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...

We all know that climate change is a huge problem, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/met-office-2024-co2-levels-will-surpass-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas</a> emissions like carbon dioxide (CO2) wreaking havoc on our planet. We also know that income inequality is a growing concern in many countries. 



But have you ever considered how these two issues might be linked? A new study from <a href="https://drexel.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drexel University</a> is shedding light on this complex relationship, and the results might surprise you.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-income-inequality-and-emissions">Income inequality and emissions</h2>



The Drexel University study goes beyond the simplistic idea that wealthier countries with higher overall carbon emissions automatically have a straightforward link between income inequality and CO2 output.&nbsp;



Instead, the research reveals a complex and multifaceted relationship. Income inequality within wealthy nations influences different types of emissions in distinct ways, challenging previous assumptions. 



The study uncovers how economic events,&nbsp;like recessions,&nbsp;can shift the impact of the wealthiest individuals on emissions patterns. It&nbsp;highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of economic inequality and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental consequences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-emissions-from-both-income-groups">Different emissions from both income groups</h2>



The researchers viewed a country's CO2 emissions not as a single entity,&nbsp;but as a composite of distinct parts.&nbsp;To analyze these components,&nbsp;they employed the Multidimensional Emissions Profile (MEP) framework,&nbsp;which divides a nation's carbon footprint into four categories:



<ol>
<li>Emissions from domestic supply chains:&nbsp;This encompasses the CO2 released during the production of goods and services within the country's borders.</li>



<li>Emissions embodied in exports:&nbsp;This category accounts for the CO2 emissions generated during the manufacturing of products that are subsequently exported to other countries.</li>



<li>Direct emissions from end-users:&nbsp;This refers to the CO2 emissions directly resulting from the consumption activities of individuals and households,&nbsp;such as those produced by burning fuel for transportation or heating homes.</li>



<li>Emissions embodied in imports:&nbsp;This includes the CO2 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-reveals-that-co2-is-rising-at-the-fastest-rate-in-50000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> associated with the production of goods in other countries that are then imported for consumption within the nation.</li>
</ol>



By meticulously examining each of these emission categories in isolation,&nbsp;the researchers gained a more comprehensive understanding of how income disparities within a country can influence and shape each specific type of emission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-the-great-recession">The impact of the Great Recession</h2>



One of the most interesting findings of the study was the impact of the Great Recession (2008-2009) on the relationship between income inequality and emissions.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"I theorize that direct end-user emissions and emissions embodied in exports are related to the top 10% income share via different mechanisms,"&nbsp;said Dr. Xiaorui Huang, the study's lead author.
</blockquote>



It turns out, the top 10% of earners in a country (the wealthiest) play a different role in emissions before, during, and after a recession.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-after-the-recession-2009-2011">After the recession (2009-2011)</h3>



In the years following the recession, there was actually a&nbsp;negative&nbsp;relationship between the income share of the top 10% and direct end-user emissions. This means that as the rich got richer, the average person's emissions actually decreased.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-later-in-the-recovery-2011-2015">Later in the recovery (2011-2015)</h3>



As the economy recovered, the relationship reversed. A higher income share for the top 10% was linked to increased emissions embodied in exports. 



This suggests the wealthy were flexing their economic muscle to drive production for overseas markets, even if it meant higher emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-the-income-groups-contribute-to-emissions">Why do the income groups contribute to emissions?</h2>



The researchers offer a few theories to explain these findings:



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



The researchers hypothesize that individuals with significant wealth often hold greater sway in shaping policies that govern emissions regulations.&nbsp;



As their share of the national income expands,&nbsp;they may exert their influence to advocate for relaxed regulations that favor their business interests,&nbsp;potentially leading to increased emissions from industries focused on exports.



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



The study draws attention to the "Veblen effect," a sociological phenomenon where affluent individuals engage in conspicuous consumption—purchasing and displaying luxury goods as a means of demonstrating their social status.&nbsp;



This behavior can drive up the demand for high-end products and services,&nbsp;which frequently carry a larger carbon footprint due to their production and consumption processes.



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



The concept of "marginal propensity to emit" suggests a correlation between rising income levels and increased CO2 emissions.&nbsp;Essentially,&nbsp;as people earn more,&nbsp;they tend to consume more and,&nbsp;consequently,&nbsp;generate more emissions.&nbsp;



However,&nbsp;this relationship is not uniform across all income levels and can be significantly influenced by economic downturns,&nbsp;such as the Great Recession,&nbsp;which can alter consumption patterns and emissions behaviors.



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



The study highlights the complex relationship between income inequality and CO2 emissions. It suggests that policies aimed at reducing inequality could have different impacts on different types of emissions. 



For example, policies that reduce the income share of the top 10% might help curb emissions from export industries but could potentially lead to a slight increase in emissions from everyday consumers.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"To mitigate the dual crises of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> climate change</a> and growing economic inequality, it is vital to enhance the synergy between CO2 emissions abatement and inequality reduction," said Dr. Huang.
</blockquote>



This means policymakers need to carefully consider the potential trade-offs and design strategies that address both inequality and emissions in a holistic way. The findings of this study offer valuable insights that can help guide those efforts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/sf/advance-article/doi/10.1093/sf/soae074/7681807" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Forces</a>.



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Income inequality and carbon emissions have a complicated relationship

We all know that climate change is a huge problem,...

Astronomers have stumbled upon a celestial anomaly: a neutron star spinning slower than any previously known. 



An international team of researchers discovered a neutron star that completes a rotation every 54 minutes - a pace that's remarkably leisurely compared to the typical frenetic spinning of these stellar remnants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-spinner-surprises-scientists">Slow spinner surprises scientists</h2>



Neutron stars are the incredibly dense leftovers of supernovae, the explosive deaths of massive stars. 



Typically, these stars spin rapidly, completing rotations in mere seconds. However, the newly found star breaks this mold with its unusually slow spin rate, sending out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radio-signal-from-nearby-planet-could-mean-alien-life-is-present/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio signals</a> every 54 minutes.



This discovery was made possible by observations from Australia's CSIRO’s ASKAP radio telescope, located on Wajarri Yamaji Country in Western Australia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-neutron-stars-spin">Why do neutron stars spin?</h2>



Neutron stars spin because of the conservation of angular momentum. When a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel, it undergoes a supernova explosion. The star's core collapses into a highly dense neutron star. 



As the core contracts, its rotation rate increases dramatically, much like how a figure skater spins faster when pulling in their arms. This principle is due to the conservation of angular momentum, which states that as the radius of an object decreases, its rotational speed must increase if no external torque acts on it.



Neutron stars are incredibly dense and have strong gravitational and magnetic fields, which further influence their spin. 



Initially, neutron stars can rotate dozens of times per second. Over time, interactions with their surroundings - such as accreting material from a companion star or emitting radiation - slow their rotation.



However, finding a neutron star that spins as slowly as 54 minutes is rare, making the recent discovery particularly significant for astronomers.



