In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



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



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



-----



Click here to <a href="https://youtu.be/j_0hZ8cUwgo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch a video interview...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp; Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries. Controlling the heart with light The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest. The external controller detects...

Even though Mars is now a cold and dry world, it once hosted rivers, lakes, and possibly vast oceans. Robotic missions search for traces of this past. Some discoveries take years, while others, like unexpected mineral clues, appear suddenly.



A rover traversing the Martian surface may seem routine, but when that rover is NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-2020-perseverance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseverance</a> and it encounters something extraordinary, the discovery sends ripples through the scientific community.



Roger Wiens, professor of earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences at <a href="https://www.purdue.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University</a>, witnessed one of these moments when Perseverance’s laser struck some pale rocks that turned out to be anything but ordinary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chance-encounter-with-a-good-rock">Chance encounter with a good rock</h2>



The rocks in question looked different from the rest. They were paler, and stood out against the usual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/detecting-life-on-mars-a-breakthrough-in-space-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian landscape</a>.



That alone made them interesting, but what truly surprised Wiens and his team was their composition. These rocks contained an unusually high amount of aluminum, linked with the mineral kaolinite.



This, in itself, would have been a noteworthy discovery. But kaolinite is no ordinary mineral. On Earth, it forms only under very specific conditions - ones that involve warmth, moisture, and long-term exposure to water.



Finding it on Mars meant that, at some point in its history, the planet must have been wetter, and possibly even significantly warmer than previously believed.



“On Earth, these minerals form where there is intense rainfall and a warm climate or in hydrothermal systems such as hot springs. Both environments are ideal conditions for life as we know it,” Wiens said.



If the conditions that created these minerals were present on Mars for an extended period, it raises questions about whether the planet once supported environments suitable for life. 



The discovery challenges long-standing ideas about Mars's climate history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-rover-detects-minerals">Mars rover detects minerals</h2>



Wiens’s involvement in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-mars-once-host-life-we-finally-know-where-to-look/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars exploration</a> runs deep. He has spent decades working with rovers and played a crucial role in designing SuperCam, the powerful instrument mounted atop Perseverance. 



Resembling a head and neck, this device allows the rover to analyze the Martian surface from a distance.



SuperCam’s tools allow scientists to examine the composition of Martian rocks without requiring the rover to physically touch them. 



On the first day Perseverance landed, its cameras spotted small, pale pebbles scattered across the landscape. At the time, researchers had other priorities and paid them little attention.



Later, as the rover continued exploring, it came across larger rocks with the same coloration. These rocks were not attached to the underlying bedrock but instead lay loose on the surface. 



Known as “float rocks,” they had been moved from their original location, carried by unknown forces across the Martian terrain. That alone made them intriguing. What came next changed everything.



“These rocks are very different from anything we’ve seen on Mars before,” Wiens said. “They’re enigmas.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-mars-minerals">Mysterious Mars minerals</h2>



Wiens’s research team, including Candice Bedford and Clement Royer, took a closer look at these rocks. The deeper they analyzed, the more astonishing the results became.



More than 4,000 of these pale stones were scattered across the surface, all showing similar characteristics. The presence of kaolinite stood out, but that wasn’t the only surprising element.



Alongside kaolinite, the rocks also contained traces of spinel, most likely aluminum spinel. This mineral typically forms in either igneous or metamorphic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wave-ripples-discovered-mars-surface-indicate-liquid-water-present-4-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>. 



That posed an important question: Did the spinel form first, later interacting with kaolinite, or did the kaolinite somehow develop around the spinel? The answer remains unclear.



On Earth, kaolinite is often found in locations where water has flowed for ages, dissolving away all but the most resilient materials. This means the Martian rocks could be remnants of an ancient, long-lived watery environment. 



However, their current hardness differs from Earth’s kaolinite, suggesting additional geological processes have altered them over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-minerals-hold-evidence-of-water">Mars minerals hold evidence of water</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-mars-atmosphere-may-improve-weather-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars’s history</a> is written in its rocks, and each discovery adds another layer to the story. 



Water has always been at the heart of that story, raising fundamental questions about how much once existed, how long it lasted, and where it eventually disappeared.



“The big questions about Mars are about water,” Wiens said. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mars_Perseverance-rover_Ouzinkie-rock_kaolinite-mineral-discovery_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mars_Perseverance-rover_Ouzinkie-rock_kaolinite-mineral-discovery_NASA_1s.webp" alt="SuperCam RMI color images showing various types of textures. A Image of Ouzinkie showing the shiny luster (scam02691); B image of Chignik showing the abundant dark, dull lustered grains within a pale, light-grey matrix (scam01681); C image of Rainbow Curve highlighting a discontinuous and anastomosing tendency of the layered targets (scam01777); D image of Dolgoi Island with yellow arrows pointing to dark green candidate spinel grains ( ~ 1 mm diameter) (scam01657); E image of Unga Island highlighting vitreous, spatter-like texture intermingled with large pits up to 4 cm in diameter (scam01676); F image of Barrier Range showing the smooth, aphanitic/very fine-grained nature of the smooth targets that commonly contains small, spherical pits sometimes filled with a dark coating material (scam02554). Credit: NASA/Purdue/Nature" class="wp-image-1962411"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">SuperCam RMI color images showing various types of textures. A Image of Ouzinkie showing the shiny luster (scam02691); B image of Chignik showing the abundant dark, dull lustered grains within a pale, light-grey matrix (scam01681); C image of Rainbow Curve highlighting a discontinuous and anastomosing tendency of the layered targets (scam01777); D image of Dolgoi Island with yellow arrows pointing to dark green candidate spinel grains ( ~ 1 mm diameter) (scam01657); E image of Unga Island highlighting vitreous, spatter-like texture intermingled with large pits up to 4 cm in diameter (scam01676); F image of Barrier Range showing the smooth, aphanitic/very fine-grained nature of the smooth targets that commonly contains small, spherical pits sometimes filled with a dark coating material (scam02554). Credit: NASA/Purdue/Nature</figcaption></figure>



“How much water was there? How long was there water? Given how cold and dry Mars is now, where did all that water go? As a mineral, kaolinite has a lot of water bound up in its structure. It’s possible that a lot of the water is still there, on Mars, bound up in the minerals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Even though the research team has not yet found these rocks in their original bedrock location, orbital satellite data confirms that Jezero Crater’s rim contains kaolinite-rich formations. 



Bedford, who co-led the study, believes that tracking the source of these float rocks could provide answers.



“Although we have not seen these rocks ‘in place’ in bedrock with the rover, and we’re not sure where these float rocks came from, from orbiting satellites we know that there are kaolinite-rich rocks in Jezero crater’s rim,” Bedford said. 



“Investigating these rocks in place will help us test our hypotheses on how the rocks formed, how they relate to the ancient Martian environment and the habitability of the planet in the past. We are keeping our eyes wide open, looking for the source of these rocks now that Perseverance is exploring the crater rim.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-signs-of-life">Searching for signs of life</h2>



Mars’ transformation from a planet with liquid water to the frozen desert we see today remains one of the biggest scientific mysteries.



The discovery of these minerals strengthens the possibility that ancient Mars was not just habitable but sustained environments capable of supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-collects-26th-rock-sample-on-mars-plans-to-bring-them-all-to-earth-for-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.



Since life as we know it depends on water, uncovering the history of water on Mars is key to understanding whether life ever had a foothold there.



