Parents often turn to screens to entertain their kids, but a new study uncovered how this might be affecting children's development in unexpected ways.



Dr. Karen Heffler, an associate professor of Psychiatry, has been exploring the impact of screen time on the youngest minds. 



Her recent findings suggest that babies and toddlers who spend time in front of televisions or videos may develop unusual sensory behaviors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kids-screens-and-sensory-behaviors">Kids, screens, and sensory behaviors</h2>



By the time children reach 33 months old, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">those exposed</a> to screens before age two show signs of "sensation seeking," "sensation avoiding," and "low registration," meaning they might be less responsive or slower to react to stimuli.



"This association could have important implications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism, as atypical sensory processing is much more prevalent in these populations," explained Dr. Heffler, hailing from <a href="https://drexel.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drexel University</a>.



Conducted using data from the National Children's Study between 2011 and 2014, the research analyzed information from 1,471 children across the country. 



The team looked at how much time kids spent watching screens at 12, 18, and 24 months, based on what caregivers reported.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-atypical-sensory-behaviors">Understanding atypical sensory behaviors</h2>



Atypical sensory behavior happens when someone experiences their senses -- like sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell -- in ways that are a bit different. 



They might find certain noises way too loud or lights way too bright, even if others don’t seem to notice. 



Some folks can’t stand the feel of clothing tags or certain textures in food. On the flip side, they might crave strong sensations, like wanting to touch everything or enjoying tight hugs. 



These differences in how they process sensory info can impact daily life and social interactions, making some situations feel challenging or overwhelming.



These behaviors were assessed using the <a href="https://www.pearsonassessments.com/store/usassessments/en/Store/Professional-Assessments/Motor-Sensory/Infant-Toddler-Sensory-Profile/p/100000389.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile</a>, a tool that helps identify how children respond to sensory experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worrisome-stats-on-kids-and-screens">Worrisome stats on kids and screens</h2>



The study's statistics are eye-opening:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>At 12 months, any screen exposure was linked to a 105% greater chance of high sensory behaviors related to low registration by 33 months.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>At 18 months, each extra hour of daily screen time increased the odds of high sensory behaviors related to sensation avoiding and low registration by 23%.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>By 24 months, every additional hour of screen time was associated with a 20% increase in high sensation seeking, sensory sensitivity, and sensation avoiding behaviors at 33 months.</li>
</ul>



<a href="https://drexel.edu/medicine/faculty/profiles/karen-heffler/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Heffler</a> pointed out that repetitive behavior, such as that seen in autism spectrum disorder, is highly correlated with atypical sensory processing.



"Future work may determine whether early life screen time could fuel the sensory brain hyperconnectivity seen in autism spectrum disorders, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-screen-time-changes-the-brain-based-on-23-years-of-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heightened brain responses</a> to sensory stimulation," Heffler explained.



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



These findings add to growing concerns about screen time's role in developmental challenges like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-too-much-screen-time-struggle-to-gain-language-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language delays</a>, behavioral issues, sleep problems, attention difficulties, and delays in problem-solving skills.



"Considering this link between high screen time and a growing list of developmental and behavioral problems, it may be beneficial for toddlers exhibiting these symptoms to undergo a period of screen time reduction, along with sensory processing practices delivered by occupational therapists," advised Dr. Heffler.



<a href="https://drexel.edu/medicine/faculty/profiles/david-bennett/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">David Bennett, PhD</a>, a professor of Psychiatry, emphasized the importance of guidance for parents. "Parent training and education are key to minimizing, or hopefully even avoiding, screen time in children younger than two years," he said.



The <a href="https://www.aap.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Academy of Pediatrics</a> recommends that children under 18 to 24 months avoid screen time altogether. For kids aged 2 to 5 years, digital media use should be limited and carefully managed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harsh-reality-of-kids-and-screens">Harsh reality of kids and screens</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negative-effects-of-screen-time-offset-by-outdoor-play/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Despite these recommendations</a>, many young children are spending more time with screens than ever before. 



In 2014, children under two years old in the U.S. watched screens for an average of 3 hours and 3 minutes daily, up from 1 hour and 19 minutes per day in 1997.



Some parents <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-screen-time-affect-preteens-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resort to screen time</a> out of sheer exhaustion and a lack of affordable alternatives for keeping their kids occupied. It's a challenge that many families face in today's fast-paced world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-children-with-sensory-differences">Supporting children with sensory differences</h2>



Atypical sensory behaviors can significantly impact a child's daily life, affecting everything from learning to social interactions. Recognizing and accommodating these needs is crucial.



Supporting kids with sensory differences means understanding their unique experiences and adjusting to meet their needs.



By paying attention to how they respond to sounds, textures, lights, and other stimuli, we can make small changes that help them feel more comfortable.



Simple adjustments like dimming bright lights or creating quiet spaces can really enhance their daily lives. 



Collaborating with professionals like occupational therapists gives us the tools and strategies to help these kids navigate their world with confidence and ease.



Occupational therapists often help by using techniques like sensory integration therapy. Strategies might include creating sensory-friendly environments or using tools like noise-canceling headphones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kids-screentime-and-the-future">Kids, screentime, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, the connection between early screen time and sensory processing issues is a complex one that we're just beginning to understand. 



As parents and caregivers, being <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swedish-pediatricians-no-screen-time-for-children-under-two/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindful of screen use</a> and staying informed can make a significant difference in our children's development.



Finding alternatives to screen time can be a fun and rewarding challenge. Simple activities like reading together, playing outside, or engaging in imaginative play can provide enriching experiences that support healthy development.



Have you noticed how screen time affects your little one? Share your thoughts and experiences -- your insights could help other parents navigate this important topic.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.5923" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Pediatrics</a>.



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Autism and ADHD disorders directly linked amount of time kids spend on screens

Parents often turn to screens to entertain their kids, but a new study uncovered how this might be affecting children's development in unexpected ways. Dr. Karen Heffler, an associate professor of Psychiatry, has been exploring the impact of screen time on the youngest minds. Her recent findings suggest that babies and toddlers who spend time in front of televisions or videos may develop unusual sensory behaviors. Kids, screens, and sensory behaviors By the time children reach 33 months old, those exposed to screens before age two show...

Ever wondered why heart ailments, especially in men, are such a persistent issue in our society? 



Cardiovascular disease is one such shadow that threatens to consume the life force of countless individuals, both in the U.S. and globally. It's an issue that has doctors and researchers scrambling for answers, primarily because it's more navigable and preventable than other diseases that plague us.



However, prevention and modification depend heavily on timely detection of risk factors like high cholesterol and hypertension. 



Alarmingly, detection and mitigation seem to be lapsing. A staggering 75% of young adults that have risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol are unaware of their conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-norms-and-men-s-heart-health">Gender norms and men's heart health</h2>



A recent study from the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> has shed light on an unexpected link between traditional gender norms adherence and the likelihood of diagnosis and treatment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fatherhood-takes-a-toll-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease risk</a> factors. 



The study, titled "Male Gender Expressivity and Diagnosis and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease Risks in Men," suggests that boys and men who strongly align with stereotypical gender norms within their social environments are less likely to report having received diagnoses or treatment for cardiovascular disease risk factors.



This is significant as it adds depth to existing research on men, which suggests that societal pressures to conform to traditional male gender identity can lead to harmful health-related behaviors. This includes substance abuse and the rejection of medical advice and therapies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-likelihood-of-heart-disease-in-men">Likelihood of heart disease in men</h2>



Dr. Nathaniel Glasser is a general internist and pediatrician at UChicago Medicine and lead author on the paper.



"It's well known that male gender and male sex are associated with lower help-seeking for a range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-has-a-hidden-impact-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health conditions</a>.- especially&nbsp;mental health&nbsp;and primary care," said Dr. Glasser.