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



The research was led by Dr. Manisha Caleb of the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/">University of Sydney</a> and Dr. Emil Lenc at <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/">CSIRO</a>, and included contributions from experts at <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/">The University of Manchester</a> and the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/">University of Oxford</a>. 



“In the study of radio-emitting neutron stars, we are used to extremes, but this discovery of a compact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glitching-star-explains-cosmic-radio-bursts/">star</a> spinning so slowly and still emitting radio waves was unexpected," noted study co-author Professor Ben Stappers.



"It is demonstrating that pushing the boundaries of our search space with this new generation of radio telescopes will reveal surprises that challenge our understanding.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-challenging-puzzle">A challenging puzzle</h2>



This intriguing radio signal journeyed about 16,000 light years to reach Earth, and while it's believed to originate from a neutron star, the possibility of it being an isolated white dwarf with a strong magnetic field has not been ruled out. 



The absence of other similar magnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hungry-white-dwarf-stars-eat-heavy-metals/">white dwarfs</a> nearby, however, makes the neutron star explanation more plausible.



“This discovery relied on the combination of the complementary capabilities of ASKAP and MeerKAT telescopes as well as the ability to search for these objects on timescales of minutes while studying how their emission changes from second to second! Such synergies are allowing us to shed new light on how these compact objects evolve,” said study co-author Dr. Kaustubh Rajwade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysteries-of-slow-spinning-neutron-stars">Mysteries of slow-spinning neutron stars</h2>



The unexpected nature of this discovery prompts a reevaluation of what scientists understand about the behavior and characteristics of neutron stars and white dwarfs, particularly in terms of how they emit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-radio-waves-are-coming-from-the-center-of-our-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio waves</a>.



The research team continues to monitor the object, hoping to unravel the mysteries of its long-period signal.



“What is intriguing is how this object displays three distinct emission states, each with properties entirely dissimilar from the others. The MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa played a crucial role in distinguishing between these states," noted Dr. Caleb, the study's lead author. 



"If the signals didn’t arise from the same point in the sky, we would not have believed it to be the same object producing these different signals."



This research not only deepens our understanding of the most mysterious objects in the universe but also highlights the unpredictability and complexity of space.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02277-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Slow-spinning neutron star completely defies our expectations

Astronomers have stumbled upon a celestial anomaly: a neutron star...

A comprehensive study encompassing over 24,000 individuals has demonstrated the significant contributions of diversity in friendships to both personal well-being and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-humanity-can-work-together-to-solve-global-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social cohesion</a>.



This research challenges the common inclination to form connections with those who share similar characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-in-friendships">Diversity in friendships</h2>



Diversity in friendships means <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reconnecting-with-old-friends-is-as-scary-as-making-new-ones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">having friends</a> from various backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, ages, genders, socioeconomic statuses, and cultural traditions. 



This variety brings unique perspectives and experiences into one's social circle, enriching personal interactions and broadening understanding.



Such friendships expose individuals to different ways of thinking and living, fostering open-mindedness and adaptability. They can enhance language skills by providing opportunities to learn and practice new languages or dialects. Diverse friendships also increase tolerance and reduce prejudices, promoting a more inclusive society.



Engaging with friends from varied backgrounds can lead to a more fulfilling social life, as it encourages participation in diverse cultural activities and celebrations. This can deepen appreciation for different traditions and customs.



Without initially naming the institutions involved, the recent study draws on data from more than 10,000 neighborhoods across England.



It specifically explored how variations in the age, ethnicity, income, and educational background within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-social-bonds-promote-healthy-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social circles</a> correlate with individuals' sense of community and personal satisfaction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-diversity">Embracing diversity</h2>



Dr. Miguel Ramos, the study’s lead author and associate professor at the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>, elaborated on the global increase in diversity and the opportunities it presents for interaction across different societal lines.



"Despite a general tendency to associate with similar individuals, our findings reveal that those with mixed social networks experience greater social cohesion in their neighborhoods, which correlates with enhanced personal well-being," noted Dr. Ramos.



The research team assessed the diversity within friend groups across four dimensions - race, age, income, and education.



They discovered that life satisfaction and feelings of connectedness peaked in groups where approximately 50% of the members differed in one or more of these aspects.



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



The implications of these findings extend to larger societal frameworks. Embracing diversity within communities not only fosters greater social harmony but also enhances collective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">well-being</a>.



This could influence policies and initiatives in education, workplaces, and community settings aimed at promoting inclusivity and harmony.



"Having heterogeneous rather than homogeneous social networks is linked with the highest levels of social cohesion. This is a crucial source of well-being and supports the notion that diverse groups can thrive together," said Dr. Ramos.



Professor Matt Bennett, a co-author of the study, reflected on the broader impacts of diversity. He suggested that while homogeneity might offer comfort and familiarity, diversity is key to fostering resilience and adaptability in our dynamic world.



The research underscores the critical role that diversity plays in building stronger social bonds and enhancing societal cohesion.



As communities worldwide become increasingly diverse, the findings advocate for more inclusive social practices that can lead to a more harmonious and satisfying communal life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-diversity-in-friendships">Embracing diversity in friendships</h2>



Diversity in friendships offers numerous benefits beyond enhancing personal well-being and social cohesion. Interacting with people from different backgrounds broadens perspectives and fosters empathy. 



When friends have varied life experiences, they introduce new ideas and viewpoints, enriching conversations and broadening horizons. This can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving abilities, as diverse perspectives help generate innovative solutions.



Moreover, diverse friendships can enhance cultural competence. Exposure to different cultures, traditions, and viewpoints helps individuals become more open-minded and adaptable. This can improve social skills and reduce prejudice, fostering a more inclusive and tolerant society.



Diverse friendships also provide emotional support in unique ways. Friends from different backgrounds can offer distinct types of advice and support, making it easier to navigate complex life challenges. This varied support network can contribute to better mental health and resilience.



Additionally, having friends from different socioeconomic backgrounds can provide valuable insights into various economic realities, fostering a deeper understanding of societal issues. This can motivate individuals to engage in social and civic activities, contributing to positive community development.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/09567976241243370" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psychological Science</a>.



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The power of diversity in friendships

A comprehensive study encompassing over 24,000 individuals has demonstrated the...

In a remarkable study of Earth and space, researchers have uncovered that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-microscopic-noises-could-trigger-spontaneous-turbulence/">turbulence</a> experienced in Earth's upper atmosphere, known as the thermosphere, mirrors the turbulent behaviors observed in the lower atmosphere.



This intriguing discovery highlights a unified principle underlying the Earth's diverse environmental systems, potentially revolutionizing our approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-data-could-revolutionize-weather-forecasts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecasting weather</a> in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments.



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



Turbulence is a common phenomenon in both Earth's atmosphere and outer space. In Earth's atmosphere, turbulence affects weather patterns and aviation, causing air pockets and unpredictable wind currents. This turbulence arises from various factors, including temperature differences and geographic features.



In space, turbulence is equally significant. It influences the behavior of interstellar gases, the formation of stars, and the dynamics of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weird-exoplanet-has-puffy-atmosphere-despite-intense-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary atmospheres</a>. 