-----



This work is the result of a collaboration involving scientists from around the world. Los Alamos National Laboratory (<a href="https://www.lanl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LANL</a>) and the French Institut de Recherche en Astrophysique et Planétologie (<a href="https://www.irap.omp.eu/en/homepage-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRAP</a>), supported by <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (<a href="https://cnes.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNES</a>) in France.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01837-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

New Mars discovery is "different from anything ever seen before"

Even though Mars is now a cold and dry world,...

Makassar,Strait,Highlighted,On,A,Satellite,Image,Map

Early explorers wondered why two neighboring islands, separated by something called the "Wallace Line," had such different wildlife. They saw tigers and elephants on one side, while marsupials lived just a short boat ride away.



Dr. Penny Van Oosterzee, an ecological researcher at <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a>, has studied these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutions-many-solutions-nature-finds-multiple-paths-to-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> for years. She sees them as a reminder of how physical barriers can split habitats even when they sit close by.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wallace-line-and-species-separation">Wallace Line and species separation</h2>



The Wallace Line runs through Southeast Asia, marking where Asian species give way to Australian species. 



It crosses narrow waters between Borneo and Sulawesi, and between Bali and Lombok, which lie only about 15 miles apart.



Even though it is not an official border, it acts like one for many animals. Flocks of Asian birds thrive on one side, but groups of Australian cockatoos stay on the other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-invisible-fence">An invisible fence </h2>



A deep ocean trench, known as the Makassar Strait, is key to this puzzle. During past ice ages, many islands were connected by land bridges when sea levels dropped.



Yet that submerged gap never vanished here, so animals could not simply wander across. Highly specialized species remained where they could find food, avoid predators, and keep up their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/embryo-development-shows-how-evolution-had-many-options-to-choose-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival strategies</a>.



Even birds, which can fly, tend to stay within their familiar habitats because of differences in climate and food availability. The Wallace Line, in many ways, acts like an invisible fence shaped by nature’s own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolving-evolution-how-life-learns-to-adapt-better/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">design</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-makassar-strait-the-basics">Understanding the Makassar Strait - the basics</h2>



The Makassar Strait is a narrow stretch of water that runs between the islands of Borneo and Sulawesi in Indonesia. 



It connects the Celebes Sea in the north to the Java Sea in the south, making it a key passage for ships traveling between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. 



The strait isn’t just a busy maritime route - it’s also home to some incredible marine life. 



Strong ocean currents flow through, bringing nutrient-rich waters that support vibrant coral reefs, fish, and even deep-sea creatures. 



It’s a hotspot for divers and researchers alike, offering a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich underwater biodiversity.



The region is also a key focus for climate change research, as rising sea levels and shifting currents affect both marine ecosystems and coastal communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wallace-line-shaped-evolution">The Wallace Line shaped evolution</h2>



This unique divide helped shape some early ideas about how species change over time. It sparked thoughts on biogeography, the study of how plants and animals are distributed across the planet.



When Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently <a href="https://evolution.berkeley.edu/the-history-of-evolutionary-thought/1800s/natural-selection-charles-darwin-alfred-russel-wallace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wrote</a> about natural selection in the mid-1800s, they each pointed to real-world examples of animals adapting to local conditions. 



The stark difference between these islands stood out to Wallace.



His observations supported the idea that species do not appear randomly but evolve based on their environment. 



The Wallace Line became one of the strongest cases for how geographic barriers can drive the formation of new species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-different-perspective">A different perspective</h2>



There are debates over the geographic accuracy of the line. Researchers have <a href="https://academic.oup.com/biolinnean/article/130/1/225/5802023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">called</a> for the boundary line to be redrawn.&nbsp;



“We suggest that Wallace’s Line be redrawn such that the landmass is placed on the Australasian side of this fundamental biogeographical boundary,” wrote Jason Ali and colleagues from the University of Hong Kong.



Shifting a line on a map may seem simple, but it shows how active science can be. As more research appears, definitions can move, and old ideas can adapt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-australasia">What is Australasia?</h2>



The region that includes Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the surrounding Pacific is known as Australasia. 



It’s a place where you can find everything from vast deserts and lush rainforests to snowy mountains and stunning coral reefs. 



Australia dominates the region with its massive landmass, unique wildlife like kangaroos and koalas, and world-famous landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru. 



Meanwhile, New Zealand brings its own magic with breathtaking fjords, rolling green hills, and a deep-rooted Māori culture. 



The islands of Australasia, including Papua New Guinea and parts of Indonesia, add even more diversity with rich indigenous traditions and some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wallace-line-and-human-history">The Wallace Line and human history</h2>



The idea of a boundary extends to humans and not only wildlife. The racial and political effects of the line have been studied at length.&nbsp;



“The difference between these two people had already been noticed by early European travelers, together with the difference in flora and fauna,” noted Fenneke Sysling from the <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utrecht</a> in The Netherlands.



Many decades ago, claims emerged that certain groups east of the line shared traits with Papuans, while those west of the line fit the Malay category. 



Debates around these claims have carried into modern times, highlighting how complex human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-evolution-not-random-gene-families-pangenome-influence-called-revolutionary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> can be.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geographic-borders-and-human-evolution">Geographic borders and human evolution</h2>



Various projects track bird populations, insects, and even marsupials (kangaroo) to see how borders and evolution link together. 



Shallow seas no longer block human travel, yet animals remain bound by their own quirks.



Scientists ask whether climate changes or habitat loss might shift wildlife distributions in the future. Updates on these studies add another layer of intrigue to a line first drawn in the 19th century.



The Wallace Line demonstrates how subtle geographic forces can create stark contrasts in living things. It also reminds us that physical distance is not always the main factor - evolutionary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">history</a> and chance play major roles.



With all of the debates and shifting perspectives, one thing is clear: the planet holds more surprises than any single line can capture.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Earth has a natural border line that no species will cross - what is the Wallace Line?

Early explorers wondered why two neighboring islands, separated by something...

We all know someone who seems to be aging more slowly than others. They look younger, move with more energy, and seem healthier despite having the same chronological age as their peers. What makes them different?



Scientists at <a href="https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka University</a> in Japan believe they may have found a way to measure this difference more accurately.



Instead of relying solely on chronological age, their new method assesses biological age - the true measure of how well the body has aged.



Using artificial intelligence (AI) and steroid metabolism <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathways</a>, the model provides a deeper look into aging at a biochemical level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormones-as-indicators-of-aging">Hormones as indicators of aging</h2>



Aging is influenced by a complex mix of genetics, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>, and environmental factors. Traditional methods for estimating biological age rely on broad biomarkers such as DNA methylation or protein levels. 



However, these approaches often miss the intricate hormonal interactions that keep the body in balance.



“Our bodies rely on hormones to maintain homeostasis, so we thought, why not use these as key indicators of aging?” said Dr. Qiuyi Wang, co-first author of the study.



To explore this, the researchers focused on steroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-ai-model-for-biological-age">New AI model for biological age</h2>



The team developed a deep neural network (DNN) model that incorporates steroid metabolism <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organ-aging-can-predict-diseases-decades-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathways</a>. This AI-driven system is the first to examine how steroid hormones interact rather than just their individual levels.



“Our approach reduces the noise caused by individual steroid level differences and allows the model to focus on meaningful patterns,” explains Dr. Zi Wang, co-first author of this work.



