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.



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



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.



<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.



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



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. 



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



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.



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



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. 



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.



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



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



<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. 



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.



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



"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.



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



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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. 



<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. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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.



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.



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



"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."



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



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



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.



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">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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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...

Coral reefs are vital underwater ecosystems teeming with life. Yet, climate change and human actions threaten their very existence. This is cause for alarm as coral reefs provide a haven for countless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-organisms-may-adapt-to-climate-change-but-with-hidden-costs/">marine creatures</a>.&nbsp;



Not all hope is lost. Scientists recently discovered a surprising power of coral reefs: amazing regenerative abilities. With a little assistance, restored coral reefs can bounce back in just four years, becoming vibrant once again.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-reefs-with-coral-transplants">Restoring reefs with coral transplants</h2>



The study focused on the <a href="https://www.buildingcoral.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars Coral Reef Restoration Programme</a>, one of the world's largest reef restoration projects. The program restored coral reefs in two Indonesian islands. 



The restoration method involved structures called "reef stars" – hexagonal metal frames filled with sand. Each frame provides a home for 10-15 pieces of coral collected from nearby healthy reefs. These coral fragments come from several different types of branching coral naturally found in the area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-careful-maintenance-nbsp">Careful maintenance&nbsp;</h2>



The restoration process involves placing these reef stars in large groups across a designated area. But simply placing them isn't enough. To ensure the coral thrives, the frames are brushed regularly to remove algae, and any dead coral pieces are replaced.&nbsp;



This careful maintenance is especially important in the first few months after the coral is transplanted, giving it the best chance to grow and establish itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbonate-budget-of-restored-coral-reefs">Carbonate budget of restored coral reefs</h2>



Scientists studied how well restored coral reefs were doing by looking at their "carbonate budget." This refers to the balance between how much calcium carbonate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-coral-recovery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-has-paused/">reef</a> is making and how much it's losing. 



Calcium carbonate is a building block for corals, and a healthy reef will be making more of it than it's losing.



“Corals constantly add calcium carbonate to the reef framework while some fishes and sea urchins erode it away, so calculating the overall carbonate budget basically tells you if the reef as a whole is growing or shrinking,” noted study lead author Dr. Ines Lange from the University of Exeter.&nbsp;



Four years after the restoration efforts began, the reefs were doing much better. They had more coral, were more complex, and were building calcium carbonate at a similar rate to healthy reefs.&nbsp;



“We found that restored coral reefs can grow at the same speed as healthy coral reefs just four years after coral transplantation. This means that they provide lots of habitat for marine life and efficiently protect the adjacent island from wave energy and erosion,” said Dr. Lange.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-challenges">Restoration challenges</h2>



Coral restoration projects often use fast-growing branching corals because they help reefs recover quickly. However, these corals are also more likely to die from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/">bleaching</a> caused by rising water temperatures. This could make the restored reefs weaker in the long run.



While branching corals create good homes for fish and other sea creatures, researchers worry that relying on them too much might be risky. They recommend using a wider variety of coral types during restoration, similar to what's found on healthy reefs.&nbsp;



This mix would include massive, encrusting, and plating corals, which are all better at surviving bleaching events.



The researchers also express that there's no single perfect way to restore reefs. The best approach will depend on the specific location, the types of coral available, and how well the surrounding environment is protected.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-coral-reef-restoration">Future of coral reef restoration</h2>



The study has demonstrated that actively restoring reefs by transplanting coral can significantly improve their health.&nbsp;



“This is a really encouraging discovery. If we can maintain climate conditions that allow for coral survival, it’s possible to restore even very damaged reefs back to healthy, functional systems within relatively short periods of time,” noted Dr. Tim Lamont of Lancaster University.



The study is a wake-up call. We can revive our coral reefs, but we must act swiftly. By implementing a multi-pronged approach of restoration, environmental protection, and climate change action, we can ensure the future of these underwater wonders.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Restored coral reefs can bounce back in just four years

Coral reefs are vital underwater ecosystems teeming with life. Yet,...

Exhausted,Millennial,Male,Hold,Head,With,Hand,Sitting,At,Office

In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, sleep often takes a back seat, especially with the demands of parenting, careers, and daily stresses. Yet, the significance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-debt-new-parents-lose-two-months-of-sleep-in-a-babys-first-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adequate sleep</a> cannot be overstated, recently linked to chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes. 



A disturbing study conducted by researchers at <a href="https://www.uu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uppsala University</a>, Sweden, and published in JAMA Network Open, sheds light on the critical relationship between sleep duration and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, emphasizing that a healthy diet alone may not be sufficient to mitigate this risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-sleep-and-in-preventing-diabetes">Importance of sleep and in preventing diabetes</h2>



Christian Benedict is an Associate Professor and a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-color-has-no-impact-on-our-internal-clocks-or-sleep-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> researcher at the Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences at Uppsala University who led the study. He candidly shares his perspective on the importance of sleep.



"I generally recommend prioritizing sleep, although I understand it’s not always possible, especially as a parent of four teenagers," Benedict said.



The study delves into the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-we-sleep-study-reveals-new-clues-behind-this-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> deprivation on the body's ability to process sugar, a key factor in type 2 diabetes. This condition impedes insulin absorption, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially causing severe damage to nerves and blood vessels over time. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-sleep-directly-linked-to-type-2-diabetes">Short sleep directly linked to type 2 diabetes</h2>



With over 462 million people affected globally, as reported in 2020, the urgency to address this escalating public health issue is palpable.



Diana Noga, a fellow sleep researcher at Uppsala University, highlights the novelty of their findings. “Previous research has shown that repeated short daily rest increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-significantly-reduce-diabetes-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy dietary habits</a> such as regularly eating fruit and vegetables can reduce the risk," Noga explained. 



"However, it has remained unclear whether people who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/while-in-deep-sleep-humans-can-subconsciously-respond-to-verbal-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> too little can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by eating healthily," she concluded.



This uncertainty led the research team to investigate further using data from the UK Biobank, one of the largest population databases worldwide.



Analyzing the health and lifestyle responses from nearly half a million UK participants over a decade, the researchers uncovered a compelling association: individuals who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consistent-sleep-slows-down-aging-at-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slept</a> between three to five hours nightly faced a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-quality-vs-dietary-habits">Sleep quality vs. dietary habits</h2>



Interestingly, while a healthy diet correlated with a lower risk of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-nutrition-leads-to-poor-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disease</a>, those who maintained good eating habits but slept less than six hours were still at an increased risk.



"Our results are the first to question whether a healthy diet can compensate for lack of sleep in terms of the risk of type 2 diabetes," Benedict explained further. "They should not cause concern, but instead be seen as a reminder that sleep plays an important role in health." 



