Close-up,Image,Featuring,A,Row,Of,White,,Oval-shaped,Pills,Scattered

For people struggling with opioid addiction, the ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures - such as the sound of laughter, the warmth of the sun, or the sight of a smiling baby - can slowly fade. Cravings for opioids can be eased due to a new form of therapy. 



This emotional numbness is one of addiction’s cruelest effects, often pushing people deeper into dependence in a desperate attempt to feel something again. But now, there’s a new kind of therapy that appears to help.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opioid-recovery-boosted-by-new-therapy">Opioid recovery boosted by new therapy</h2>



In a new study, researchers from the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego</a> explored a treatment called Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement, or MORE. This therapy is designed to change how the brain processes pleasure. 



The team found that it not only improves mood and emotional awareness, but also helps reduce opioid cravings. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, add to growing evidence that MORE may be an effective tool in the fight against opioid use disorder (OUD).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-pain-treatment-fuels-opioid-use">How pain treatment fuels opioid use</h2>



Every year, millions of people are prescribed opioids to help manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-chronic-pain-have-high-rates-of-depression-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic pain</a>. But for some, what begins as a treatment can spiral into dependency. 



As the body builds tolerance, individuals often need higher doses to feel the same relief. Over time, their ability to feel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pets-increase-life-satisfaction-as-much-as-marriage-or-close-friendships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">joy in everyday life</a> begins to disappear. This emotional flattening becomes a powerful driver of addiction.



The researchers explain that MORE offers a different approach. Developed by a professor of psychiatry at UC San Diego School of Medicine, this therapy blends mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral techniques, and positive psychology. 



The goal is to help people better manage their cravings, reduce their pain, and, perhaps most importantly, rediscover joy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opioids-reshape-brain-activity-patterns">Opioids reshape brain activity patterns</h2>



In the study, 160 participants with chronic pain - some with OUD and some without - were enrolled from primary care and pain clinics. They were asked to complete a task designed to measure their emotional response to positive imagery. 



These included pictures of things such as sunsets, puppies, or happy faces. They also filled out surveys tracking their cravings and emotional states.



For a subset of these participants who were at risk of misusing opioids, the researchers randomly assigned them to one of two groups. 



One group received eight weeks of one-on-one MORE therapy. The other participated in a standard supportive group therapy. Afterward, all of the participants repeated the emotional task and filled out follow-up surveys for up to three months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-the-capacity-to-feel-pleasure">Restoring the capacity to feel pleasure </h2>



The results were telling. People with OUD showed a much weaker response in the brain when looking at pleasant images. This blunted reaction was directly tied to stronger opioid cravings. 



However, those who went through the MORE program experienced a shift. Their brains responded more strongly to positive stimuli - and their cravings were cut in half compared to those in standard therapy.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Opioid addiction</a> decreases the brain’s ability to experience natural healthy pleasure, driving increased cravings for the drug,” said Eric Garland, the study’s lead author. “Our research shows that MORE helps restore this capacity, reducing cravings and potentially preventing opioid misuse.”



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



This isn’t the first time the therapy has shown promise. Over the past two decades, MORE has been tested in more than 10 randomized clinical trials, involving over 1,000 participants. 



In a 2022 study of 250 patients, the therapy reduced opioid misuse by 45% at a nine-month follow-up - almost three times more effective than group therapy alone. Half of the patients also reported less chronic pain.



In 2023, another study found that when MORE was added to standard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-cuddle-hormone-fosters-love-boosts-memory-and-may-cure-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">addiction</a> care, the relapse rate dropped by 42%, and treatment dropout was 59% lower compared to standard care alone.



The therapy has also gained attention for its potential economic impact. Backed by the National Institutes of Health, Garland’s research estimates that for every dollar spent on MORE, there’s an estimated $798 in cost savings. 



These savings come from fewer fatal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktok-videos-provide-a-lifeline-to-prevent-opioid-overdoses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overdoses</a>, lower healthcare expenses, less criminal justice involvement, and improved work productivity. Over a lifetime, the benefit per person treated is projected to exceed $320,000.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-therapy-helps-alleviate-opioid-cravings">MORE therapy helps alleviate opioid cravings</h2>



While the findings are promising, the researchers say more work is needed. “This study is a crucial step, but we need more large-scale and long-term research to fully understand how treatments like MORE can help heal the brain to enhance recovery from opioid addiction,” noted Garland.



“Multiple rigorous, well-controlled clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of the MORE therapy. It is now the right moment to partner with policymakers, healthcare organizations and administrators of the opioid legal settlement to disseminate this evidence-based treatment nationwide to help alleviate the opioid crisis.”



As the opioid epidemic continues to affect families across the country, therapies like MORE offer a fresh and much-needed approach - one that doesn’t just target the symptoms, but helps people reconnect with the joy of living.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2833307" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



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Finding joy again: New therapy eases opioid cravings

For people struggling with opioid addiction, the ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures - such as the sound of laughter, the warmth of the sun, or the sight of a smiling baby - can slowly fade. Cravings for opioids can be eased due to a new form of therapy. This emotional numbness is one of addiction’s cruelest effects, often pushing people deeper into dependence in a desperate attempt to feel something again. But now, there’s a new kind of therapy that appears to help. Opioid recovery boosted...

Kimchi,Cabbage,Eating,By,Chopsticks,,Korean,Homemade,Fermented,Side,Dish

The intriguing relationship between kimchi consumption, health, and obesity reduction has recently come to light in a study published in the BMJ Open. 



This comprehensive research delves into the effects of this beloved Korean staple on human health, particularly concerning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-impairs-the-brains-response-to-nutrient-intake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kimchi-a-culinary-staple-with-health-benefits">Kimchi: A culinary staple with health benefits </h2>



Kimchi, a cornerstone of Korean cuisine, is a fermented dish primarily made from cabbage and radish. It's crafted by fermenting these vegetables with a variety of seasonings like onion, garlic, and fish sauce. 



