<p>Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.</p>



<p>This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



<p>In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.</p>



<p>For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. </p>



<p>If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. </p>



<p>The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.</p>



<p>In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



<p>Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. </p>



<p>Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.</p>



<p>In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<p><a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. </p>



<p>They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.</p>



<p>About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. </p>



<p>"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



<p>Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.</p>



<p>With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. </p>



<p>Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.</p>



<p>"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.</p>



<p>Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



<p>Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. </p>



<p>"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.</p>



<p>Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. </p>



<p>All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.</p>



<p>The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. </p>



<p>This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



<p>Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. </p>



<p>They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.</p>



<p>The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



<p>"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."</p>



<p>Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. </p>



<p>Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.</p>



<p>Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Forest Ecology and Management</em></a>.</p>



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

<p>Kombucha, the tangy, fizzy fermented <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tea</a>, has exploded in popularity thanks to its supposed health benefits. Researchers at <a href="https://www.ship.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shippensburg University</a> are uncovering ways to fine-tune the process of brewing kombucha tea. </p>



<p>"Brewers typically see making kombucha as an art more than a science," says Jeb Kegerreis, a physical chemist and one of the team's principal investigators. </p>



<p>"So, when we are doing a consultation, we also walk the brewer through the biochemistry of what's happening during fermentation.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-scoby-in-kombucha-brewing">What's SCOBY in kombucha brewing?</h2>



<p>SCOBY, an essential fermentation factor, stands for "Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast." This lively community of microbes is the magic behind kombucha. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/a-beginners-guide-to-the-wild-world-of-wild-yeast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yeast</a> gobbles up sugar, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide (that's where the fizz comes from). Then, the bacteria step in, converting most of that alcohol and other sugars into flavorful acids. </p>



<p>It's a beautiful partnership, but since SCOBYs are living things, each batch can turn out a bit differently. This variability is where the Shippensburg University team comes in to help both home brewers and commercial producers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silicone-bags-for-kombucha-brewing">Silicone bags for kombucha brewing</h2>



<p>Shippensburg University's research reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brewing-non-alcoholic-beer-that-tastes-just-like-regular-beer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brewing</a> kombucha in silicone bags yields some surprising benefits:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kombucha-brewing-speed">Kombucha brewing speed</h3>



<p>Brewing time gets slashed from two weeks to one! Why? Silicone is more porous than glass, allowing more oxygen in, and that fuels the bacteria to work faster.</p>



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



<p>The extra oxygen helps the bacteria break down alcohol more efficiently, which is great news if you want a low-alcohol kombucha.</p>



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



<p>Silicone brews seem to have more gluconic acid, which provides a tart flavor without the vinegary punch of acetic acid (another common acid in kombucha).</p>



<p>"We think this acid will become more popular with brewers,” says Kegerreis. “Gluconic acid provides acidity without the sour vinegar taste you get from acetic acid, and that may appeal to more tastebuds.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-sugars-in-kombucha-brewing">Different sugars in kombucha brewing</h2>



<p>Typically, kombucha is made with plain sucrose (table sugar). But the Shippensburg team wanted to see how starting with different types of sugar would impact the fermentation process.</p>



<p>"During the fermentation process, yeast in the SCOBY breaks sucrose into glucose and fructose. By using just glucose or just fructose, we looked at how removing that first step affects the whole brewing process,” explains chemistry student Abbi Czarnecki. </p>



<p>Here's what the researchers found:</p>



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



<p>Using pure glucose as the SCOBY's food gave a kombucha with loads of gluconic acid and very little alcohol.</p>



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



<p>Fructose-fed kombucha had higher acetic acid levels (that vinegar tang) and more alcohol. It also tended to be sweeter.</p>



<p>“If minimizing ethanol production is the measure of our success, fructose failed in that department. Out of all three sugars, it produced the most ethanol,” Ian Loscher, another chemistry student on the team adds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-kombucha">Benefits of kombucha</h2>



<p>Kombucha is packed with a variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-microbes-in-tea-roots-grow-tastier-healthier-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health benefits</a>, making it a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. The top benefits of drinking kombucha include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rich in probiotics</h3>



<p>Kombucha produces a wealth of probiotics during the fermentation process. These beneficial bacteria are known for their positive impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boost-your-gut-health-top-five-prebiotic-rich-foods-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut health</a>, aiding in digestion, inflammation reduction, and even supporting the immune system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Antioxidant powerhouse</h3>



<p>The tea in kombucha, especially when made with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-tea-extract-lowers-blood-sugar-and-improves-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green tea</a>, contains powerful antioxidants. These substances can protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals, which are linked to various chronic diseases. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Supports a healthy heart</h3>



<p>Emerging research suggests that kombucha can positively affect heart health. It may improve cholesterol levels and reduce heart disease risk. The antioxidants in kombucha are particularly beneficial for the heart, helping to maintain healthy arteries and blood pressure.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Detoxification benefits</h3>



<p>Kombucha includes detoxifying properties. It contains glucaric acid, which can help detoxify the liver and promote the excretion of toxins from the body. Regular consumption of kombucha may support the body’s natural detoxification processes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Boosts energy</h3>



<p>Thanks to the presence of small amounts of caffeine, B vitamins, and iron released from black tea during fermentation, kombucha can provide a gentle energy boost without the harsh effects associated with high-caffeine beverages. The iron may also improve oxygen flow to tissues, further increasing energy levels.</p>



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



<p>Who knew there was so much science bubbling beneath the surface of your kombucha jar? With insights like these, you can ditch the guesswork and create brews perfectly suited to your taste buds. </p>



<p>The future of kombucha is bright. Expect better quality, flavors you can customize, and greener brewing methods. </p>



<p>Science and tradition are working together to make kombucha even more delicious and healthy. Cheers to better kombucha through the power of science.</p>



<p>Visit the <a href="https://acs.digitellinc.com/live/31/page/1013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Spring 2024 program</a> to learn more about the study.</p>



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Scientifically proven tips for better kombucha brewing

Kombucha, the tangy, fizzy fermented tea, has exploded in popularity...

Viridicerus,Ustulatus,A,Leafhopper,From,The,Family,Cicadellidae,On,A

<p>In the realm of science, sometimes the smallest creatures can provide the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biggest insights</a>. Such is the case with leafhoppers, unassuming backyard insects that carry a secret armor of brochosomes.</p>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> have delved into this miniature world, uncovering the mysteries of particles known as brochosomes, which these insects secrete and coat themselves with. </p>



<p>Their findings, led by Professor Tak-Sing Wong of mechanical and biomedical engineering, have been published in the prestigious <em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em> of the United States of America (PNAS), marking a significant step forward in bioinspired optical materials.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-biology-of-leafhoppers-brochosomes">Decoding the biology of leafhoppers' brochosomes</h2>



<p>Brochosomes are intricate, soccer ball-like structures with a series of cavities, baffling scientists since their discovery in the 1950s. The Penn State team, however, has not only replicated the complex geometry of these particles for the first time but also shed light on their unique ability to absorb both visible and ultraviolet light. </p>



<p>This breakthrough promises to spawn numerous applications, from creating invisible <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thermal-cloak-keeps-electric-vehicles-cool-in-the-summer-warm-in-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloaking devices</a> to developing coatings for more efficient solar energy harvesting.</p>



<p>The journey to this discovery began in 2017 when Wong and his team first synthesized a basic version of brochosomes, aiming to understand their function. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synthetic-brochosomes-created-in-biomimicry-breakthrough">Synthetic brochosomes created in biomimicry breakthrough</h2>