He also notes that the impact of sleep deprivation can vary widely among individuals, influenced by genetics and each person's unique sleep needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-priortizing-healthy-habits-and-sleep-regimens">Priortizing healthy habits and sleep regimens</h2>



In summary, this important study by Uppsala University unequivocally demonstrates the critical link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insufficient-sleep-increases-diabetes-risk-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep deprivation</a> and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, challenging the notion that a healthy diet alone can offset the negative effects of insufficient sleep. 



This research underscores the importance of prioritizing adequate sleep as an essential component of a holistic approach to health and diabetes prevention. By acknowledging the varied impacts of sleep deprivation on individuals, the team also highlights the need for personalized health strategies that consider both genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors. 



Ultimately, this study serves as a compelling reminder of the indispensable role sleep plays in maintaining overall health and wellbeing, urging individuals to reevaluate and elevate the priority they give sleep in their daily lives.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2815684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Sleeping less than 5 hours a day significantly raises diabetes risk

In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, sleep often takes...

Researchers at <a href="https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyoto University</a> have made a significant advance in reproductive biology. They've crafted a unique screening system that deeply explores sperm cell development and health. This method could eventually transform male contraception and tackle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bulls-are-helping-solve-the-mysteries-of-male-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infertility</a> challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-insights-into-sperm-health">Molecular insights into sperm health</h2>



Professor Jun Suzuki's team at the <a href="https://www.icems.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (iCeMS)</a> used a powerful technique called CRISPR to directly alter genes within testicular cells of living animals. This is a major step forward because previously such research relied on studying cells in labs, not within an organism.



The team developed a very efficient method called "Revival Screening" to deliver these gene-altering tools directly into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-testicles-created-in-a-lab-will-eventually-produce-sperm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testicular</a> cells. This allowed them to see exactly how each gene affected sperm function. They specifically looked at individual sperms that weren't developing properly for fertilization. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-rd3-gene-in-sperm-health">Impact of Rd3 gene in sperm health</h2>



Rd3, also known as Retinal Degeneration 3, is a gene that was initially identified for its role in relation to vision. However, the researchers found that it also plays an important role in sperm health. 



The study showed that Rd3 is particularly active in round sperm cells, which are essential precursors to mature, functional sperm. It successfully demonstrated that Rd3 plays a significant role in maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-improves-sperm-quality-and-fertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sperm quality</a> by regulating oxidative stress, a condition linked to cellular damage.



To further understand how Rd3 regulates sperm health the research team developed a sophisticated computer tool called "Hub-Explorer." This tool helped them shed light on the specific ways Rd3 functions within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/men-infected-with-even-mild-covid-cases-experience-long-term-decline-in-semen-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sperm</a> <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/men-infected-with-even-mild-covid-cases-experience-long-term-decline-in-semen-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cells</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-exploring-sperm-health">Implications of exploring sperm health</h2>



“While women have many available birth control options, choices for men remain limited,” says Noguchi, a first author of this paper. “This new screening method holds promise by aiding the discovery of key molecules, potentially leading to new birth control options and infertility therapies for men.”



Professor Suzuki also remarked on the broader potential of their findings. “These discoveries not only advance our understanding of sperm cell development but also demonstrate the potential to uncover mysteries in different biological processes,” adds Professor Suzuki. “The method can also be applied to other tissues, potentially expediting the development of drugs for a wide range of diseases.”&nbsp;



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



While the research on exploring sperm health is promising, the team acknowledges a decrease in the number of targeted cells. This highlights the need for further development to improve the method's effectiveness. 



They're actively exploring alternative approaches to enhance its impact. Ultimately, the goal is to broaden its applicability across various biological processes and diseases.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666979X24000375?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Genomics</a>.



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Novel gene editing tool analyzes sperm health in animals

Researchers at Kyoto University have made a significant advance in...

Birds in the modern world don't have teeth. However, in the past, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chinese-fossil-provides-a-new-glimpse-into-early-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">they did</a>. This begs the question: when did toothless birds evolve, and how? A recent study published in Cretaceous Research introduces Imparavis attenboroughi, the first bird of its kind to evolve toothless-ness. 



Also known as “Attenborough’s strange bird.” This incredibly important <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attenboroughs-strange-bird_Imparavis-attenboroughi_credit_Ville-Sinkkonen_1big.webp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil bird discovery</a> was named in tribute to Sir David Attenborough, marking a pivotal moment in avian evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-enigma-of-toothless-birds">Evolutionary enigma of toothless birds</h2>



Birds today are known for their beak diversity, adapted to an array of diets and habitats, yet none possess teeth. This wasn't always the case, as their early ancestors sported beaks brimming with teeth. 



Imparavis attenboroughi stands out as a fascinating anomaly, being the first known species to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-influence-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolve</a> toothlessness, a trait that predates previous estimates by nearly 50 million years.



Sir David Attenborough, reflecting on this homage. “It is a great honour to have one’s name attached to a fossil, particularly one as spectacular and important as this. It seems the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-known-bird-footprints-discovered-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">history of birds</a> is more complex than we knew,” says Attenborough. 



His response underscores the intricate tapestry of life that continues to unravel through paleontological research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enantiornithines-and-the-tree-of-life">Enantiornithines and the tree of Life</h2>



Imparavis attenboroughi belonged to the enantiornithines, a group once flourishing across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-birds-switched-from-dinosaur-diets-to-eating-leaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric skies</a>, yet mysteriously extinct by the end of the Cretaceous period. These "opposite birds," so-called for their unique shoulder anatomy, represent a diverse lineage that provides insights into the evolutionary journey from dinosaurs to the birds we see today. 



Alex Clark, a Ph.D. student at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> and the <a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Field Museum</a>, and the paper’s corresponding author, captures the imagination with a vivid depiction of encountering these creatures in ancient China.



“Enantiornithines are very weird. Most of them had teeth and still had clawed digits. If you were to go back in time 120 million years in northeastern China and walk around, you might have seen something that looked like a robin or a cardinal, but then it would open its mouth, and it would be filled with teeth, and it would raise its wing, and you would realize that it had little fingers,” explained Clark.



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



The revelation that Imparavis was toothless offers a fresh perspective on the adaptive strategies of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-birds-brains-evolved-to-enable-them-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient birds</a>. Clark elaborates on the implications of this discovery, noting the earlier onset of edentulism in enantiornithines than previously thought. 



“Scientists previously thought that the first record of toothlessness in this group was about 72 million years ago, in the late Cretaceous. This little guy, Imparavis, pushes that back by about 48 to 50 million years. So toothlessness, or edentulism, evolved much earlier in this group than we thought,” says Clark.