For instance, solar wind turbulence affects space weather, impacting satellite communications and navigation systems. The study of turbulence extends to other celestial bodies, like the turbulent atmosphere of Jupiter, which shows complex and dynamic weather patterns.



Understanding turbulence in both contexts helps improve weather forecasting and the safety of space missions. Ongoing research aims to uncover the universal laws governing turbulence, providing insights that can be applied across different environments. 



This knowledge is crucial for advancing our capabilities in predicting and mitigating the effects of turbulent phenomena in both Earth’s atmosphere and space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-surface-to-the-edge-of-space">Earth's surface to the edge of space</h2>



The thermosphere, extending from approximately 80 to 550 kilometers above sea level, serves as a critical juncture in the atmosphere, playing host to the International Space Station, numerous satellites, and the mesmerizing auroras. 



It is here that researchers, led by Professor Huixin Liu from the <a href="https://www.sci.kyushu-u.ac.jp/e/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Faculty of Science at Kyushu University</a>, have focused their investigative efforts, exploring the dynamics and energy flow that define this region.



Collaborating with Dr. Facundo L. Poblet from the <a href="https://www.iap-kborn.de/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics</a> at the University of Rostock, the team aimed to apply meteorological techniques used in studying lower atmospheric turbulence to the thermosphere.



The insights from this collaboration have led to surprising revelations about the similarities in turbulence between these vastly different atmospheric layers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-from-satellites">Data from satellites</h2>



Utilizing data from two satellites, the Challenging Minisatellite Payload (<a href="https://eospso.nasa.gov/missions/challenging-mini-satellite-payload" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CHAMP</a>) and the Gravity Field and Steady State Ocean Circulation Explorer (<a href="https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Operations/GOCE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GOCE</a>), the researchers conducted a meticulous analysis.



They calculated the third-order structure function of the wind, a complex statistical tool that sheds light on the underlying turbulence patterns.



What emerged from their data was a consistent scaling law, similar to that observed in the troposphere - the lowest layer of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-universal-laws-in-earth-and-space-turbulence">Universal laws in Earth and space turbulence</h2>



"This means that despite the drastic differences in atmospheric composition and dynamics between the thermosphere and the troposphere, both regions adhere to the same physical laws. The way turbulence forms, moves, and dissipates is strikingly similar in these two areas," explained Professor Liu.



These insights not only deepen our understanding of atmospheric science but also pave the way for more accurate predictions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a>.



Such advancements are crucial for the continued functionality and safety of satellite-based technologies that play an integral role in our daily lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-earth-and-space-predictions">The future of Earth and space predictions</h2>



The study's conclusions open up new avenues for enhancing both Earth and space weather forecasting.



As the researchers continue to explore these similarities, the hope is that this newfound knowledge will contribute significantly to our understanding of space dynamics and potentially improve operational strategies for space missions.



The research promises to significantly enhance our predictive capabilities for both Earth and space weather. The findings will help us to better prepare for the challenges posed by the dynamic environment of space. This includes improved forecasting of solar storms and other space weather phenomena that affect satellite operations and communications.



As we continue to rely on daily weather forecasts, the study suggests we may soon be equally informed about conditions far above the clouds. Accurate predictions of space weather will become increasingly important as our dependence on satellite technology grows.



From GPS navigation to satellite-based internet, many aspects of modern life depend on understanding and predicting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL108367" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Earth and space share some common physical laws

In a remarkable study of Earth and space, researchers have...

A team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> and the <a href="https://www.uwa.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Western Australia</a> has found that juvenile social play can predict adult reproductive success in male bottlenose <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphins-have-accents-that-vary-by-region/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a>.&nbsp;



The experts discovered that juvenile male dolphins with strong social bonds engage in adult-like reproductive behaviors during play, and those who spend more time practicing these behaviors tend to father more offspring as adults.&nbsp;



This study offers rare evidence of a link between juvenile play and reproductive success in wild animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-play-and-dolphin-reproduction">Social play and dolphin reproduction </h2>



The research team, which included international collaborators, spent years observing juvenile male Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in Shark Bay, Western Australia. They utilized long-term behavioral and genetic data to explore how juvenile social play influences the development of adult male reproductive behavior.



“We found that juvenile play involves immature versions of adult reproductive behaviors that are crucial for males to access and mate with estrous females, and the time spent doing these play behaviors predicts how many offspring males eventually sire as adults,” said lead author Katy Holmes, who conducted the research as part of her doctoral studies at the University of Western Australia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-male-dolphins-form-long-term-alliances-nbsp">Male dolphins form long-term alliances&nbsp;</h2>



In Shark Bay, adult male dolphins form long-term alliances to secure access to females, and these alliances are typically formed between males who were closely bonded during their juvenile years. As adults, pairs or trios of allied males coordinate their behavior to consort individual females.&nbsp;



The study demonstrates that young males practice this coordination with their likely future allies years before reaching sexual maturity.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dolphins-practicing-to-become-adults">Dolphins practicing to become adults</h2>



“Our work is exciting because historically it has been notoriously difficult to link play behavior to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/in-dolphins-popular-boys-have-more-babies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reproductive success</a>, in this case the number of sired offspring, in wild animals,” Holmes said.



“Play behavior is widespread in humans and other animals, but the reasons that animals play together have long remained a mystery. This study provides compelling support for the idea that animals in the wild play together to practice behaviors that will be important for them as adults, and that if they practice enough, they will be more successful as adults,” concluded senior author Stephanie King, an associate professor of biology at Bristol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-social-play-nbsp">Significance of social play&nbsp;</h2>



Social play is a fascinating aspect of dolphin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphins-change-their-behavior-to-adapt-to-coastal-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a>, reflecting their complex social structures and high intelligence. Dolphins engage in playful activities with each other, which can include chasing, mock fighting, and manipulating objects they find in their environment, like seaweed or sticks.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-life-skills">Building life skills</h3>



This play helps younger dolphins develop necessary skills such as hunting and navigating their social environment. It also seems to play a role in strengthening social bonds within groups, known as pods, and in maintaining affiliative relationships among individuals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-interactions-nbsp">Playful interactions&nbsp;</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bottlenose-dolphins-have-a-newly-discovered-super-sense/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dolphins</a> often use body contact during play, such as nudging or rubbing against each other. They may also display aerial acrobatics like leaping or somersaulting, which is not only a playful activity but also a form of communication and a way to dislodge parasites.&nbsp;



Vocalizations often accompany these playful interactions, with dolphins producing clicks, whistles, and other sounds that may serve as an important component in their social lives.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adult-dolphins-play">Adult dolphins play</h3>



This play is not limited to young dolphins; adults engage in play throughout their lives, suggesting its continued importance in their social and possibly emotional lives.&nbsp;



These interactions are more than mere entertainment; they're crucial for the social fabric of dolphin communities, affecting their communication, hierarchy, and even their cooperative hunting strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproductive-behaviors-of-dolphins">Reproductive behaviors of dolphins</h2>



Dolphin reproduction involves complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphins-use-baby-talk-to-communicate-with-their-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behaviors</a> and is a significant part of their social lives. They are generally polygamous, with both males and females having multiple partners throughout their lives.&nbsp;



Mating usually occurs belly to belly, and while it can happen any time of year, there are peaks in mating activity that vary depending on the species and their environment.