<p>Fast forward to today, and the researchers have achieved a remarkable feat: creating synthetic brochosomes with precise geometry using advanced 3D printing technology. </p>



<p>This not only mimics the natural structure of brochosomes but also demonstrates their potential to significantly reduce light reflection.</p>



<p>“It has been unclear why the leafhoppers produce particles with such complex structures,” Wang said, “We managed to make these brochosomes using a high-tech 3D-printing method in the lab. We found that these lab-made particles can reduce light reflection by up to 94%. This is a big discovery because it's the first time we've seen nature do something like this, where it controls light in such a specific way using hollow particles.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-invisibility-cloaks-to-solar-harvesting">From invisibility cloaks to solar harvesting</h2>



<p>The implications of this research are vast. For instance, Lin Wang, a postdoctoral scholar in mechanical engineering and the study's lead author, envisions the development of a thermal invisibility cloak, drawing inspiration from the leafhopper's natural defenses. </p>



<p>This could revolutionize how we manage light reflection, potentially hiding the thermal signatures of humans or machines from detection.</p>



<p>“This discovery could be very useful for technological innovation. With a new strategy to regulate light reflection on a surface, we might be able to hide the thermal signatures of humans or machines," Wang explained. </p>



<p>"Perhaps someday people could develop a thermal invisibility cloak based on the tricks used by leafhoppers. Our work shows how understanding nature can help us develop modern technologies," he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-purpose-of-leafhoppers-brochosomes">Evolutionary purpose of leafhoppers' brochosomes</h2>



<p>The intrigue surrounding brochosomes extends beyond their optical properties. The uniform size of these particles across different leafhopper species suggests a specific, evolutionary purpose, possibly linked to predator evasion. </p>



<p>By scattering visible light and absorbing ultraviolet light, brochosomes serve as an anti-reflective shield, offering the leafhoppers a form of natural invisibility against predators with UV vision, such as birds and reptiles.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, the team at Penn State plans to refine the fabrication process of synthetic brochosomes, bringing them closer to the size of their natural counterparts. This could enable a plethora of human applications. </p>



<p>Some ideas include more efficient solar panels, protective pharmaceutical coatings, advanced sunscreens, and even information encryption technologies that leverage brochosome-like structures to hide data visible only under specific light wavelengths.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-innovations-from-the-smallest-creatures">Biggest innovations from the smallest creatures</h2>



<p>“Nature has been a good teacher for scientists to develop novel advanced materials,” Wang said. “In this study, we have just focused on one insect species, but there are many more amazing insects out there that are waiting for material scientists to study, and they may be able to help us solve various engineering problems. They are not just bugs; they are inspirations.”</p>



<p>In summary, the research into leafhoppers and their brochosomes by the Penn State team unveils the intricate secrets of nature and heralds a new era of technological innovation inspired by the minutiae of the natural world. </p>



<p>By replicating the complex geometry of brochosomes and revealing their potential to manipulate light in unprecedented ways, scientists have opened portals into a host of futuristic applications, from enhancing solar energy efficiency to developing cloaking devices. </p>



<p>This study exemplifies the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-sweaters-use-synthetic-fibers-mimicking-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biomimicry</a>, proving that even the smallest creatures can inspire solutions to some of the most challenging problems in engineering and technology, underscoring nature's role as an endless source of inspiration and innovation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-leafhoppers-and-brochosomes">More about leafhoppers and brochosomes</h2>



<p>As discussed above, leafhoppers, small yet ubiquitous backyard insects, carry a secret far more fascinating than one might expect. These insects, belonging to the family Cicadellidae, are the architects of an extraordinary microscopic structure known as brochosomes. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enigmatic-world-of-leafhoppers">Enigmatic world of leafhoppers</h3>



<p>Leafhoppers are small, hopping insects found across the globe, known for their ability to leap great distances. They feed on plant sap using their piercing mouthparts, often becoming pests to agricultural crops. However, it's their unique defensive mechanism that has piqued the interest of scientists worldwide. </p>



<p>Leafhoppers produce and coat themselves with tiny, spherical particles named brochosomes. These particles are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye, yet they play a crucial role in the insect's survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brochosomes-nature-s-ingenious-armor">Brochosomes: Nature's ingenious armor</h3>



<p>Brochosomes are remarkable for their complex, soccer ball-like structure, featuring a series of cavities that have baffled scientists since their discovery in the 1950s. Produced in the leafhoppers' Malpighian tubules, a part of their excretory system, brochosomes serve several purposes. </p>



<p>They are believed to protect leafhoppers from predators and environmental hazards by making them less visible and less palatable. Furthermore, these nanostructures help leafhoppers to stay clean, as their superhydrophobic surface repels water and prevents the adhesion of dust and other particles.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiring-future-technologies">Inspiring future technologies</h3>



<p>The study of brochosomes has opened new avenues in the field of biomimicry, where nature's designs inspire innovative solutions to human challenges. The unique optical properties of brochosomes, capable of manipulating light and ultraviolet rays, have researchers envisioning a future where synthetic brochosomes could be used in various applications. </p>



<p>From creating invisible cloaking devices that could hide objects or individuals from detection to developing new materials that efficiently harvest solar energy, the potential is vast. Moreover, these bioinspired structures could lead to advances in protective coatings for pharmaceuticals, enhanced sunscreens, and even new methods of information encryption.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leafhoppers-brochosomes-and-future-technology">Leafhoppers, brochosomes, and future technology</h3>



<p>In summary, leafhoppers and their brochosomes represent a vivid example of nature's complexity and its potential to inspire revolutionary technological advancements. By understanding and mimicking these natural structures, scientists unlock new possibilities for the future, demonstrating the profound impact that even the smallest organisms can have on our world. </p>



<p>As research continues, the secrets of leafhoppers and their brochosomes may soon lead to breakthroughs that were once the realm of science fiction, proving once again that nature is our most innovative engineer.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2312700121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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Leafhoppers' secret armor has inspired new invisibility cloaking technology

In the realm of science, sometimes the smallest creatures can...

<p>In a cosmic neighborhood, a team has uncovered a "warm Jupiter" planet. This discovery challenges our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-finds-a-water-rich-planet-with-a-steamy-atmosphere-named-gj-9827d/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> formation, hinting at the complex ways these giant worlds might come to be.</p>



<p>A team led by Luis Thomas of the <a href="https://www.usm.uni-muenchen.de/index_en.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Observatory Munich</a> has described a new exoplanet (a planet outside of our solar system) orbiting a star within the ancient star cluster Messier 67. This gas giant, designated S1429 b, belongs to a class known as warm Jupiters. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messier-67-and-warm-jupiter">Messier 67 and warm Jupiter</h2>



<p>Messier 67, nicknamed the King Cobra Cluster, is a grand old dame among star clusters. Estimated to be over 4 billion years old, it's one of the most ancient and well-studied open clusters in our galaxy. </p>



<p>This incredible age makes it a fascinating window into how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-weather-exoplanet-wasp-121-b-has-a-dynamic-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> evolve and how star clusters change over vast stretches of time. Interestingly, the cluster is about the same age as our Sun. </p>



<p>This offers scientists a chance to study a stellar environment that might resemble our own solar system in its youth. Astronomers wonder, could planets – even those potentially capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-telescopes-can-directly-detect-signs-of-alien-life-in-exoplanet-atmospheres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supporting life</a> – exist in a place like M67? That possibility makes it a prime target for hunting exoplanets.</p>



<p>The team's "Search for Giant Planets in M67" survey is dedicated to answering those questions. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hot-and-warm-jupiter">Hot and Warm Jupiter</h2>