This adaptation may have influenced dietary habits, foraging behaviors, and perhaps even flight dynamics.



Jingmai O’Connor, Clark’s advisor and a co-author of the study, initially drawn to the fossil's unique forelimb structure, spearheaded the research that confirmed the specimen as a new species. This collaborative effort, involving international researchers, underscores the importance of global scientific partnerships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-toothlessness-tells-us-about-ancient-bird-life">What toothlessness tells us about ancient bird life</h2>



Beyond its historical significance, the study of Imparavis attenboroughi and its relatives has contemporary relevance. O’Connor emphasizes the critical insights these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-bird-feathers-contain-traces-of-dinosaur-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient birds</a> provide into the current biodiversity crisis, echoing Attenborough’s message on the urgency of addressing human-induced mass extinction. 



“I think what drew me to the specimen wasn’t its lack of teeth -- it was its forelimbs,” says O’Connor. “It had a giant bicipital crest -- a bony process jutting out at the top of the upper arm bone, where muscles attach. I’d seen crests like that in Late Cretaceous birds, but not in the Early Cretaceous like this one. That’s when I first suspected it might be a new species.”



Understanding the factors that led to the survival of some species while others perished can inform conservation strategies in our present context.



“I like to think of these guys kind of acting like modern robins. They can perch in trees just fine, but for the most part, you see them foraging on the ground, hopping around and walking,” says Clark.



“It seems like most enantiornithines were pretty arboreal, but the differences in the forelimb structure of Imparavis suggests that even though it's still probably lived in the trees, it maybe ventured down to the ground to feed, and that might mean it had a unique diet compared to other enantiornithines, which also might explain why it lost its teeth,” says O’Connor.



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



Clark and O’Connor’s work not only contributes to our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-prehistoric-bird-had-a-tongue-as-long-as-its-head/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian evolution</a> but also celebrates the influential role of Sir David Attenborough in inspiring generations of scientists. Their research serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity for future generations.



In summary, the discovery of Imparavis attenboroughi marks a significant leap in our understanding of avian evolution, revealing the early emergence of toothless birds and providing insights into the rich tapestry of life that existed millions of years ago. 



This research, celebrating Sir David Attenborough's legacy, deepens our comprehension of the intricate evolutionary paths that led to the birds we observe today while underscoring the importance of paleontology in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. 



By examining the past, we unlock valuable lessons on survival, adaptation, and biodiversity, offering a beacon of hope and a call to action to conserve the delicate balance of life on our planet for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195667124000405?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous Research</a>.



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Attenborough’s 'strange bird' was the first known species of toothless birds

Birds in the modern world don't have teeth. However, in...

Ever wondered how you can juggle a million thoughts in your head and still remember your childhood vacation? It turns out, your brain uses a special kind of wave to sort through it all.&nbsp;



A new study from <a href="https://www.engineering.columbia.edu/home-eng" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia Engineering</a> sheds light on brain waves, revealing a fascinating two-way street for memory creation and retrieval.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-waves-and-their-functioning">Brain waves and their functioning</h2>



Our brains are made up of billions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-courage-controllable-brain/">nerve cells</a> called neurons that talk to each other using electrical signals. These chats create patterns of activity that we call brain waves. The kind of brain wave depends on how fast these signals are firing.&nbsp;



There are five main types of brain waves: delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma. Delta waves are the slowest and happen during deep sleep.&nbsp;



Theta waves are a bit faster and are linked to light sleep, relaxation, and dreaming. Alpha waves are present when we're relaxed and calm, especially if our eyes are closed.&nbsp;



Beta waves are fast and indicate that we're actively thinking, focused, or alert. Gamma waves are the fastest and are involved in things like learning and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-monkeys-are-much-smarter-than-we-thought-they-were/">problem-solving</a>.&nbsp;



Brain waves are important because they can tell us a lot about what's going on in our brains. If the patterns are different from usual, it could be a sign of a cognitive imbalance.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-brain-s-traveling-waves">Discovery of brain’s traveling waves</h2>



Scientists studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-memory-how-we-remember-traumatic-events/">memory</a> recruited people with epilepsy who had special electrodes implanted in their brains. This allowed the researchers to directly measure brain activity as the participants memorized and recalled words or letters.&nbsp;



The experts focused on a specific type of brain wave called a "traveling wave" and tracked how it moved across the brain's surface. The interesting finding was that these waves traveled in one direction when a memory was created and in the other direction when it was recalled.&nbsp;



“These findings shed light on the mechanisms that underlie memory processing. More broadly, they help us better understand how the brain supports a wide range of behaviors that involve precisely coordinated interactions between brain regions,” said study co-author Uma R. Mohan, a postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health</a> (NIH).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-regions-working-together">Brain regions working together</h2>



When we form new memories, brain waves flow from the back to the front of the brain. This could be how the brain puts together and stores new experiences. This direction might help different brain regions work together to process and remember information.



On the other hand, when we remember something, the brain waves move in the opposite direction, from front to back. This might help activate stored information and bring it to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-behavior-is-influenced-by-the-unconscious-mind/">conscious mind</a>.&nbsp;



The process could be like replaying the connections between brain cells that were formed when the memory was first created, allowing us to retrieve the memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-pattern-nbsp">Understanding the pattern&nbsp;</h2>



Our brains form memories in steps. When we learn something new, like a recipe, different parts of the brain work together.&nbsp;



One area figures out the words we read (reading comprehension), another creates a picture of the finished dish (visual imagery), and another remembers the steps involved (procedural memory).&nbsp;



As we focus on memorizing the recipe, a wave of brain activity travels from the back, where we process visuals and spatial information, to the front, where memories are solidified. This direction of movement, from back to front, helps encode the information into a usable memory.



Recalling a memory works the other way around. To cook that dish from memory, a wave of brain activity travels in the opposite direction – from the front of the brain, where the memory is stored, back to the visual and procedural areas that were first involved in learning. This reverse movement, from front to back, helps retrieve the stored recipe.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brains-traveling-waves-in-healthcare">Brains traveling waves in healthcare</h2>



This research has the potential to revolutionize healthcare, especially for memory-related conditions. “We think the work may lead to new approaches for interfacing with the brain. By measuring the direction that a person’s brain waves move, we may be able to predict their behavior,” explained lead researcher Professor Joshua Jacobs.



In the future, doctors might be able to predict memory problems or certain behaviors by studying brain wave patterns. This could lead to earlier diagnosis and possibly even treatments that slow down or lessen memory decline symptoms.