The model was trained using blood samples from hundreds of individuals. The findings suggest that biological age differences increase as people grow older, much like a river widening as it flows downstream.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-health-assessment">Precise health assessment</h2>



The researchers’ method requires only five drops of blood. From this sample, they analyze 22 key steroids and their interactions to estimate biological age with greater precision. 



This advancement in technology opens doors for the early detection of age-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-and-aging-new-study-reveals-a-surprising-connection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> risks and personalized interventions to slow down aging.



One of the most significant discoveries in the study relates to cortisol, a hormone linked to stress. The team found that when cortisol levels doubled, biological age increased by approximately 1.5 times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-stress-on-biological-aging">Impact of stress on biological aging</h2>



“Stress is often discussed in general terms, but our findings provide concrete evidence that it has a measurable impact on biological aging,” said Professor Toshifumi Takao, a corresponding author and an expert in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.



This discovery reinforces the importance of stress management in maintaining long-term health. Chronic stress may speed up aging at a biochemical level, making it essential to prioritize mental well-being along with physical health.



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



Scientists believe their AI-powered biological age model could transform how people understand and manage their health. Instead of relying on general guidelines, this tool might allow doctors to give advice tailored to each person’s body and aging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-the-cellular-mortality-timer-that-dictates-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process</a>. 



By analyzing hormone interactions, the model could help detect diseases before symptoms appear, making early treatment possible. 



The technology could also assist in designing wellness programs that fit an individual’s needs, helping people choose the best diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes to slow down aging.



In the future, this technology might make it easier to track aging speed and adjust health strategies accordingly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-on-biological-aging">Expanding research on biological aging</h2>



While this study represents a major step forward, the researchers acknowledge that biological aging is complex. 



“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Wang. “By expanding our dataset and incorporating additional biological markers, we hope to refine the model further and unlock deeper insights into the mechanisms of aging.”



Advancements in AI and biomedical research continue to bring us closer to understanding the process of aging at a deeper level. The ability to assess how quickly a person is aging with a simple blood test could completely transform preventive healthcare in the years to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt2624" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

AI-powered blood test can predict your true biological age

We all know someone who seems to be aging more...

Skin cancer stands as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States, bringing about millions of non-melanoma cases and tens of thousands of melanomas yearly.&nbsp;



In addition, treating skin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/golfers-have-more-than-double-the-risk-of-skin-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> costs the nation roughly $8.9 billion annually. Individuals with fair skin, a history of sun exposure or tanning bed use, and a genetic predisposition bear higher risks. 



Yet, barriers like insufficient public awareness, cultural ideals favoring tanned skin, and limited access to sun protection tools underscore the ongoing challenges in prevention.



A new study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.fau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> (FAU) sheds light on how sunburn patterns and protective habits vary with different sociodemographic backgrounds.&nbsp;



According to the <a href="https://www.aad.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Academy of Dermatology</a>, experiencing over five blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 increases melanoma risk by 80 percent and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perceived-risk-of-skin-cancer-nbsp">Perceived risk of skin cancer&nbsp;</h2>



The research drew from the U.S. National Cancer Institute’s 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey 6 (HINTS 6), focusing on participants’ confidence in their own health, perceived risk of cancer, and anxiety about potential diagnoses.&nbsp;



Additionally, respondents noted whether they had experienced sunburn within the last year. The study examined how age, gender, occupation, marital status, education, Hispanic origin, race, and income shaped these responses, recognizing each of these factors could influence skin cancer risk.



Among 6,252 participants surveyed, 44% felt “very confident” they could care for their health, while 27.3% said they were “completely confident.”&nbsp;



Although few reported being “extremely worried” about skin cancer (9.1%), a quarter felt moderately concerned. On sunburns, the study found 67.6% reported none in the past year and 30.3% said they had between one and five.&nbsp;



In addition, 6.4% acknowledged drinking alcohol while already sunburned - something the authors associated with heightened exposure and additional sunburns. Activities such as drinking, working outdoors, or swimming commonly coincided with sunburn incidents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-trends-in-sunburn-prevalence">Surprising trends in sunburn prevalence</h2>



Using multinomial regression, the team found multiple factors tied strongly to sunburn likelihood. Adults over 40 emerged with lower sunburn risks, and women also tended to have fewer.&nbsp;



People who were disabled, unemployed, or employed in multiple jobs saw fewer sunburns, while those who were married or partnered experienced more. In contrast, being divorced or single corresponded with fewer sunburns.&nbsp;



Also, higher education and being Hispanic, Black, Asian, or of mixed race correlated with fewer incidents. Income was found to be a striking predictor: higher income individuals had significantly higher risks of sunburns, with the highest income group being over four times more likely to report sunburns.



“Social determinants such as race/ethnicity, sex, income and employment status are closely linked to sunburn and skin cancer risk,” said Lea Sacca, senior author and an assistant professor in the Department of Population Health and Social Medicine at FAU.&nbsp;



“While Hispanics and Black Americans generally report lower rates of sunburn, Hispanics often perceive greater benefits of UV exposure, which increases their risk. Factors such as sex, education, and income also influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-acid-in-our-skin-could-be-a-natural-sunscreen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunscreen</a> use, with lower use observed among Black Americans and Hispanic Americans.”&nbsp;



“However, within these groups, women with higher education and income are more likely to use sunscreen. Interestingly, higher income is associated with more frequent sunburns.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-basics-of-skin-cancer">The basics of skin cancer</h2>



There are three primary types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melanoma-has-been-replaced-as-the-deadliest-form-of-skin-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melanoma</a>.&nbsp;



Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent but typically the least severe, emerging as pearly bumps on sun-exposed areas.&nbsp;



Squamous cell carcinoma often takes the form of red, scaly patches or open sores and can spread if untreated.&nbsp;



Melanoma, the most dangerous type, can appear as new or changing moles and spreads quickly if not caught early.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-sociodemographics-matter">Why sociodemographics matter</h2>



“Understanding perceptions of skin cancer risk and the prevalence of protective behaviors is vital to reducing the likelihood of developing skin cancer, particularly among vulnerable groups,” said first author Madison Etzel, a second-year medical student at FAU.&nbsp;



“Our study underscores the importance of raising awareness about skin cancer susceptibility as we found that all sociodemographic factors were significantly linked to the number of reported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/main-cause-of-sunburn-finally-identified-is-rna-damage-not-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunburns</a> in the past year.”



“Future research should explore how additional social determinants of health influence sunburn incidence and prevention behaviors. A deeper understanding of these factors is critical to addressing the widespread harms of skin cancer in U.S. adults.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-skin-cancer">Preventing skin cancer</h2>



According to health authorities like the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Cancer Society</a>, several effective strategies can prevent skin cancer.&nbsp;



Key recommendations include regularly applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when outdoors, avoiding peak UV radiation times (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wearing protective clothing (such as long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses), and steering clear of tanning beds.&nbsp;



Self-exams and professional check-ups can help detect any unusual skin changes early on, improving treatment outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-awareness-and-targeted-interventions-nbsp">Growing awareness and targeted interventions&nbsp;</h2>



The study’s findings show that comprehending public attitudes and behaviors - especially among high-risk populations - is essential to driving down skin cancer prevalence.&nbsp;



By considering how age, race, income, and education intersect with sun exposure, health officials and policymakers can better hone campaigns to encourage healthy habits.&nbsp;



Ultimately, growing awareness and targeted interventions may lead to fewer sunburns, lower healthcare costs, and improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-alone-in-america-an-escalating-public-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health</a> across the U.S.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Skin cancer risk: The hidden factors beyond sunburn

Skin cancer stands as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in...