<p>Hot Jupiters are gas giants, like the Jupiter in our solar system, but they orbit incredibly close to their stars. This makes them scorching hot – way hotter than any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-12-light-years-away-may-have-a-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> in our solar system. </p>



<p>Warm Jupiters, like S1429 b, are a bit less extreme. They're still gas giants, but they orbit their stars farther away than hot Jupiters. </p>



<p>This means they're warm, but not blazing hot. They also have longer orbits than hot Jupiters, putting them somewhere in between the super-close hot worlds and planets further out, like Jupiter in our solar system. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-s1429-b">S1429 b</h2>



<p>"Between December 2019 and March 2022, we continued the observations of 11 stars in M67 with the Habitable Planet Finder spectrograph (HPF). We included six stars that showed potential long-term RV variations and five stars at the turn-off point of M67 which had no previously published data," explained the researchers.</p>



<p>The team's efforts paid off. Warm Jupiter S1429 b is about twice as massive as Jupiter. It completes an orbit around its host star every 77.48 days, at a relatively close distance. </p>



<p>This proximity results in a warm equilibrium temperature of about 683 Kelvin. “This is the sixth planet discovered in Messier 67… they are distributed over different evolutionary stages,” noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warm-jupiter-research-insights">Warm Jupiter research insights </h2>



<p>The presence of a warm Jupiter in this ancient cluster raises questions about planet formation and migration. Did this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-discover-earth-sized-exoplanet-covered-in-volcanoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> form later than its neighboring stars? Did it wander in from elsewhere?</p>



<p>As scientists uncover more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/potential-signs-of-life-found-on-nearby-exoplanet-wasp-107b/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>, they refine their understanding of how and where planets form, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge about the universe. </p>



<p>The discovery of a warm Jupiters implies that there is a whole range of giant planets out there, and they don't all form in the ways we initially expected.</p>



<p>The study is published as a pre-print in the journal ArXiv.org.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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'Warm Jupiter' spotted in a four billion-year-old star cluster

In a cosmic neighborhood, a team has uncovered a "warm...

Close,Up,Of,Colorful,Atomic,Particle,Background,Science,3d,Illustration

<p>In a stunning achievement in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum physics</a>, researchers have synchronized the shift of a quantized electronic energy level with atomic oscillations, achieving this at a speed exceeding a trillionth of a second. </p>



<p>This achievement, accomplished by physicists from the <a href="https://www.uni-regensburg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Regensburg</a>, is akin to manipulating the height to which a ball is thrown. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-steps-and-the-ladder-of-energy-levels">Quantum steps and the ladder of energy levels</h2>



<p>However, this was done within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravity-measured-in-the-quantum-realm-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum realm</a> where energy levels resemble steps on a ladder, each step representing a quantized energy value unique to quantum particles like electrons.</p>



<p>The significance of quantized energy levels is paramount in modern technology, underpinning the functionality of qubits in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computing</a>, light-emitting quantum dots awarded the Nobel Prize in 2023, and other quantum devices. </p>



<p>These energy levels, however, are susceptible to alterations through interactions with other particles, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for researchers aiming to harness quantum behaviors for advanced technologies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methodology-behind-these-quantum-observations">Methodology behind these quantum observations</h2>



<p>Leveraging a state-of-the-art ultrafast microscope, the Regensburg team has accomplished the direct observation and control of how an electron's energy is adjusted by the atomic vibrations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-controlled-at-room-temperature-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its environment</a>. </p>



<p>This was observed with unprecedented atomic resolution and at speeds previously deemed unattainable, marking a significant leap towards the realization of ultra-fast quantum technologies.</p>



<p>The researchers focused their study on atomically thin materials, specifically examining how the movement of such a material can influence discrete energy levels. </p>



<p>Their observations centered around a vacancy, a void created by the absence of an atom, within these two-dimensional crystals. These vacancies, akin to atoms, have distinct energy levels making them promising candidates for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-outperformed-new-type-traditional-computing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computing</a> qubits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-the-odds-through-team-synergy">Overcoming the odds through team synergy</h2>



<p>By inducing vibrations similar to those of a drum's membrane on the atomic scale, the team discovered they could alter the energy level of a vacancy, effectively controlling it through the surrounding atomic movements. </p>



<p>These findings, detailed in <em>Nature Photonics</em>, could pave the way for future nanoelectronics and quantum <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/functioning-quantum-internet-makes-giant-stride-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computing technologies</a>.</p>



<p>Overcoming numerous challenges, including achieving atomic resolution and capturing extremely rapid movements, the team's method integrated a scanning tunneling microscope's high energy and spatial resolution with custom-tailored ultrashort laser pulses. </p>



<p>This innovative approach allowed them to observe the dynamic shifts of energy levels in what can be likened to slow motion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-the-future-of-quantum-energy">Implications and the future of quantum energy</h2>



<p>In summary, brilliant physicists at the University of Regensburg have set a new benchmark in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bridging-quantum-classical-physics-nanoparticle-entanglement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum physics</a> by intricately manipulating and observing the quantum states of electrons with unprecedented precision and speed. </p>



<p>This remarkable achievement deepens our understanding of the quantum world while opening a new realm ripe with possibilities for the development of advanced quantum technologies and materials. </p>



<p>Through their innovative approach and collaborative effort, they have paved the way for future breakthroughs that could revolutionize how we interact with and harness the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-mechanics-uncovers-hidden-patterns-in-the-stock-market/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>. </p>



<p>This astounding breakthrough promises a future where the once-theoretical aspects of quantum physics become the cornerstone of practical, real-world applications.</p>



<p>The collaborative effort, spearheaded by Carmen Roelcke, Lukas Kastner, and Yaroslav Gerasimenko, alongside the expertise of Jascha Repp, Rupert Huber, Maximilian Graml, and Jan Wilhelm, was crucial in deciphering the interaction between atomic movements and electronic energy levels.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41566-024-01390-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Photonics</a>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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Vibrating atoms are seen ‘tuning’ the energy of a single electron

In a stunning achievement in quantum physics, researchers have synchronized...

<p>In a new study from the <a href="https://med.virginia.edu/">University of Virginia School of Medicine</a>, scientists led by Dr. Mete Civelek have made significant strides in understanding cardiovascular diseases. Specifically, they have delved into atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of arteries due to fatty plaque buildup. </p>



<p>Atherosclerosis causes fibrous caps to form over plaques, serving as a protective barrier against dislodging, triggering heart attacks, or strokes. Dr. Civelek's team concentrated on the biological "scaffolding" created over plaques, viewing it as key in fighting the top cause of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cardiovascular-deaths-fruits-veggies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global death</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifesaving-treatments-for-cardiovascular-disease">Lifesaving treatments for cardiovascular disease </h2>



<p>The innovative approach merged two decades of human genetics findings with a unique collection of smooth muscle cells from arteries. This combination targeted the development site for these plaques. </p>



<p>"We discovered that our genetic makeup impacts the ways smooth muscle cells secrete proteins that provide strength to plaques and prevent them from rupturing," Dr. Civelek explained, highlighting the potential for these insights to lead to lifesaving treatments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-cellular-glue-in-heart-health">The role of cellular glue in heart health</h2>



<p>The research meticulously centers on the "extracellular matrix," a protein-rich, glue-like substance, which is secreted by smooth muscle cells. Consequently, it forms the protective scaffolding over plaques, ensuring structural integrity and support. </p>



<p>By meticulously analyzing these proteins in cells from 123 heart transplant donors, the team diligently traced back. The goal was to identify genes responsible for their prolific production, emphasizing genetic contributions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights">Critical new insights </h2>