"But previous studies haven't probed further into the social processes through which male gender is iteratively created through an interplay between the individual and their surroundings."



The researchers used novel measurement techniques to explore the construction of male gender and its relationship with cardiovascular disease prevention.



The team used data from Add Health, a longitudinal study featuring health measurements and survey responses from over 12,300 individuals, spanning 24 years (1994-2018).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concept-of-gender-expression">Concept of gender expression</h2>



"When we talk about&nbsp;gender expression, we're not looking at anything physiologic that could be affected by the Y chromosome," noted Dr. Glasser.



"We're purely focused on self-reported behaviors, preferences and beliefs, and how closely these reported behaviors and attitudes resemble those of same-gendered peers."



The study revealed that men who expressed more typical gender behaviors were significantly less likely to report receiving professional communication about certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-accurately-predicts-cardiovascular-heart-disease-risk-30-years-into-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a> risk factors.



These men were also less likely to report undergoing treatment for these conditions, even after receiving diagnoses.



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



The insights from this study present important implications for healthcare providers. 



Understanding the role of gender expression in health-related behaviors necessitates an approach to cardiovascular care that considers the social and cultural aspects of gender. 



This may involve developing targeted communication strategies that encourage men to engage with healthcare services, like monitoring their heart health, without compromising their gender identity. 



By tailoring health messages to resonate with men’s experiences, providers can bridge the gap between diagnosis and treatment, and potentially mitigate the risk associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular diseases</a> in this demographic.



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



Future research should aim to expand the understanding of how dynamics of men and women influence health beyond the heart health. 



Investigations could explore how traditional gender norms affect other risk behaviors and health outcomes, potentially inspiring cross-disciplinary studies that encompass sociology, psychology, and medicine. 



Longitudinal studies with diverse populations can further refine these findings by offering broader perspectives on gender and health interaction. 



Such research not only enriches our comprehension of male health behaviors but also informs policies and interventions designed to foster an inclusive and effective healthcare system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-pressures-and-behavior">Social pressures and behavior</h2>



This pattern highlights a significant lost chance for the prevention or reduction of severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fathers-diets-impact-the-heart-health-of-their-daughters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular conditions</a> in the future. 



"Our hypothesis is that&nbsp;social pressures&nbsp;are leading to behavioral differences that impact cardiovascular risk mitigation efforts, which is concerning because it could be leading to worse long-term health outcomes," said Dr. Glasser.



The research on men's heart health has far-reaching implications beyond just traditional masculinity. It shows how pressures to conform to an identity, be it gender, race, sexuality, or otherwise, can impact health behaviors.



Although this is a complex task, one can't help but wonder if a more accepting and patient society would be beneficial for overall health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2825342" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Social expectations of men are bad for their heart health

Ever wondered why heart ailments, especially in men, are such...

What if the everyday materials people use come with a hidden price tag? A price not measured in dollars and cents, but unseen environmental impacts?



From steel in buildings to plastic in water bottles, the construction materials that shape our world carry an unaccounted climate cost.



A recent study by a team of engineers and economists at the University of California, Davis offers a fresh perspective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-footprint-of-everyday-materials">Carbon footprint of everyday materials</h2>



The study revealed an eye-opening figure. The manufacturing of materials like steel, plastic, and cement is associated with $79 billion of climate damage annually in the United States.



Many argue that including these hidden costs in the market prices of goods would push the exploration and implementation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-technology-is-urgently-needed-to-save-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greener alternatives</a>.



Elisabeth Van Roijen, who earned a Ph.D. from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, led the team on this project.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research">Focus of the research </h2>



The team also included undergraduate researcher Paikea Colligan and postdoctoral researcher Seth Kane. They scrutinized the unseen climate costs of producing nine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-plastic-materials-do-not-biodegrade-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ubiquitous materials</a>: aluminum, iron, steel, brick, cement, lime, gypsum, asphalt, glass, and plastics.



"Materials production is a primary driver of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions; yet the externalized costs of these emissions on society are not reflected in market prices," noted the researchers.



The team analyzed the quantity of the materials manufactured within the United States, the energy consumed in the process, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/state-of-the-climate-greenhouse-gases-hit-a-record-high-in-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> emitted during manufacturing.



The researchers used the Environmental Protection Agency’s Social Cost of Carbon standard to assess the climate costs of the emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-costs-of-everyday-materials">Climate costs of everyday materials</h2>



The research revealed that in 2018, the U.S. produced 370 million tons of these materials, which resulted in 427 million tons of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide emissions</a>.



This led to $79 billion worth of climate costs - a figure not reflected in the materials' market price. The factors influencing climate costs fluctuate with material demand.



Manufacturing aluminum produces large volumes of carbon dioxide per product weight, while manufacturing an equivalent amount of brick contributes much less carbon dioxide.



The substantially higher production rate of bricks compared to aluminum means the impact on climate costs is substantial. Due to their high demand, steel and plastics contribute the most to climate costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-impact-of-manufacturing-processes">Hidden impact of manufacturing processes</h2>



The researchers found that 42% of the climate cost derived from the manufacturing processes rather than energy consumption.



Manufacturing cement releases carbon dioxide due to specific chemical reactions outside of energy consumption.



While people tackle climate costs from energy use by switching to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/renewable-energy-must-be-doubled-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable sources</a>, process-related costs are harder to reduce unless they create new processes or find alternative materials.



Van Roijen emphasized the importance of researching alternative materials, such as partially substituting cement in concrete and developing biomass-based plastics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-towards-a-greener-economy">Moving towards a greener economy</h2>



Including these hidden climate costs in the retail price would reveal that manufacturing prices are higher than previously known.



Such realization paves the way for implementing policies that encourage the development and use of climate-friendly processes and materials.



Van Roijen believes that such shifts would make innovative materials like biomass-based plastics more cost-effective since the price accounts for carbon storage benefits.



The study's dataset provided valuable insights for practical and policy work. The method could be duplicated for other sectors and broaden the understanding of climate costs across the economy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-true-cost-of-everyday-materials">True cost of everyday materials </h2>



"This work unveils the significant, yet often unaccounted for, climate costs of materials production in the US, estimated at approximately 79 billion USD," wrote the study authors. 



The researchers noted that these findings highlight the true cost of materials production and address the disparities in market pricing which fail to reflect these externalities.



"Further, by examining the breakdown of emissions sources, this work serves as a foundation for the identification of relevant policy drivers to help mitigate emissions from materials production."



The research was supported by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad796e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



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Exposing the hidden climate costs of everyday materials

What if the everyday materials people use come with a...

Delicious,Pistachios,In,Bowl,On,Wooden,Table

The pistachio is often a snack mindlessly munched on while watching TV. The nut has a new trick up its shell causing scientists to see it in a new light. A recent study revealed an impressive new feature of this petite powerhouse. Pistachios may support and enhance vision and overall eye health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pistachios-and-eyes">Pistachios and eyes</h2>



Researchers from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at <a href="https://nutrition.tufts.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tufts University</a> discovered these tasty nuts contain lutein, a plant pigment that benefits the eyes.



The study pinpointed that a daily helping of pistachios significantly impacts macular pigment optical density (MPOD), a key factor in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ai-could-protect-millions-of-people-from-vision-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eye health</a>.



Do eyes need lutein? The short answer is, yes. Eyes are exposed to harsh visible light and need lutein to guard against potential damage, particularly during aging. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crunchy-findings">Crunchy findings</h2>



The Tufts' study took healthy middle-aged to older adults and added 2 ounces (about 56.7 grams) of pistachios to their daily diet. 



After 12 weeks, the pistachios significantly bumped up MPOD. This is a positive sign of healthy eyes and could reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). 