Not only is it low in calories, but it's also a rich source of dietary fiber, beneficial lactic acid bacteria, vitamins, and polyphenols.



Past experimental studies have highlighted the anti-obesity properties of Lactobacillus brevis and L. plantarum, strains of bacteria found in kimchi. 



Building on this, researchers sought to understand if regular kimchi consumption could reduce the risk of overall and abdominal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fructose-puts-the-body-in-low-power-mode-fueling-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>, the latter being particularly detrimental to health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-kimchi-and-obesity">Studying kimchi and obesity</h2>



The study utilized data from 115,726 individuals (36,756 men and 78,970 women with an average age of 51) participating in the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25743837/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Health Examinees</a> (HEXA) study. 



HEXA, part of the larger Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, focuses on identifying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-link-between-air-pollution-and-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> and genetic risk factors for common conditions in Korean adults over 40.



Participants’ dietary intake was assessed using a 106-item food frequency questionnaire. This tool helped researchers understand the frequency of kimchi consumption among participants, ranging from never to up to three times a day.



 The study considered various types of kimchi, including cabbage (baechu) and radish (kkakdugi) kimchi, watery versions like nabak and dongchimi, and other varieties such as mustard greens kimchi. 



Serving sizes varied, with 50 g for baechu or kkakdugi and 95 g for nabak or dongchimi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



Researchers observed a J-shaped curve in the relationship between kimchi consumption and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-fat-with-food-tropical-plant-in-china-has-anti-obesity-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>. Notably, those consuming more than five servings daily tended to have higher weights, waist sizes, and obesity rates. 



These individuals were also more likely to have lower education levels, lower incomes, and a propensity for alcohol consumption.



The study found that consuming up to three servings of kimchi daily was linked to an 11% lower prevalence of obesity compared to those who ate less than one serving. 



Specifically, in men, three or more servings of baechu kimchi daily correlated with a 10% decrease in overall and abdominal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-and-obesity-have-opposing-effects-on-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> rates. 



In women, two to three servings of the same variety were associated with an 8% reduction in obesity, while one to two servings per day corresponded with a 6% decrease in abdominal obesity.



Interestingly, consuming below-average quantities of kkakdugi kimchi was linked to a 9% lower prevalence of obesity in both sexes. 



Moreover, consumption of 25 g/day for men and 11 g/day for women was associated with an 8% (men) to 11% (women) lower risk of abdominal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-gut-bacteria-promote-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>.



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



It's important to note that this is an observational study and cannot definitively establish cause and effect. 



Additionally, the use of food frequency questionnaires has its limitations in accurately quantifying food intake. The findings may also not be applicable to populations outside Korea.



Despite the health benefits, the researchers caution against excessive kimchi consumption due to its high sodium content, which can be detrimental to overall health. 



However, they suggest that the potassium in fermented vegetables may help counteract this effect.



In summary, the study concludes that while moderate kimchi consumption appears beneficial in reducing obesity prevalence, excessive intake could lead to adverse health outcomes. 



As one of the major sources of sodium intake, a balanced consumption of kimchi is recommended to enjoy its health benefits without the associated risks.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/2/e076650" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Open</a>.



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Eating kimchi helps shed belly fat and improves overall health

The intriguing relationship between kimchi consumption, health, and obesity reduction...

Engaging with music and playing an instrument leads to better brain health in older age, according to a recent study from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>. 



The results indicate a clear correlation between music engagement and improved cognitive function in later life.



The research is part of the <a href="https://www.protectstudy.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PROTECT study</a>, an online platform open to people aged 40 and over. This platform provided data for more than 1,000 adults. 



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



The researchers explored the impact of playing musical instruments or singing in a choir on brain health.&nbsp;



The experts reviewed participants’ musical experience and lifetime exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>, as well as the results of cognitive testing, to determine whether music engagement helps to keep the brain sharp in later life.



The analysis revealed that playing a musical instrument, particularly the piano, correlates with enhanced memory and better executive function, which involves complex task-solving abilities.&nbsp;



The benefits are even more pronounced for those who continue their musical pursuits into later life. 



Singing, though beneficial as well, seems to owe part of its positive impact to the social aspects of choir participation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-reserve-nbsp">Cognitive reserve&nbsp;</h2>



“A number of studies have looked at the effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-inspired-by-music-shape-our-most-enduring-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> on brain health. Our PROTECT study has given us a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between cognitive performance and music in a large cohort of older adults. Overall, we think that being musical could be a way of harnessing the brain’s agility and resilience, known as cognitive reserve," said Professor Anne Corbett.



“Although more research is needed to investigate this relationship, our findings indicate that promoting musical education would be a valuable part of public health initiatives to promote a protective lifestyle for brain health, as would encouraging older adults to return to music in later life."



"There is considerable evidence for the benefit of music group activities for individuals with dementia, and this approach could be extended as part of a healthy ageing package for older adults to enable them to proactively reduce their risk and to promote brain health.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playing-an-instrument-as-a-lifelong-engagement">Playing an instrument as a lifelong engagement </h2>



Stuart Douglas, a 78-year-old accordion enthusiast from Cornwall, exemplifies the study's findings on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> engagement. 



A lifelong accordion player, Douglas currently plays with the Cober Valley Accordion Band and the Cornish Division of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society. 



“I learnt to play the accordion as a boy living in a mining village in Fife and carried on throughout my career in the police force and beyond. These days I still play regularly, and playing in the band also keeps my calendar full, as we often perform in public," said Douglas.



"We regularly play at memory cafes so have seen the effect that our music has on people with memory loss, and as older musicians ourselves we have no doubt that continuing with music into older age has played an important role in keeping our brains healthy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-health-benefits-from-playing-an-instrument">Additional health benefits from playing an instrument</h2>



Playing an instrument offers a range of health benefits that extend beyond simple enjoyment. First, it engages both the mind and body, providing a comprehensive mental workout. 



This engagement helps improve memory and cognitive skills, as learning and playing music requires the use of various brain areas.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-relief-from-music-engagement">Stress relief from music engagement</h3>



Moreover, playing an instrument can be a significant stress reliever. The act of focusing on music can be meditative, diverting attention away from daily stresses and anxieties. 