<p>This thorough process uncovered 20 genetic locations directly related to the critical proteins, revealing intricate relationships. Moreover, it pinpointed a gene variation, significantly linked to an increased risk. This variation notably influences the hardening of arteries, highlighting potential targets for therapeutic intervention.</p>



<p>These discoveries are pivotal for identifying individuals at high risk of plaque rupture, offering new avenues for preventative care. </p>



<p>Furthermore, the study revealed the dual nature of smooth muscle cell efforts in plaque formation - sometimes protective, other times harmful. This nuanced understanding opens the door to targeted treatments for atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular conditions.</p>



<p>One particular protein, LTBP1, emerged as a key player in plaque stability. "We identified LTBP1 as a significant factor in the stability of these plaques," Civelek stated, underscoring the team's commitment to further research this protein as a therapeutic target.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paving-the-way-for-personalized-medicine">Paving the way for personalized medicine</h2>



<p>The University of Virginia's research marks a crucial step forward in cardiovascular disease treatment, significantly advancing our understanding. </p>



<p>Importantly, by linking genetic factors to the body's defenses against artery plaque, this study offers a personalized medicine roadmap, enhancing cardiovascular risk comprehension. The research also paves the way for innovative treatments, potentially reducing heart disease's global burden significantly.</p>



<p>As Dr. Civelek and his team continue their research, focusing on translating findings into patient care remains paramount. With a better grasp of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases' genetic bases, the medical community is now equipped to develop tailored treatments, offering hope globally.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about cardiovascular disease</h2>



<p>Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels, and it stands as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. The spectrum of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/">CVD</a> includes various conditions, each with its own set of causes, symptoms, and treatment options.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Coronary artery disease</h3>



<p>One prevalent form of CVD is coronary artery disease (CAD), characterized by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. This buildup can lead to chest pain, heart attacks, and other serious complications.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stroke&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Another significant category within CVD is stroke, which arises when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, leading to brain damage and various long-term disabilities.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Additional forms of CVD</h3>



<p>Other forms of cardiovascular disease include <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-close-to-bars-and-pubs-increases-the-risk-of-heart-failure/">heart failure</a>, a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body; arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can affect how well the heart works; and heart valve problems, where the valves that control blood flow in and out of the heart's chambers don't function properly.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Risk factors</h3>



<p>Risk factors for developing CVD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet, among others.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prevention and treatment</h3>



<p>Prevention and treatment strategies focus on managing these risk factors through lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions. </p>



<p>Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial for early detection and management of the disease, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/ATVBAHA.123.320274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology</a></em></em>.</p>



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Crucial discoveries will improve cardiovascular disease treatment

In a new study from the University of Virginia School...

<p>In an unprecedented global study that mobilized over 220 researchers and utilized 5,000 camera traps, experts led by the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a> (UBC) have shed new light on wildlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-had-unexpected-impacts-on-wildlife-behavior/">behavior</a> in response to human activity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The collaborative effort, involving 163 mammal species, reveals that animals' reactions vary greatly based on their habitat and diet.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluctuations-in-human-activity">Fluctuations in human activity</h2>



<p>The findings indicate that larger herbivores increase their activity around humans, exploiting new food sources, whereas carnivores tend to reduce their presence to avoid potential dangers.</p>



<p>Urban wildlife such as deer and raccoons show a tendency to adapt to human activities, feeding on accessible resources during the quieter nighttime hours. Conversely, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-pass-on-gut-microbes-to-urban-wildlife/">animals</a> in less urbanized areas exhibit more caution towards human encounters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This comprehensive study, leveraging data from both before and during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/behavior-of-land-mammals-changed-dramatically-during-covid-19-lockdowns/">COVID-19 lockdowns</a>, sheds light on how wildlife adjusts to fluctuations in human activity levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-opportunity-provided-by-the-pandemic">Unique opportunity provided by the pandemic</h2>



<p>Lead author <a href="https://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/chairholders-titulaires/profile-eng.aspx?profileId=4339" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cole Burton</a>, an associate professor of forest resources management at UBC, and Canada Research Chair in Terrestrial Mammal Conservation, highlights the unique opportunity provided by the pandemic to study wildlife responses to a sudden decrease in human movement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“COVID-19 mobility restrictions gave researchers a truly unique opportunity to study how animals responded when the number of people sharing their landscape changed drastically over a relatively short period,” said Burton.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-variations-in-activity">Great variations in activity</h2>



<p>“And contrary to the popular narratives that emerged around that time, we did not see an overall pattern of ‘wildlife running free’ while humans sheltered in place," said Burton. "Rather, we saw great variation in activity patterns of people and wildlife, with the most striking trends being that animal responses depended on landscape conditions and their position in the food chain."</p>



<p>In Canada, carnivores such as wolverines, wolves, and cougars were found to be less active with increased human presence, while large herbivores in certain parks and urban areas like Edmonton showed heightened activity, albeit with a shift towards nocturnality. Large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carnivores-healthy-ecosystem/">carnivores</a> were notably absent from heavily human-dominated landscapes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-effect-of-human-activity-in-remote-areas">Strong effect of human activity in remote areas</h2>



<p>“In remote areas with limited human infrastructure, the effects of our actual presence on wildlife may be particularly strong," said study co-author Kaitlyn Gaynor, a biologist at UBC.</p>



<p>To give wild animals the space they need, we may consider setting aside protected areas or movement corridors free of human activity, or consider seasonal restrictions, like temporary closures of campsites or hiking trails during migratory or breeding seasons." </p>



<p>Moreover, the study advocates for tailored <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-conservation-must-become-more-dynamic/">conservation</a> strategies that take into account the specific needs of species and their environments. In urban areas, measures such as securing trash bins and implementing road safety measures can reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promote coexistence.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-wildlife-responses-to-human-activity">Complexity of wildlife responses to human activity</h2>



<p>The research underscores the complexity of wildlife responses to human activity and highlights the need for informed conservation plans that balance human interests with wildlife preservation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Understanding how wildlife respond to human activity in various contexts helps us develop effective conservation plans that have local and global impact. For that reason, we are working to improve wildlife monitoring systems using tools like the camera traps that made it possible to observe animal behaviors during the pandemic,” concluded Burton.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02363-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology and Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Human activity has a strong effect on wildlife in remote areas

In an unprecedented global study that mobilized over 220 researchers...

<p>Global Recycling Day, observed annually on March 18th, was created to acknowledge and celebrate the importance recycling plays in preserving our precious primary resources and securing the future of our planet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It's a day dedicated to bringing global attention to the crucial role that recycling plays in contributing to an environmentally stable planet and a greener economy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origin-and-purpose">Origin and purpose</h2>



<p>Launched by the Global Recycling Foundation in 2018, Global Recycling Day aims to help recognize, and celebrate, the significance recycling has for our planet's health. The foundation's mission is to promote the sustainable and responsible management of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-recycle-know-new-products/">resources</a> worldwide. </p>



<p>By establishing this day, the organization seeks to encourage a global approach towards recycling, urging people, businesses, and governments to think about discarded products as resources, not waste.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-participate">How to participate</h2>



<p>Global Recycling Day encourages actions such as:</p>



<ul>
<li>Educating oneself and others about the benefits of recycling and how to recycle effectively.</li>



<li>Adopting better recycling habits in daily life, like ensuring proper separation of recyclable materials.</li>



<li>Reducing consumption of single-use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infinitely-recyclable-plastics-may-soon-become-a-reality/">plastics</a> and products, opting instead for reusable and recyclable alternatives.</li>