AMD is a common ailment for many older adults and leads to significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision</a> loss.



Many people grapple with numerous health concerns as they age. A national poll by the <a href="https://www.afb.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Foundation for the Blind</a> showed Americans dread vision loss. These results might provide a new ray of hope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pistachios-improve-eye-health">Pistachios improve eye health</h2>



Once a person cracks open a pistachio, they unlock numerous benefits. Study participants saw a noticeable rise in MPOD levels in just 6 weeks of pistachio consumption. 



These benefits stayed throughout the 12-week study.



“Our findings indicate that pistachios are not only a nutritious snack, but they may also provide significant benefits for eye health,” said Dr. Tammy Scott, a research and clinical neuropsychologist and lead author of the study. 



“This is especially important as people age and face higher risks of vision impairment.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lutein-eye-s-best-friend">Lutein: Eye’s best friend</h2>



Lutein in pistachios defends eyes. It wards off harmful blue light and doubles as an antioxidant. 



Researchers found that eating pistachios nearly doubled the daily intake of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grapes-provide-a-dietary-shield-to-protect-eye-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lutein</a>, which is generally low in most American diets.



Scott explained the participants who had low lutein saw a quick enhancement in their blood lutein levels in six weeks by adding 2 ounces of pistachios to their diet daily.



“By simply incorporating a handful of pistachios into your diet, you can improve your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-carrots-and-colorful-veggies-really-can-improve-your-eyesight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intake of lutein</a>, which is crucial for protecting your eyes,” Scott said.



This dietary adjustment provided a crucial boost to eye health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brilliance-of-pistachios">Brilliance of pistachios</h2>



Pistachios are good for the eyes and packed with nutrients that support overall health.



They are rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, making them a great snack for vegetarians and vegans. 



The healthy fats improve cholesterol levels and support heart health. Pistachios have a low glycemic index and are a smart choice for those watching their sugar intake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-and-pistachios">Sustainability and pistachios</h2>



Pistachios are not only nutritious but also environmentally friendly. They need less water than other nuts and thrive in dry climates, reducing the need for irrigation. 



Pistachio orchards also support biodiversity by promoting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diverse ecosystems</a>. Pistachios are a great superfood choice for consumers who want to make sustainable dietary decisions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pistachios-beyond-the-eyes">Pistachios beyond the eyes</h2>



While researchers celebrate the vision-enhancing capacities of lutein in the study from Tufts University, it also has broader health benefits.



“Lutein crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, a co-investigator in the study.



Studies suggest higher lutein levels could be linked to better cognitive abilities including memory and processing speed.



Next time someone reaches out for a snack, they should give that bag of pistachios a second glance. These nuts could do more for overall health than people realize. 



This includes bolstering vision and supporting brain health and makes pistachios a valuable addition to a healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-blue-light-from-smartphones-may-accelerate-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002231662401099X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Nutrition</a>. 



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Eating pistachios daily proven to boost eyesight and overall health

The pistachio is often a snack mindlessly munched on while...

Struggling with the bathroom scale or sighing into the mirror doesn't expose the hidden secrets of aging. What if standing on one leg to test your balance is a more accurate gauge of aging than changes in strength or walking style?



Balance, muscle strength, and gait are essential to independence and well-being as people age. Improving leg balance is crucial in maintaining these aspects.



Scientists studied how these factors change and at what pace to develop effective programs for healthy aging. The good news? People can train their balance without special equipment and maintain it over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-on-one-leg">Balancing on one leg</h2>



40 spry, independent individuals over 50 were central figures in a study measuring their walking ability, balance, grip strength, and knee strength.



They braced themselves on force plates under various situations. This included standing on both feet with eyes open and closed, and standing on their non-dominant and dominant leg with eyes open.



The most significant revelation? Standing on the non-dominant leg showed the highest rate of decline with age, highlighting the importance of consistent leg balance exercises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-the-balance">The science behind the balance</h2>



"Balance is an important measure because, in addition to muscle strength, it requires input from vision, the vestibular system and the somatosensory systems," says <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/biographies/kaufman-kenton-r-ph-d/bio-20054278?mc_id=us&amp;utm_source=newsnetwork&amp;utm_medium=l&amp;utm_content=content&amp;utm_campaign=mayoclinic&amp;geo=national&amp;placementsite=enterprise&amp;invsrc=other&amp;cauid=100721" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kenton Kaufman, Ph.D.</a>, senior author of the study and director of the <a href="https://www.mayo.edu/research/labs/motion-analysis/overview?mc_id=us&amp;utm_source=newsnetwork&amp;utm_medium=l&amp;utm_content=content&amp;utm_campaign=mayoclinic&amp;geo=national&amp;placementsite=enterprise&amp;invsrc=other&amp;cauid=100721" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Motion Analysis Laboratory</a> at Mayo Clinic. "Changes in balance are noteworthy. If you have poor balance, you're at risk of falling, whether or not you're moving. Falls are a severe health risk with serious consequences."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-aspects-of-aging">Other aspects of aging</h2>



In addition to balance, the study measured participants' grip and knee strength using custom-made devices.



Both showed significant declines by decade, but not as much as balance. Grip strength decreased faster than knee strength making it another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monthly-aging-treatment-helps-you-live-long-die-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potent predictor</a> of aging.



Gait parameters didn't change with age, and there were no substantial age-related declines in strength tests tied to gender. This suggests age impacted male and female subjects alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-implications">Practical implications</h2>



Understanding the nuances of the research has implications for everyday practice including those endeavoring to sustain functional independence as they age. Maintaining good leg balance significantly helps.



Engaging in exercises that enhance balance seamlessly incorporate into daily routines without requiring complex equipment or specialized training environments.



Simple practices such as standing on one leg while brushing teeth or incorporating tai chi and yoga into weekly activities positively influence balance and reduce the risk of falls.



Emphasizing balance-enhancing activities is the cornerstone of a robust <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-bodies-undergo-very-rapid-change-aging-at-two-very-specific-times/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approach to aging healthily</a>, aligning with the study’s insights into maintaining physical autonomy.



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



The study's findings signal new horizons in gerontological research, highlighting the necessity to explore the multifaceted nature of aging including leg balance.



Future studies will delve deeper into the interplay between neural feedback and physical performance over time. They could consider psychological and lifestyle factors that might mitigate or accelerate age-related declines in balance and strength.



Longitudinal studies involving diverse populations help craft personalized intervention programs tailored to individual strengths and limitations.



By advancing the understanding of these dynamics, researchers better equip societies with the tools to support aging communities to maintain their quality of life and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-long-should-we-balance-on-one-leg">How long should we balance on one leg?</h2>



So, where do researchers go from here? Dr. Kaufman believes people can take steps to train their balance such as standing on one leg.



Coordinating the muscle responses required for leg balance helps maintain overall stability. If a person can stand on one leg for 30 seconds, they're doing well.



"If you don't use it, you lose it. If you use it, you maintain it," Kaufman said. "It's easy to do. It doesn't require special equipment, and you can do it every day."



As people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-bodies-begin-breaking-down-very-precise-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age</a>, staying active becomes more crucial, and this research highlights the importance of balance in daily routines.



Balance isn't just about standing up straight. It's about embracing a healthier, more dynamic way of aging.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0310764" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>.



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Leg balance is a key indicator of healthy aging

Struggling with the bathroom scale or sighing into the mirror...

If you’ve ever found it challenging to cut back on carbs, ancient DNA might offer an explanation.&nbsp;



New research reveals that humans have carried multiple copies of a gene responsible for breaking down starch, allowing us to efficiently digest foods that are high in carbs like bread and pasta. 