The possibilities get even more exciting. Scientists might be able to directly influence brain waves to improve memory or treat memory problems entirely. Imagine a treatment that adjusts brain wave activity to fix imbalances that cause memory issues.&nbsp;



This type of treatment could be life-changing for millions who suffer from memory loss, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphins-may-also-suffer-from-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer's</a>, and other brain disorders. It could give them back more independence and improve their quality of life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/nathumbehav/">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Brain waves move in opposite directions to make memories and to remember

Ever wondered how you can juggle a million thoughts in...

Ever feel like you just can't shake off that lingering fatigue even after recovering from COVID? You're not alone. Millions of people experience long COVID, a frustrating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-linked-to-alcohol-sensitivity-and-debilitating-hangovers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collection of symptoms</a> that persist long after the initial infection. Now, research from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> suggests a surprising culprit: low iron levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources-of-iron">Sources of iron</h2>



Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is also important for growth, development, normal cellular functioning, and synthesis of some hormones and connective tissue.



We get iron from certain plant and animal foods, such as red meat and poultry. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/">Plant-based sources</a> contain non-heme iron, which is not absorbed as efficiently as the heme iron found in animal products. 



However, you can enhance the absorption of non-heme iron by consuming it with vitamin C or with animal proteins. COVID can disrupt how the body manages iron, causing either iron deficiency or abnormal iron storage. This can make the infection worse and affect recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-long-covid">Characteristics of long COVID </h2>



The researchers closely studied a group of 214 people for one year after they first experienced symptoms of COVID-19.&nbsp;



The experts analyzed various aspects of the participants' health, including how much inflammation they had, how much iron was in their blood, how genes related to iron management were working, and how well red blood cells were being produced.&nbsp;



By comparing this information, the researchers were able to identify a specific set of characteristics of long-term COVID-19.



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



Many people involved in the study continued to have inflammation and signs of anemia, a condition where the body has fewer red blood cells, for up to a year.&nbsp;



Anemia can make people feel tired and weak because the body's tissues do not get enough oxygen. This is a frequent complaint among people with long COVID. 



The ongoing inflammation suggests that the body's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-immune-system-has-a-proactive-response-to-covid-variants/">immune system</a> is still active even though the initial infection is gone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-and-abnormal-iron-levels-nbsp">COVID and abnormal iron levels&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that individuals with long COVID had abnormal iron levels, suggesting an imbalance in how their bodies handle iron. 



Additionally, the researchers identified changes in genes that control iron management, indicating that COVID-19 might disrupt these regulatory mechanisms. 



This link implies that problems with iron management might play a role in how long COVID develops and how severe the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cause-of-fatigue-in-long-covid-patients-has-finally-been-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a> become. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-iron-and-covid-recovery">Low iron and COVID recovery</h2>



The study showed signs of a process called "stress erythropoiesis" in people with long COVID. This is when the body tries to quickly make more red blood cells in response to stress or inflammation, like an infection. The study suggests this process might not work properly in some people after a COVID-19 infection.&nbsp;



"If this goes on for a long time, there is less iron for red blood cells, so oxygen is transported less efficiently, affecting metabolism and energy production, and for white blood cells, which need iron to work properly," said study co-author Hal Drakesmith from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>. "The protective mechanism ends up becoming a problem."



The researchers noted that there could be a role for iron <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vitamin-d-supplements-may-help-ease-chronic-depression/">supplementation</a> during the acute phase of COVID-19 infection, as well as a role as potential treatment for long COVID.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-long-covid">Symptoms of long COVID</h2>



The condition can cause a variety of health problems that last for months. Many people with long COVID experience extreme tiredness, even after they rest. They may also have trouble concentrating, remembering things, and focusing, which is sometimes called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/post-covid-brain-changes-detected-by-advanced-mri-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain fog</a>. 



Other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-has-an-impact-on-womens-sexual-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common symptoms</a> include shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty doing activities that were easy before, like walking or climbing stairs. Individuals with long COVID may experience heart problems like heart palpitations, chest pain, or a fast heart rate. It can also cause ongoing pain and aches in muscles and joints.



Some people lose their sense of taste or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-treatment-restores-sense-of-smell-in-long-covid-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smell</a>, and these senses may not come back completely. Others have trouble <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paxlovid-helps-fight-covid-but-it-does-not-prevent-long-covid-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeping</a>, either because they have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or their sleep is not refreshing. They may also experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression. In addition, digestive problems like nausea, diarrhea, stomach aches, or loss of appetite may also persist.



Another symptom of long COVID is post-exertional malaise, which means that a person's symptoms get worse after they do physical or mental activities. All of these problems can make it difficult for people to participate in daily activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovering-from-long-covid">Recovering from long COVID</h2>



If you're experiencing long COVID, here are some steps you can take to improve your overall well-being:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talk-to-your-doctor">Talk to your doctor</h3>



It's important to get a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-americans-are-suffering-from-long-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complete evaluation</a> from a healthcare professional to rule out other possible conditions and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manage-your-symptoms">Manage your symptoms</h3>



This may involve using medication for pain relief, breathing exercises to improve lung function, or other therapies depending on your specific symptoms.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consider-physical-and-cognitive-rehabilitation">Consider physical and cognitive rehabilitation</h3>



Physical therapy and graded exercise programs can help manage fatigue and improve physical function, while cognitive rehabilitation techniques can address brain fog and other cognitive issues.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritize-a-balanced-diet">Prioritize a balanced diet</h3>



Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help manage your symptoms and support your overall health. In some cases, your doctor may recommend supplements to address any nutritional deficiencies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seek-mental-health-support">Seek mental health support</h3>



Don't hesitate to seek help if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges associated with long COVID. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be very helpful.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pace-yourself-and-manage-your-energy">Pace yourself and manage your energy</h3>



Learn to listen to your body and pace your activities to avoid pushing yourself too hard and experiencing worsening symptoms. Balance rest and activity to manage your energy levels effectively.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-be-patient-and-adaptable">Be patient and adaptable</h3>



Long COVID can be unpredictable, and your symptoms may fluctuate over time. It's important to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed in collaboration with your doctor.



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



Research on long COVID is ongoing, and new treatment options may become available in the future. Stay informed about the latest developments through reliable sources.



Remember, long COVID affects everyone differently. The key is to find a personalized approach that helps you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-024-01754-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Immunology</a>.



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Cause of long COVID has finally been identified

Ever feel like you just can't shake off that lingering...

Many of the animals we love, from playful penguins to majestic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-are-forest-gardeners-that-help-reduce-global-warming/">elephants</a>, could disappear because of climate change. It's not something just for scientists to worry about -- it's a real threat. 