It also releases endorphins, the body's natural stress-relievers, leading to feelings of happiness and relaxation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playing-an-instrument-helps-brain-development">Playing an instrument helps brain development </h3>



For children and adolescents, learning an instrument can be particularly beneficial for brain development. It can improve language skills, enhance coordination, and boost self-esteem. 



As they master new pieces, their confidence grows, which can be valuable in other areas of life.



In older adults, playing an instrument can be an effective way to keep the brain active. It can delay cognitive decline and improve mental agility.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-engagement-improves-social-connections">Music engagement improves social connections </h3>



Furthermore, for people of all ages, playing an instrument can foster social connections, whether through joining a band, orchestra, or simply sharing music with friends and family. 



These social aspects can combat feelings of loneliness and promote a sense of community and belonging.



The PROTECT study is open to new participants aged 40 and over. To find out more, visit: <a href="http://www.protectstudy.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">http://www.protectstudy.org.uk</a>.



The study is published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 



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Playing an instrument leads to better brain health throughout life

Engaging with music and playing an instrument leads to better...

Scientists at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/">University of Cambridge</a> have discovered a new aspect of how fasting mitigates inflammation, a harmful byproduct of the immune system that contributes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/analyzing-the-blood-of-elite-cyclists-could-help-prevent-chronic-diseases/">chronic diseases</a>.&nbsp;



The study reveals that fasting elevates a specific chemical in the blood known as arachidonic acid, which plays a key role in inhibiting inflammation. This finding might also shed light on the efficacy of certain drugs, including aspirin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-diet-on-inflammation">The impact of diet on inflammation</h2>



There is a well-established link between diet, particularly a high-calorie Western diet, and increased risks of diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions are often associated with chronic inflammation in the body.&nbsp;



Inflammation, while a natural response to injury or infection, can also be triggered by the inflammasome. This component within cells acts as an alarm system, initiating inflammation to protect the body against perceived damage. However, it can also unintentionally trigger inflammation, leading to the release of cell contents that further promote inflammatory responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-chronic-inflammation">Understanding chronic inflammation</h2>



Professor Clare Bryant from the University of Cambridge's Department of Medicine emphasized the importance of understanding chronic inflammation.&nbsp;



“We’re very interested in trying to understand the causes of chronic inflammation in the context of many human diseases, and in particular the role of the inflammasome," said Professor Bryant.



“What's become apparent over recent years is that one inflammasome in particular – the NLRP3 inflammasome – is very important in a number of major diseases such as obesity and atherosclerosis, but also in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, many of the diseases of older age people, particularly in the Western world.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arachidonic-acid">Arachidonic acid</h2>



While fasting is known to reduce inflammation, the underlying reasons have been unclear. To investigate this, Professor Bryant's team collaborated with colleagues at the National Institute for Health to conduct a study involving 21 volunteers.



The participants consumed a 500kcal meal, fasted for 24 hours, and then ate another 500kcal meal. The researchers discovered that calorie restriction increased levels of arachidonic acid, a lipid known for its role in energy storage and intercellular communication. Intriguingly, once the participants resumed eating, arachidonic acid levels decreased.



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



Upon examining the effects of arachidonic acid on immune cells in the lab, the team found that it reduces the activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome. This finding was unexpected since arachidonic acid was previously thought to exacerbate inflammation.&nbsp;



“This provides a potential explanation for how changing our diet - in particular by fasting - protects us from inflammation, especially the damaging form that underpins many diseases related to a Western high calorie diet," said Professor Bryant.



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



“It’s too early to say whether fasting protects against diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease as the effects of arachidonic acid are only short-lived, but our work adds to a growing amount of scientific literature that points to the health benefits of calorie restriction."



"It suggests that regular fasting over a long period could help reduce the chronic inflammation we associate with these conditions. It's certainly an attractive idea," said Professor Bryant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The study also suggests that a high-calorie diet might elevate the risk of diseases by increasing inflammasome activity.



"There could be a yin and yang effect going on here, whereby too much of the wrong thing is increasing your inflammasome activity and too little is decreasing it,” said Professor Bryant. “Arachidonic acid could be one way in which this is happening.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anti-inflammatory-drugs">Anti-inflammatory drugs</h2>



Furthermore, the findings might explain the unexpected mechanism of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin. Aspirin impedes the breakdown of arachidonic acid, potentially leading to decreased inflammasome activity and inflammation.



“It’s important to stress that aspirin should not be taken to reduce risk of long terms diseases without medical guidance as it can have side-effects such as stomach bleeds if taken over a long period," said Professor Bryant.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113700" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>. 



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Fasting helps the body fight inflammation and chronic disease 

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have discovered a new...

In a series of studies conducted by the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, researchers have uncovered a troubling trend: a significant number of people conceal their infectious illnesses to maintain their work, travel, and social engagements.&nbsp;



This comprehensive investigation explores the motivations, implications, and potential solutions to this public health concern. The research, led by doctoral candidate Wilson N. Merrell, involved a broad range of participants, including both healthy and sick adults.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-extent-of-concealment-nbsp">Shocking extent of concealment&nbsp;</h2>



Overall, a striking 75% of the 4,110 participants have either concealed an infectious illness in the past or admitted they would consider doing so in the future. Many participants reported boarding airplanes, going on dates, and engaging in other social interactions while hiding that they were sick.&nbsp;



Alarmingly, over 61% of healthcare workers participating in the study also reported hiding their infectious conditions. This finding is particularly concerning given the critical role of healthcare professionals in preventing the spread of illness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deceptive-behavior-nbsp">Deceptive behavior&nbsp;</h2>



Merrell said that the researchers found a difference between how people believe they would act when ill and how they actually behave.