This genetic adaptation dates back far longer than previously thought, suggesting that our capacity to process starchy foods was an essential part of human evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-human-diets-and-carbs">Modern human diets and carbs </h2>



A study led by scientists from the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Buffalo</a> (UB) and <a href="https://www.jax.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Jackson Laboratory</a> (JAX) sheds new light on how duplications of the salivary amylase gene (AMY1) began over 800,000 years ago, long before the advent of agriculture. 



These early duplications set the stage for the genetic diversity seen today, influencing how effectively modern humans digest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-starchy-foods-shaped-human-genomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starch</a>. 



The study's findings, published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn0609" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, offer critical insights into our evolutionary history and the role of diet in shaping our genomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-enzyme-for-starch-digestion">Key enzyme for starch digestion</h2>



The AMY1 gene produces amylase, an enzyme that starts breaking down starch in the mouth. More AMY1 copies mean higher amylase production, which can improve the digestion of starches.&nbsp;



Study senior author Omer Gokcumen is a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at UB.&nbsp;



“The idea is that the more amylase genes you have, the more amylase you can produce and the more starch you can digest effectively,” said Gokcumen.&nbsp;



Amylase also plays a role in giving bread its characteristic taste as it breaks starch down into sugars.



The research team, including co-author Charles Lee, professor and Robert Alvine Family Endowed Chair at JAX, used advanced genome sequencing techniques, such as optical genome mapping and long-read sequencing, to study the AMY1 gene region in detail.&nbsp;



Traditional sequencing methods struggled to differentiate between the nearly identical gene copies in this region, but long-read sequencing enabled the researchers to map these variations with greater accuracy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-of-ancient-hunter-gatherers-nbsp">Genetic diversity of ancient hunter-gatherers&nbsp;</h2>



By analyzing the genomes of 68 ancient humans, including a 45,000-year-old sample from Siberia, the team discovered that pre-agricultural hunter-gatherers already had a wide range of AMY1 copies, typically between four and eight per diploid cell.&nbsp;



This genetic diversity suggests that early humans in Eurasia were equipped to digest starchy foods well before they began domesticating plants.



The study also revealed that AMY1 gene duplications were present in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-neanderthals-may-belong-to-the-same-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neanderthals</a> and Denisovans, indicating that these genetic variations began more than 800,000 years ago, long before the evolutionary split between modern humans and these ancient relatives. 



“This suggests that the AMY1 gene may have first duplicated more than 800,000 years ago, well before humans split from Neanderthals and much further back than previously thought,” said co-author Kwondo Kim, a scientist at the Lee Lab at JAX.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-ripples-of-variation">Genetic ripples of variation</h2>



The initial duplication of the AMY1 gene served as a starting point for further genetic variation, allowing humans to adapt to diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-diets-early-humans-richer-berries-nuts-plants-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a> over time. 



As populations spread across different regions, having flexibility in the number of AMY1 copies provided an evolutionary advantage, especially in environments where starchy foods became more available.



“Following the initial duplication, leading to three AMY1 copies in a cell, the amylase locus became unstable and began creating new variations,” said co-author Charikleia Karageorgiou, a scientist at UB.&nbsp;



“From three AMY1 copies, you can get all the way up to nine copies, or even go back to one copy per haploid cell.” This variation enabled humans to adapt to different dietary needs as they encountered new food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-farming-influenced-genetic-variation">How farming influenced genetic variation</h2>



The shift from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to farming had a profound impact on the evolution of AMY1 copy numbers. While early humans already possessed multiple AMY1 copies, the rise of agriculture brought a surge in starch consumption, leading to further increases in gene copies. 



In particular, the average number of AMY1 copies among European farmers rose significantly over the past 4,000 years as their diets became increasingly starch-rich.



“Individuals with higher AMY1 copy numbers were likely digesting starch more efficiently and having more offspring,” Gokcumen explained.&nbsp;



“Their lineages ultimately fared better over a long evolutionary timeframe than those with lower copy numbers, propagating the number of the AMY1 copies.”&nbsp;



This trend mirrors findings from a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a> and published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07911-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>, which reported that European populations expanded their average AMY1 copy number from four to seven over the last 12,000 years.



Interestingly, this genetic adaptation is not limited to humans. Gokcumen’s earlier research found that domesticated animals like dogs and pigs, which lived alongside humans, also developed higher AMY1 copy numbers compared to their wild counterparts, suggesting a parallel adaptation to starch-heavy diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-for-metabolic-health-insights">Potential for metabolic health insights</h2>



The study’s findings open new avenues for understanding how variations in AMY1 copy numbers may affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ketogenic-diet-improves-mental-and-metabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolic health</a> and glucose metabolism in humans. 



“Given the key role of AMY1 copy number variation in human evolution, this genetic variation presents an exciting opportunity to explore its impact on metabolic health and uncover the mechanisms involved in starch digestion and glucose metabolism,” said lead author Feyza Yilmaz, an associate computational scientist at JAX.



Future research could investigate how different AMY1 levels influence individual responses to high-carb diets, providing critical insights into nutrition and health. 



Understanding the evolutionary timeline of AMY1 gene duplications might also help researchers pinpoint when and how these genetic changes were most beneficial for human populations, shedding light on the interplay between genetics, diet, and adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-legacy-of-carbs-written-in-dna">A legacy of carbs written in DNA</h2>



This groundbreaking study highlights how ancient genetic adaptations continue to shape human biology today.&nbsp;



By tracing the evolution of the AMY1 gene across thousands of years, researchers have revealed the deep roots of our ability to eat carbs and digest starch, a skill that has been essential for survival across diverse environments and changing lifestyles. 



These insights not only deepen our understanding of human evolution but also pave the way for exploring the connections between ancient DNA, diet, and modern health.



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Our love of carbs may date back to the Neanderthals 

If you’ve ever found it challenging to cut back on...

Ever felt like you can't remember where you left your keys after a late night of binge-watching your favorite show? That could be more than just a coincidence. 



A new study points to a fascinating, yet slightly alarming, connection between the quality of sleep in your early middle age years and the state of your brain health in late middle age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-s-role-in-brain-health">Sleep's role in brain health</h2>



It turns out that sleep, our nightly escape from reality, might be a significant player in maintaining the health of our most valuable organ - the brain and its age-related changes.



But, as is often the case with scientific research, this study does not claim that sleeping poorly accelerates brain aging. Still, it has highlighted a noteworthy association between inadequate sleep quality and signs of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging brain</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-sleep-and-brain-health">Unraveling sleep and brain health</h2>



The study was led by Dr. Clémence Cavaillès at the University of California San Francisco. According to Cavaillès, prior research has suggested a link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reboot-switch-in-brain-activates-as-you-sleep-to-make-room-for-new-memories-barr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep problems</a> and deteriorating cognitive skills, thus increasing the risk of dementia in later years.



"Our study, which used brain scans to determine participants’ brain age, suggests that poor sleep is linked to nearly three years of additional brain aging as early as middle age," noted Dr. Cavaillès.



This enlightening research included 589 participants with an average age of 40 at the beginning of the study.



The individuals were asked to complete sleep questionnaires at the start of the investigation and five years later. The participants' brains were scanned 15 years post the study's commencement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-sleep-characteristics">Poor sleep characteristics</h2>



The researchers examined responses to questions such as difficulty in falling asleep, frequency of night awakenings, and waking up too early.



They tracked six poor sleep characteristics, including short sleep duration, poor sleep quality, trouble falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, early morning awakening, and daytime sleepiness - all related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain age impacts</a>.



Participants were then divided into three groups based on their sleep characteristics - low, middle, and high.



Interestingly, the study found that about 70% of the participants were in the low group, indicating no more than one poor sleep characteristic.