<li>Supporting local recycling programs by participating in community recycling initiatives and drives.</li>



<li>Spreading awareness through social media and other platforms to encourage more people to recycle.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-recycling">Fascinating facts about recycling</h2>



<p>Recycling plays a crucial role in conserving natural resources, reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprecedented-increase-in-global-ocean-plastic-pollution-since-2005/">pollution</a>, and minimizing the global carbon footprint. Here are some fascinating facts about recycling:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recycling-saves-energy">Recycling saves energy</h3>



<p>Recycling aluminum cans, for example, uses 95% less energy than manufacturing new ones from raw materials. This significant energy saving is because much of the energy used in metal production comes from the initial mining and processing.</p>



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



<p>Recycling a single ton of paper can save 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 380 gallons of oil. It also saves over three cubic yards of landfill space and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-recycling-potential">Plastic recycling potential</h3>



<p>Every year, about 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the world’s oceans. Yet, recycling just one ton of plastic bottles saves the equivalent energy usage of a two-person household for one year.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glass-recycling-is-endless">Glass recycling is endless</h3>



<p>Glass can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity. Unlike plastics, which tend to degrade in quality with each recycling process, glass can be reused continually, making it a highly sustainable material.</p>



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



<p>The recycling industry is a significant economic driver, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs worldwide. In the U.S. alone, recycling and reuse activities contribute over $100 billion annually to the economy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electronics-recycling-e-waste">Electronics recycling (E-Waste)</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-e-waste-millions-of-tons-discarded-in-the-us-each-year/">E-waste</a> contains precious metals such as gold, silver, and copper. Recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent to the electricity used by more than 3,500 U.S. homes in a year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, for every one million cell phones recycled, 35,274 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold, and 33 pounds of palladium can be recovered.</p>



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



<p>Modern recycling processes are becoming increasingly efficient and sophisticated. For instance, single-stream recycling allows consumers to mix all recyclable materials together, simplifying the recycling process and encouraging higher participation rates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions">Greenhouse gas emissions</h3>



<p>By diverting waste from landfills and into the recycling stream, recycling significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This is because organic waste in landfills generates methane - a potent greenhouse gas - when it decomposes anaerobically.</p>



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



<p>Recycling often uses less water than producing new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/upcycling-plastic-waste-into-valuable-products/">products</a> from raw materials. For example, the paper recycling process uses significantly less water than making paper from trees.</p>



<p>These facts highlight the importance of recycling as a key component of sustainable living and environmental conservation. By recycling, we not only save resources but also contribute to a healthier planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-global-recycling-day-nbsp">Significance of Global Recycling Day&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This day highlights the concept of the "Seventh Resource" - the materials we recycle every day, like metals, paper, wood, glass, plastic, textiles, and electronics. These resources contribute significantly to the economy and help conserve the six primary natural resources: water, air, coal, oil, natural gas, and minerals.</p>



<p>The celebration of Global Recycling Day brings to light not only the environmental benefits, such as reducing landfill use, conserving natural resources, and lowering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/">carbon emissions</a>, but also the social and economic advantages. Recycling drives economic development by creating jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact">Global impact</h2>



<p>Since its inception, Global Recycling Day has garnered international support, with events and initiatives taking place across the globe. Governments, businesses, and communities come together to promote recycling and its benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The day serves as a reminder that effective recycling requires global collaboration and continuous effort from all sectors of society.</p>



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



<p>Looking forward, Global Recycling Day aims to continue fostering a global mindset that embraces recycling as a crucial part of a sustainable future. It challenges us to innovate and find new ways to recycle materials more efficiently and to integrate recycling into our everyday lives even more deeply.</p>



<p>Ultimately, Global Recycling Day stands as a significant reminder of recycling's pivotal role in environmental conservation. It highlights how individual actions can contribute to a larger global impact. By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our commitment to a healthier planet and a sustainable future.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Global Recycling Day: Creating a healthier planet for all

Global Recycling Day, observed annually on March 18th, was created...

<p>In a breakthrough development, scientists are on the brink of creating a pill that could simulate the health benefits traditionally obtained from exercise. This novel approach is aimed at combating muscle deterioration and various medical ailments, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-diet-may-save-your-life-six-key-foods-lower-the-risk-of-heart-disease/">heart disease</a> and neurodegenerative disorders.</p>



<p>The research will be presented by experts from the <a href="https://wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University in St. Louis</a> (WUSTL) during the <a href="https://www.acs.org/meetings/acs-meetings/spring.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemical Society (ACS) Spring 2024</a> meeting. This hybrid event, featuring nearly 12,000 scientific presentations, is held both virtually and in-person from March 17-21.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irreplaceable-value-of-physical-activity-nbsp">Irreplaceable value of physical activity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Lead researcher Bahaa Elgendy, a professor of anesthesiology at WUSTL, emphasized the irreplaceable value of physical activity but acknowledged the necessity for alternatives in certain situations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We cannot replace exercise; exercise is important on all levels. If I can exercise, I should go ahead and get the physical activity. But there are so many cases in which a substitute is needed [for example in older people of those suffering from various diseases.]”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-shifts-seen-after-physical-activity">Metabolic shifts seen after physical activity </h2>



<p>The team's discovery centers on compounds that initiate the metabolic shifts seen after physical exertion, specifically targeting estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) which are pivotal in muscle cell metabolism, growth, and performance enhancement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After a decade of research, they have developed a promising compound, SLU-PP-332, which activates all three forms of ERR, including ERRα, a key regulator of exercise-induced stress adaptation in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-molecule-that-helps-grow-stronger-and-bigger-muscles/">muscle</a>. Initial experiments with mice demonstrated that this compound not only increased fatigue-resistant muscle fibers but also significantly boosted endurance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-simulation-of-exercise-effects-nbsp">Improved simulation of exercise effects&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To create SLU-PP-332, the scientists meticulously analyzed the structure of ERRs and their activation mechanism. Building on this foundation, they have engineered new molecules that forge stronger bonds with these receptors, potentially offering enhanced effects compared to SLU-PP-332, alongside improved stability and reduced toxicity risk.</p>



<p>The effectiveness of SLU-PP-332 and its successors was measured by examining RNA levels, reflecting gene expression, in rat heart muscle cells. The results indicated a more pronounced simulation of exercise effects with the new compounds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeting-estrogen-related-receptors">Targeting estrogen-related receptors</h2>



<p>Preliminary research with SLU-PP-332 shows promise in treating obesity, heart failure, and age-related kidney function decline by targeting ERRs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, ERR activity might mitigate brain damage associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magnetic-particles-in-air-pollution-may-lead-to-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer’s</a> and other neurodegenerative diseases. Although SLU-PP-332 does not cross into the brain, several new compounds have been designed with this capability in mind.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiological-advantages-of-physical-activity">Physiological advantages of physical activity </h2>



<p>Elgendy expressed optimism about the potential of activating ERRs to produce a range of health benefits. The research team, in collaboration with <a href="https://pelagospharma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pelagos Pharmaceuticals</a> - a startup they co-founded - is planning to further test these compounds in animal models and explore their application in treating neurodegenerative disorders. </p>



<p>This innovative endeavor could pave the way for revolutionary treatments that offer the physiological advantages of exercise without the need for physical exertion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-benefits-of-exercise">Health benefits of exercise</h2>



<p>Exercise offers a wide array of health benefits that positively impact both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-exercise-routine-can-cut-your-risk-of-early-death-in-half/">body</a> and mind. Here's a summary of the key benefits:</p>



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



<p>Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves circulation, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.</p>