A team of chemists has recently introduced a non-toxic, eco-friendly, solvent-free approach to recycling plastic by using moisture found in ambient air.&nbsp;



In a study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/D4GC05916F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Green Chemistry</a>, the experts describe how a low-cost catalyst splits apart the bonds in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) - the most common polyester plastic.&nbsp;



After that, the fragmented <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> is exposed to ordinary air, converting it into monomers that could be reconstituted into new PET products or higher-value materials. The team’s findings raise the potential for a more cost-effective, sustainable path toward creating a circular economy for plastics.



Yosi Kratish is a research assistant professor of chemistry in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.



“The U.S. is the number one plastic polluter per capita, and we only recycle 5% of those plastics. There is a dire need for better technologies that can process different types of plastic waste,” said Kratish.



“Most of the technologies that we have today melt down plastic bottles and downcycle them into lower-quality products.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-moisture-to-recycle-plastic">Using moisture to recycle plastic</h2>



According to Kratish, what is particularly exciting about the research is that the team harnessed moisture from air to break down the plastics, achieving an exceptionally clean and selective process.&nbsp;



“By recovering the monomers, which are the basic building blocks of PET, we can recycle or even upcycle them into more valuable materials.”



Naveen Malik, the paper’s first author, noted that the study offers a sustainable and efficient solution to one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges: plastic waste.



“Unlike traditional recycling methods, which often produce harmful byproducts like waste salts and require significant energy or chemical inputs, our approach uses a solvent-free process that relies on trace moisture from ambient air. This makes it not only environmentally friendly but also highly practical for real-world applications,” said Malik.&nbsp;



Kratish co-led the study with Tobin J. Marks, a longtime chemistry professor at Weinberg and a professor of materials science and engineering at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-need-for-plastic-solutions">Critical need for plastic solutions</h2>



PET plastics, commonly used in items such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-use-in-food-packaging-could-be-drastically-reduced/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food packaging</a> and beverage bottles, make up approximately 12% of all plastics globally.&nbsp;



Their persistence in the environment underscores a major dilemma: PET is resistant to decomposition and therefore liable to end up in landfills, fragment into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-brain-alarming-new-details-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> or nanoplastics that seep into water sources, or accumulate in the natural environment.



Scientists worldwide are seeking new approaches to manage or recycle plastic, but existing processes often employ harsh conditions - extreme temperatures, high energy demands, strong solvents - that generate toxic byproducts.&nbsp;



The required catalysts can also be expensive or hazardous, compounding waste problems. Furthermore, once the recycling reaction finishes, researchers face a tough job of extracting useful materials from the leftover solvents, adding cost and complexity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solvent-free-method-for-recycling-nbsp">Solvent-free method for recycling&nbsp;</h2>



In prior work, Marks’ group at Northwestern pioneered catalytic methods that operate without solvents. This new paper builds on that achievement, once again using a solvent-free reaction approach.



“Using solvents has many disadvantages,” Kratish said. “They can be expensive, and you have to heat them up to high temperatures. Then, after the reaction, you are left with a soup of materials that you have to sort to recover the monomers.”



“Instead of using solvents, we used water vapor from air. It’s a much more elegant way to tackle plastic recycling issues.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-chemistry-to-recycle-plastic">Simple chemistry to recycle plastic </h2>



To test this new process, the team combined PET with a low-cost, non-toxic molybdenum catalyst plus activated carbon, then heated the mixture. Through this step, the large molecules of PET began to break down.&nbsp;



Next, the scientists introduced the fragmented plastic to ambient air, which contains minimal levels of water vapor, triggering a conversion of plastic remnants into monomers known as terephthalic acid (TPA) - the valuable precursor for making new polyesters.&nbsp;



The process yielded just one byproduct, acetaldehyde, which is considered relatively straightforward to remove in industrial contexts.



“Air contains a significant amount of moisture, making it a readily available and sustainable resource for chemical reactions,” Malik noted.&nbsp;



“On average, even in relatively dry conditions, the atmosphere holds about 10,000 to 15,000 cubic kilometers of water. Leveraging air moisture allows us to eliminate bulk solvents, reduce energy input, and avoid the use of aggressive chemicals, making the process cleaner and more environmentally friendly.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tasting-the-recycling-technology">Tasting the recycling technology </h2>



In preliminary trials, 94% of the TPA was recovered in merely four hours, demonstrating both speed and efficiency. The catalyst was shown to be robust and reusable, making it a practical choice for large-scale applications.&nbsp;



Because the technique selectively breaks down only polyester plastics, other types of plastic or non-plastic contaminants in a mixed batch are effectively bypassed.



When tested on actual plastic bottles, shirts, and mixed plastic waste, the process functioned similarly well, even eliminating dyes so that the recovered TPA turned out colorless.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scaling-up-the-new-method">Scaling up the new method </h2>



The scientists’ next move involves scaling up the method to meet industrial demand and handle bigger loads of discarded plastic. 



By optimizing factors such as reaction time, catalyst concentration, and temperature, they hope to create an economical solution for converting waste plastics into building blocks that can then be turned into new products.



“Our technology has the potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution, lower the environmental footprint of plastics and contribute to a circular economy where materials are reused rather than discarded," said Malik. 



"It’s a tangible step toward a cleaner, greener future, and it demonstrates how innovative chemistry can address global challenges in a way that aligns with nature."



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

How scientists are using air to recycle plastic

A team of chemists has recently introduced a non-toxic, eco-friendly,...

What if eating chocolate could be more than just a guilty pleasure? What if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chocolate-and-cocoa-prices-have-doubled-in-the-past-year-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chocolate</a>, infused with probiotics, had hidden health benefits beyond the usual antioxidant boost from dark varieties?



Scientists are working on just that. By infusing chocolate with prebiotics and probiotics, they aim to transform it into a functional food. 



The goal is to produce a delicious, gut-friendly treat that does more than satisfy cravings. But there’s a challenge: adding health-boosting ingredients can alter texture, moisture, and even protein levels. 



The trick is to keep the chocolate as indulgent as ever while making it better for the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-make-chocolate-healthier">Probiotics make chocolate healthier</h2>



Probiotics are tiny, beneficial microbes found in yogurt and kimchi that play a vital role in gut health. They help balance bacteria, aid digestion, and even reduce inflammation.



But they’re delicate. Stomach acid, heat, and processing can destroy probiotics before they ever reach the intestines, where they do their best work.



Enter prebiotics. These compounds, often dietary fibers, act as food for probiotics, helping them to thrive. Together, they form a powerhouse combination known as synbiotics. The challenge now is to find a way to embed these prebiotics and probiotics into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-chocolate-survive-dna-research-may-help-save-cacao-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chocolate</a> without ruining its flavor or texture.



That’s where researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from the Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (<a href="https://www.jiit.ac.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JIIT</a>) in India stepped in.



Instead of using complex processing methods, they took a different approach - corn and honey. These natural prebiotics were easy to integrate, and eliminated the need for complicated manufacturing techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimenting-with-flavor">Experimenting with flavor </h2>



The research team didn’t stop at a single chocolate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocoa-production-in-africa-is-under-extreme-climate-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recipe</a>. They created five versions. 



One was a control - pure chocolate with standard ingredients like cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and milk powder. 



The others were synbiotic chocolates, each containing different combinations of prebiotics (corn and honey), probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG), and a flavor enhancer - either cinnamon or orange.