On the other hand, 22% were in the middle group, with two to three bad sleep characteristics, and 8% were in the high group, indicating more than three poor sleep characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-age-assessment">Brain age assessment</h2>



The researchers used cutting-edge machine learning techniques to examine participants' brain scans and determine their "brain age" based on the level of brain shrinkage.



So, does poor sleep quality indeed lead to an "older" brain?



After adjusting for factors such as age, sex, high blood pressure, and diabetes, the experts found that people in the middle group had an average brain age that was 1.6 years older than those in the low group. 



This disparity increased for those in the high group, who had an average brain age that was 2.6 years older.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-sleep-problems-early">Addressing sleep problems early </h2>



With four out of six sleep characteristics - bad sleep quality, difficulty falling and staying asleep, and early morning awakening - linked to greater brain age, the importance of good sleep hygiene in preserving brain health is apparent.



These findings were particularly significant when individuals demonstrated consistent poor sleep characteristics over five years.



Study co-author Dr. Kristine Yaffe is an expert in the epidemiology of dementia and cognitive aging at the University of California San Francisco and a member of the American Academy of Neurology.



“Our findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep problems earlier in life to preserve brain health, including maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, exercising, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before going to bed and using relaxation techniques,” said Dr. Yaffe.



“Future research should focus on finding new ways to improve sleep quality and investigating the long-term impact of sleep on brain health in younger people.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-deprivation-and-brain-health">Sleep deprivation and brain health</h2>



While this study presents compelling findings, it's crucial to note that its basis was participants' self-reported sleep problems. Therefore, it is possible that sleep issues were not reported accurately.



So, the next time you consider stretching your waking hours into the night, remember, your brain might be footing the bill for that sleep deprivation.



As we continue to unravel the mysterious relationship between sleep and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wake-up-in-your-dreams-exploring-the-world-of-lucid-dreaming-sleep-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>, one thing seems clear - better sleep today could mean a healthier brain tomorrow.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>.



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Poor sleep habits may age the brain faster

Ever felt like you can't remember where you left your...

Understanding the impact of climate change can be challenging when framed in terms of global temperature changes. To make it more relatable, researchers at MIT have introduced a concept called “outdoor days.”&nbsp;



This approach measures the number of days per year in a given location when the weather is suitable for typical outdoor activities - like walking, gardening, or dining outside - without being too hot or too cold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-localized-perspective-on-global-change">A localized perspective on global change</h2>



In a previous study, the researchers applied the outdoor days concept to assess the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> across different countries. 



The analysis revealed that much of the global south would experience a significant reduction in outdoor days, while some northern regions could see a slight increase. 



Building on these findings, the team has now focused on different parts of the United States, dividing the country into nine climatic regions. 



The experts found that areas such as Florida and the Southeast may face a major decrease in outdoor days, whereas the Northwest could experience a modest increase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-climate-change-to-everyday-life">Connecting climate change to everyday life</h2>



“This is something very new in our attempt to understand the impacts of climate change, in addition to the changing extremes,” said lead author Yeon-Woo Choi, a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>. 



The method aims to show how global climate shifts can directly affect people's daily experiences rather than focusing solely on overall temperature trends or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a> like hurricanes. 



“To the best of my knowledge, nobody else takes this same approach” to assess local climate impacts, he added. “I hope that many others will parallel our approach to better understand how climate may affect our daily lives.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-extremes-versus-reality">Climate extremes versus reality</h2>



The study explored two climate scenarios: one where global efforts significantly reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-first-greenhouse-gas-detecting-satellite-is-now-in-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> and a “worst-case” scenario where emissions continue to rise unchecked. 



Using these scenarios with 32 global climate models, the researchers found consistent trends across all models. Study senior author Elfatih Eltahir, an expert in climate change at MIT, suggests that reality might fall between the extremes.



Eltahir does not think we will act as aggressively as the low-emissions scenario suggests, or as carelessly as the high-emissions scenario. He predicts that “maybe the reality will emerge in the middle, toward the end of the century.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outdoor-days-across-the-united-states-nbsp">Outdoor days across the United States&nbsp;</h2>



By analyzing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earths-temperature-has-changed-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> trends from 1961 to 2020 and projecting them to the end of this century, the researchers uncovered notable changes in outdoor days. 



The Southeastern United States is expected to face significant impacts, with a decline in the number of days suitable for outdoor activities.&nbsp;



“It seems like climate change is going to have a significant impact on the Southeast in terms of reducing the number of outdoor days,” Eltahir said, which could affect the quality of life, tourism, and retirement appeal in those regions.



Surprisingly, the study revealed that one of the regions that would benefit slightly is the Northwest, though the gain is limited.&nbsp;



The Northwest could see an increase of around 14% in outdoor days by the century’s end, compared to the period from 1976 to 2005. In contrast, the Southwest may see an average loss of 23% in outdoor days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outdoor-days-and-economic-activities-nbsp">Outdoor days and economic activities&nbsp;</h2>



The study also examined the relationship between outdoor days and economic activities like tourism, using data from <a href="https://www.nps.gov/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Park Service</a> visits. 



“Accounting for seasonal variations, we find a clear connection between the number of outdoor days and the number of tourist visits in the United States,” Choi explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-seasons-and-outdoor-activities-nbsp">Shifting seasons and outdoor activities&nbsp;</h2>



While the total annual number of outdoor days may not change dramatically for many regions, their seasonal distribution could shift.&nbsp;



As summers become hotter, spring and fall might replace summer as the most favorable seasons for outdoor activities. Eltahir notes that this shift is already apparent in places like Florida, where “the really enjoyable time of year is in the spring and fall, and summer is not the best time of year.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-online-tool-to-measure-outdoor-days">Online tool to measure outdoor days</h2>



To allow individuals to explore how changing climates could affect their own experiences, the researchers developed an online tool.&nbsp;



This tool lets users define their own comfort ranges for outdoor temperatures and see how their number of outdoor days might change over time.&nbsp;



For the study, the researchers used a standard range of 10 to 25 degrees Celsius (50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), which represents the “thermoneutral zone” where the human body does not need to generate extra heat or sweat for cooling.



“If you disagree with how we define an outdoor day, you could define one for yourself, and then you’ll see what the impacts of that are on your number of outdoor days and their seasonality,” Eltahir explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-climate-change-more-relatable-nbsp">Making climate change more relatable&nbsp;</h2>



Eltahir noted that the idea behind the concept of outdoor days came from realizing that people’s understanding of climate change is based on the assumption that climate change is something that’s going to happen sometime in the future and is going to happen to someone else.&nbsp;



“It’s not going to impact them directly. And I think that contributes to the fact that we are not doing enough,” said Eltahir.



By focusing on everyday experiences, the concept of outdoor days aims to make climate change more relatable and immediate.&nbsp;



“It brings the concept of climate change home, brings it to personal everyday activities. I hope that people will find that useful to bridge that gap, and provide a better understanding and appreciation of the problem,” said Eltahir.



“And hopefully that would help lead to sound policies that are based on science, regarding climate change.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1029/2024GL111607" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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How will climate change affect our outdoor activities? 

Understanding the impact of climate change can be challenging when...

Fear strikes in many forms - standing on the edge of a towering skyscraper, glimpsing a tarantula, or feeling your heart race as you prepare to deliver a speech.



The scientific community long believed these scenarios stimulated brains similarly.



"There's this story that we've had in the literature that the brain regions that predict fear are things like the amygdala, or the orbital frontal cortex area, or the brainstem," said Ajay Satpute, an associate professor of psychology at <a href="https://www.northeastern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northeastern University</a>. 



"Those are thought to be part of a so-called 'fear circuit' that's been a very dominant model in neuroscience for decades."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-the-fear-circuit-model">Challenging the fear circuit model</h2>



In early October 2024, Satpute and his team released a study challenging this long-held belief.