“Healthy people forecasted that they would be unlikely to hide harmful illnesses - those that spread easily and have severe symptoms - but actively sick people reported high levels of concealment regardless of how harmful their illness was to others,” said Merrell.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-results">Shocking results</h2>



The first study involved 399 university healthcare employees and 505 students. This study started in March 2020, coinciding with the onset of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-who-dont-get-sick-from-covid-19-may-have-a-genetic-mutation/">COVID-19</a> pandemic.&nbsp;



The participants detailed their symptomatic days and their frequency of symptom concealment. The individuals then rated how often they actively covered up symptoms from others, came to campus or work without telling others they were feeling ill, or falsified mandatory symptom screeners that the university had required for anyone using campus facilities.



More than 70% of the participants reported covering up their symptoms. Many said they hid their illness because it would conflict with social plans, while a few people said they felt pressure due to institutional policies, such as a lack of paid time off. Only five participants admitted to hiding a COVID-19 infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-symptom-severity-nbsp">Low symptom severity&nbsp;</h2>



For the second study, 946 online participants were randomly assigned to one of nine conditions in which they imagined being either moderately or severely sick while in a social situation. In each condition, the risk of spreading the illness was designated as low, medium, or high.&nbsp;



The study revealed that the participants were much more likely to conceal their illness when symptom severity was low and they were less likely to be contagious.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sick-people-may-be-more-insensitive-nbsp">Sick people may be more insensitive&nbsp;</h2>



In a third study, 900 people - including some who were actively sick - were asked to rate the likelihood of covering up an illness in a hypothetical meeting with another person.



The results showed that individuals who were actually sick were more likely to conceal their illness, regardless of its transmissibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“This suggests that sick people and healthy people evaluate the consequences of concealment in different ways, with sick people being relatively insensitive to how spreadable and severe their illness may be for others.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-implications-nbsp">Public health implications&nbsp;</h2>



Merrell added that the COVID-19 crisis may have shaped the way the participants thought about concealing an illness. He said that future research could explore how ecological factors and medical advances such as vaccines influence people’s disease-related behavior.&nbsp;



The research team plans to expand this research to other countries to uncover potential cultural differences in concealment behaviors. Merrell noted that the findings carry significant public health implications, illuminating the motivations and tradeoffs we make in social interactions when we’re sick.



“After all, people tend to react negatively to, find less attractive, and steer clear of people who are sick with infectious illness,” said Merrell. “It therefore makes sense that we may take steps to cover up our sickness in social situations. This suggests that solutions to the problem of disease concealment may need to rely on more than just individual good will.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/09567976231221990" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psychological Science</a>.&nbsp;



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Contagion: Most people would conceal an infectious illness in public

In a series of studies conducted by the University of...

In a new study, researchers have investigated the often overlooked psychological consequences of "yo-yo dieting." The study, led by Professor Lynsey Romo at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a>, offers a critical perspective on this widespread phenomenon.



The researchers caution against the normalization of fad <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-linked-to-unexpected-health-risks/">diets</a> and quick weight-loss plans, which have become ingrained in societal pursuits of beauty ideals.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-people-should-avoid-dieting-nbsp">Most people should avoid dieting&nbsp;</h2>



"Yo-yo dieting - unintentionally gaining weight and dieting to lose weight only to gain it back and restart the cycle - is a prevalent part of American culture, with fad diets and lose-weight-quick plans or drugs normalized as people pursue beauty ideals," said Professor Romo.



"Based on what we learned through this study, as well as the existing research, we recommend that most people avoid dieting, unless it is medically necessary. Our study also offers insights into how people can combat insidious aspects of weight cycling and challenge the cycle."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers interviewed 36 adults who had experienced significant weight cycling, defined as losing and regaining more than 11 pounds.&nbsp;



The sample included 13 men and 23 women, and the aim was to understand the reasons behind their entry into the yo-yo dieting cycle and their efforts, if any, to break free from it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misguided-motivation">Misguided motivation</h2>



The findings were revealing. All of the participants reported that their motivation to lose weight stemmed from social stigma or comparisons with celebrities and peers, rather than health concerns.



"Overwhelmingly, participants did not start dieting for health reasons, but because they felt social pressure to lose weight," said Professor Romo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weight-regain-nbsp">Weight regain&nbsp;</h2>



The study participants adopted various weight-loss strategies, which, while initially successful, led to eventual weight regain. This regain often resulted in feelings of shame and further internalization of weight-related stigma, exacerbating negative self-perceptions. Such experiences propelled participants towards extreme behaviors in an attempt to lose weight again.



"For instance, many participants engaged in disordered weight management behaviors, such as binge or emotional eating, restricting food and calories, memorizing calorie counts, being stressed about what they were eating and the number on the scale, falling back on quick fixes (such as low-carb diets or diet drugs), overexercising, and avoiding social events with food to drop pounds fast," said Professor Romo.&nbsp;



"Inevitably, these diet behaviors became unsustainable, and participants regained weight, often more than they had initially lost."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unhealthy-obsession">Unhealthy obsession</h2>



Katelin Mueller, co-author of the study and graduate student at NC State, noted that almost all of the study participants became obsessed with their weight.



"Weight loss became a focal point for their lives, to the point that it distracted them from spending time with friends, family, and colleagues and reducing weight-gain temptations such as drinking and overeating," said Mueller.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vicious-cycle-nbsp">Vicious cycle&nbsp;</h2>



According to Professor Romo, the participants referred to the experience as an addiction or a vicious cycle.



"Individuals who were able to understand and address their toxic dieting behaviors were more successful at breaking the cycle. Strategies people used to combat these toxic behaviors included focusing on their health rather than the number on the scale, as well as exercising for fun, rather than counting the number of calories they burned," said Professor Romo.



"Participants who were more successful at challenging the cycle were also able to embrace healthy eating behaviors - such as eating a varied diet and eating when they were hungry - rather than treating eating as something that needs to be closely monitored, controlled or punished."



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



However, most of the participants remained trapped in the cycle, hindered by ingrained thought patterns, societal expectations, toxic diet culture, and pervasive weight stigma. The study thus highlights the immense difficulty in exiting this cycle, even with strong motivation to do so.