Then came the tests. Fat content remained steady across all chocolates, keeping the mouthfeel familiar, but other properties shifted.



Orange-flavored chocolate, for example, changed the game. It lowered the pH, increased moisture, and even boosted protein levels compared to the other samples. Scientists believe the citrus elements interacted with the probiotics, enhancing their stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-change-chocolate-s-texture">Probiotics change chocolate’s texture</h2>



Texture matters in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-farming-could-save-the-future-of-chocolate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chocolate</a>. The perfect piece should break with a clean snap, not crumble or feel too soft. The synbiotic chocolates, however, lost some of that sharp break. 



Additional ingredients disrupted the chocolate’s structure, making it slightly softer. Whether that’s good or bad depends on personal preference. Some might find it more luxurious.



Nutritionally, though, the changes were promising. The probiotic-enhanced chocolates had higher antioxidant levels than the control. That means they not only delivered gut-friendly microbes but also an extra dose of protection against oxidative stress.



Storage was another key test. Would the probiotics survive? Over time, microbial counts decreased, but not as much as expected. Even after 125 days, probiotic levels remained high.



This shelf life exceeded that of many other probiotic-infused chocolates that had been tested in past studies, proving that the chosen bacteria strains and prebiotic ingredients contributed to long-term stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-real-test-is-surviving-digestion">The real test is surviving digestion</h2>



Chocolate infused with probiotics sounds great in theory, but there’s a bigger question: do the probiotics actually make it past the stomach? 



Harsh digestive conditions can destroy beneficial microbes before they reach the intestines, rendering the whole idea useless.



To find out, the researchers simulated human digestion in a lab. The results were encouraging. The probiotics maintained substantial viability for over five hours, meaning they had a strong chance of surviving long enough to benefit gut health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-it-still-feel-like-a-treat">Does it still feel like a treat?</h2>



Of course, none of this matters if the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-discovery-will-help-climate-proof-chocolate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chocolate</a> doesn’t taste good. People aren’t likely to choose gut-friendly chocolate if it doesn’t deliver the same rich, satisfying experience. So, the researchers sampled their creations.



“Personally, we enjoyed the orange-flavored chocolates the most, where the vibrant citrus notes complemented the rich cocoa, and it had a slightly softer texture that made each bite feel more luxurious,” said Gaur.



That’s a promising sign. A probiotic chocolate that doesn’t taste like a “health food” could appeal to a much wider audience. Experimenting with more flavors could make these chocolates even more exciting.



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



This study is just the beginning. While the results suggest that synbiotic chocolates can boost gut health and antioxidant levels, there’s still room for improvement. Future research could refine the probiotic strains, adjust texture, and enhance flavors.



“In the future, we are excited to explore additional health benefits of these chocolates while thoroughly investigating their sensory and nutritional profiles, with the goal of creating an even more wholesome and enjoyable treat,” said Gaur.



If successful, this could mark a shift in how people see chocolate - not just as a sweet indulgence, but as a functional food. Imagine a world where treating yourself means nourishing your body, too. 



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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Chocolate could be the next probiotic powerhouse

What if eating chocolate could be more than just a...

For over a century, the early Paleocene mammal named Mixodectes pungens has remained an enigma. First identified in 1883, its remains consisted of small fragments of fossilized teeth and bones - not enough for paleontologists to be able to draw many conclusions.



Researchers at that time could only guess about the creature's habits and its position in evolutionary history. 



Recently, however, a far more complete fossilized skeleton of one of these ancient mammals has been analyzed, and this has shed light on aspects of the animal's anatomy, behavior, diet and evolutionary connections.



The research team found that this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-earliest-evidence-of-mammals-at-the-seashore/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early mammal</a>, that lived in western North America about 62 million years ago, was tree-dwelling, weighed around three pounds, and fed primarily on leaves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixodectes-related-to-primates-and-colugos">Mixodectes related to primates and colugos</h2>



The researchers determined that Mixodectes was more closely related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-group-cohesion-common-enemy-effect-do-not-kill-inside-their-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> and colugos - also known as flying lemurs - than previously thought.



"A 62-million-year-old skeleton of this quality and completeness offers novel insights into mixodectids, including a much clearer picture of their evolutionary relationships," said Eric Sargis, professor of anthropology in <a href="https://www.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a>’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Mixodectes-pungens_illustration_credit-Stephen-Chester_1m1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Mixodectes-pungens_illustration_credit-Stephen-Chester_1s.webp" alt="Graphic illustration of Mixodectes pungens. New findings illuminate ancient species and its evolutionary connections to modern-day humans. Credit: Stephen Chester" class="wp-image-1962388"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Graphic illustration of Mixodectes pungens. New findings illuminate ancient species and its evolutionary connections to modern-day humans. Credit: Stephen Chester</figcaption></figure>



The skeleton, which includes a partial skull, teeth, spine, rib cage, and limbs, was discovered and excavated in New Mexico’s San Juan Basin, under a federal permit.



The well-preserved remains have helped scientists reconstruct how the species, which roamed the Earth shortly after the extinction of the dinosaurs, moved, ate, and interacted with the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-built-for-climbing">Built for climbing</h2>



The study revealed that Mixodectes was built for life in the trees. Its limb structure and claws suggest that it could cling to almost vertical surfaces, much like modern primates.



Its molar teeth were shaped for breaking down tough plant material, indicating an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/darwins-ground-sloth-was-not-fully-vegetarian/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">omnivorous</a> diet with a strong preference for leaves.



"This fossil skeleton provides new evidence concerning how placental mammals diversified ecologically, following the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-extinction-of-dinosaurs-was-not-caused-by-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction of the dinosaurs</a>," said  Stephen Chester, associate professor of anthropology at <a href="https://www.brooklyn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brooklyn College/CUNY</a> and lead author of the study.



"Characteristics such as a larger body mass and an increased reliance on leaves allowed Mixodectes to thrive in the same trees likely shared with other early primate relatives."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-ecological-niche">Unique ecological niche</h2>



At almost three pounds (.4 kilograms), Mixodectes was quite large for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-driving-tree-dwelling-primates-to-the-ground/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree-dwelling</a> mammal of its era. It was much larger than another small, forest-dwelling mammal, Torrejonia wilsoni, that was discovered with it. 



While Mixodectes ate primarily leaves, Torrejonia consumed mostly fruit, suggesting that the two species occupied different ecological niches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixodectes-and-the-evolutionary-tree">Mixodectes and the evolutionary tree</h2>



The researchers conducted two phylogenetic analyses to determine Mixodectes’ evolutionary placement. 



One analysis suggested it was an archaic primate, while the other classified it as a primatomorphan - part of a group that includes primates and colugos, but not tree shrews.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Mixodectes-pungens_skeleton_credit-scientific-Reports_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Mixodectes-pungens_skeleton_credit-scientific-Reports_1s.webp" alt="The skeleton, discovered in New Mexico’s San Juan Basin, is the most complete of its kind known to exist. Credit: Scientific Reports (2025)" class="wp-image-1962390"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The skeleton, discovered in New Mexico’s San Juan Basin, is the most complete of its kind known to exist. Credit: Scientific Reports (2025)</figcaption></figure>



"While the study doesn’t entirely resolve the debate over where mixodectids belong on the evolutionary tree, it significantly narrows it," commented Sargis.



