings for building owners. By reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-exposure-to-extreme-heat-has-tripled-since-the-80s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a>, cool roofs decrease the need for air conditioning, thus lowering electricity bills and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.



Moreover, cool roofs can extend the lifespan of roofing materials by reducing thermal expansion and contraction, which typically degrade conventional roofs over time. This results in lower maintenance costs and less frequent replacements, delivering long-term financial benefits.



Policy makers and urban planners are encouraged to consider incentives for cool roof installations, such as tax breaks or grants. These initiatives could accelerate adoption and amplify the positive impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humidity-increases-urban-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban climates</a>. 



Public awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in educating homeowners and businesses about the advantages of cool roofs, driving community-wide efforts to combat rising city temperatures.



Communities, businesses, and governments can adopt cool roof technology. This collective effort can create cooler urban environments. It also promotes sustainability in cities.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL109634" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Cool roofs on city buildings are the secret to beating urban heat

When tackling the heat of urban environments, a fresh approach...

Recent research highlights the accelerating melt of the Antarctic ice sheet, particularly in West Antarctica, driven by global warming.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciation-of-antarctica-nbsp">Glaciation of Antarctica&nbsp;</h2>



An international team led by the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute </a>has discovered that the permanent glaciation of Antarctica began around 34 million years ago, initially confined to East Antarctica. 



Sediment samples and climate modeling indicate that West Antarctica remained ice-free until at least seven million years later.&nbsp;



These findings suggest that East and West Antarctica responded differently to external climatic changes, with East Antarctica glaciating first due to conducive climatic conditions and topography, while West Antarctica only later experienced ice sheet advances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-to-an-icehouse-world-nbsp">Transition to an icehouse world&nbsp;</h2>



The transition from a greenhouse world to an icehouse world around 34 million years ago marks one of Earth's most significant climate shifts, leading to the formation of the Antarctic ice sheet.&nbsp;



However, data gaps, especially from West Antarctica, have left uncertainties about the exact timeline and mechanisms of this glaciation.&nbsp;



The experts filled these gaps by analyzing a drill core retrieved offshore from the Pine Island and Thwaites glaciers. The findings show that East Antarctica saw the first large-scale glaciation while West Antarctica remained ice-free, characterized by dense forests and a temperate climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-west-antarctica-s-ice-sheet-lagged-behind">West Antarctica's ice sheet lagged behind</h2>



Combining new sediment data with climate models, the researchers demonstrated that the conditions necessary for permanent ice formation were present only in East Antarctica's coastal regions, particularly Northern Victoria Land.&nbsp;



Here, moist air masses and the rise of the Transantarctic Mountains facilitated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> accumulation and ice cap formation, which then spread inland. 



In contrast, West Antarctica's ice sheet formation lagged by millions of years, requiring significantly colder conditions to develop due to its below-sea-level topography in many areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-differing-responses-to-climate-change-nbsp">Differing responses to climate change&nbsp;</h2>



These findings underscore the differing responses of East and West Antarctica to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climatic changes</a>. Even slight warming can trigger significant ice melt in West Antarctica, a concern given current global temperature trends. 



The research provides crucial insights into the historical climate transition from greenhouse to icehouse conditions and improves climate models that predict the interactions between ice, ocean, and atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closing-critical-knowledge-gaps-nbsp">Closing critical knowledge gaps&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers utilized advanced technology, including the MARUM-MeBo70 drill rig, during the 2017 expedition PS104 on the research vessel Polarstern, to extract sediment cores from previously inaccessible hard seabed off West Antarctica.&nbsp;



These technological advancements enabled them to uncover new data, closing critical knowledge gaps about Antarctica's glaciation history and enhancing our understanding of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-in-distress-the-escalating-consequences-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate dynamics</a>.



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



Dr. Johann Klages of the Alfred Wegener Institute, who led the research team, emphasized the significance of these findings for contemporary climate studies.&nbsp;



“Even a slight warming is enough to cause the ice in West Antarctica to melt again - and that's exactly where we are right now,” Klages said. This knowledge is vital as the world faces potential fundamental climate changes akin to those experienced millions of years ago.



The integration of geological data with sophisticated climate models offers a more detailed and accurate picture of how Antarctica's ice sheets have evolved and how they might respond to future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worst-case-climate-scenarios-are-no-longer-plausible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate scenarios</a>. 