"Ultimately, this study tells us that weight cycling is a negative practice that can cause people real harm," said Professor Romo. "Our findings suggest that it can be damaging for people to begin dieting unless it is medically necessary."



"Dieting to meet some perceived societal standard inadvertently set participants up for years of shame, body dissatisfaction, unhappiness, stress, social comparisons, and weight-related preoccupation. Once a diet has begun, it is very difficult for many people to avoid a lifelong struggle with their weight."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/10497323231221666" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Qualitative Health Research</a>.&nbsp;



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Breaking the cycle: The hidden harms of yo-yo dieting

In a new study, researchers have investigated the often overlooked...

A new study conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www5.usp.br/english/institutional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo</a> has shed new light on the link between stress experienced during adolescence and the predisposition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supportive-adults-help-protect-children-from-mental-health-issues/">mental illness</a> in adulthood. 



The comprehensive research, involving experiments on rats, reveals significant alterations in gene expression within the brain, particularly in genes associated with energy metabolism.&nbsp;



The study provides valuable insights into how adolescent stress can lead to long-term psychiatric disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-time-of-development-nbsp">Critical time of development&nbsp;</h2>



“Like the human brain, the brain of an adolescent rat is highly plastic. This plasticity is seen at the molecular level and in terms of behavior," explained study first author Thamyris Santos-Silva.&nbsp;



"Changes in the expression profiles of specific genes in different brain regions lead to alterations in brain cell connectivity, which spread systemically and can produce persistent alterations in adulthood that correlate with psychiatric disorders."



“Adolescence is a critical period for brain plasticity, which is significantly influenced by social experience,” said study co-author Felipe Villela Gomes. “Susceptibility to adverse social and environmental factors, such as traumas, insults and abuse, increases during this period, and social experience can influence vulnerability and resilience to stress.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prefrontal-cortex">Prefrontal cortex</h2>



The study revolves around the prefrontal cortex, a brain region particularly sensitive to stress during adolescence. This region, crucial for the cognitive control of emotions in adulthood, exhibited reduced gene expression levels associated with mitochondrial respiration in rats subjected to adolescent stress. 



Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell, and are essential for the chemical energy needed for properly functioning neurons. Ultimately, mitochondria play a critical role in regulating social behavior and stress responses.



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



The research began with an analysis of behavioral responses to stress in late-adolescent rats, including aspects such as anxiety, social interaction, and cognition. The rats were exposed to a stress protocol over ten consecutive days, coinciding with a period of intense brain plasticity.&nbsp;



Behavioral assessments revealed significant impairments across all tested domains. “We found that stressed animals in this life stage displayed a markedly poor behavioral profile, with anxiety, reduced sociability and impaired cognitive function,” Gomes said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-gene-expression">Changes in gene expression</h2>



To further understand these behavioral changes, RNA samples from the rats were sent to the Behavioral Genetics Laboratory of the Brain Mind Institute at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, led by Professor Carmen Sandi.&nbsp;



Through sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, the team identified alterations in the genes of the prefrontal cortex in stressed animals.&nbsp;



“The analysis showed alterations to the genes of the prefrontal cortex in the stressed animals. Among the ten most affected genes, several were associated with pathways linked to oxidative stress and mitochondrial function, a key cellular component of energy production for the brain,” said Gomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitochondrial-function">Mitochondrial function</h2>



The team also found that oxygen consumption by mitochondria in the brains of stressed animals was impaired, underlining the crucial role of mitochondrial function in the observed behavioral profile.&nbsp;



“We now have evidence of various kinds pointing to the importance of mitochondrial function in this behavioral profile,” said Gomes.



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



Looking ahead, the research team plans to explore whether this behavioral profile can predict an individual's stress response and its potential to lead to psychiatric disorders.&nbsp;



“Another route to advance the study would be to focus on genetic alterations, conducting tests to find out what happens when gene expression diminishes or improves. This could provide more evidence regarding the links between stress and the alterations in question, and even point to ways to combat them,” Gomes said.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41398-023-02648-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Translational Psychiatry</a>. 



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Study reveals how childhood stress changes the brain

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of...

A recent study has revealed the profound and often overlooked consequences of forced separation between humans and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-owners-are-happier-than-people-who-dont-have-pets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pets</a>, particularly in crisis situations such as domestic violence, homelessness, and natural disasters.&nbsp;



The study was conducted by <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/">James Cook University</a> PhD candidate Jasmine Montgomery under the guidance of Professor Janice Lloyd and Professor Zhanming Liang.&nbsp;



After reviewing 27 years of international research, the team uncovered severe risks posed to both humans and pets when faced with separation.



"The literature revealed that people and their companion animals who are confronted with forced separation in crisis situations experience significant impacts on their health, wellbeing, and safety," wrote the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastating-outcomes-nbsp">Devastating outcomes&nbsp;</h2>



“Our results reveal the strong emotional attachment between people and animals may result in vulnerability for both in circumstances where this bond is threatened,” said Montgomery.



“When people are being forced to separate in the context of a crisis situation, such as natural disaster, homelessness or domestic violence, it can result in psychological distress and the risk to their health, and well-being and safety are really impacted."



“Sadly, the review also confirmed that a common outcome for pets in cases of domestic violence was maltreatment and/or death.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forced-separation-nbsp">Forced separation&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers analyzed 42 studies on the human-animal bond and cases of owner-pet separation due to domestic violence, homelessness, and natural disasters.



The analysis showed that pet owners forced to be separated from their animals in crisis situations are suffering from a lack of support services needed to protect them.



"The review found catastrophic outcomes for pets in situations of forced separation, including death. Pets in crisis situations of forced separation were extremely vulnerable, and the animal’s survival and safety were completely dependent on humans," wrote the study authors.



"As a consequence, humans who felt a sense of responsibility for their pets and were forced to separate were placed at an increased risk to their safety and psychological wellbeing."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domestic-violence-victims">Domestic violence victims</h2>



One of the most alarming findings of the study is the impact on victims of domestic violence. The research highlights a disturbing trend where victims often delay leaving abusive relationships out of concern for their pets' safety.&nbsp;



This hesitation stems largely from a lack of shelters or housing options that accommodate pets, coupled with a distrust in formal support systems to prevent pet separation.