These discoveries not only enhance our understanding of Mixodectes but also provide insight into how early mammals evolved and diversified in changing forest environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-back-at-the-post-dinosaur-world">Looking back at the post-dinosaur world</h2>



The finding of this Mixodectes fossil offers a glimpse into the ecosystems that arose in the aftermath of the mass extinction that eradicated the dinosaurs.



The initial Paleocene was an era of accelerated evolutionary transformation, as mammals started to diversify and utilize the ecological niches left vacant by the demise of the large reptiles.



During this time, the forests of North America were lush and humid, with plenty of room for arboreal mammals, such as Mixodectes, to flourish.



The fact that they had adapted claws for climbing indicates that they competed and coexisted with other arboreal species, such as early primate ancestors.



Their diet split - with Mixodectes being leaf specialists and other species preferring fruit - could have reduced direct competition and enabled several species to coexist in the same environment.



Apart from its role in ecology, the adaptation of Mixodectes as a specialist tree-dweller is in keeping with the wider pattern of mammals adapting to make use of tree habitats.



These initial experiments in climbing, grasping, and dietary specialization laid the foundation for the eventual emergence of primates, which set the stage for the evolutionary path that would eventually give rise to humans.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-90203-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

62 million years ago this mysterious mammal called Earth home

For over a century, the early Paleocene mammal named Mixodectes...

College athletes who suffer concussions may experience changes in their brains for up to a year after being cleared to play, according to new research. 



A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can interfere with normal brain function.



While symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and balance issues may fade, brain scans reveal that recovery at the neurological level may take much longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-brain-recovery-after-concussion">Tracking brain recovery after concussion</h2>



Researchers used brain scans over the course of a year to track biomarkers of brain injury in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/at-what-age-do-olympic-athletes-perform-their-best/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">athletes</a>.



“Concussion can have long-term effects on brain health, and there is growing evidence that brain recovery may persist months to years, even after symptoms like headache, fatigue and balance problems resolve,” said Dr. Nathan Churchill of St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto.



“Our study followed athletes before and after concussion for over a year, using multiple brain scans to examine biomarkers that signify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychoactive-drug-relieves-symptoms-of-traumatic-brain-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain injury</a>. Our results provide strong evidence, suggesting incomplete recovery of brain function when returning to play and beyond.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-changes-over-time">Brain changes over time</h2>



The experts evaluated 187 college athletes, 25 of whom experienced concussions during the regular season. They played high-impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-who-play-team-sports-have-fewer-mental-health-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a> like basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, and volleyball.



All of the athletes underwent pre-season testing that assessed balance, thinking, and memory in order to set a baseline. They also had a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan prior to the start of the season.



Participants who later experienced concussions were given additional brain scans at important intervals: about five days following their concussion, upon clearance to resume playing, one to three months after resuming play, and one year after resuming play.



As a comparison, 27 athletes who did not have concussions had similar scans at their subsequent pre-season evaluation.



The researchers then contrasted the pre- and post-injury scans of the concussed players, with additional examination of how these changes compared to those of healthy players.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-flow-and-white-matter-changes">Blood flow and white matter changes</h2>



The tests revealed that despite being cleared medically, athletes who had experienced concussions continued to exhibit evidence of brain damage. 



The most significant finding was a reduction in blood flow to the fronto-insular cortex - a region of the brain involved in thinking, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/concussions-alter-brain-signals-that-are-crucial-for-memory-and-focus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>, emotions, and social behavior.



At the time of their return to play, concussed athletes showed an average decrease of nine milliliters of blood per 100 grams per minute compared to healthy athletes.



A year later, the difference was even greater, with an average decrease of 11 milliliters per 100 grams per minute. These changes were more pronounced than those seen in uninjured athletes.



The researchers also looked at how water molecules flowed through the brain’s white matter. These scans indicated that, even a year after the injury, concussed athletes continued to display possible signs of residual brain injury.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-repeated-concussions">Impacts of repeated concussions</h2>



“The presence of significant, long-lasting brain changes after injury reinforces concerns about the consequences of repeated concussions, and to what extent these effects accumulate over time,” said Churchill. 



“More studies are needed in larger groups of people to further investigate the long-term effects to the brain.”



One limitation of the study is that it only included <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-kids-sports-putting-their-hearts-in-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">young athletes</a>. Future research should look at how concussions affect non-athletes and people in other age groups to understand the broader impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-athletes">What this means for athletes </h2>



The results of the study contribute to the increasing concern regarding the management of concussions in athletes, especially when they are young. Although symptoms resolve within weeks, brain recovery might take many more months.



All stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and clinicians, should consider these residual effects when deciding whether it will be safe to return to play.



Concussions are more than just temporary setbacks - they can have lasting effects. Monitoring brain health even after symptoms subside is crucial for long-term well-being.



The research was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canadian Institute for Military and Veterans Health Research, and Siemens Healthineers Canada.



 The full study was published in the journal of the <a href="https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5245">American Academy of Neurology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

College athletes have lasting brain changes after concussion

College athletes who suffer concussions may experience changes in their...

Life on Earth may not have begun with a dramatic lightning strike into the ocean. Instead, tiny microlightning charges from crashing waterfalls and breaking waves might have played a crucial role.



​New research from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>&nbsp;suggests that water droplets, when sprayed into a mix of gases found in early Earth’s atmosphere, can create organic molecules.&nbsp;Among them is uracil, a key component of DNA and RNA.​



The findings add another layer to the long-debated Miller-Urey hypothesis. Proposed in the 1950s, the theory suggests that lightning interacting with a gas mixture could generate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-super-earth-hd-20794-found-just-20-light-years-away-is-best-target-yet-for-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic molecules</a>.



The new study, published in Science Advances, offers an alternative explanation: water spray itself can generate the necessary reactions without external electricity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microlightning-and-organic-molecules">Microlightning and organic molecules</h2>



Scientists found that when water droplets divide, they develop opposing charges. Larger droplets carry positive charges, while smaller ones become negative. 



When these oppositely charged droplets move close together, sparks fly between them. This process, termed "microlightning" by the researchers, mimics how lightning forms in clouds.



Richard Zare, the&nbsp;<a href="https://chemistry.stanford.edu/people/richard-n-zare" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marguerite Blake Wilbur Professor of Natural Science</a>&nbsp;and professor of chemistry at Stanford’s School of Humanities and Sciences, co-authored the study.



“Microelectric discharges between oppositely charged water microdroplets make all the organic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/was-early-earth-a-purple-planet-scientists-say-its-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecules</a> observed previously in the Miller-Urey experiment, and we propose that this is a new mechanism for the prebiotic synthesis of molecules that constitute the building blocks of life,” said Zare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-water-sprays-in-early-earth">Role of water sprays in early Earth</h2>



For billions of years, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-intelligent-life-is-likely-very-common-throughout-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> had a rich mixture of chemicals but lacked organic molecules with carbon-nitrogen bonds. These bonds are essential for proteins, nucleic acids, and other key biological structures. 



The&nbsp;<a href="https://dosequis.colorado.edu/Courses/MethodsLogic/Docs/Miller.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miller-Urey experiment</a>&nbsp;suggested that lightning striking the ocean could have formed these molecules. However, some scientists argue that lightning was too rare and the ocean too vast for this to be the main source.



Zare and his team offer a different perspective. Their experiments showed that microlightning could produce key organic molecules. They sprayed room-temperature water into a gas mixture containing nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. 