Female dolphins have a gestation period of about 12 months, after which they give birth to a single calf. Births usually happen in the water, with the tail appearing first to prevent drowning. The mother and sometimes other pod members help the newborn to the surface for its first breath.



Social bonds play a crucial role in the survival of calves, with stronger social networks often leading to higher survival rates. This cooperative behavior may include protection from predators and assistance in raising young, illustrating the deep social connections that define dolphin communities.



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



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Young dolphins who play with others become successful adults

A team of scientists led by the University of Bristol...

A remarkable new study has revealed that the timing of your workout could be as crucial as the workout itself. If you're carrying a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-aging-related-fat-buildup-in-tissues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">few extra pounds</a> and leading a mostly sedentary lifestyle, an evening workout may be the key to unlocking better blood sugar control.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-timing-is-everything">Why timing is everything</h2>



It's no secret that regular physical activity is a cornerstone of good health, particularly for those struggling with overweight or obesity. The benefits are widespread, from improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-significantly-lowers-heart-disease-risk-by-reducing-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular health</a> to enhanced mood and energy levels.



But what about when you exercise? Does it matter whether you hit the gym in the morning, afternoon, or evening?



It turns out, it might. This study, conducted by a team of researchers led by Dr. Jonatan R. Ruiz, professor of physical activity and health at the <a href="http://www.ugr.es/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Granada</a>, delved into the impact of workout timing on blood sugar levels.



"Our results highlight the importance of the field of precision exercise prescription," said Dr. Ruiz. "In clinical practice, certified sports and medical personnel should consider the optimal timing of the day to enhance the effectiveness of the exercise and physical activity programs they prescribe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evening-workouts-and-blood-sugar">Evening workouts and blood sugar</h2>



The research team analyzed data from 186 adults with overweight or obesity, using accelerometers and continuous glucose-monitoring devices to track their physical activity and blood sugar levels over 14 days. 



They categorized the participants into groups based on when they accumulated most of their moderate to vigorous physical activity: morning, afternoon, evening, or mixed.



The findings were eye-opening. Those who got more than half of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resistance-exercise-may-be-the-secret-to-relieving-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily workout</a> in the evening saw significant improvements in their blood sugar levels throughout the day and night, compared to those who were inactive. This effect was even more pronounced in individuals with impaired glucose regulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evening-workouts-implications-for-health">Evening workouts: Implications for health</h2>



If you're among the millions of adults struggling with overweight, obesity, or blood sugar issues, this research could be a game-changer. An evening workout might be a simple yet effective way to enhance your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/metamorphosis-exercise-triggers-molecular-changes-in-major-organs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health and well-being</a>.



"As the field moves towards individualized exercise prescriptions for different chronic conditions, this study now provides additional insights beyond just telling patients to 'move more,' but instead to move as often as possible and to prioritize afternoon-to-evening movement when feasible for glucose regulation," explained Dr. Renee J. Rogers, senior scientist at the <a href="https://www.kumc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas Medical Center</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-exercise-precision-is-key">Future of exercise: Precision is key</h2>



This study isn't just about evening workouts. It's about the emerging field of precision exercise prescription, which aims to tailor exercise recommendations to individual needs and goals. 



By considering factors like age, health status, and lifestyle, healthcare professionals can develop personalized exercise plans that maximize benefits and minimize risks.



So, if you're looking to optimize your health and fitness, it's time to start thinking beyond the "one size fits all" approach. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional or certified trainer to develop an exercise plan that's tailored to your unique needs.



Remember, the best workout plan is the one you'll stick with. If an evening workout fits your schedule and helps you achieve your health goals, then lace up your sneakers and get moving. Your body will thank you.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-to-follow-evening-workout-plan">Tips to follow evening workout plan</h2>



Incorporating an evening workout into your routine can be a simple and rewarding change. Here’s how to get started:



Set a consistent schedule:&nbsp;Choose a time in the evening that works best for you, ideally between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Consistency is key, so try to stick to this time every day.



Plan your workouts:&nbsp;Decide on the type of exercises you want to do. Options include brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or a home workout routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity.



Prepare in advance:&nbsp;Lay out your workout clothes and any necessary equipment ahead of time. This reduces the chance of skipping your workout due to lack of preparation.



Eat smart: Have a light snack about an hour before your workout to fuel your body. Avoid heavy meals right before exercising.



Warm up and cool down:&nbsp;Start with a gentle warm-up to prepare your muscles and reduce the risk of injury. After your workout, spend a few minutes cooling down and stretching.



Stay hydrated:&nbsp;Drink water before, during, and after your workout to stay hydrated.



Find a workout buddy:&nbsp;Exercising with a friend can keep you motivated and make the experience more enjoyable.



By incorporating these tips, you can seamlessly add an evening workout to your routine and enjoy the benefits of improved blood sugar control and overall health.



The study is published in the Obesity Society's flagship journal, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.24063" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Obesity</a>.



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Evening workouts are best for blood sugar control

A remarkable new study has revealed that the timing of...

A seemingly unassuming fern from the remote island of New Caledonia has made a big splash in the world of science. 



Researchers have discovered that ferns of the species Tmesipteris oblanceolata possess a genome that dwarfs all others known to date.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-and-its-measurement">Genome and its measurement</h2>



A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-genome-adapted-to-climate-changes-over-millennia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> is the entire collection of an organism's genetic material,&nbsp;its DNA.&nbsp;This DNA houses all the necessary instructions for the organism's growth, development, functioning, and reproduction.&nbsp;



DNA itself is a long,&nbsp;complex molecule composed of four chemical building blocks called bases:&nbsp;adenine (A),&nbsp;cytosine (C),&nbsp;guanine (G),&nbsp;and thymine (T).



Specific sequences of these bases form genes,&nbsp;which act as blueprints for creating proteins.&nbsp;Proteins are essential molecules that carry out a vast array of tasks within cells,&nbsp;from providing structural support to catalyzing chemical reactions.



Beyond genes,&nbsp;the genome also contains stretches of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> that do not code for proteins.&nbsp;These non-coding regions play crucial roles in regulating gene activity,&nbsp;determining when and where genes are turned on or off.&nbsp;They also contribute to maintaining the structural integrity of chromosomes,&nbsp;the thread-like structures that package and organize DNA within cells.



The size of a genome,&nbsp;measured in base pairs (bp),&nbsp;varies greatly across different species.&nbsp;For instance,&nbsp;the human genome comprises roughly 3.1 billion base pairs,&nbsp;whereas some plants and animals have significantly larger genomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-fern-with-a-huge-amount-of-dna">Tiny fern with a huge amount of DNA</h2>



The genome of the Tmesipteris oblanceolata fern contains a massive 160.45 gigabase pairs (Gbp) of DNA.&nbsp;This quantity is over 50 times larger than the human genome,&nbsp;which is approximately 3.2 Gbp.&nbsp;



To visualize the immense size of this fern's DNA,&nbsp;consider that if the DNA from a single Tmesipteris cell were stretched out end-to-end,&nbsp;it would exceed 100 meters in length.&nbsp;This surpasses the height of London's Elizabeth Tower,&nbsp;famously home to Big Ben.