“In a lot of cases of domestic violence, there is evidence to suggest that people will delay leaving their relationship to protect their pet,” said Montgomery.



“This is often because there’s a lack of shelters or housing places which can accommodate pets, or a lack of trust placed in formal support systems that they won’t be separated from their pet."



“In those cases where threats to pets are made, victims can be lured back by the perpetrator which places significant risk to their safety as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-disasters-nbsp">Natural disasters&nbsp;</h2>



Natural disasters were found to present equally distressing scenarios, where individuals may risk their lives returning for their pets or refuse to evacuate to stay with them.&nbsp;



The study highlights the urgent need for pet-inclusive evacuation and disaster management plans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crisis-situations-nbsp">Crisis situations&nbsp;</h2>



One of the more systemic issues identified in the study is the prevailing attitude of human “superiority” and the unclear responsibility for pet welfare in crisis situations.&nbsp;



Montgomery said a shift in mindset was needed to factor in the needs of pets, and the complexities they entail, when it came to planning for crisis situations and providing services that support victims at these times.



“Often, it’s expected people will choose human interests over animals at all costs, without consideration of the shared human-animal bond,” said Montgomery.



“What we need to start doing is taking our pets, and the value of our pets, very seriously. And, as a collective in the community, sharing that responsibility and placing the needs of pets in those areas of policy development, legislation, service provision and housing to help prevent unacceptable outcomes such as animal maltreatment or death.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-recommendations-nbsp">Key recommendations&nbsp;</h2>



To mitigate the risks associated with forced separation, the team identified several key recommendations including:



<ul>
<li>Incorporating questions about pets in services assisting women experiencing domestic violence to seek refuge; providing housing for women, children and pets together; and increasing collaboration with services that can help with animals. </li>



<li>Enhance natural disaster evacuation plans to include resources such as transport and shelters that accommodate both people and their pets. </li>



<li>Ensure the availability of pet-friendly accommodation for people in homelessness situations.</li>
</ul>



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2023.2287315" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthrozoös</a>. 



-----



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Forced separation between humans and pets often ends in tragedy

A recent study has revealed the profound and often overlooked...

Researchers have unveiled new insights into how adolescent girls process social rejection.&nbsp;The study reveals a distinct pattern of brain activity in girls who tend to internalize rejection more deeply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detrimental-dwelling">Detrimental dwelling</h2>



The phenomenon of rumination – the persistent dwelling on negative events – is common to most people.&nbsp;



Whether it is triggered by a distressing breakup, a humiliating failure, or a simple unkind remark, many find it challenging to escape the spiral of negative thoughts. This tendency can have detrimental effects on mental health, particularly among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marijuana-use-may-change-brain-structure-in-adolescents/">adolescents</a>.



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



Amanda Guyer, the associate director of the Center for Mind and Brain and professor of Human Ecology at <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis</a>, emphasized the significance of the research.&nbsp;



“Everyone experiences rejection, but not everyone experiences it in the same way,” said Professor Amanda Guyer. “By identifying what brain processes cause differences in the tendency to ruminate, we can provide people better ways to avoid long-term harm.”



"Rumination is a significant risk factor for psychopathology in adolescent girls and is associated with heightened and prolonged physiological arousal following social rejection," wrote the researchers.



"However, no study has examined how rumination relates to neural responses to social rejection in adolescent girls; thus, the current study aimed to address this gap."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The study involved 116 girls between the ages of 16 and 19. They were subjected to an innovative experiment that used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe real-time changes in blood flow and electrical activity in the brain during experiences of social rejection.



Initially, the participants selected peers they would like to interact with from a set of photographs. In a subsequent session, while in the fMRI scanner, they were informed about the peers who had reciprocated or rejected their interest.&nbsp;



During this process, the participants also shared their emotional responses to this social feedback. This unique setup provided an unprecedented glimpse into how social rejection impacts the adolescent brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings">Key findings</h2>



The results revealed a striking pattern. The fMRI scans showed heightened activity in brain regions associated with self-perception and emotional processing, especially in girls who reported a higher tendency to ruminate.&nbsp;



These regions showed increased blood flow and electrical activity, signaling a deeper internalization of the rejection experience.



“Our results suggest that girls who tend to ruminate are experiencing more than just momentary sadness after rejection,” said Professor Guyer. “They are deeply internalizing this negative feedback into their self-concept.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The research paves the way for targeted interventions. By understanding the unique brain processes that occur post-rejection in girls prone to rumination, it becomes possible to develop strategies that could effectively curb the tendency to ruminate, thereby preventing larger mental health issues.



“Our study suggests that it can make a difference to reframe their negative experiences in a way that makes them feel better afterward instead of worse,” said Professor Guyer



The research was funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health. The findings are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dcn.2023.101320" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience</a>.&nbsp;



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Social rejection impacts brain activity in adolescent girls

Researchers have unveiled new insights into how adolescent girls process...

Researchers from <a href="https://rutgershealth.org/">Rutgers Health</a> have analyzed millions of Medicare records, uncovering vital insights into the end-of-life care trajectories of older Americans.&nbsp;



"Older adults may require help managing their chronic conditions, taking medications, or performing personal care activities, such as eating, bathing, and dressing," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"The ability of patients, caregivers, and communities to support aging in place is impacted by advanced illness and the presence of multiple chronic conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-end-of-life-care-nbsp">Improving end-of-life care&nbsp;</h2>



The study presents a novel approach to improving end-of-life care by mapping out the distinct paths followed by individuals in their final years.