The result was the formation of organic compounds, including hydrogen cyanide, glycine, and uracil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microlightning-as-a-reliable-energy-source">Microlightning as a reliable energy source </h2>



Instead of rare lightning strikes, microlightning may have been a more frequent and reliable energy source. Waves crashing against rocks, waterfalls spraying mist, and other natural processes could have provided a constant supply of tiny sparks, triggering chemical reactions <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessary for life</a>.



“On early Earth, there were water sprays all over the place - into crevices or against rocks, and they can accumulate and create this chemical reaction,” Zare said. “I think this overcomes many of the problems people have with the Miller-Urey hypothesis.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-power-of-water-droplets">Hidden power of water droplets</h2>



Zare’s team has explored other surprising properties of water droplets. Their research includes studying how water vapor may help produce ammonia, a key ingredient in fertilizer, and how tiny water droplets can spontaneously generate hydrogen peroxide.



“We usually think of water as so benign, but when it’s divided in the form of little droplets, water is highly reactive,” Zare said.



This new research shifts the focus from dramatic lightning bolts to the quiet but powerful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemistry</a> of water droplets. The findings open new possibilities for understanding how life began - not with a single strike, but with countless tiny sparks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-from-countless-sparks">Life from countless sparks</h2>



The discovery of microlightning as a potential source of organic molecules offers a fresh take on one of science’s biggest mysteries. It suggests that instead of relying on rare and dramatic events, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrogen-was-plentiful-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a> may have emerged from small but constant processes.



By shifting the focus from massive lightning storms to tiny sparks within water droplets, this research presents a more practical and widespread explanation for the formation of life’s essential components. Rather than a single, extraordinary moment, life may have emerged through countless tiny reactions occurring over time.



This idea not only deepens our understanding of how life began on Earth but also expands the search for life beyond our planet. If tiny sparks in water droplets can create organic molecules here, similar processes might be taking place on distant worlds with liquid water.



As scientists continue to explore the origins of life, the smallest elements of nature may hold the biggest answers. The research from Stanford University serves as a reminder that life’s beginnings might not have been marked by a single, powerful event but by a series of small, persistent sparks shaping the path forward.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt8979" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Microlightning from water droplets may have sparked life on Earth

Life on Earth may not have begun with a dramatic...

A recent research discovery suggests that, as environmental temperatures increase, the effectiveness of natural insect repellents against mosquitoes could decline.



Mosquitoes have a pain receptor called TRPA1, which acts like a fire alarm, detecting noxious heat and harmful chemicals to protect the insect.



This receptor also plays a crucial role in determining which hosts these insects find attractive, especially if they're unprotected by repellents.



Study co-author Peter Piermarini is a&nbsp;professor of entomology at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>.&nbsp;



“What we found was that the chemicals were not able to activate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-repellents-that-actually-work-yes-thanks-to-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito</a> wasabi receptor as effectively when temperatures exceeded the heat activation threshold,” explained Piermarini.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-weakens-natural-repellents">Temperature weakens natural repellents</h2>



Essentially, insect repellents work as chemical barriers, keeping away pesky mosquitoes from their potential targets. But, in warmer temperatures, the TRPA1 receptors of mosquitos become less sensitive. 



This means that natural repellents, such as citronella and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-why-catnip-is-a-powerful-mosquito-repellent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catnip</a> oil, may lose some of their buzz. As a result, products containing these ingredients might not work as well in extreme heat conditions.



This, in combination with longer breeding periods caused by a warming climate, could potentially exacerbate the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-borne-diseases-are-a-growing-threat-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito-borne diseases</a> considerably.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-experimental-testing">The experimental testing</h2>



Professor Piermarini and graduate student Yeaeun Park set out to investigate the role of temperature in repellent sensitivity in mosquitos. 



The researchers removed TRPA1 mosquito receptors and injected them into frog egg cells. They then tested how these receptors responded to citronella and catnip oil under normal and elevated temperatures.



The experts found that these receptors were still activated, but were less sensitive to those substances in hotter temperatures. "It was very close to what we predicted." said Piermarini.



The second experiment involved observing how adult <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infectious-female-mosquitoes-converted-into-non-biting-males/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">female mosquitoes</a> reacted to these repellents at varying temperatures.



Once temperatures exceeded 32 degrees Celsius, mosquitoes showed less avoidance to these substances, implying a similar behavior might be observed in real-world scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-synthetic-vs-natural-repellents">Synthetic vs. natural repellents</h2>



However, not all repellents are created equal in the face of rising temperatures. A synthetic mosquito repellent, DEET, was also tested in the study. 



Unlike natural counterparts, DEET doesn’t interact with the wasabi receptor to deter mosquitos, and its efficiency remained unaffected by higher temperatures.



“This suggests that during the hottest days of the year you’d probably want to stick with a more conventional synthetic repellent and avoid using a natural product with citronella or catnip oil,” noted Piermarini.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-depth-understanding-can-save-lives">In-depth understanding can save lives</h2>



Now that we have this information, where do we go from here? The next step for the Ohio State team is to unearth the specific mechanisms behind temperature-induced desensitization of the TRPA1 receptor.



The researchers plan to study this phenomenon extensively, possibly by recruiting human participants.



“The more we learn about the mechanisms by which these natural products work, it can help us determine which ones might be better to use under certain conditions,” said Piermarini. "Understanding these limitations can potentially save lives."



When it comes to battling the bugs, our defenses should remain robust, regardless of the weather. So, as the world gets warmer, it is time we adapt our arsenals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-mosquito-control-strategies">Adapting mosquito control strategies </h2>



With rising temperatures reducing the effectiveness of natural repellents, researchers and public health officials are exploring alternative strategies to keep mosquito populations in check.



Innovations in mosquito control, such as genetically modified mosquitoes, habitat disruption, and novel synthetic repellents, are gaining attention as potential solutions.



One promising approach involves the use of spatial repellents - substances that create a protective barrier in an area rather than relying on direct application to the skin.



Scientists are also investigating plant-derived compounds that remain effective in high temperatures, ensuring that natural alternatives continue to play a role in mosquito defense.



As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-habitats-are-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> extends mosquito breeding seasons and shifts their geographic range, adapting repellent strategies will be crucial for reducing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. 



Future research will focus on developing heat-resistant formulations and integrated pest management techniques that can withstand the warming climate.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048357525000392?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Rising temperatures could make insect repellents less effective

A recent research discovery suggests that, as environmental temperatures increase,...

Chronic pain plagues millions of individuals across the globe, but its influence extends beyond the physical symptoms. A recent review of over 375 published studies has uncovered a remarkably strong link between chronic pain and mental illness.



The researchers found that 40% of adults living with chronic pain have clinically significant depression and anxiety - a result that is of particular concern considering the absence of comprehensive treatment for both conditions.



The study, led by researchers at <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins Medicine</a>, emphasizes the need for regular screening for depression and anxiety in individuals with persistent pain conditions. 



The research showed that women, younger adults, and individuals with fibromyalgia were most at risk of suffering mental illness associated with chronic pain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chronic-pain-and-mental-health">Chronic pain and mental health</h2>



For many years, studies have shown that chronic pain and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-can-safely-treat-mental-health-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health disorders</a> often occur together. But according to this new research, the link is actually stronger than it was initially believed to be.



The results reinforce the need for mental health treatment to become a routine aspect of managing chronic pain, which is defined as pain that lasts more than three months. Ongoing pain can be disabling, often impacting an individual's capacity to work, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-circadian-disturbances-trigger-mental-health-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, and participate in daily activities.