The researchers used MRI scans to examine the brain’s response to three distinct fear-inducing scenarios: fear of heights, spiders, and public speaking.



Contrary to prior assumptions, the study revealed each type of fear activated different brain regions, debunking the idea of a universal "fear circuit."



"Much of the debate on the nature of emotion concerns the uniformity or heterogeneity of representation for particular emotion categories," noted the researchers. 



The team discovered that "the overwhelming majority of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-pinpoints-the-brain-regions-that-regulate-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain regions</a> that predict fear only do so for certain situations."



Research suggests responses to fear are more specific than previously thought. These findings carry important implications for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> across species, and how to develop neural signatures for personalized treatments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-and-fear-in-the-brain">Machine learning and fear in the brain</h2>



The research tested long-standing assumptions about how fear works, particularly as neuroscience increasingly relies on AI and machine learning to predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-decipher-every-possible-facial-expression-outperforming-therapists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>.



"Most of those approaches assume that there is a single pattern that underlies the brain-behavior relationship: there's a single pattern that predicts disgust. There's a single pattern that predicts anger," said Satpute. 



"Well, if that's true, then such a pattern should be apparent for different varieties of fear." 



However, when it comes to fear, the study showed a more complex picture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research">Focus of the research</h2>



In the experiment, the researchers asked 21 participants to identify their fears and used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to monitor brain activity as they watched videos depicting anxiety-inducing scenarios.



"We tried to find really scary videos of spiders," Satpute said. "Because I don't want a neural predictive model that 'says you're looking at a spider.' I want a neural predictive model that says 'you're experiencing fear.'"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-fear-s-hidden-complexities">Revealing fear's hidden complexities</h2>



Following each video, participants rated their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-is-a-contagious-emotion-that-is-amplified-in-a-group/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levels of fear</a>, valence (how pleasant or unpleasant the experience was), and arousal on a questionnaire.



The study revealed two surprising insights: responses were observed in a wider array of brain regions and not all brain regions were involved across all scenarios.



"The amygdala, for instance, seemed to carry information that predicted fear during the heights context, but not some of the other contexts," Satpute said. "We're not seeing these so-called 'classic threat areas' involved in being predictive of fear across situations."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-s-response-to-emotional-triggers">Body’s response to emotional triggers</h2>



The research is part of a broader body of work from Satpute’s lab, which focuses on understanding how fear manifests in the body.



In a previous 2021 study, the team explored physiological responses to fear such as sweat and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-rate-influences-our-perception-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart rate</a> when facing different triggers like heights or confrontations with law enforcement.



The study also revealed that different triggers caused varied bodily reactions, supporting the idea that fear isn’t one-size-fits-all.



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



Satpute hopes to replicate these findings with a larger and more diverse participant pool and factoring in demographics like age and gender.



While the current study has a small sample size, the results could reshape how health professionals approach treating fear and anxiety disorders.



"When we look at the brain and the neural correlates of fear, part of the reason we want to understand is so we can intervene on it," noted Satpute. "Our findings suggest the interventions might also need to be tailored to the person and situation."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-fear-based-therapies">Revolutionizing fear-based therapies</h2>



This shift in understanding could revolutionize behavior-based therapies for conditions like phobias and PTSD. It might even impact drug-based treatments.



"Drug-based therapies that target a particular circuit do work, but only for about fiftyish percent of people," Satpute said. "It's not really clear why." 



"Our research offers at least some explanation - the brain regions that are going to matter for any emotional experience are going to vary by the person and situation. If you focus only on what's common, you ignore so much."



This understanding of fear moves beyond the idea of a "fear circuit" and opens doors for personalized treatments.



Whether it’s the fear of falling, facing a spider, or standing in front of an audience, the research shows fear is more complex than once believed.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2024/09/29/JNEUROSCI.0142-23.2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Neuroscience</a>.



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Spiders, heights, or public speaking: Each fear has a unique place in the brain

Fear strikes in many forms - standing on the edge...

Human diets have long served as a window into the past, offering insights into the habits and lifestyles of our ancestors. 



These dietary patterns not only shaped early human survival but also influenced the evolution of our digestive systems. 



Now, researchers have taken this concept further by examining the bacteria in our stomachs to uncover what our earliest human ancestors consumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bacterial-clue-a-tale-of-helicobacter">The bacterial clue: A tale of Helicobacter</h2>



Helicobacter pylori, discovered in 1983, is a bacterium notorious for causing significant gastric diseases, including around a million cases of stomach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-dietary-changes-are-best-for-cancer-prevention/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> annually. 



Its long association with humans - dating back to more than 100,000 years - suggests its likely role in many prehistoric stomach aches.



The study was conducted by Professor Daniel Falush of the Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection (SIII) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Professor Yoshio Yamaoka of <a href="https://www.oita-u.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oita University</a>, and Professor Kaisa Thorell of <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gothenberg University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specialized-strain-of-bacteria">Specialized strain of bacteria</h2>



The researchers analyzed nearly 7,000 Helicobacter genomes from around the world. Among their key findings was a highly distinct variant of Helicobacter, termed the Hardy ecospecies.



This variant emerged hundreds of thousands of years ago and spread around the world alongside humanity. It's a specialized strain, designed to live in the stomachs of people with a principally carnivorous diet - those who consumed a lot of meat or fish.



This discovery suggests that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-have-very-clever-ways-of-supporting-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stomach bacteria</a> today can inform us about the diet of our ancestors.



“We have made a substantial effort to collect bacteria from around the world, involving clinicians and researchers from more than 20 countries. This unprecedented collection of genomes will allow us to develop interventions and treatments suitable for every context,” said Professor Yamaoka.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-early-human-diets">Insights into early human diets</h2>



These bacteria were already silent passengers in our stomachs, adapting and evolving as our species stepped out of Africa more than 50,000 years ago.



The new ecospecies of Helicobacter identified in the study, known as Hardy, is significantly different from the more common type (Ubiquitous) by over 100 genes.



This discovery offers great insight into what these bacteria need to survive in our stomach and how diversity is maintained within bacterial species.



Exploring the diet of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-humans-used-to-eat-their-ancestral-relatives-practicing-cannibalism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancestral humans</a>, it appears that in some parts of the world people relied heavily on fish or meat for sustenance due to the seasonal unavailability of plant material. These locations include Indigenous regions of Siberia and Northern Canada.



Intriguingly, the Hardy ecospecies has key genetic differences that could adapt it to the conditions found in a carnivore’s stomach, hinting at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bronze-age-teeth-discovery-highlight-the-evolution-of-the-human-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary habits of early humans</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bacteria-surviving-in-acidic-stomachs">Bacteria surviving in acidic stomachs</h2>



One critical genetic difference between the Hardy and Ubiquitous strains lies in genes called ureases. 



Ubiquitous Helicobacter pylori makes a urease protein that incorporates nickel atoms while most Hardy Helicobacter includes iron atoms instead of nickel. 



This alternative urease helps Helicobacter survive in carnivores' more acidic stomachs, which also tend to have higher iron availability and lower nickel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helicobacter-s-battle-with-the-immune-system">Helicobacter's battle with the immune system</h2>



“Helicobacter pylori can live in our stomachs for decades, in a constant running battle with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-tiny-bacteria-outsmart-the-human-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human immune system</a>, which can result in gastric disease," said Professor Thorel. 



"The Hardy ecospecies differs from the normal Ubiquitous Helicobacter in many genes it uses to interact with stomach cells and immune system cells, implying a completely different strategy."



