Falling asleep and waking up refreshed is something most of us crave. Yet some people appear to thrive on fewer hours, leaving everyone else wondering how they manage it. A new study involving a healthy older adult suggests that a rare gene mutation might be a key to needing fewer hours of sleep.



The research was led by Dr. Hao Chen from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), whose team investigated a "natural short sleeper" <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-night-of-lost-sleep-can-trigger-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trait</a> linked to a genetic variant in the SIK3 gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-genetics-influence-sleep-duration">How genetics influence sleep duration</h2>



Scientists who explore patterns of rest have long recognized that people’s genetic makeup can influence how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-prepares-the-brain-for-the-future-while-protecting-memories-of-the-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> they need. This latest finding highlights how even a slight genetic tweak might reduce the time required for the brain and body to recover.



Those who qualify as short sleepers function at a normal or high level despite clocking fewer hours in bed. Researchers classify them separately from individuals suffering from insomnia, because these short sleepers typically wake up rested and show no health problems tied to exhaustion.



One older participant reported sleeping around 6.3 hours per night yet displayed sharp cognition and good health. Her genetic profile pointed to a single mutation as the possible reason for her efficient slumber.



These individuals, referred to as natural short sleepers, seem wired to operate on less rest. Specialists are intrigued by how they sail through daily life with no visible drawbacks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-mutation-and-sleep-patterns">Gene mutation and sleep patterns</h2>



The <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/protein-kinases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kinase protein</a> produced by the SIK3 gene relays signals that influence various cellular processes. Scientists suspect that changes in kinase function might play a role in controlling how much time the body devotes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-can-boost-memory-in-a-surprising-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>.



When Dr. Chen’s team transferred this mutation to lab mice, the animals spent slightly less time resting each day. This observation hinted at a biological mechanism that could be significant across different species.



“Studying human sleep genes not only expands our knowledge regarding the sleep regulatory network, but also may bring the basic research from mouse models to clinical relevance,” noted the researchers.



Brain scans in the test mice revealed that their <a href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/life-science/protein-biology/protein-biology-learning-center/protein-biology-resource-library/pierce-protein-methods/phosphorylation.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phosphorylation</a> patterns changed, especially around the areas that oversee rest and wake cycles. This shift aligns with the idea that sleep is coordinated by a web of signals in the brain that might be influenced by tiny chemical tweaks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-mutations-in-short-sleepers">Genetic mutations in short sleepers</h2>



Scientists have now identified at least five distinct genetic mutations linked to the natural short sleep trait. Each one affects different proteins involved in the brain’s signaling and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-quality-could-be-the-key-to-better-metabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>-wake rhythms, hinting at multiple pathways that might influence rest duration.



The SIK3 variant joins others such as <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.1801693115" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DEC2</a>, <a href="https://www.ajmc.com/view/a-rare-gene-mutation-is-associated-with-requiring-less-sleep-researchers-say" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ADRB1</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/387129" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NPSR1</a>, and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/14816" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRM1</a>, each contributing a piece to the sleep efficiency puzzle. Researchers believe that mapping these variants could eventually lead to a full blueprint of how the body regulates its need for sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treatments-for-sleep-disorders">Treatments for sleep disorders</h2>



Researchers think there could be important applications for people who struggle with sleep disorders. Adjusting the pathways linked to this genetic variant might shorten the time needed to feel rested, although practical therapies will likely take time to refine.



Still, scientists caution that these insights do not give an excuse to slash nightly rest. They emphasize that ordinary individuals without the mutation may not reap any benefits from copying a short sleeper’s schedule.



Experts see promise in pursuing treatments that enhance the body’s own efficiency. They hope new knowledge of genetic influences will guide strategies to help those who find it difficult to get restorative rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-short-sleep-genes">Future research on short-sleep genes </h2>



Short-sleep genes have captured the imagination of specialists for years. There is strong interest in mapping out exactly how the human brain resets itself, and why some people get the same benefits in a compressed timeframe.