A new study by <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a> examined fossils of sea creatures to identify which animals are most at risk of extinction as the Earth's climate keeps changing.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-extinction-patterns-from-the-fossil-record">Animal extinction patterns from the fossil record</h2>



The research team analyzed fossil records spanning a staggering 485 million years. They focused on creatures that lived in the ocean with hard shells, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-urchins-can-tolerate-hot-acidic-ocean-water/">sea urchins</a> and clams.&nbsp;



The experts looked at over a quarter of a million fossils from more than 9,200 different types of these creatures. They wanted to find out what makes some species more likely to survive than others.&nbsp;



The researchers were interested in factors that hadn't been considered before, like what temperature the creatures preferred to live in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-in-extreme-habitats-are-most-vulnerable-nbsp">Species in extreme habitats are most vulnerable&nbsp;</h2>



The results showed that the bigger the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-can-flip-forests-from-carbon-sinks-to-carbon-sources/">temperature fluctuations</a>, the more danger species were in. This was especially true if the temperature changed more than 44.6°F (7°C) over a long period. The study suggests that rapid climate change disrupts the balance of nature, making it harder for species to survive.



The experts also found that animals living in very hot or cold places, like the poles, are in more danger from climate change. These areas experience bigger climate swings, making it even harder for species that are already used to harsh conditions.&nbsp;



As climate change gets worse, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/">extreme habitats</a> change quickly, which is even more dangerous for the species that live there.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-important-predictors-of-animal-extinction-nbsp">Important predictors of animal extinction&nbsp;</h2>



“Our study revealed that geographic range was the strongest predictor of extinction risk for marine invertebrates, but that the magnitude of climate change is also an important predictor of extinction, which has implications for biodiversity today in the face of climate change,” explained lead author Cooper Malanoski from Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford.



Animals that can only survive in a very specific temperature range face the greatest risk of extinction. The study revealed that species in areas where the temperature only changed by 59°F (15°C) or less were much more likely to die out.&nbsp;



This shows how dangerous climate change is for species that need a very specific environment to survive. Even small changes in temperature can lead to their population shrinking or them dying out completely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-animals-face-higher-extinction-risk">Small animals face higher extinction risk</h2>



The size of an animal can affect its chances of surviving and reproducing. The researchers concluded that smaller animals are more likely to die out entirely. This isn't new - scientists have known for a while that smaller creatures have a harder time dealing with changes in their environment.



There are a few reasons for this. First, small animals burn energy quickly compared to their size. They need more food to survive, so any changes that make food harder to find hurt them more.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Also, small animals tend to live for a shorter time and have more babies quickly. While this can help their population grow fast, it can also make them more vulnerable to problems that reduce their numbers.



Another issue is that small animals often can't travel far. This makes it hard for them to find new homes if their current one gets messed up, or to escape from danger. If their habitat becomes fragmented, or they get separated from each other, they're more likely to die out completely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-in-a-changing-climate">Conservation in a changing climate</h2>



The study provides valuable insights for protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-can-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-wildlife/">wildlife</a> in a warming world. Knowing which creatures are most at risk is crucial for planning conservation efforts as climate change worsens.&nbsp;



By pinpointing the most vulnerable species, conservationists can focus their efforts and get the most out of limited resources, increasing the chances of preserving biodiversity despite environmental challenges.



The study emphasizes the importance of specific actions to lessen climate change's harm on wildlife. This might involve restoring habitats, reintroducing species to areas they once lived in, or creating protected zones for safety.&nbsp;



In some cases, more drastic measures may be needed, such as helping species move to new homes better suited to the changing climate.



Finally, the research highlights the need for collaboration between scientists, government officials, and conservation groups. By combining their expertise, they can develop creative solutions and implement evidence-based conservation plans that consider the specific needs of different species and ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj5763" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Animal extinction risk is heavily influenced by climate change

Many of the animals we love, from playful penguins to...

The field of aerodynamics, crucial for the development of planes, cars, and ships, is witnessing a transformative phase thanks to deep learning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-help-save-mangrove-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>. These advancements have made vehicles more fuel-efficient and structurally sophisticated.



A groundbreaking computational model, leveraging neural network architecture, is setting new benchmarks in the reproduction of airflow dynamics, offering precise predictions with notable savings in time, cost, and energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simplifying-aerodynamics-with-deep-learning">Simplifying aerodynamics with deep learning</h2>



Developed by researchers from the <a href="https://www.kth.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KTH Royal Institute of Technology</a>, in collaboration with experts from the U.S. and Spain, and published in Nature Communications, this deep learning model stands out for its accuracy in predicting aerodynamic drag while minimizing computational expenses. 



Its simplicity, derived from data from more complex simulations, embodies the essence of a reduced order model (ROM). This approach maintains critical features of complex models while discarding trivial details, aiming to streamline computational processes without sacrificing precision.



Ricardo Vinuesa, the leading researcher and an associate professor of fluid mechanics at KTH, emphasized the importance of efficiency in design engineering. 



"The ability to run numerous scenarios at a low computational cost is crucial," he stated. This model, according to Vinuesa, allows for accurate predictions across a wide range of scenarios, thus enhancing the engineering design process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-networks-leading-the-charge">Neural networks leading the charge</h2>



What sets this deep learning aerodynamics <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a> apart is its utilization of neural networks, transcending the traditional linear computational methods that have long been the norm in engineering predictions. 



Neural networks, inspired by the human brain's functioning, offer a dynamic way to learn and map complex relationships between inputs and outputs. This is particularly advantageous in the challenging task of modeling air friction near the surfaces of vehicles like airplane wings or train engines.



"We can now predict changes in the airflow around an airplane wing more accurately," Vinuesa noted. "This allows for better control over the flow to reduce drag, and subsequently, to enhance the aerodynamic design of the wing." 



The model boasts an ability to retain over 90% of the original physics involved in flow predictions with significantly less computational complexity compared to traditional linear models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-learning-and-precise-aerodynamics-design">Deep learning and precise aerodynamics design</h2>



Vinuesa pointed out that linear models, such as proper-orthogonal decomposition (POD) and dynamic-mode decomposition (DMD), offer a simplistic representation of predictions. In contrast, the neural network-based model captures the complexities of reality far more accurately. 



"Reality is more complicated than straight lines and planes. Our model, by moving beyond these linear constraints, achieves better predictions," he explained.



The implications of reducing aerodynamic drag are profound, not just for the efficiency of vehicles but also for the environment. 



"Aerodynamic control could potentially reduce drag by 20, 30, or even 50 percent," Vinuesa asserted. Such reductions could significantly impact global emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future and helping mitigate climate change.