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



<p>Exercise helps in maintaining a healthy weight by burning calories and increasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/winter-swimming-helps-increase-the-bodys-metabolism/">metabolism</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthens-muscles-and-bones">Strengthens muscles and bones</h3>



<p>Activities like weightlifting can stimulate muscle building when paired with adequate protein intake. Exercise also helps in building bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis as you age.</p>



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



<p>Physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. It releases endorphins, which create feelings of happiness and euphoria.</p>



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



<p>Regular physical activity can help keep your thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp as you age. It can also reduce the risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.</p>



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



<p>Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep, provided it's not too close to bedtime.</p>



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



<p>Regular physical activity is associated with a longer lifespan. Even moderate amounts of exercise can make a significant difference.</p>



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



<p>Regular, moderate exercise can boost your immune system and help fight off infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobility-and-flexibility">Mobility and flexibility</h3>



<p>Exercise helps maintain physical function and can prevent the loss of mobility and flexibility with aging.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quality-of-life">Quality of life</h3>



<p>Regular physical activity can improve your overall quality of life by enhancing your ability to perform daily activities, increasing your energy levels, and improving your overall mood.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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New pill can mimic the health benefits of exercise

In a breakthrough development, scientists are on the brink of...

<p>How do animals survive when the mercury drops far below what we can withstand? For some, the answer lies in an extraordinary feature – hollow hairs that provide remarkable insulation. These tiny structures, invisible to the naked eye, hold the key to endure the relentless onslaught of winter.</p>



<p>While most scientists understand the basics of hollow hairs, major research has centered on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-solved-the-mystery-of-fur-patterns-in-cats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">domesticated</a> animals. The mysteries of hollow hair in wild animals, especially their seasonal transformations, remain an intriguing frontier. </p>



<p>A team at <a href="https://utahtech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utah Tech University</a> is changing that, and their research sheds new light on how wild animals survive the challenges of winter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-electron-microscope">Scanning electron microscope</h2>



<p>Led by Professor <a href="https://chemistry.utahtech.edu/wendy-schatzberg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wendy Schatzberg</a> and  Professor Samuel Tobler, the team used a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to delve into the unseen world of animal hair. The project was led by undergraduate student Taylor Millett, driven by her love of the outdoors.</p>



<p>Millet meticulously examined hairs from three iconic big game animals: pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and Rocky Mountain elk. Under the SEM's intense gaze, she discovered an intricate system resembling a messy honeycomb – a network of tiny air pockets. </p>



<p>The most striking revelation was that the honeycomb structure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-have-a-biological-switch-that-prepares-them-for-seasonal-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a> dramatically between summer and winter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-transformations-of-animal-hair">Seasonal transformations of animal hair</h2>



<p>Summer hair exhibits a denser core with smaller air pockets. But when the chill descends, the structure transforms: all three species display winter hair with significantly larger air pockets. </p>



<p>To illustrate this, the average diameter of winter air pockets in mule deer measured 26 micrometers, which is double the size of their summer counterparts at 13 micrometers.</p>



<p>"This is very intriguing, because those pockets create an insulative barrier that keeps the animals warm in winter,” said Millett.</p>



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



<p>“With some animals, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-unravel-the-secrets-of-polar-bear-fur/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coat</a> looks different in summer and winter,” explained Millett. “But in the animals we’re studying, we’ve found that it's not just the outer coloring of the hair that's changing. The inner microscopic details are also changing to allow these animals to continue surviving in their environment.”</p>



<p>The animal kingdom adapts by modifying the very structure of their hair to harness the insulating power of air. Why air, you might wonder? </p>



<p>Air is a notoriously poor conductor of heat. This property makes it an excellent insulator, a fact well known to anyone who has donned a down jacket on a cold day. </p>



<p>The principle at work is simple: trap air, and you trap heat. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-aquatic-mammals-keep-their-fur-clean-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animals</a> with the ability to change their hair structure exploit this principle to its fullest, creating a natural, built-in barrier against the cold.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biomimicry-of-animal-hair-houses-and-camping">Biomimicry of animal hair: Houses and camping</h2>



<p>The discovery's impact stretches far beyond the realm of pure science. Engineers and designers can develop innovative synthetic materials inspired by these adaptations. "One potential application is synthetic insulation for houses and camping gear," said Millett. </p>



<p>Imagine home insulation that's both more effective and significantly lighter than current options. Instead of relying on bulky, environmentally-taxing materials, we could mimic the air-trapping structure of hollow hair to achieve superior insulation. </p>



<p>Furthermore, improved camping gear that offers excellent thermal protection would transform outdoor adventures. This biomimetic approach could make exploring nature more accessible and comfortable, even during colder seasons.</p>



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



<p>Fueled by their findings, the team aims to expand its research horizons. They plan to collaborate with zoos around the world to investigate whether their discovery extends to other animals and how factors like geographic location and climate affect hollow hair.</p>



<p>"Is it just our area that’s like this? And how much temperature difference between the seasons does it take?" said Schatzberg.</p>



<p>This research demonstrates that the natural world is a treasure trove of innovation, waiting to be discovered.</p>



<p>Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://acs.digitellinc.com/live/31/page/1013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Spring 2024 program</a>&nbsp;to learn more about this presentation, “Hollow hair and how its structure helps big game animals thermoregulate."</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Some animals transform their hair structure to battle winters

How do animals survive when the mercury drops far below...

Tiger,Shrimps,With,Lime,,Lemon,,Rosemary,And,Black,Pepper,Spices

<p>A new study has identified potent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/inaoside-new-antioxidant-discovered-laetiporus-cremeiporus-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidative compounds</a> in Northern shrimp (<em>Pandalus borealis</em>), presenting a major advancement in our understanding of shrimp's nutritional value while revealing compounds with promising health benefits. </p>



<p>This discovery, made by scientists from <a href="https://www.mun.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memorial University</a> of Newfoundland, could significantly benefit the food and pharmaceutical industries. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-nutritional-value-of-shrimp">Surprising nutritional value of shrimp</h2>



<p>Shrimp are known for their rich nutritional profile, packed with proteins, amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. However, the shrimp industry faces an environmental challenge. Up to 50% of processed shrimp results in by-products like heads, shells, and tails.</p>



<p>These by-products, particularly shrimp shells, are not just waste but treasure troves of minerals, protein, and chitin. The study brings to light the effectiveness of ethanol as the optimal solvent for extracting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-dietary-supplement-proven-to-combat-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidant elements</a> from shrimp by-products. </p>



<p>This method revealed high levels of total phenolic content (TPC) and total carotenoid content (TCC) in the shells. It showcased the remarkable antioxidative properties of shrimp waste.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-novel-compounds-for-healthier-futures">Novel compounds for healthier futures</h2>



<p>Through meticulous chromatographic techniques and mass spectrometry, researchers have identified groundbreaking compounds such as 7-(3-butenyl)-2-hydroxy-6-(1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridin-2-yl) quinoline and its dihydroquinoline variant. </p>



<p>These compounds demonstrate complex antioxidative mechanisms that could pave the way for further scientific exploration and potential health applications. </p>



<p>This discovery emphasizes the inherent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-science-behind-a-smoothie-the-fruit-you-choose-makes-a-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidative qualities</a> in shrimp and shrimp waste while highlighting new opportunities for utilizing these by-products in a manner that aligns with sustainable practices within the seafood industry.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phenolic-compounds-give-shrimp-their-nutritional-value">Phenolic compounds give shrimp their nutritional value</h2>