The extraordinary size of the Tmesipteris oblanceolata genome has garnered it recognition from the Guinness World Records.&nbsp;It currently holds the following titles:



<ul>
<li>Largest plant genome:&nbsp;This signifies that Tmesipteris oblanceolata has the most extensive amount of DNA compared to any other known plant species.</li>



<li>Largest genome:&nbsp;This title confirms that Tmesipteris oblanceolata possesses the largest genome of any organism on Earth,&nbsp;encompassing all life forms.</li>



<li>Largest fern genome:&nbsp;This indicates that within the fern family,&nbsp;Tmesipteris oblanceolata boasts the most extensive amount of DNA compared to any other fern species.</li>
</ul>



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



The size of an organism's genome,&nbsp;or the total amount of DNA it possesses,&nbsp;is a significant factor influencing various aspects of its biology and survival.



Larger genomes often correlate with slower growth rates due to the increased time and resources required for DNA replication and cell division.&nbsp;



Additionally,&nbsp;organisms with larger genomes may exhibit reduced efficiency in photosynthesis,&nbsp;the process by which they convert light energy into chemical energy.&nbsp;This is because the maintenance and functioning of a larger genome demand more energy,&nbsp;potentially diverting resources away from photosynthetic processes.



Furthermore,&nbsp;organisms with larger genomes typically have higher nutrient requirements,&nbsp;particularly for nitrogen and phosphorus,&nbsp;which are essential for DNA synthesis and other cellular functions.&nbsp;



These increased demands can pose challenges in nutrient-limited environments,&nbsp;making it more difficult for these organisms to compete with those possessing smaller genomes.



The cumulative effects of slower growth,&nbsp;reduced photosynthetic efficiency,&nbsp;and increased nutrient requirements can significantly impact an organism's ability to adapt to changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-volcanoes-chaos-poisoned-ferns-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental conditions</a>.&nbsp;



In the face of environmental fluctuations,&nbsp;organisms with larger genomes may be less able to adjust their physiological processes or compete for resources,&nbsp;potentially increasing their vulnerability to extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fern-surpasses-predictions">Fern surpasses predictions</h2>



"For a long time, we thought that breaking the previous size record of Paris japonica was going to be an impossible mission, but once again, the limits of biology have surpassed our most optimistic predictions," said lead researcher Dr. Jaume Pellicer.



"Who would have thought this tiny, unassuming plant that most people would likely walk past without notice, could bear a world-beating record in genome size," added Dr. Ilia Leitch, a senior research leader at the <a href="https://www.kew.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew</a>.



The discovery of this DNA giant serves as a powerful reminder of the vast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-had-complex-leaf-vein-networks-200-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> that exists within the plant kingdom.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"Compared to other organisms, plants are incredibly diverse when viewed at the DNA level, and that should make us pause to think about their intrinsic value in the wider picture of global biodiversity," said Dr. Leitch.
</blockquote>



The exploration of the Tmesipteris genome is far from over.&nbsp;Scientists are eager to delve deeper into the secrets this remarkable fern holds,&nbsp;unlocking further insights into the boundaries of biological possibility.&nbsp;



As we continue to explore the world of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-genetics-research-just-got-a-lot-easier-with-a-simple-trick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant genetics</a>,&nbsp;we are reminded that even the most unassuming organisms can harbor extraordinary surprises.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)01111-8?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2589004224011118%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Tiny fern contains 50 times more DNA than humans

A seemingly unassuming fern from the remote island of New...

Imagine a vibrant library,&nbsp;filled with books chronicling the rich history of life on Earth.&nbsp;Each book details the unique chemical reactions that have fueled life's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origin-of-life-on-earth-may-have-been-found-in-ancient-hot-springs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution over billions of years</a>.&nbsp;



Now,&nbsp;imagine that some of these books have been lost to time,&nbsp;leaving gaps in our understanding of how life came to be.&nbsp;This is the tantalizing mystery that researchers at the Earth-Life Science Institute (<a href="https://www.elsi.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ELSI</a>) and the California Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CalTech</a>) have set out to explore.



Scientists have long pondered the origins of life,&nbsp;and a central question is how much of this history has vanished into the depths of time.&nbsp;Species can abandon biochemical reactions,&nbsp;and if this occurs across many species,&nbsp;such reactions could effectively be "forgotten" by life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quest-for-lost-chemical-reactions-of-life">Quest for lost chemical reactions of life</h2>



But is there any way to tell if the history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sulfur-may-have-played-key-role-origin-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biochemistry</a> is riddled with forgotten reactions?&nbsp;



To answer this,&nbsp;the ELSI and CalTech researchers embarked on a quest to trace the chemical path from simple geochemical molecules to the complex biological molecules found in living organisms today.&nbsp;They hypothesized that forgotten chemistry would appear as discontinuities or "breaks" in this path.



The early Earth was rich in simple compounds like hydrogen sulfide,&nbsp;ammonia,&nbsp;and carbon dioxide,&nbsp;which are not typically associated with sustaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.&nbsp;



Yet,&nbsp;billions of years ago,&nbsp;these compounds served as the raw materials for early life.&nbsp;Over time,&nbsp;biochemical processes gradually transformed these precursors into the compounds we find in living organisms today.



To model the history of biochemistry, the researchers needed an inventory of all known biochemical reactions. They turned to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, which contains over 12,000 cataloged reactions. 



With this vast dataset in hand, they began to model the step-by-step development of metabolism, the intricate network of chemical reactions that sustain life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atp-reactions-and-life-s-origins">ATP reactions and life's origins</h2>



Previous attempts to model the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-earth-may-have-first-sparked-in-shallow-soda-lakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of metabolism had stumbled,&nbsp;failing to produce the complex molecules used by modern life.&nbsp;This time,&nbsp;the researchers encountered the same roadblock.&nbsp;Their model could only generate a few compounds,&nbsp;and the reason was not immediately clear.



The breakthrough came when they focused on adenosine triphosphate (ATP),&nbsp;the universal energy currency of cells.&nbsp;ATP is essential for driving reactions that wouldn't occur spontaneously,&nbsp;such as building proteins.&nbsp;



However,&nbsp;ATP has a unique property:&nbsp;the reactions that produce ATP also require ATP.&nbsp;This creates a cyclic dependency,&nbsp;an "ATP bottleneck" that was halting the model's progress.