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adj3931" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, not only illuminates past climate dynamics but also informs strategies to mitigate and adapt to ongoing and future climate impacts.



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Antarctic ice sheet: Past, present, and future

Recent research highlights the accelerating melt of the Antarctic ice...

Music has a wonderful way of capturing our hearts, minds, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-can-synchronize-the-heartbeats-of-the-audience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>, telling stories and expressing ideas through rhythms and melodies. And while we may not think about it, the songs and tunes we hum along to have changed drastically throughout the years.



Recent research presents compelling evidence that the complexity of popular song melodies has been on the decline since 1950.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-song-melodies-in-popular-music">Song melodies in popular music</h2>



In an extensive study, researchers delved deep into the rhythmic and pitch characteristics of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-popular-songs-and-movies-shape-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">popular songs</a> in America from 1950 to 2022, as determined by the Billboard year-end singles charts.



Across this wide expanse of time, the complexity of song rhythms and pitch arrangements appeared to decrease, even as the average number of notes played per second increased.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the researchers pinpointed two major dips in melodic complexity that occurred in 1975 and 2000, with a slightly lesser decrease in 1996.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-song-melodies-and-genre-shifts">Changes in song melodies and genre shifts</h2>



The study hints at a possibility that these significant changes in 1975 might be associated with the emergence of new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-evolution-of-song-lyrics-less-complexity-and-more-emotion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical genres&nbsp;</a>like new wave, disco, and stadium rock.



Similarly, the decreases noticed in 1996 and 2000 could well be tied to the rise of hip-hop or perhaps the advent of digital audio workstations that made it easier to repeat audio loops.



Contrary to what one might assume, these findings do not imply that other musical components, such as sound quality or sound combinations, have become simpler over time. The intricacies of sound quality, harmonic structures, and the blending of different sounds continue to evolve and remain as complex as ever.



The decline in melody complexity may be due to the rise in other musical complexities. Musicians use new techniques and technologies, enriching the music's overall texture. This allows for more detailed layers and nuances in other aspects, not just the melody.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpacking-musical-complexity">Unpacking musical complexity</h2>



As the study proposes, the increase in the average number of notes played per second might be an effort to prevent the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/similar-patterns-music-language-found-across-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>&nbsp;from overwhelming listeners.



Meanwhile, the growing popularity and availability of digital instruments could be shifting the expression of musical complexity from melody to sound quality.



In summary, while our favourite tunes may have become simpler to hum along to, the decrease in melodic complexity does not necessarily mean the music has become less complex overall.&nbsp;



These findings provide insightful perspectives on how the popular music landscape has evolved over the past 70 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-technology-and-production">The role of technology and production </h2>



The advent of advanced recording technology and production techniques has also played a significant role in the evolution of song melodies.&nbsp;



Digital tools enable artists and producers to experiment with layers of sound and textures that were previously unimaginable.&nbsp;



This technological leap has allowed for more intricate soundscapes, even if the melodic lines remain simple.&nbsp;



The capacity to manipulate pitch,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-find-cultural-differences-in-how-we-interpret-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhythm</a>, and effects digitally means that modern music can offer a rich auditory experience, compensating for the decrease in melodic complexity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influences-on-music-trends">Influences on music trends</h2>



Cultural and sociological shifts have a profound impact on musical trends. As society evolves, so do its artistic expressions.&nbsp;



The rise of social media, for instance, has amplified the reach of certain genres and styles, influencing public taste and music production. Additionally, global movements and events often inspire new musical directions.&nbsp;



Understanding these cultural dynamics is crucial because they shed light on the reasons behind the changes in musical complexity over time. 



For example, as societies evolve, their values, tastes, and technological advancements also change. These shifts influence the way music is created and appreciated. The complexity of song melodies might have lessened due to a variety of factors such as the rise of new genres that prioritize rhythm or production techniques over melodic intricacy. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamics-of-song-melodies">Dynamics of song melodies</h2>



Additionally, cultural preferences may shift towards simplicity in music as a reflection of broader societal trends. Simultaneously, other musical elements like rhythm, harmony, or production quality could have thrived due to advancements in technology and changes in listener preferences. 



Understanding these dynamics helps us see the bigger picture of how music evolves and adapts to the cultural context in which it exists.



In summary, while our favorite tunes may have become simpler to hum along to, the decrease in complexity of song melodies does not necessarily mean the music has become less complex overall.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-64571-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Song melodies have become much simpler since 1950

Music has a wonderful way of capturing our hearts, minds,...