<p>Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi, a co-author of the study, stresses the significance of these findings. "The discovery of these unique heterocyclic phenolic compounds not only provides insights into the antioxidative properties of shrimp but also opens new avenues for the utilization of shrimp by-products, aligning with sustainable and waste-reducing practices in the seafood industry," Dr. Shahidi explained.</p>



<p>He further suggests that structural conformation could benefit from advanced techniques like 3D NMR, which are now more accessible than when the initial research was conducted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-northern-shrimp-in-health-and-sustainability">Future of Northern shrimp in health and sustainability</h2>



<p>In summary, identifying antioxidative compounds in Northern shrimp (<em>Pandalus borealis</em>) by-products represents a pivotal advancement for both the food and pharmaceutical industries. </p>



<p>This breakthrough from the team at Memorial University enhances our understanding of shrimp's nutritional benefits and paves the way for innovative, sustainable practices in utilizing seafood waste. </p>



<p>By harnessing the untapped potential of shrimp by-products, the study opens new doors for health research and environmental sustainability, offering promising prospects for future nutritional and pharmaceutical developments. </p>



<p>Through this significant scientific achievement, the potential for a more sustainable and health-conscious future becomes increasingly attainable, demonstrating the power of research in bridging the gap between environmental challenges and health opportunities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-northern-shrimp-pandalus-borealis">More about Northern shrimp (<em>Pandalus borealis</em>)</h2>



<p>As discussed above, the Northern shrimp, scientifically known as <em>Pandalus borealis</em>, is a small yet significant inhabitant of the cold waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. </p>



<p>Renowned for its sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture, this species plays a pivotal role in marine ecosystems and global seafood markets. Thriving in the depths of up to 1,300 meters, these shrimp favor the chilly, nutrient-rich environments that contribute to their unique nutritional profile.</p>



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



<p>Northern shrimp are a keystone species in their maritime habitats, serving as a crucial link in the oceanic food chain. They are prey for a variety of marine creatures, including fish, seabirds, and whales. </p>



<p>Their feeding habits, primarily consisting of plankton and small organisms, play an essential role in the ecological balance by helping to control populations of their prey and contributing to the nutrient cycle in their marine environments.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-value-of-northern-shrimp">Nutritional value of Northern shrimp</h3>



<p><em>Pandalus borealis</em> is not just a culinary delight but also a powerhouse of nutrition. As revealed in the Memorial University study above, Northern shrimp are an excellent source of high-quality protein, low in fat, and rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. </p>



<p>These attributes make Northern shrimp a healthy choice for consumers looking to maintain a balanced diet. The presence of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds further underscores their value in promoting health and wellness.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impact-and-sustainability-challenges">Economic impact and sustainability challenges</h3>



<p>The fishing of Northern shrimp is an important economic activity in several regions, providing livelihoods for thousands of fishermen and contributing significantly to the seafood industry. However, the demand for this delectable crustacean comes with its set of challenges, particularly regarding sustainability. </p>



<p>Overfishing and changing ocean temperatures pose threats to shrimp populations, prompting the need for stringent management and conservation measures to ensure their survival and the health of the ecosystems they inhabit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-on-northern-shrimp-pandalus-borealis-conservation">Focus on Northern shrimp (<em>Pandalus borealis</em>) conservation</h3>



<p>As research continues to unveil the extensive benefits and challenges associated with Northern shrimp, the importance of sustainable practices becomes ever more clear. Efforts to understand and mitigate the impacts of human activity on their populations are vital. </p>



<p>By fostering a balanced approach to harvesting and consumption, we can ensure that <em>Pandalus borealis</em> continues to thrive in the oceans and on our plates, offering a testament to the beauty and bounty of the sea.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://fppn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s43014-023-00215-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Production Processing and Nutrition</a></em>.</p>



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Shrimp proven to be a nutritional treasure packed with antioxidants

A new study has identified potent antioxidative compounds in Northern...

<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circadian-rhythm-light-melatonin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus</a> are exploring the intersection of heart health and circadian rhythm with a groundbreaking study. </p>



<p>The research underscores the transformative potential of combining intense light therapy with precise timing. This approach could fundamentally change the treatment of circulatory system conditions, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-diet-may-save-your-life-six-key-foods-lower-the-risk-of-heart-disease/">heart disease</a>.</p>



<p>The findings highlight the power of leveraging circadian rhythms to address cardiovascular challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-circadian-medicine-and-cardiovascular-health">Circadian medicine and cardiovascular health</h2>



<p>Circadian rhythms, the natural cycles that regulate our sleep, wakefulness, and numerous bodily functions, are now recognized for their significant impact on heart health. </p>



<p>Dr. Tobias Eckle is the study's lead author and a professor of anesthesiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.</p>



<p>"The impact of circadian rhythms on cardiovascular function and disease development is well established," said Dr. Eckle. Consequently, circadian medicine is a growing field that explores targeted interventions which align with our internal clock to enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/support-in-childhood-linked-to-better-heart-health-in-adulthood/">heart health</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-light-therapy-a-beacon-of-hope">Intense light therapy: A beacon of hope</h2>



<p>The study advocates for the aggressive application of intense light therapy in humans, building on promising results from animal models. This innovative approach uses light boxes and chronotherapeutic drugs to mimic natural circadian rhythms. It offers a low-risk, high-reward treatment for millions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/links-between-climate-and-heart-disease-must-be-addressed/">heart patients</a>.</p>



<p>Further emphasizing this point, Dr. Eckle's work highlights how intense light therapy, particularly post-heart surgery, can protect and aid heart recovery. It stabilizes the PER2 gene and elevates adenosine, reducing irregular rhythms and the risk of cardiac ischemia, characterized by diminished heart blood flow.</p>



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



<p>The significance of timing in medication administration is another key finding of the study. Administering drugs at specific times can enhance the healing process by aligning with the body's circadian rhythms. This tailored approach to treatment could significantly accelerate recovery.</p>



<p>Additionally, the study highlights how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/">cardiovascular disease</a> differs between genders. The research suggests that circadian medicine could provide tailored treatments for these disparities, making care more personalized.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-to-action-advancing-human-trials">Call to action: Advancing human trials</h2>



<p>With the compelling evidence in favor of intense light and timed treatment strategies, Dr. Eckle emphasized the urgency of advancing to clinical trials in humans. </p>



<p>"Circadian rhythms play a crucial role in cardiovascular health," he said, advocating for the exploration of low-risk strategies like intense light therapy and chronotherapy in human subjects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-cardiac-care">New era in cardiac care</h2>



<p>As the field of circadian medicine continues to evolve, its potential to transform cardiovascular treatment is immense. The experts are close to developing more effective, personalized heart disease treatments by aligning medical interventions with the body's natural rhythms. This marks a new era in cardiac care.</p>



<p>The call for further human trials is a crucial step in unlocking the full potential of this innovative approach. It promises a future of managing heart health more naturally, effectively, and with fewer risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about circadian medicine</h2>



<p>Circadian medicine is an innovative and expanding field of medicine that focuses on understanding and optimizing the human body's internal biological clock, or circadian rhythms, to improve health and treat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleepless-nights-may-increase-heart-disease-risk-by-75/">diseases</a>. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Circadian clock</h3>



<p>The circadian clock, which follows a roughly 24-hour cycle, regulates many physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, eating habits, and metabolism. These processes are influenced by external cues like light and darkness, which help synchronize the body's clock to its environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Circadian rhythms&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Disruptions to circadian rhythms have been linked to various health issues, such as sleep disorders, obesity, diabetes, depression, and cardiovascular diseases. Circadian medicine aims to prevent and treat these conditions by realigning our internal clocks through lifestyle interventions, timed medication, light therapy, and other methods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key aspects of circadian medicine</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chronotherapy</h3>



<p>Timing medical treatments to coincide with the body’s biological rhythms to enhance effectiveness and reduce side effects. For example, administering certain medications at the time of day when they are most likely to be effective and least likely to cause adverse reactions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Light therapy</h3>



<p>Using exposure to artificial light to adjust and manage sleep disorders and depression, especially conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and irregular sleep-wake rhythms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lifestyle interventions&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Recommending changes in sleep habits, diet, and exercise based on an individual's circadian rhythms to improve overall health. For instance, optimizing the timing of meals and physical activity to align with the body's natural metabolic cycles.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Genetic and molecular insights</h3>



<p>Understanding the genetic basis of circadian rhythms to develop personalized medical approaches. Research in this area explores how genetic variations affect individuals' circadian rhythms and their susceptibility to related disorders.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.124.324462" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Circulation Research</a></em>.</p>



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Circadian medicine: Light therapy could help millions of heart patients

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are...