“Identifying which paths people actually take is a necessary precursor to identifying which factors send different people down different paths and designing interventions that send more people down whatever path is right for them," said study co-author Olga Jarrín.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



The research team evaluated the final three years of clinical records from a randomly selected group of Medicare beneficiaries who died in 2018.&nbsp;



The analysis focused on the amount and location of personal care each patient received, leading to the identification of three major care clusters: home, skilled home care, and institutional care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings">Key findings</h2>



The researchers found that 59 percent of patients predominantly spent their last three years at home, relying on assistance from friends and family for daily tasks, with professional care being minimal until their final year.&nbsp;



Another 27 percent of patients were part of the "skilled home care" cluster, where nurses and other skilled professionals supplemented the care provided by family and friends within the patient's home.&nbsp;



The remaining 14 percent fell into the "institutional care" cluster, spending most of their last years in hospitals or nursing homes, where they received comprehensive professional care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-insights">Additional insights</h2>



The researchers used a group-based trajectory modeling approach to correlate these care trajectories with sociodemographic and health-related metrics. They found notable differences among the clusters, with patients in the skilled home care and institutional care clusters more likely to be female, enrolled in Medicaid, or suffering from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-owners-are-much-less-likely-to-develop-dementia/">dementia</a>.&nbsp;



Geographic variations were also evident, with extensive use of skilled home care more prevalent in Southern states and institutional care more common in the Midwest.



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



Haiqun Lin, lead author of the study and a professor of Biostatistics at Rutgers, highlighted the broader implications of the findings.



“Our study not only identifies different patterns of care but also sheds light on the clinical and policy factors that dictate where and when patients receive care,” said Lin. 



“Understanding these patterns is crucial for advance care planning, and ultimately, for achieving the triple aim of improving care experiences, reducing care costs, and improving care quality.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supportive-interventions">Supportive interventions </h2>



The research lays the foundation for future studies aimed at identifying key factors that influence individual end-of-life care paths and developing interventions to support people in following their preferred trajectory.&nbsp;



“Most people want to stay at home with minimal professional help,” said Jarrín. “However, the goal for a significant minority of people is to avoid being a burden to family and friends, and such people tend to want professional care.”&nbsp;



“Our goal isn’t forcing people toward any particular type of care. It’s helping them to plan for and get the care that’s right for them.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12877-023-04610-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Geriatrics</a>.



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Studying how Americans die may improve end-of-life care

Researchers from Rutgers Health have analyzed millions of Medicare records,...

Researchers have unveiled a striking correlation between education levels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-vaccination-reduces-mortality-risk-but-only-for-6-months/">mortality</a> rates. The extensive study, which is the largest of its kind, reveals that each additional year of education can reduce the risk of dying by two percent, regardless of age, sex, location, or background.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-direct-correlation-nbsp">A direct correlation&nbsp;</h2>



The findings represent a significant leap in understanding the link between education and longevity. Previous theories proposed that higher education levels might lead to longer life spans, but the extent of this effect was unclear.&nbsp;



The current research clarifies this by illustrating a direct correlation: a completion of six years of primary school decreases death risk by about 13 percent, secondary education cuts it by nearly 25 percent, and 18 years of education slashes mortality risk by 34 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-link-between-education-and-mortality">Link between education and mortality</h2>



The correlation between education and reduced mortality can be compared to other well-known health factors. 



The study notes that the benefits of 18 years of education is comparable to the health impact of consuming an ideal amount of vegetables versus none at all. Conversely, the lack of education bears the same health risks as heavy alcohol consumption or smoking.



“Education is important in its own right, not just for its benefits on health, but now being able to quantify the magnitude of this benefit is a significant development,” said study co-author Dr. Terje Andreas Eikemo, head of Centre for Global Health Inequalities Research at the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a> (NTNU).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-universal-benefits">Universal benefits</h2>



The study also highlights that the benefits of education are not confined to the young. Older individuals, including those over 70, also benefit from the protective effects of education. This finding challenges the common assumption that the impact of education diminishes with age.



One of the most pivotal aspects of this research is its global applicability. The effects of education on health are consistent across countries at various stages of development.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-inequalities-nbsp">Addressing inequalities&nbsp;</h2>



“We need to increase social investments to enable access to better and more education around the globe to stop the persistent inequalities that are costing lives,” said study co-lead author Mirza Balaj.&nbsp;



“More education leads to better employment and higher income, better access to healthcare, and helps us take care of our own health. Highly educated people also tend to develop a larger set of social and psychological resources that contribute to their health and the length of their lives.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-commitment-is-needed-nbsp">International commitment is needed&nbsp;</h2>



“Closing the education gap means closing the mortality gap, and we need to interrupt the cycle of poverty and preventable deaths with the help of international commitment,” said co-lead author Claire Henson.&nbsp;



“In order to reduce inequalities in mortality, it’s important to invest in areas that promote people’s opportunities to get an education. This can have a positive effect on population health in all countries.”



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



The study included data from 59 countries with over 10,000 data points derived from more than 600 published articles. However, most of the studies reviewed were from high-income settings, highlighting a gap in research from low- and middle-income countries, especially from regions like sub-Saharan and north Africa.



“Our focus now should be on regions of the world where we know access to schooling is low, and where there is also limited research on education as a determinant of health,” said study co-author Dr. Emmanuela Gakidou.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2468-2667(23)00306-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Public Health</a>.&nbsp;



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Every year of education reduces mortality risk

Researchers have unveiled a striking correlation between education levels and...

In a significant departure from the widely accepted view of early human societies as hunter-gatherers who were primarily meat-dependent, recent research seems to prove otherwise.



Spearheaded by <a href="https://www.uwyo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wyoming</a>'s Assistant Professor Randy Haas, a new study reveals a strikingly different dietary habits of early humans. 



The term "hunter-gatherers," long synonymous with early human groups, is now being reconsidered, particularly for societies in the Andes of South America. 



The findings suggest a more accurate descriptor would be "gatherer-hunters."



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



Haas, along with a team of researchers from various prestigious institutions, undertook a detailed analysis of human remains from two burial sites in Peru: Wilamaya Patjxa and Soro Mik'aya Patjxa. 



Contrary to the long-held belief that early human diets were predominantly meat-based, the study discovered that the diets in the Andean Mountains were composed of approximately 80 percent plant matter and only 20 percent meat.