The environmental and economic benefits of this deep learning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-can-more-accurately-predict-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a> are vast, marking a significant step forward in the pursuit of greener and more efficient transportation solutions through aerodynamics. By integrating deep learning into aerodynamic engineering, researchers are refining the design and efficiency of vehicles and contributing to a more sustainable world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanics-behind-deep-learning">Mechanics behind deep learning</h2>



At its core, deep learning relies on neural networks, which are inspired by the structure and function of the human brain. These networks consist of layers of nodes, or "neurons," each designed to perform specific tasks. Data passes through these layers, with each one extracting and refining features, enabling the system to make increasingly sophisticated decisions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-data-and-computation">Power of data and computation</h3>



The effectiveness of deep learning is directly tied to the availability of vast amounts of data and significant computational power. By feeding these neural networks <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-may-help-with-earlier-tsunami-detection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large datasets</a>, we equip them to recognize patterns and nuances that would be imperceptible to human analysts or traditional computing methods. 



The evolution of hardware and cloud computing resources has played a crucial role in the feasibility and success of deep learning applications. A perfect example of deep learning in action is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap app</a>, which uses an extensive deep learning image recognition model.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-industries-and-everyday-life">Transforming industries and everyday life</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-vision-and-language">Revolutionizing Vision and Language</h4>



Deep learning has been instrumental in advancing computer vision and natural language processing (NLP), allowing machines to interpret images, videos, and human language with remarkable accuracy. This technology powers the facial recognition systems in smartphones, the voice assistants in our homes, and the language translation services we rely on to bridge communication gaps across the globe.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovating-healthcare">Innovating Healthcare</h4>



In healthcare, deep learning algorithms analyze medical images, helping doctors diagnose diseases earlier and with greater precision. These models also predict patient outcomes, tailor treatments to individual needs, and unlock new insights from vast repositories of medical data, heralding a new age of personalized medicine.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-automation-and-robotics">Enhancing Automation and Robotics</h4>



Deep learning drives the autonomy in robotics and vehicles, enabling self-driving cars to navigate complex environments and robots to perform intricate tasks alongside humans. This leap in capability promises to reshape logistics, manufacturing, and urban mobility, making them safer, more efficient, and less reliant on human intervention.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-challenges-and-ethical-considerations">Navigating challenges and ethical considerations</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-bias-and-transparency">Addressing Bias and Transparency</h4>



Despite its immense potential, deep learning faces challenges such as data bias and the opacity of decision-making processes. Efforts are underway to create more transparent and explainable AI systems that uphold ethical standards and mitigate unintended consequences, ensuring that these technologies benefit society as a whole.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-work-and-society">The Future of Work and Society</h4>



As deep learning continues to evolve, it raises important questions about the future of work, privacy, and the role of humans in an increasingly automated world. Proactively addressing these concerns is crucial to harnessing the benefits of deep learning while safeguarding individual rights and societal values.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-towards-a-smarter-tomorrow-with-ai">Moving towards a smarter tomorrow with AI</h3>



In summary, dep learning stands at the forefront of a technological revolution, offering unparalleled opportunities to enhance human capabilities and improve quality of life. 



As we continue to explore the depths of this powerful tool, the collaboration between AI researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers will be vital in steering its development toward positive and equitable outcomes. 



The journey of deep learning is far from complete, but its impact on the world is undeniable, promising a future where technology and human ingenuity converge to solve some of our most pressing challenges.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-45578-4">Nature Communications</a>.



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Revolutionizing aerodynamics and emissions with new AI deep learning tool

The field of aerodynamics, crucial for the development of planes,...

A study from Norway has found that adults are much more likely to develop obesity if their parents also battled with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-how-massive-dinosaurs-carried-their-weight/">weight</a> issues. This means that your family history could play a surprising role in your weight, even after you've grown up and left the nest.



“Previous research shows a strong association between parents’ and their children’s obesity status but few studies have investigated whether this intergenerational transmission of obesity continues past adolescence and into adulthood," explained lead researcher Mari Mikkelsen from <a href="https://en.uit.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UiT Arctic University of Norway</a>.



"We were interested in how parents’ BMI is related to their offspring’s BMI when the offspring is well into adulthood and has lived away from home for a long time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obesity-among-parents">Obesity among parents</h2>



Mikkelsen's team examined data from the Tromsø Study, focusing on obesity rates among individuals aged 40-59 and their parents.&nbsp;



The researchers discovered that people whose parents were both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-obesity-increase-the-risk-of-severe-covid-infection/">obese</a> in middle age were six times more likely to be obese themselves. Even if only one parent was obese, the child's risk of obesity as an adult was three times higher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-family-genetics-and-lifestyle-nbsp">Family genetics and lifestyle&nbsp;</h2>



Obesity is more common in some families due to a combination of genetics and lifestyle. Genes can make individuals either more likely to gain weight or to have trouble losing it.&nbsp;&nbsp;



This might be because of how their bodies use food, store fat, or control hunger. On top of genes, our surroundings also matter a lot. Families often eat similar foods and do similar amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-may-actually-be-the-fountain-of-youth/">exercise</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;



If a family mostly eats unhealthy foods or doesn't exercise much, this can lead to weight gain over time. Research shows that both genes and the environment we grow up in with our families play a role in how likely we are to be obese.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-of-obesity-genes-in-childhood">Influence of obesity genes in childhood</h2>



There's a strong connection between how much a child weighs and how much they'll weigh as an adult. The researchers suggest that even if kids who are obese make changes to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-healthy-lifestyle-habits-could-extend-your-life-by-decades/">lifestyle</a> after they move out of their parents' house, they're still more likely to be overweight later in life.&nbsp;



This means it's very important to deal with childhood obesity early on to avoid problems in the future. The experts also found that obesity tends to run in families, even if grown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-apps-to-practice-mindfulness-improves-mental-health-of-children/">children</a> live on their own.&nbsp;



Importance of preventing and treating obesity



“Whatever the explanation, our finding that obesity that is transmitted between generations can persist well into adulthood underlines the importance of treating and preventing obesity, a condition that contributes significantly to ill health and premature death," said Mikkelsen.



"It also lays the foundation for research into factors that influence the intergenerational transmission of obesity and that can be targeted to prevent offspring from spending their whole life affected by obesity,"



The best way to beat obesity is to start young and make healthy choices a lifelong habit. This means eating a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/">balanced diet</a> that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Getting regular exercise is just as important.&nbsp;



By making these healthy choices early on, you'll set yourself up for a healthy weight and avoid health problems that can come with obesity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tromso-study">The Tromsø study</h2>



The Tromsø Study is Norway's largest health project which was launched in 1974. Initiated due to high heart disease deaths, the study now covers cancer, diabetes, and other health issues across the population.