<p>Discovering a new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/masters-of-deception-orchids-use-trickery-to-get-what-they-need/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchid</a> species with the longest nectar spur on record, scientists from the <a href="https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missouri Botanical Garden</a> and international collaborators have linked their find directly to Darwin's orchid in the heart of Central Madagascar. </p>



<p>This significant discovery represents a milestone in botanical research. It also highlights the critical need for urgent conservation efforts to protect the rapidly diminishing biodiversity of Madagascar.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floral-wonders-of-madagascar">Floral wonders of Madagascar</h2>



<p>Tariq Stévart, the Director of the Garden's Africa and Madagascar program, expressed excitement about the rarity of this discovery. He emphasized the critical conservation needs underscored by this species.</p>



<p>"Discovering a new orchid species is always an exciting event, but finding such amazing and charismatic species happens only once in a scientist's career. I really hope that this highly threatened species draws attention to the urgent crisis that is affecting Madagascar’s biodiversity and helps support Garden’s program there,” said Stévart.</p>



<p>Madagascar is renowned for its unique flora, particularly flowers with elongated floral tubes tailored for pollination by long-tongued hawkmoths. </p>



<p>The most celebrated of these, Darwin’s orchid (<em>Angraecum sesquipedale</em>), stands as a symbol of Charles Darwin’s forward-thinking theory. He predicted the existence of a then-undiscovered moth with a long proboscis specifically adapted for its pollination. This prediction was confirmed 41 years later.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solenangis-impraedicta-new-orchid-species-linked-to-darwin"><em>Solenangis impraedicta</em> -- new orchid species linked to Darwin</h2>



<p>Building on this legacy, the newly identified orchid species, <em>Solenangis impraedicta</em>, showcases a remarkable example of parallel evolution. Its nectar spur stretches an astonishing 33 cm, setting a new record for the orchid family. </p>



<p>João Farminhão, a coauthor and researcher at the Coimbra University Botanic Garden, highlighted the extraordinary contrast between the modest 2-cm flowers and their extensive nectar tube, describing it as "mind-blowing."</p>



<p><em>Solenangis impraedicta</em> is not only notable for having the third longest spur among flowering plants. It also represents the most extreme adaptation to hawkmoth pollination that has been discovered since 1965.</p>



<p>The discovery journey began with Patrice Antilahimena, a field botanist, during an environmental study. Later, Garden Botanist Brigitte Ramandimbisoa and Simon Verlynde, a Ph.D. student, expanded upon his work and unearthed a new habitat for this species.</p>



<p>This discovery adds a significant chapter to the angraecoid orchids' narrative, a group extensively studied by Stévart and his team.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-in-the-shadows">Conservation in the shadows</h2>



<p>However, this new member of "Darwin’s pollination guild" faces threats from mining operations and the potential risk of poaching for the orchid trade. </p>



<p>Stévart emphasized the need for caution in disclosing such a discovery. He highlighted the importance of protecting wild populations and keeping their exact locations secret to prevent exploitation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-protection-and-mystery">Legacy of protection and mystery</h2>



<p>The formal description of Solenangis impraedicta, coming 15 years after its initial discovery, allowed time for the implementation of crucial conservation strategies, including ex situ cultivation and seed banking, in collaboration with the Ambatovy Conservation Department. </p>



<p>Despite these efforts, the precise pollinators of this orchid remain a mystery. Preliminary studies by Marie Savignac using camera traps in 2019 suggested large hawkmoths as likely candidates, echoing the poetic symmetry with Darwin’s own predictions.</p>



<p>This discovery not only enriches our understanding of the intricate web of life in Madagascar but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in conserving these precious ecosystems. As we marvel at the wonders of nature, let us also commit to protecting the fragile beauty that remains.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)00012-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

New orchid species, Solenangis impraedicta, sets a world record

Discovering a new orchid species with the longest nectar spur...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



<p>Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



<p>The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



<p>At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.</p>



<p>"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.</p>



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



<p>The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.</p>



<p>The research, published in <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.</p>



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



<p>On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.</p>



<p>This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.</p>



<p>Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.</p>



<p>The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators.  Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas.  These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.</p>



<p>Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



<p>Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.</p>



<p>Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



<p>385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.</p>



<p>The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.</p>



<p>Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



<p>The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."</p>



<p>This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.</p>



<p>Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet <em>Archaeopteris</em>: the first modern tree</h2>



<p>The star of this ancient forest is <em>Archaeopteris</em> – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur <em>Archaeopteryx</em>. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.</p>



<p>William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.</p>



<p>Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



<p>These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.</p>



<p>This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



<p>The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified <em>Eospermatopteris</em>, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.</p>



<p>All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



<p>Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.</p>



<p>Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."</p>



<p>The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



<p>In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.</p>



<p>Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



<p>Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.</p>



<p>Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.</p>



<p>These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.</p>



<p>The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em>Current Biology</em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



<p>Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?</p>



<p>The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What was acid rain?</strong></h2>



<p>Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The science behind it</strong></h2>



<p>Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.</p>



<p>While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The crisis at its peak</strong></h2>



<p>During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Environmental devastation</strong></h2>



<p>The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.</p>



<p>By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.</p>



<p>Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Economic impact</strong></h2>



<p>Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The solution: government action and technology</strong></h2>



<p>Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The Clean Air Act of 1990</strong></h2>



<p>The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Cap-and-trade success</strong></h2>



<p>Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.</p>



<p>The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Technology advances</strong></h2>



<p>Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.</p>



<p>The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today"><strong>Why we don't hear about it today</strong></h2>



<p>Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Success doesn't make news</strong></h2>



<p>There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mission accomplished</strong></h2>



<p>The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone"><strong>Is it really gone?</strong></h2>



<p>The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.</p>



<p>EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What this teaches us</strong></h2>



<p>The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.</p>



<p>Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>



<p>Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.</p>



<p>Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.</p>



<p>This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.</p>



<p>Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.</p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></h2>



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.</p>



<p><strong>3. What made the solution successful?</strong> Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.</p>



<p><strong>4. Do other countries have acid rain problems?</strong> Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.</p>



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>



<p></p>



<p>Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. </p>



<p>Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. </p>



<p>These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.</p>



<p>Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. </p>



<p>For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.</p>



<p>Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. </p>



<p>Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.</p>



<p>This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. </p>



<p>With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

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<p>A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. </p>



<p>Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. </p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. </p>



<p>Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. </p>



<p>The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.</p>



<p>Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.</p>



<p>Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.</p>



<p>This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. </p>



<p>The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

<p>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. </p>



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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?</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>'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)."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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



<p>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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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