The study, entitled "Stable isotope chemistry reveals plant-dominant diet among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early foragers</a> on the Andean Altiplano," utilized isotope chemistry and statistical modeling. 



This approach provided a fresh perspective on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-of-large-prey-drove-evolutionary-changes-in-early-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary habits</a> of Andean societies dating back to 9,000 to 6,500 years ago and challenged the traditional narratives of hunter-gatherer diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-heavy-diet-of-early-hunter-gatherers">Plant-heavy diet of early hunter-gatherers</h2>



The conventional wisdom surrounding early human economies has long emphasized hunting. This belief has influenced modern dietary trends, such as the Paleodiet, which advocate for high-protein, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-humans-used-to-eat-their-ancestral-relatives-practicing-cannibalism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meat-centric diets</a>. However, Haas' research tells a different story. 



The isotopic composition of human bones from these ancient Andean societies indicates a diet where plant foods, particularly tubers like potatoes, were the primary sustenance, relegating meat to a secondary role. 



This finding is further supported by evidence such as burnt plant remains at the sites and distinctive dental wear patterns indicative of tuber consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-research-effort">Collaborative research effort</h2>



The study represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from Penn State University, the <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California-Merced</a>, University of California-Davis, <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a>, the University of Arizona, and the National Register of Peruvian Archaeologists. 



The initial excavations in 2018 at the Wilamaya Patjxa burial site also provided a valuable opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research.



Jennifer Chen, currently a Ph.D. student in anthropology at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State University</a> and the lead author of the journal article, played a pivotal role in this research. 



As a former undergraduate in Haas' lab, Chen conducted significant portions of the isotope lab work and analysis following the excavations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconsidering-hunter-gatherer-societies">Reconsidering hunter-gatherer societies</h2>



Chen emphasizes the importance of understanding food consumption, especially in challenging environments like the Andes. 



The study challenges the traditional archaeological frameworks that predominantly focus on hunting and meat-heavy diets. 



Instead, it suggests that early hunter-gatherer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-humans-almost-went-extinct-as-population-declined-to-1280-individuals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human societies</a>, at least in Andean culture, primarily relied on plant foods, such as wild tubers.



Haas points out that this study not only revises our understanding of early Andean diets but also highlights the potential for similar misconceptions in other parts of the world. 



He notes that archaeological biases have often led to misconceptions, suggesting that future isotopic research might reveal similar plant-based diets in other early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-footprints-prove-humans-were-in-north-america-23000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human societies</a>.



“Our combination of isotope chemistry, paleoethnobotanical and zooarchaeological methods offers the clearest and most accurate picture of early Andean diets to date,” Haas says. 



“These findings update our understanding of earliest forager economies and the pathway to agricultural economies in the Andean highlands," he concluded



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-much-more-to-learn-about-early-humans">Much more to learn about early humans</h2>



In summary, this surprising research alters our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-humans-first-evolve-in-europe-ape-skull-sparks-new-debate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early human diets</a>, especially in the Andes. Their study has shifted the narrative around our hunter-gatherer ancestors from a meat-centric to a plant-dominated subsistence. 



This revelation challenges long-standing archaeological assumptions and underscores the importance of reevaluating our perspectives on ancient human lifestyles. 



By uncovering a diet heavily reliant on plant matter, particularly tubers, in the Andean societies, the study highlights a need to explore the diversity of early human diets across the globe.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0296420" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>.



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Our hunter-gatherer ancestors did much more gathering veggies than hunting meat

In a significant departure from the widely accepted view of...

The COVID-19 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-covid-19-pandemic-blurred-our-memories/">pandemic</a> has had far-reaching impacts on public health, including a significant rise in obesity rates among children. A recent study has highlighted this worrying trend, focusing specifically on primary school children in the UK.



The research was led by Iván Ochoa-Moreno from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>. The team found an alarming 45% increase in childhood obesity rates among four and five year-olds between the 2019 and 2021 school years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-on-weight-gain-nbsp">Effects on weight gain&nbsp;</h2>



"Overweight and obesity prevalence rose sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic in many populations in England, with the largest single year increase for decades in younger age groups," wrote the study authors.



"The greater effect on weight gain in children than adults may have been caused by the higher physical activity needs of children, the deterioration of healthy eating habits during the period in which the majority of children were schooled from home, the cancellation of organized sports and recreational activities reducing physical activity, and effects on children’s sleeping schedules and screen time."



The experts estimate that, if unaddressed, the increased obesity rates in six-year-old children could cost society an additional £800 million in healthcare.



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



For the investigation, the researchers analyzed body mass index (BMI) data from over one million children in England, gathered through the National Childhood Measurement Programme (NCMP). They compared this data from before, during, and after the pandemic, focusing on children in their first and last years of primary school.&nbsp;



To project the long-term health and economic consequences of this trend, the team also incorporated data from two additional longitudinal cohorts in the UK.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-new-insights">Crucial new insights</h2>



Not only did the researchers observe a 45% increase in obesity prevalence among four to five year-olds during the 2020-2021 period, but they also noted a similar trend in six-year-olds. This impact was twice as pronounced in the most deprived areas of the country.&nbsp;



Although the rates for younger children returned to pre-pandemic levels in the following year, the increase among older children persisted into 2022.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



The disparity between age groups is significant. The findings suggest that while younger children can rebound from weight gain, it is much more challenging to reverse obesity in older children.&nbsp;



"The sharp increase in obesity prevalence during the COVID-19 pandemic illustrates the profound impacts of wider societal determinants. The persistence in older children after the pandemic is in keeping with other research that indicates that successful reversal in older age groups is highly problematic," wrote the study authors.



"In contrast, our finding of a rapid return to pre-pandemic levels in the youngest children suggests that a major shift in policy targeting under-fives is likely to be an effective means of tackling the growing population prevalence of overweight and obesity."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0296013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>. 



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Childhood obesity rates spiked during the pandemic 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching impacts on public health,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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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"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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