To resolve this bottleneck,&nbsp;the researchers discovered a workaround.&nbsp;The reactive portion of ATP is strikingly similar to an inorganic compound called polyphosphate.&nbsp;



By allowing ATP-generating reactions to use polyphosphate instead of ATP,&nbsp;a minor modification of just eight reactions,&nbsp;the model was able to generate almost all of the core metabolism found in contemporary life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rediscovering-lost-reactions">Rediscovering lost reactions</h2>



With this hurdle overcome,&nbsp;the researchers could now estimate the relative ages of all common metabolites and delve into the history of metabolic pathways.&nbsp;



They sought to determine if biological pathways evolved linearly,&nbsp;with reactions added sequentially,&nbsp;or as a mosaic,&nbsp;with reactions of different ages combined to create new pathways.



The researchers found that both types of pathways are almost equally common throughout metabolism.&nbsp;They were also able to quantify how much biochemistry might be lost to time.&nbsp;



"We might never know exactly, but our research yielded an important piece of evidence: only eight new reactions, all reminiscent of common biochemical reactions, are needed to bridge geochemistry and biochemistry," said Smith.



"This does not prove that the space of missing biochemistry is small,&nbsp;but it does show that even reactions which have gone extinct can be rediscovered from clues left behind in modern biochemistry."



This remarkable research offers a glimpse into the vast and complex history of biochemistry.&nbsp;It suggests that even seemingly lost reactions can be rediscovered,&nbsp;revealing the intricate pattern of life's evolution.&nbsp;



The journey to uncover the secrets of life's origins continues,&nbsp;and with each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/charles-darwins-complete-research-library-published-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new discovery</a>,&nbsp;we gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable story written into the chemistry of life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02361-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Clues to life's beginnings found in ancient chemical reactions

Imagine a vibrant library,&nbsp;filled with books chronicling the rich history...

Juice,Spacecraft,Orbiting,Jupiter's,Moons.,Showing,Europa,,One,Of,The

Ever since the discovery of icy ocean worlds like Europa and Enceladus within our solar system, the scientific community has been captivated by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-85-new-exoplanets-that-could-harbor-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential for life</a> beneath their frozen surfaces. 



These subsurface oceans have intrigued astrobiologists for decades, as they ponder whether the conditions necessary for life exist in these hidden waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jupiter-s-moon-europa">Jupiter's moon Europa</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-jupiter-moon-europa-deep-ocean-shifting-icy-shell/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, one of Jupiter's largest moons, captivates scientists with its potential for harboring life. Discovered by Galileo Galilei in 1610, Europa is slightly smaller than Earth's moon.



Its surface is a shell of ice, believed to cover a vast subsurface ocean. This ocean, possibly containing twice the water volume of Earth's oceans, lies beneath a layer of ice estimated to be 10 to 15 miles thick.



Europa's surface is relatively smooth, with few craters, suggesting a young and active icy crust. The surface features extensive cracks and streaks, caused by the tidal forces from Jupiter's gravity.



These tidal forces also likely generate heat, maintaining the subsurface ocean in a liquid state. This heating could create conditions suitable for life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-present-and-future-space-missions">Past, present and future space missions</h2>



The Galileo spacecraft, which orbited Jupiter from 1995 to 2003, provided most of our current knowledge about Europa. It revealed a magnetic field indicative of a salty, conductive ocean beneath the ice.



Scheduled for launch in late 2024, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/send-your-name-to-jupiters-ocean-moon-as-europa-clipper-mission-searches-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa Clipper</a> mission will conduct detailed reconnaissance of Europa's ice shell and subsurface ocean, searching for signs of habitability and providing critical data for future missions that may seek to land on Europa and probe its hidden ocean.



Finally ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice)</a> launched in April 2023 to study Jupiter and its three largest icy moons: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ganymede</a>, Callisto, and Europa. 



This mission aims to unravel the mysteries surrounding these celestial bodies and shed light on their potential habitability. 



Juice's journey is expected to last approximately 7.6 years, with the spacecraft using gravity assist maneuvers around Earth and Venus to reach Jupiter. 



Upon arrival, Juice will conduct multiple flybys of the moons before entering orbit around Ganymede in 2034. This extended mission phase will allow for detailed studies of the largest moon in the solar system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-and-metabolic-processes-on-europa">Iron and metabolic processes on Europa</h2>



A recent study offers compelling insights into this enigma, delving deep into the bioenergetics of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-life-on-europa-co2-discovery-by-webb-increases-the-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa's ocean</a>.



Dr. Sahai, professor and Ohio Research Scholar in the School of Engineering and Polymer Science at the <a href="https://www.uakron.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Akron</a>, collaborated with Dr. John Senko, professor of geomicrobiology at UA, and Dr. Doug LaRowe, associate professor of Earth science at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a>.



The team explored the potential for various forms of bacterial metabolisms to thrive in Europa's ocean, including iron reduction, sulfate reduction, and methanogenesis. They investigated whether these metabolic processes could sustain life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-snow-model-for-life-on-europa">Iron snow model for life on Europa</h2>



Using sophisticated model simulations, the researchers examined the feasibility of these bacterial processes occurring under the specific environmental conditions <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-solves-an-intriguing-mystery-about-jupiters-icy-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">present on Europa</a>. 



They considered factors such as temperature, pressure, and the chemical composition of the ocean.



Their simulations aimed to determine how iron reduction, sulfate reduction, and methanogenesis could take place within Europa's unique and extreme environment, assessing the energy yields and viability of these metabolisms in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-may-exist-on-one-of-jupiters-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supporting microbial life</a>.



What sets this research apart is the innovative "iron snow" model proposed by Dr. Sahai and her team. 



Drawing parallels with acid mine drainage systems on Earth, this model suggests a plausible mechanism for enhanced bacterial productivity in Europa's ocean. 



The iron snow model eliminates the need for highly reactive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-europa-creates-enormous-amount-of-oxygen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen</a> species (ROS) to be transported from the surface to the ocean floor. 



This not only increases the likelihood of detecting life but also mitigates the harmful effects of ROS on biological molecules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iron-europa-and-life-beyond-earth">Iron, Europa, and life beyond Earth</h2>



The implications of this research are profound. The study not only sheds light on the potential habitability of Europa's ocean but also expands our understanding of the conditions necessary for life to thrive in extreme environments.



The greater diversity of microbial metabolisms identified by Dr. Sahai and her team suggests a wealth of potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraterrestrial-life-moons-planets-detected-single-grain-ice-floating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biosignature molecules</a> that could be targeted for detection.



"The iron snow model overcomes critical conceptual roadblocks to life in the oceans of Europa and other icy worlds," Dr. Sahai concluded.



Significantly, our model increases the diversity of habitable ecological niches in icy ocean worlds, their habitable space, and total productivity driven primarily by iron reduction, which is usually neglected in models of metabolism in icy ocean world oceans.



The research brings us one step closer to unraveling the mystery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-compound-suggests-that-life-beyond-earth-could-be-common/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life beyond Earth</a>. By enhancing our understanding of the bioenergetics of Europa's ocean and proposing the innovative iron snow model, scientists are paving the way for future explorations and discoveries in the quest for extraterrestrial life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2316452121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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"Iron snow" brings hope for finding life on Jupiter's moon Europa

Ever since the discovery of icy ocean worlds like Europa...