"Understanding this strategy can provide new insights into the development of gastric diseases, including the often deadly gastric cancer."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestral-tale-of-gastric-bacteria">Ancestral tale of gastric bacteria</h2>



The analysis of nearly 7,000 Helicobacter pylori genomes from around the world concluded that the first modern humans were infected by two distinct types of this bacterium – the Hardy and Ubiquitous.



Both ecospecies spread out of Africa during the early human migrations; however, the Hardy ecospecies appears to have gone extinct in many locations.



Understanding why these ecospecies coexist in some populations but not others promises to shed new light on our prehistory and the ongoing burden of gastric disease that we continue to grapple with today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07991-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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What our stomach microbes reveal about ancient human diets

Human diets have long served as a window into the...

Four days and a 48-hour work week - that's all it took to change the lives of employees across Germany. A paradigm shift, some might say, towards a future where work and life don't tug at different ends of your day but coexist harmoniously.



The result? Increased well-being with no dent in productivity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-four-day-work-week">Four-day work week</h2>



In 2024, Professor Dr. Julia Backmann from the University of Münster, along with Dr. Felix Hoch, conducted a trial to examine the effects of a reduced work week. They asked a simple question – Can a shorter week make us happier without compromising productivity?



"The four-day week led to a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-work-and-no-play-striking-the-balance-may-be-the-key-to-life-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">positive change in life satisfaction</a>, which was mainly due to the additional free time," said Dr. Backmann.



The employees' desire to spend more time with families dropped from 64% before the trial to 50% after the four-day week was introduced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-participating-in-the-four-day-work-week">Participating in the four-day work week</h2>



Overall, 45 organizations across a range of sectors joined this six-month pilot project conducted by the Berlin consultancy Intraprenör and the organization 4 Day Week Global. 



Carsten Meier, co-initiator of the pilot project and Managing Director of Intraprenör, was closely involved in presenting the research alongside Dr. Backmann.



The study aimed to explore the potential effects of a four-day work week on employee health, employer attractiveness, and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-to-set-realistic-goals-and-achieve-them-in-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future direction of work</a>.



But another question loomed large – What would it mean for productivity?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-productivity-puzzle">The productivity puzzle</h2>



Here’s a surprising finding from the study - a dip in working hours didn't spell doom for productivity.



"Although there were slight increases in key financial performance indicators such as turnover and profit, these were not significantly different from the previous year. Nevertheless, the unchanged key metrics indicate possible productivity gains despite the reduced working hours," explained Dr. Backmann.



The survey results revealed an interesting fact: both employees and top management noticed an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/practical-guide-overcoming-burnout-maintain-workplace-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase in productivity</a>. The secret? Reducing distractions, streamlining processes, and altering meeting culture.



Over 60% cited these changes while more than 50% reduced the frequency and length of internal meetings. A quarter even incorporated new digital tools to enhance efficiency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-amp-happiness-report">Health &amp; happiness report</h2>



Apart from an incremental upswing in productivity, the four-day week also had positive impacts on employee health. 



According to Dr. Backmann, significant improvements were noted in the mental and physical well-being of the workforce with reports of less stress and burnout symptoms. Daily activity levels increased, and employees slept an average of 38 minutes longer each week than those in the control group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-organizational-health">Impact on organizational health</h2>



Although the data showed a slight reduction in monthly sick days, the difference was not statistically significant compared to the previous year.



Also, the four-day week didn't seem to influence environmentally conscious behavior or carbon footprint.



But here’s the silver lining - more than 70% of the participating organizations indicated that they would like to continue with the four-day week experiment, implying a positive direction towards a future of balanced, satisfied workforces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



As the trial concluded, the insights prompted both awe and further inquiry. Key lessons emerged surrounding the management of time, the empowerment of employees, and the recalibration of work systems.



Organizations saw the necessity of redefining goals and aligning them with employee wellness, thereby fostering an environment conducive to both innovation and satisfaction. 



However, Dr. Backmann acknowledges that this research is merely a stepping stone. Future studies are essential to delve deeper into industry-specific impacts and long-term sustainability.



Questions about logistical reshuffling, potential disparity across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/buyers-are-willing-to-pay-more-for-products-made-with-passion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different sectors</a>, and its effect on global competition remain open fields for exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achieving-work-life-harmony">Achieving work-life harmony</h2>



Imagining a future from the trial’s vantage point paints a compelling picture of work-life harmony. 



Advocates believe that refining the four-day week could be a harbinger for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worker-rights-are-among-the-least-protected-human-rights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">broader societal changes</a> – reduced urban congestion, a positive shift in environmental impacts, and greater societal equity through enhanced job opportunities. 



The experiment invites policymakers and business leaders to rethink the archetypal structure of working hours and forge paths that prioritize quality of life alongside economic progress. 



Embracing such transformative approaches could redefine our professional landscape, steering us towards a sustainable and enriching coexistence in the fabric of modern life.



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



The research from the <a href="https://www.uni-muenster.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Münster</a> involved thorough data collection - interviews, quantitative surveys, and physiological measurements using smartwatch devices and stress hormone cortisol in hair samples. 



The organizations themselves decided how they wanted to implement the four-day week and gathered experiences and insights.



So, could a four-day week be our future? This experiment seems to hint positively. But remember, like with anything new, there were exceptions and bumps along the way. 



Who wouldn't want a future that values well-being just as much, if not more, than productivity?



The study is published on the <a href="https://www.wiwi.uni-muenster.de/tow/de/4DW-Executive-Summary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Münster website</a>.



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Can a four-day work week boost happiness and productivity?

Four days and a 48-hour work week - that's all...

Human,Brain,Neuron,Activity.,Brain,3d,Neural,Network.,Neurological,Functions,

If you've ever groaned at the notion of getting out of bed for an early morning workout, or grumbled at the thought of losing a night's sleep due to a late-night Netflix binge, your brain is echoing your sentiments to the activities.



In a remarkable and lengthy study, scientists embarked on a fascinating journey to understand this relationship. They closely monitored a single person's brain activity, physical activity, mood and lifestyle for a whopping five months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-after-daily-activities">Brain after daily activities</h2>



"We wanted to go beyond isolated events. Our behavior and mental states are constantly shaped by our environment and experiences," says research leader Ana Triana. 



Yet, we know little about the response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-echoes-todays-activities-change-your-behavior-for-weeks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain functional connectivity</a> to environmental, physiological, and behavioral changes on different timescales, from days to months.



"To truly understand the brain, we need to look at how it responds and evolves over time, influenced by our environment, experiences, and daily habits." 



Triana wasn't just leading the research; she was the subject, lending a unique, deeply personal perspective to the study.



Findings from this investigation unveil that our brains don't just react in knee-jerk, immediate responses to daily events. 



Indeed, the brain seems to have a 'memory' of sorts. It evolves according to sleep patterns, physical activity, mood, and even respiratory rate over several days.



If you thought a restless night or an intense workout only had immediate, short-term effects, think again. These experiences could still be impacting your brain -- and your attention, cognition, and memory -- well into the next week.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-connectivity">Brain's connectivity</h2>



The research didn't stop at understanding the brain's behavioral response. It also shed light on fascinating connections between the heart and brain. 



Heart rate variability, a measure of the heart's adaptability, appears to have a strong link with brain connectivity, particularly during rest. 



So, taking a minute to focus on your breath, engage in mindfulness, or practice any stress management technique could be shaping your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-complete-map-of-every-neuron-in-the-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>'s wiring even when you're not actively focused on a task.



Even physical activity positively influences how different regions of the brain interact, potentially impacting memory and cognitive flexibility -- the ability to switch between thinking about different concepts, or to think about multiple concepts simultaneously.



Intriguingly, even minor shifts in mood, and fluctuations in heart rate could leave lasting imprints for up to fifteen days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-activities-in-brain">Scanning activities in brain</h2>



"At the beginning, it was exciting and a bit stressful. Then, routine settles in and you forget," says Triana. Data from the devices and twice-weekly brain scans were complemented by qualitative data from mood surveys.