With over 45,000 participants, the study has improved preventative care. Heart disease deaths in Northern Norway have significantly dropped, matching the national average.



The findings of the study will be presented at the <a href="https://eco2024.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Congress on Obesity</a> (ECO 2024).



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Obesity can be passed down from parents to kids

A study from Norway has found that adults are much...

Recent findings from the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases uncover a compelling connection. Living in green spaces like parks and gardens enhances bone density and reduces <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-bone-loss-from-osteoporosis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">osteoporosis risk</a>. This discovery paves the way for novel prevention methods, highlighting nature's vital role in health benefits.



Osteoporosis is a major global health issue, marked by fragile bones that easily fracture, causing chronic pain and limiting movement. It results from a mix of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. 



Before this research, the beneficial impact of green environments on bone density and osteoporosis prevention was largely unknown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-green-spaces-through-a-new-lens">Viewing green spaces through a new lens</h2>



The study utilized data from the <a href="https://www.ukbiobank.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Biobank</a>, focusing on 391,298 individuals around age 56. It assessed lifestyle, genetic osteoporosis risks, surrounding greenery through the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and air pollution exposure.



Over a 12-year period, it found that residents of greener areas had notably better bone health and a 5% lower osteoporosis risk than those in less green environments. 



This advantage is attributed partly to reduced air pollution in green areas, which can elevate osteoporosis risk through oxidative stress and hormonal disruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-prescription-green-space-time-for-better-bone-density">Nature prescription: Green space time for better bone density</h2>



The study suggests that green spaces naturally encourage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-and-physical-activity-can-optimize-bone-health-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a>, which helps lower osteoporosis risk. Furthermore, vegetation acts as a natural air filter, cutting down pollution exposure for residents.



Though observational, the study's results are pioneering, providing the first solid evidence that living near greenery is linked with higher bone density and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. 



It underscores the critical role of urban greening in osteoporosis prevention, emphasizing the need for natural spaces in urban planning.



The study emphasizes green spaces' wide-ranging advantages, from mental to physical health gains, such as enhanced bone strength. 



With urban expansion, integrating greenery into city designs becomes crucial for improving public health and combating osteoporosis. It serves as a rallying cry for urban planners and policymakers to make green spaces a cornerstone of urban growth, fostering healthier communities for generations to come.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://ard.bmj.com/content/early/2024/01/16/ard-2023-224941" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases</a>.



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Living near green spaces improves overall bone density

Recent findings from the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases uncover...

In the vast expanses of the Southern Great Plains, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lead-ammunition-is-a-silent-threat-to-bald-eagle-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bald eagles</a>, known predominantly for their fish diet, are observed in a surprising new role: hunting prairie dogs over grasslands. 



A breakthrough study led by Courtney Duchardt of <a href="https://go.okstate.edu/undergraduate-academics/majors/natural-resource-ecology-and-management.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oklahoma State University</a>'s Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management sheds light on this unexpected behavior. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prairie-dogs-and-the-dietary-habits-of-eagles">Prairie dogs and the dietary habits of eagles</h2>



Their research highlights the critical role prairie dogs play as a food source for not just bald eagles but also other raptor species during the winter months.



Titled “Overwintering Raptor Abundance and Community Composition in Relation to Prairie Dog Colonies in the Southern Great Plains,” Duchardt's paper is a pioneering investigation into the dynamics between prairie dogs and their aerial predators. 



It uncovers a crucial trophic interaction that bears significant implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-and-bald-eagles-can-coexist-peacefully/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raptor conservation</a>, especially in the context of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effect-of-vanishing-grasslands-on-raptors">Ripple effect of vanishing grasslands on raptors</h2>



Grasslands in North America have dramatically declined since the 1970s, leading to a staggering 53% reduction in grassland bird populations since the 1990s. 



This loss highlights the intricate link between the health of grassland ecosystems and bird populations. Raptors, requiring large areas for their habitat, face particularly severe consequences due to this degradation.



Duchardt and her team conducted extensive winter road surveys from 1998 to 2002 across several states, including Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and the Mexican state of Chihuahua. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-raptor-wintering-habits">Understanding raptor wintering habits</h2>



Their findings revealed that nine raptor species, notably including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-are-threatened-by-avian-influenza/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bald eagles</a> and rough-legged hawks, were frequently found near prairie dog colonies. 



Despite not commonly encountering prairie dogs in their breeding territories, these raptors seem to gravitate towards prairie dogs as a reliable food source during the winter, drawn by the "perfectly sized raptor-snacks," as Duchardt describes.



The study also addresses concerns about the impact of climate change on prairie dog populations, which could, in turn, affect raptor feeding patterns. Changes in climate norms have already exacerbated the occurrence of plague among prairie dogs, potentially diminishing their availability as a prey source. 



This scarcity could force raptors to expand their search for food, exposing them to increased risks, such as collisions with wind turbines -- a notable hazard for species like golden eagles and ferruginous hawks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-prairie-dog-colonies-from-eagles">Protecting prairie dog colonies from eagles</h2>



Given these findings, Duchardt advocates for the protection of prairie dog colonies as a crucial step towards supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-are-a-greater-threat-to-wildlife-than-climate-change-or-anything-else/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raptor populations</a>. However, she acknowledges the political challenges involved, given the contentious view of prairie dogs as pests in many regions. 



Despite these conflicts, Duchardt emphasizes the keystone role of prairie dogs in ecosystems, underscoring the necessity of considering prairie dog management in raptor conservation strategies.



Raptors serve as bioindicators, reflecting the overall health of their habitats. Their top-predator status is essential for maintaining ecosystem balance. Duchardt suggests that sustainable ranching practices, mimicking the natural coexistence of wildlife and grazing bison, could offer a path forward. 



By leveraging innovative management approaches and raising public awareness about the importance of both prairie dogs and raptors, she remains hopeful for a solution that reconciles human and wildlife needs, ensuring that bald eagles and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-raptors-adapt-well-to-growing-cities-but-others-are-struggling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raptors</a> can continue to rely on prairie dogs as a food source.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eagles-prairie-dogs-and-the-future-of-the-plains">Eagles, prairie dogs, and the future of the plains</h2>



In summary, Courtney Duchardt's study underscores the vital importance of prairie dogs in the diet of wintering raptors across the Southern Great Plains, including the iconic bald eagle. 



By revealing the unexpected dependency of these majestic birds on prairie dog colonies, her study challenges our perceptions and highlights the urgent need for integrated conservation strategies. 