Climate change poses significant challenges and opportunities within the agricultural sector. The transformation of abandoned farmland into areas that contribute positively to the environment is an emerging solution that strikes a balance between ecological needs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-wheat-market-has-been-remarkably-resilient-amid-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural demands</a>.



Recent research demonstrates how these forgotten fields could be pivotal in the broader climate change strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abandoned-farmlands">Abandoned farmlands</h2>



Abandoned farmland refers to agricultural land that is no longer actively used for farming. 



Over time, these fields have been left untended, often due to economic challenges, urbanization, changes in farming practices, or environmental factors. 



As a result, the land may revert to natural states like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grasslands-crucial-role-global-agriculture-environment-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grasslands</a>, shrublands, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>.



Farmers might abandon land if it's no longer profitable due to poor soil quality, low crop yields, or market changes. Urban expansion can also lead to farmland being deserted, as cities grow and encroach on rural areas. 



Sometimes, government policies or incentives might encourage farmers to leave certain areas fallow to conserve resources or protect the environment.



Abandoned farmland represents a significant, underutilized resource. With proper management, it can be repurposed to support ecological projects, such as growing bioenergy crops that sequester carbon or restoring natural habitats to increase biodiversity. 



By identifying and utilizing these lands, we can address climate change challenges and promote sustainable land use practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-abandoned-farmland-for-climate-change-mitigation">Mapping abandoned farmland for climate change mitigation</h2>



Led by Yanhua Xie and Tyler Lark at the <a href="https://www.glbrc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center</a>, a team of scientists has developed a cutting-edge tool using machine learning.



This tool has mapped nearly 30 million acres of U.S. abandoned farmland since the 1980s, illustrating substantial opportunities for sustainable practices that could aid in climate change mitigation.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/abandoned-farmland-crops_us-map_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/abandoned-farmland-crops_us-map_1s.jpg" alt="Map showing abandoned farmland and crops in the U.S." class="wp-image-1936186"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Map showing abandoned farmland and crops in the U.S.</figcaption></figure>



The findings, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, highlight potential uses for these lands, including the cultivation of bioenergy crops like switchgrass or sorghum that sequester carbon in the soil.



“If we can understand where these lands are and what the characteristics are, we can really understand their true potential for things like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/success-story-reforestation-has-helped-keep-the-eastern-us-relatively-cool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate mitigation</a>,” explains Tyler Lark, associated with the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s <a href="https://sage.nelson.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment</a>.



He emphasizes the importance of deploying clean energy solutions in these areas to minimize competition with food production and other land uses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-resolution-approach">High-resolution approach</h2>



Previously, data on abandoned farmland were vague and generalized at best. The recent study changes this by providing detailed, field-level insights. 



"This is really the highest resolution analysis available, looking right on the landscape—field by field, acre by acre -- of where these crop lands are," Lark says.



Utilizing satellite imagery data from 1986 to 2018, the algorithm developed by the researchers can accurately identify and categorize these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-land-abandonment-affect-biodiversity/">abandoned fields</a>, pinpointing their locations and the approximate times of abandonment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-findings-on-land-use">Surprising findings on land use</h2>



The analysis shows that much of the abandoned farmland has naturally transitioned to different types of vegetation. 



These include pastures, grasslands, shrublands, and wetlands. These areas have developed naturally over time without active human intervention.



Surprisingly, less than 20% of this abandoned land is part of formal conservation programs. This indicates that a significant portion of this land remains underutilized in terms of structured environmental management. 



This presents a considerable opportunity to transform these areas for purposes that can help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-potential-of-tidal-wetlands-as-blue-carbon-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitigate climate change</a>. 



By converting these underutilized lands, we can implement sustainable practices that contribute positively to the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abandoned-farmland-and-climate-change">Abandoned farmland and climate change</h2>



The researchers plan to delve deeper into the reasons behind the abandonment of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-regrow-naturally-on-abandoned-farmlands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lands</a> and to explore potential optimal uses.



Integrating additional data, such as socioeconomic factors and tax records, will provide further clarity on how best to utilize these lands in the context of climate change. 



Whether for bioenergy production, solar installations, or restoring natural ecosystems, the possibilities are vast.



This remarkable study, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and in collaboration with <a href="https://msu.edu/">Michigan State University</a>, has provided an essential tool available in the GLBRC’s interactive atlas.



This atlas not only charts abandoned farmland but also tracks trends in farmland use and irrigation, serving as a critical resource for those aiming to align agricultural practices with climate change mitigation goals.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad2d12">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



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Abandoned farmland can be used for climate change mitigation

Climate change poses significant challenges and opportunities within the agricultural...

In a recent study, researchers have unearthed the earliest known use of specialized stone tools, marking a significant shift in prehistoric technology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-hunter-gatherer-ancestors-did-much-more-gathering-than-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>.



These findings shed light on how our ancestors adapted to environmental changes and the disappearance of large game, specifically elephants, by developing tools designed for processing smaller and quicker prey like fallow deer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prehistoric-stone-tools-evolution">Prehistoric stone tools evolution</h2>



The stone tools, identified as Quina scrapers, were discovered at the Jaljulia site and Qesem Cave. 



Characterized by their scalloped working edges, these scrapers were not only instrumental in butchering fallow deer but also in processing their hides. 



This technological shift was driven by necessity, as the decline of elephant populations pushed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-humans-hunted-elephants-with-stone-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient hunters</a> to target smaller animals, necessitating more precise and effective tools.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-shift-driven-by-ecological-change">Cultural shift driven by ecological change</h2>



For about a million years, humans relied on simple stone tools to process the hides and meat of large game, predominantly elephants. 



These animals were a crucial source of sustenance. However, around 400,000 years ago, a significant change occurred. 



"The large game, particularly elephants, had disappeared, prompting humans to hunt smaller animals, especially fallow deer. Butchering a large elephant is vastly different from processing a much smaller and more delicate fallow deer," explains Vlad Litov from <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a>.



This shift not only changed the stone tools but also required a more systematic approach to hunting and processing to make up for the smaller size of fallow deer compared to elephants. 



The new Quina scrapers, which first appeared on a small scale at Jaljulia around 500,000 years ago and later more extensively at Qesem Cave, offered a sharper, more uniform edge that greatly improved efficiency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sacred-landscapes-and-resource-management">Sacred landscapes and resource management</h2>



The study also highlights a fascinating aspect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-masters-woodworking-crafting-wooden-hunting-weapons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early human</a> perception and resource management.



"We identified a double connection, both practical and perceptual, between the technological developments and changes in the fauna hunted and consumed by early humans," Prof. Ran Barkai points out.



Notably, the Quina scrapers were stone tools made using non-local flint procured from the Mountains of Samaria, located about 20km east of the archaeological sites.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/400k-year-old-stone-tools_Quina-like-scraper_Tel-Aviv-University_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/400k-year-old-stone-tools_Quina-like-scraper_Tel-Aviv-University_1s.jpg" alt="Quina-like scraper from Jaljulia. Credit: Tel Aviv University" class="wp-image-1936180"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Quina-like scraper from Jaljulia. Credit: Tel Aviv University</figcaption></figure>



This area was not only a rich source of flint but also the calving area for fallow deer, suggesting a deep-seated connection between the resources used by ancient hunters and the geography of their environment.