The researchers from <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a> and the <a href="https://www.oulu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oulu</a> identified two distinct response patterns in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-divide-the-day-into-different-chapters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>: a short-term wave, lasting under seven days, and a long-term wave up to fifteen days. 



These waves reflected the brain's quick adaptability on one hand and more gradual, lasting effects on the other.



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



This study holds significant implications for our understanding of mental health and well-being. 



By appreciating that the brain's responses are not instantaneous but rather span several days to weeks, mental health professionals might develop more effective therapeutic interventions that align with these temporal patterns. 



It also encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, recognizing that daily decisions have lasting effects on brain function and connectivity. 



Importantly, the research suggests that managing stress and maintaining regular physical activity can enhance cognitive flexibility, potentially improving mental health outcomes and overall quality of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-neuroscience">Personalized neuroscience</h2>



The pioneering nature of this research offers a framework for personalized neuroscience, where tailored interventions could be designed based on an individual's unique brain response patterns and lifestyle. 



With wearable technology and continuous monitoring becoming more accessible, it is feasible to integrate these insights into everyday life, allowing individuals to track their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-does-creativity-start-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a> in real-time. 



This prospect not only empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their mental and physical health but also opens avenues for further research to explore how external factors, such as nutrition and social interactions, contribute to the brain's long-term evolution. 



As this field progresses, the potential for more personalized, responsive approaches to brain health and well-being will only grow, paving the way for improved quality of life and a deeper understanding of the human brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-care-for-brain-activity">Personalized care for brain activity</h2>



The team hopes these findings will inspire future studies to merge brain data with everyday life considerations, driving personalization in mental health treatment. 



"Data from daily life must come into the lab," insists study co-author, neuroscientist and physician Dr Nick Hayward. "Our approach provides essential context to neuroscience and offers granular understanding of the brain."



Could real-time tracking of brain changes revolutionize healthcare? Triana certainly thinks so, saying, "Linking brain activity with physiological and environmental data can transform personalized healthcare, paving the way for earlier interventions and improved results."



In conclusion, the way you sleep, the level of your physical activity, your mood, and even your heart rate variability could be influencing your brain in ways we are only beginning to understand. 



So next time you're grappling with the choice of an extra hour of sleep or an early morning jog, remember, your brain is keeping score.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002797" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a>.



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Human brains literally "change" and adapt to our sleep patterns, activities, and overall lifestyle

If you've ever groaned at the notion of getting out...

Broadening access to highly effective weight-loss drugs could prevent more than 40,000 deaths each year in the United States.



This is the conclusion of a new study led by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health and the University of Florida.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-removing-barriers-to-weight-loss-drugs">Removing barriers to weight-loss drugs</h2>



The findings highlight the urgent necessity to eliminate existing obstacles that hinder people's access to effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-health-benefits-of-weight-loss-persist-for-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight-loss</a> treatments, thereby impeding public health efforts to combat the national obesity crisis. 



According to the<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>, about 74% of Americans are considered overweight, with approximately 43% of those individuals classified as obese.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-are-surging-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Obesity</a> has a well-documented widespread impact on health, exacerbating conditions such as type 2 diabetes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, and certain cancers. Despite its severe consequences, the development and deployment of highly effective treatments for obesity have been lacking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advances-in-pharmaceutical-interventions">Advances in pharmaceutical interventions</h2>



Recent advancements in pharmaceutical interventions, particularly the introduction of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide and GLP-1 (GIP/GLP-1) receptor agonists such as tirzepatide, have demonstrated substantial efficacy in weight loss.&nbsp;



These medications have shown promise in clinical trials and are increasingly being used for weight management.



In conducting their study, the researchers aimed to quantify the potential mortality impact of increased access to these weight-loss drugs.&nbsp;



The experts integrated data on mortality risk associated with different body mass index (BMI) categories, obesity prevalence, and the current limitations on drug access due to high costs and insurance restrictions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-lives-saved-by-weight-loss-drugs-nbsp">Potential lives saved by weight-loss drugs&nbsp;</h2>



According to the findings, if access to these new medications were expanded to include all eligible individuals, the U.S. could see up to 42,027 fewer deaths annually.&nbsp;



This estimate includes approximately 11,769 deaths among individuals with type 2 diabetes - a group particularly vulnerable to the complications of obesity.&nbsp;



Even under current conditions of limited access, the researchers project that around 8,592 lives are saved each year, primarily among those with private insurance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disparity-in-weight-loss-drug-access-nbsp">Disparity in weight-loss drug access&nbsp;</h2>



The study highlights a critical disparity in drug access. Currently, the high cost of these medications, which can exceed $1,000 per month without insurance, limits their availability.&nbsp;



For example, Medicare - one of the largest insurance programs for older adults - does not cover these drugs for weight loss, impacting many who could benefit from them.&nbsp;



Medicaid coverage varies widely by state, and private insurance often imposes high deductibles and copays, further restricting access.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-financial-and-coverage-barriers">Addressing financial and coverage barriers</h2>



“Expanding access to these medications is not just a matter of improving treatment options but also a crucial public health intervention,” said senior author Alison P. Galvani, a professor of epidemiology at the <a href="https://ysph.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale School of Public Health</a>. “Our findings underscore the potential to reduce mortality significantly by addressing financial and coverage barriers.”



The study also explored how expanded access could affect different regions and socioeconomic groups.&nbsp;



States with high obesity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-can-counteract-the-genetic-risk-for-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diabetes</a> rates, such as West Virginia, Mississippi, and Oklahoma, stand to benefit the most from increased medication availability. In these areas, expanding access could lead to the largest per capita reductions in mortality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-challenges-for-widespread-availability">Overcoming challenges for widespread availability</h2>



However, the scientists caution that while the potential benefits are substantial, several challenges remain.&nbsp;



The high price of these medications is a significant barrier, and there are concerns about the pharmaceutical industry's profit margins.&nbsp;



Furthermore, supply constraints and production limitations continue to hamper widespread availability.



“Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach,” said co-author Burton H. Singer, an adjunct professor of mathematics at the Emerging Pathogens Institute at the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>. 



“We need to ensure that drug prices are more aligned with manufacturing costs and increase production capacity to meet demand. At the same time, we must tackle the insurance and accessibility issues that prevent many people from getting the treatment they need.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-access-to-weight-loss-drugs-nbsp">Expanding access to weight-loss drugs&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers also considered the impact of socioeconomic factors on the effectiveness of expanded drug access.&nbsp;



They adjusted their estimates to account for income disparities, finding that even with these adjustments, the potential for lives saved remains significant.&nbsp;



The results suggest that improving access to these medications could reduce health care costs associated with obesity-related conditions and improve overall quality of life for many Americans.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2412872121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Weight-loss drugs could save an enormous number of lives

Broadening access to highly effective weight-loss drugs could prevent more...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes why satellite images and measurements of our planet have become "essential to our survival, offering a new outlook of our world."&nbsp;



Rising sea levels pose one of the biggest societal threats associated with climate change. According to ESA, satellite altimeter missions such as Copernicus Sentinel-6 are essential in monitoring global and regional changes in sea level.



"Unbeknown to many, the island of Crete, Greece, plays an important role in the Copernicus satellite altimetry constellation and on an international stage," reports ESA.



"Satellite altimetry data have to be continuously monitored at the ESA’s Permanent Facility for Altimetry Calibration where different techniques have pioneered the use of transponders to provide the best measurements to validate satellite altimeters in space soon after launch."



Dr. Craig Donlon explains that, by understanding planet Earth through satellite measurements, we are able to find evidence of change.&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...