Arctic glaciers are retreating at alarming rates due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-on-arctic-ice-may-help-fight-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, revealing vast new landscapes. These barren territories soon become active ecosystems, bursting with unseen life and playing a crucial role in our planet's carbon storage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-architects-of-the-arctic">Unseen architects of the Arctic</h2>



Our story takes us far north, to the island archipelago of Svalbard, significantly above the Arctic Circle. This frosty location is experiencing climate change seven times faster than the global average, leading to rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacial melting</a>.



The newly exposed, nutrient-poor landscapes seem inhospitable and lifeless at first. However, they quickly become colonized by microscopic organisms like bacteria and fungi, which are instrumental in turning these bare rock terrains into fertile soil that is capable of storing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric carbon</a>.



A team of scientists from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, including Dr. Thomas Bell and Dr. Emily Roberts, sheds light on this natural process. The researchers collaborated with scholars from Germany, the United States, and Switzerland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-arctic-glaciers">Retreating Arctic glaciers</h2>



The experts set out to investigate the Arctic soil formation process in areas previously covered by ice.



Specifically, the team observed the area of Midtre Lovénbreen, a shrinking valley glacier on Spitsbergen Island, to understand how microbes contribute to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-carbon-sinks-may-be-appearing-in-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil formation</a>&nbsp;once the glacier melts.



“A decade ago, I was walking on top of the ice and drilling ice cores into the glacier. When we returned in 2021, the glacier had shrunk, and instead of ice, there were barren, seemingly lifeless soils," said Dr. Bell.



However, lab analysis revealed an incredibly diverse array of microbes - the smallest and simplest forms of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungal-communities-as-ecosystem-engineers">Fungal communities as ecosystem engineers</h2>



The team's main focus was on fungi, specifically yeast, a group of microorganisms known to store carbon effectively. More fungi mean more carbon in the soil, while more bacteria generally lead to the soil emitting more CO2.



These findings are especially important because, in high Arctic ecosystems, the variety of fungi is particularly high compared to that of plants. This suggests that fungal communities could play a critical role there as ecosystem engineers, leading to more effective carbon storage.



According to the study, yeast fungi play a decisive role in stabilizing assimilated carbon in soil. They are the first to colonize the harsh Arctic landscapes, providing a foothold for soil to develop by building up a base of organic carbon - a resource that later life forms can utilize. As the soil ages, bacteria populations rise leading to an increase in CO2 emissions from respiration.



The team’s seminal conclusion is that "fungi will play a critical role in future carbon storage in Arctic soils as glaciers shrink further and more of Earth's surface area is covered by soil."



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



To many, the retreating Arctic glaciers represent a dire picture of our planet's future under the pressures of climate change.&nbsp;



Yet, hidden within these same Arctic landscapes, tiny&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-soil-microbes-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a>&nbsp;are hard at work, making the soil fertile and storing carbon.



Such resilience and adaptation in the face of drastic environmental change give us clues about how our ecosystems might respond and adapt to the challenges of a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneers-of-soil-creation">Pioneers of soil creation</h2>



The journey into the Arctic's newly exposed terrains revealed unsung heroes: the pioneering microbes. These tiny organisms adapt quickly to the harsh, cold environments, playing pivotal roles in the initial stages of soil formation.



When the ice retreats, bacteria and fungi appear almost instantaneously, laying the groundwork for ecosystems to thrive.



Bacteria start the process by breaking down minerals, while fungi like yeast contribute organic matter, creating a more hospitable environment for other life forms. 



The resilience and rapid colonization of these microorganisms highlight nature's incredible ability to adapt and renew itself, even in extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-the-shrinking-arctic-glaciers">Lessons from the shrinking Arctic glaciers </h2>



While the phenomenon of glacier melting often conjures images of loss and irreversible change, the resilient microbial communities of the Arctic tell a more hopeful story. 



These microbes demonstrate that even in the face of drastic environmental shifts, life finds a way to persevere and adapt. The ability of these microorganisms to create fertile soil from barren rock suggests possibilities for mitigating some impacts of climate change. 



This research not only deepens our understanding of microbial ecology but also inspires optimism about nature's potential to heal. 



By recognizing and harnessing these natural processes, we can better prepare for and perhaps alleviate some of the challenges posed by a warming planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2402689121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Retreating glaciers unleash a world of ecological potential

Arctic glaciers are retreating at alarming rates due to global warming,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

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