Protecting prairie dog habitats emerges as a critical step towards ensuring the survival and health of raptor populations, especially in the face of the mounting threats posed by habitat loss and climate change. 



Through innovative management and public education, we can forge a sustainable coexistence between human activities and the natural world, safeguarding these vital ecological interactions for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-prairie-dogs">More about prairie dogs</h2>



As discussed above, prairie dogs, small, burrowing rodents found in the grasslands of North America, play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats. 



Despite their name, they are not dogs but are related to squirrels. These social animals live in large colonies or "towns," creating complex underground burrows that serve as a hub for activity and protection.



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



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-architects-of-the-prairie">Architects of the Prairie</h4>



Prairie dogs significantly influence their environment. Their digging activities aerate the soil, increasing its ability to absorb rainwater and reduce runoff. This not only prevents erosion but also promotes the growth of a variety of plant species. The diversity of vegetation supports the overall health of the prairie ecosystem, providing food and habitat for numerous other species.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keystone-species">Keystone Species</h4>



As a keystone species, prairie dogs have a disproportionate effect on their ecosystem relative to their abundance. Their presence supports a wide array of wildlife, including predators like hawks and eagles, which rely on prairie dogs as a food source. Additionally, their burrows offer shelter for other animals, such as burrowing owls, rabbits, and snakes, demonstrating the intricate connections within prairie ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prairie-dog-threats-from-eagles-and-conservation-challenges">Prairie dog threats from eagles and conservation challenges</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facing-adversity">Facing Adversity</h4>



Prairie dogs face numerous threats, including habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urban development. Disease, particularly plague, also significantly impacts their populations. Furthermore, they are often viewed as pests by farmers and ranchers because they can compete with livestock for forage. This perception has led to efforts to eradicate them, further endangering their colonies.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts">Conservation Efforts</h4>



Recognizing the crucial role of prairie dogs in grassland ecosystems, conservationists are advocating for their protection. Efforts include habitat restoration, disease management programs, and public education campaigns to shift perceptions of prairie dogs from pests to essential contributors to their environments. 



Acknowledging and addressing the challenges they face through targeted conservation efforts is essential for ensuring that prairie dogs and the diverse ecosystems they support continue to thrive for generations to come.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-raptor-research/volume-58/issue-1/JRR-22-119/Overwintering-Raptor-Abundance-and-Community-Composition-in-Relation-to-Prairie/10.3356/JRR-22-119.short" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Raptor Research</a>.



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Bald eagles don’t only eat fish, as prairie dogs will attest

In the vast expanses of the Southern Great Plains, bald...

Recent research highlights the intricate social dynamics and friendships exhibited by group-living animals, including mutual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-live-longer-and-happier-lives-when-they-get-to-socialize-often/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aid and cooperation</a>, which have captivated biologists for decades. 



The evolution of these social bonds, often compared to human friendships marked by acts of kindness such as sharing food, has been a hot topic of debate among scientists. This particular study was led by experts from <a href="https://www.su.se/cmlink/stockholm-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a> and the <a href="https://www.unine.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Neuchâtel</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-take-on-animal-cooperation">A new take on animal cooperation</h2>



Historically, the study of animal cooperation has leveraged game theory, focusing on reciprocity -- the idea that animals help those who have helped them. Despite over fifty years of research, existing models based on strict, immediate reciprocity have fallen short in explaining the nuanced reality of these social interactions.



The new study proposes a revolutionary model that mirrors more accurately the gradual formation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-bonds-are-more-advantageous-for-long-lived-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a> observed in nature. Researchers found that friendships evolve over time, strengthening as individuals engage in mutual aid and shared experiences. 



These bonds, which can develop in both small and large groups, hinge on the opportunity for meaningful interactions within smaller subunits of the group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-reciprocity-complexity-of-animal-friendships">Beyond reciprocity: Complexity of animal friendships</h2>



One of the most striking findings of this research is the proactive nature of group members in welcoming newcomers. The study suggests that group members do not only work to maintain existing relationships but also actively seek to establish new ones, thereby enhancing the group's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sheep-bond-after-sharing-stressful-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social fabric</a>. 



This challenges previous assumptions that new friendships form slowly, underscoring the dynamic and inclusive nature of animal social networks.



Professor Emeritus Olof Leimar of Stockholm University’s Department of Zoology, one of the lead researchers, emphasizes the importance of this discovery. 



“How group members interact with new individuals is much discussed, and recently the idea that friendships with new individuals will develop only very slowly has been emphasized. Our analysis suggests that this need not be the case”, says Leimar. 



“In fact, in the original discussions of the evolution of helping, the possibility that group members actively attempt to develop new friendships was put forward, and our analysis agrees with this,” Leimar adds. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-social-bonds-in-animal-groups">Developing social bonds in animal groups</h2>



Drawing parallels to the one-sided yet mutual relationship between mothers and their offspring, and supported by observed behaviors like food sharing among vampire bats, this study offers a robust theoretical foundation for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-have-healthier-lives-when-owners-acknowledge-their-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bond</a> dynamics in animal groups. 



The findings not only provide a novel perspective on the evolution of helping behaviors but also encourage further exploration into how social ties are initiated and evolve across different species.



Professor Leimar expresses optimism about the impact of their work, stating, "We hope that our results will inspire biologists to further investigate the dynamics of social bonds in different group-living species, including studies on how new bonds are formed." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-circles-and-animal-friendships-in-nature">Social circles and animal friendships in nature</h2>



In summary, this intriguing study upends our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prairie-voles-can-form-bonds-without-oxytocin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a> and cooperative behavior in group-living animals. By challenging the traditional models of reciprocity and unveiling a more nuanced view of friendship evolution, the researchers offer a compelling explanation for the dynamics of animal social networks. 



Their findings, emphasizing the gradual development of social bonds and the proactive inclusion of new group members, enriches our comprehension of animal societies gives new direction for exploring the complex interplay of relationships in the animal kingdom. 



This research underscores the importance of social cohesion and paves the way for future studies to further unravel the mysteries of animal behavior and evolution.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2317736121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Animal friendships and social bonds evolve over time as they do with humans

Recent research highlights the intricate social dynamics and friendships exhibited...

<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>



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.



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



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.



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



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.



"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.



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



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.



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



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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>



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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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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>



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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."



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



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.



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



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, 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.



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.



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



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.



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."



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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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>



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?



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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



Sources: 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.



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



1. Is acid rain completely gone? 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.



2. How long did solving take? 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.



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



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



5. Could acid rain return? 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.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? 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>



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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>







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. 



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. 



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



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. 



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.



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. 



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.



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



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.



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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.

<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/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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. 



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. 



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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