The perceived abundance and utility of the Samarian highlands likely elevated their status to something sacred among the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-humans-used-ancient-plant-fiber-technology-to-make-tools-39000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric</a> peoples of Qesem Cave and Jaljulia.



"We believe that the Mountains of Samaria were sacred to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-women-were-not-just-gatherers-they-were-hunters-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric people</a> of Qesem Cave and Jaljulia because that's where the fallow deer came from," Litov concludes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prehistoric-stone-tools-show-adaptation">Prehistoric stone tools show adaptation</h2>



The findings from Jaljulia and Qesem Cave provide a vivid snapshot of how early humans adapted their tool-making techniques to meet the challenges posed by new hunting targets and ecological realities. 



The development of Quina scrapers is not just a technological advancement; it represents a profound adaptation to a changing world, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of our ancient ancestors. 



This study serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human innovation, cultural perceptions, and environmental conditions that has shaped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human history</a> from its earliest days.



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



Prehistoric stone tools are some of the earliest evidence of human technology. These tools, dating back millions of years, demonstrate the ingenuity and adaptability of our ancestors. 



Early stone tools, such as those from the Oldowan industry, were simple and used for basic tasks like cutting and scraping. 



As time progressed, more complex tools emerged during the Acheulean period, characterized by hand axes and cleavers.



The Middle Paleolithic saw the development of the Levallois technique, where stone flakes were carefully shaped before being removed from a core, leading to more efficient and specialized tools. 



The Upper Paleolithic era brought further innovation with the creation of finely crafted blades, burins, and microliths. These tools enabled our ancestors to perform more complex tasks, such as hunting, crafting clothing, and constructing shelters.



Overall, prehistoric stone tools provide crucial insights into the technological advancements, survival strategies, and cognitive evolution of early humans.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11759-024-09493-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archaeologies</a>.



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400,000-year-old stone tools show technological adaptations of prehistoric humans

In a recent study, researchers have unearthed the earliest known...

You may have heard the age-old adage "you are what you <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/binge-eating-linked-to-a-specific-set-of-brain-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eat</a>," but what if your cells believe you're overindulging, even when you're not? A recent study&nbsp;reveals a fascinating connection between how our cells perceive nutrient levels and the acceleration of aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tricking-the-cellular-messenger">Tricking the cellular messenger</h2>



Led by Alejo Efeyan, head of the Metabolism and Cell Signalling Group at the National Cancer Research Centre (<a href="https://www.cnio.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNIO</a>), the research team embarked on an ambitious endeavor to understand the intricate relationship between nutrient intake and aging. 



Their focus was on a protein complex called mTOR, a key player in cellular metabolism and energy utilization.



The researchers cleverly devised a way to manipulate mTOR's activity by tricking the protein responsible for signaling nutrient availability. 



This genetic modification led the cells to believe they were receiving an excess of nutrients, even when the animals were on a normal diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-and-accelerated-cell-aging">Inflammation and accelerated cell aging</h2>



The consequences of this cellular deception were dramatic. As the animals reached maturity, their cells began to malfunction, leading to a cascade of events that accelerated aging. The skin thinned, and vital organs like the pancreas, liver, and kidneys showed signs of damage.



"The immune system cells come to repair them but are overwhelmed by the amount of damage. They accumulate and, instead of repairing, trigger inflammation that further increases problems in those organs," explains Ana Ortega-Molina, the first author of the study and head of the Metabolism in Cancer and Ageing Laboratory at the Severo Ochoa Molecular Biology Centre (<a href="https://www.cbm.uam.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBM</a>).



This vicious cycle of damage and inflammation shortened the lifespan of the genetically modified animals by a staggering 20%, the equivalent of about 16 years in humans. 



The study also found that blocking the inflammatory response could partially reverse the damage, offering a potential therapeutic avenue for mitigating age-related decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimpse-into-our-aging-cells">Glimpse into our aging cells</h2>



The researchers drew parallels between the cellular changes observed in the genetically modified animals and those seen in natural aging. 



They compared their model to naturally aging mice colonies and found striking similarities, such as reduced activity of lysosomes, the cellular "recycling centers" responsible for removing waste.



"When there is an excess of nutrients, it makes sense that the cell shuts down the recycling activity of lysosomes, because this recycling operates especially when there are no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrients</a>," Efeyan notes. 



This decrease in lysosomal activity also occurs in human aging, as confirmed by analyzing blood samples from young people and septuagenarians.



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



Efeyan is optimistic about the potential of this new animal model to unlock the secrets of aging. "It’s a tool that many more people can use," he says, envisioning future studies that could delve into how nutrient signaling affects specific organs and contributes to neurodegenerative diseases.



This research provides valuable insights into the connection between obesity,&nbsp;aging,&nbsp;and potential interventions for promoting longevity.&nbsp;



The findings suggest that individuals with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher body mass index</a> (BMI),&nbsp;often associated with excess nutrient intake,&nbsp;may experience accelerated aging due to similar mechanisms observed in the genetically modified animals.



Furthermore,&nbsp;the study sheds light on the positive effects of calorie restriction,&nbsp;a dietary approach known to extend lifespan in various organisms.&nbsp;



The research suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dietary-restriction-slows-brain-aging-and-increases-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">limiting nutrient intake</a> could activate genes that interact with the mTOR pathway,&nbsp;potentially mitigating the negative impact of excess nutrients on cellular function and aging.



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



The study sheds light on the complex relationship between nutrient perception and aging. By manipulating the mTOR protein complex, researchers have demonstrated how overeating signals can accelerate aging in animal models. 



This remarkable research opens up new avenues for exploring therapeutic interventions and understanding the intricate mechanisms behind aging in humans. 



It is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the potential for future discoveries to improve our health and well-being as we age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-benefits-of-eating-less">Other benefits of eating less</h2>



Limited nutrient intake, commonly known as calorie restriction, offers several benefits beyond promoting longevity. One significant advantage is improved metabolic health. 



Calorie restriction enhances insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. It also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health.



Another benefit is the reduction in oxidative stress. Calorie restriction decreases the production of reactive oxygen species, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and various diseases. 



This reduction in oxidative stress helps protect against age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-autophagy-and-calorie-restriction-for-aging-cells">Autophagy and calorie restriction for aging cells</h2>



Moreover, limited nutrient intake boosts autophagy, a cellular process that removes damaged components and recycles them. 



Enhanced autophagy helps maintain cellular health and function, preventing the accumulation of cellular debris that can lead to diseases.



Calorie restriction also strengthens the immune system. Studies have shown that it can increase the production of infection-fighting cells, improving the body's ability to fend off illnesses.



Additionally, limited nutrient intake can improve mental health. Research indicates that it enhances mood and cognitive function, possibly by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports neuron growth and survival.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-024-00635-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Aging</a>.



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Tricking cells into thinking they ate less food can slow the aging process

You may have heard the age-old adage "you are what...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

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