According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 51.6 million U.S. adults - about 21% of the population - suffered from chronic pain in 2021. Among these individuals, between 20% and 40% also experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression and anxiety</a>.



Dr. Rachel Aaron, the first author of the study, is an assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.



“Right now, we have effective psychological treatments for depression and anxiety, and effective psychological treatments for chronic pain, but these treatments are often siloed," explained Dr. Aaron.



"In fact, many studies exclude people with chronic pain who have depression or anxiety from clinical trials. We need integrated treatments that address chronic pain and mental health together."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-analysis-of-global-data">Comprehensive analysis of global data</h2>



In an attempt&nbsp;to&nbsp;assess the&nbsp;magnitude of the problem, the researchers examined data from 376 studies that were carried out between 2013 and 2023. These studies involved 347,468 adult patients from 50 nations, with a mean participant age of 52.



The aim was to provide an estimate of how prevalent depression and anxiety are among individuals who suffer from chronic pain, and to compare their frequencies to those who live without persistent pain conditions.



The study incorporated clinical symptoms from medical histories, diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and many demographic variables such as age, gender, location, and pain duration. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-anxiety-and-chronic-pain">Depression, anxiety, and chronic pain </h2>



Among the seven key symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders, the researchers found that patients with chronic pain exhibited the highest rates in clinical depression (39%) and clinical anxiety (40%).



Major depressive disorder was present in 37% of individuals, while 6% experienced persistent depressive disorder.



Generalized anxiety disorder affected 17% of individuals, while 8% had panic disorder. Social anxiety disorder was less common, with a rate of two percent.



The findings suggest that the psychological distress experienced by the patients is more than just a reaction to discomfort.



The data supports the theory that adverse life experiences and emotional distress can increase the risk of chronic nociplastic pain - a condition linked to changes in the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-better-screening">The need for better screening</h2>



Despite the strong link between chronic pain and mental health, screening for depression and anxiety is not a routine part of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/patients-with-chronic-pain-are-turning-to-cannabis-for-relief/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic pain treatment</a>. 



Many chronic pain patients with depression or anxiety struggle to find specialized care, and some are even excluded from clinical trials designed to test new pain treatments. The lack of access to integrated care leaves them in a cycle of untreated symptoms.



“People who have chronic pain are more likely than those who don’t to have depression and anxiety. This is a significant public health problem that should be addressed with routine screening of depression and anxiety in clinical settings, and the development of novel treatments that target their comorbidity,” noted Dr. Aaron.



“At the same time, this is also a story of resilience. Most people with chronic pain do not have depression or anxiety. These results challenge the ableist narrative that chronic pain is inherently depressing, and remind us that people with chronic pain can and do lead psychologically healthy, fulfilling lives.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-pain-management">Rethinking pain management</h2>



The study’s findings highlight the need for a shift in how we treat chronic pain and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/outdoor-exercise-amplifies-physical-and-mental-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>. Instead of being treated as separate issues, medical professionals should develop new strategies that address both simultaneously. 



This could include integrated therapy programs, improved screening in clinical settings, and broader inclusion criteria in research trials.



Recognizing the link between chronic pain and mental illness is the first step toward real change - one that could improve the lives of those living with persistent pain and the mental health challenges that often accompany it.



 The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831134" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

People with chronic pain have high rates of depression and anxiety

Chronic pain plagues millions of individuals across the globe, but...

Polymers are a fundamental part of our daily lives. They are found in everything from electronics and construction materials to household items and vehicles.



Traditionally deemed safe due to their large molecular size, these substances have mostly avoided regulatory scrutiny. However, a new study challenges this assumption - showing that some polymers can degrade over time, releasing smaller chemical molecules that may pose potential risks.



This discovery raises concerns about the hidden risks associated with using polymers that have long been considered harmless, and highlights the need for greater oversight.



As researchers uncover more about the breakdown processes, questions arise about the long-term environmental and health consequences of widespread polymer use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-polymer-mystery">Unraveling the polymer mystery</h2>



Can we trust polymers to be safe? The scientific community has traditionally thought so. The logic was simple; we believed these large molecules were too big to migrate out of the products and into people, thus posing no health risks.



As a result, polymers have managed to dodge regulation, and they are exempt from fundamental toxic acts like the Toxic Substances Control Act in the U.S. and REACH in the E.U.



However, the latest study is now challenging this long-standing conviction. Researchers from <a href="https://www.jnu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jinan University</a> in China and the University of Toronto have discovered that certain polymers used as flame retardants might be breaking down into smaller, harmful chemicals.



"Our study suggests polymers can act as a trojan horse for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-kitchen-utensils-may-leach-toxic-chemicals-in-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic chemicals</a>. They are added to products as inert large molecules but, over time, they can degrade, exposing us to their harmful breakdown products," said study senior author Da Chen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flame-retardants-and-their-hidden-risks">Flame retardants and their hidden risks</h2>



To test their hypothesis, the researchers experimented with two polymeric brominated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-chemicals-linked-to-neurological-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flame retardants</a> (polyBFRs). These substances were created as "non-toxic" alternatives to banned flame retardants. 



Surprisingly, the team found that both polyBFRs decomposed into dozens of types of smaller molecules.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-strengthen-the-toxicity-of-pollutants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxicity</a> testing of these smaller molecules in zebrafish showed a considerable potential for causing mitochondrial dysfunction and developmental and cardiovascular harm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakdown-products-in-the-environment">Breakdown products in the environment</h2>



The scientists didn't stop there. They sought out these polymer breakdown products in the environment. Alarmingly, the molecules were detected in soil, air, and dust.



The highest concentration levels were detected near electronic waste recycling facilities, gradually decreasing with distance from these sites.



These findings bolster the claim that the use of polyBFRs in electronics can result in the release of toxic breakdown products into the environment, potentially exposing humans and wildlife to harm.



Miriam Diamond, a co-author and professor at the University of Toronto, expressed her concerns.



"Widespread use of these polyBFRs in electronics may result in exposures when these products are manufactured, when they're in our homes, and when they're discarded or recycled," said Professor Diamond.



"Since it is suspected that production volumes are very high (the chemical industry does not disclose the volumes), the potential for pollution - and resulting serious harm to people and wildlife - greatly concerns me."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-concern-over-polymer-safety">Growing concern over polymer safety</h2>



The implications of the research extend to other types of polymers used in consumer products, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).



Despite arguments from PFAS producers that fluorinated polymers should be exempt from regulation, scientists insist that fluorinated polymers are members of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pfas-crisis-humans-are-early-warning-system-for-wildlife-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PFAS</a> class of substances and that the use of all PFAS should be avoided.



"To escape regulation, flame retardant and PFAS producers are increasingly pivoting to polymers for use in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-products-expose-people-to-dangerous-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">everyday products</a>. As a result, problematic polymers emit toxic small molecules from products we touch, sit on, wear, and keep in our homes," said Arlene Blum, executive director of the Green Science Policy Institute.



"Regulators need to close this loophole to protect consumers - especially children - from the possibility of serious chemical harm." 



In conclusion, it's essential for us to reconsider our understanding and regulation of polymers. They might not be as benign as once thought. 



More research is needed, but one thing is clear: we need to be aware of the potential invisible risk in our everyday products.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-025-01513-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Sustainability</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Everyday polymers that are considered 'safe' release harmful toxins

Polymers are a fundamental part of our daily lives. They...

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



---



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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)



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



---



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

News coming your way