“These [NSS] people, all these functions our bodies are doing while we are sleeping, they can just perform at a higher level than we can,” said neuroscientist and geneticist Ying-Hui Fu, from the University of California, San Francisco (<a href="https://www.ucsf.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCSF</a>). 



Scientists aim to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37398097/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uncover</a> the precise factors that grant this group their resilience. Many research teams intend to investigate how broader networks of genes might interact to influence rest. 



The SIK3 discovery raises big questions about what else might affect daily energy levels and long-term health.



Fascination with short sleepers is unlikely to fade soon. Unlocking the secrets of their genetics could reshape how we view rest, opening a path to solutions for chronic sleep troubles.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2500356122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>.



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Rare gene explains why some people can thrive on less sleep

Falling asleep and waking up refreshed is something most of us crave. Yet some people appear to thrive on fewer hours, leaving everyone else wondering how they manage it. A new study involving a healthy older adult suggests that a rare gene mutation might be a key to needing fewer hours of sleep. The research was led by Dr. Hao Chen from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), whose team investigated a "natural short sleeper" trait linked to a genetic variant in the SIK3 gene. How genetics...

According to Booking.com’s <a href="https://globalnews.booking.com/cost-vs-conscience-bookingcom-delves-into-the-dilemma-dividing-sustainable-travel-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Travel Report 2023</a>, 76% of travelers reportedly aspire to incorporate sustainability into their plans over the coming year. 



This figure represents a notable increase of 16% from the 2021 data and 5% from 2022 data.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prominent-dilemma-nbsp">Prominent dilemma&nbsp;</h2>



The report, which compiled responses from over 33,000 travelers across 35 countries, highlights a prominent dilemma faced by many: the conflict between cost-saving and making eco-conscious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/">travel</a> choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eco-conscious-habits">Eco-conscious habits</h2>



The push toward sustainable travel options reflects a broader trend, with environmentally-conscious habits gaining traction among travelers.&nbsp;



For instance, a significant 67% of respondents now consciously turn off air conditioning in their accommodations when not present - a leap of 29% from last year’s figures.&nbsp;



In addition, there is a 25% increase in travelers reusing towels multiple times, with 60% of participants reporting this practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-constraints-nbsp">Economic constraints&nbsp;</h2>



However, economic constraints pose a significant barrier to the adoption of sustainable travel options.&nbsp;



The report highlights that nearly half (49%) of travelers perceive eco-friendly options as prohibitively expensive - an 11% increase from 2022 data.&nbsp;



These individuals often find themselves at a crossroads, having to choose between managing their expenses and opting for sustainable travel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-travel-options-nbsp">Sustainable travel options&nbsp;</h2>



Despite economic hurdles, there's a segment of travelers, constituting 43%, who express a willingness to pay a premium for certified sustainable travel alternatives.&nbsp;



This group is actively seeking to make an impact through their travel choices, even if it necessitates higher expenditure.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discounts-and-incentives">Discounts and incentives</h2>



The data reveals a demand for initiatives that marry financial and environmental considerations, with 49% of respondents expressing interest in economic incentives or discounts for eco-friendly options (up 12% from 2022).&nbsp;



Additionally, 42% would be encouraged to choose sustainable travel if rewarded with points redeemable for perks and discounts.



Travelers are contending with major concerns, notably the escalating cost of living and the ongoing climate crisis, which significantly influence their travel and spending plans.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adopting-more-sustainable-practices-nbsp">Adopting more sustainable practices&nbsp;</h2>



As a result, there's an apparent urgency and commitment among travelers to act promptly in adopting more sustainable practices to preserve the planet for future generations, as voiced by 74% of participants in the study.



This sentiment is further echoed by 53% of respondents who acknowledge that recent developments and news on climate change have galvanized them to adopt more sustainable travel practices.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-dilemma">Growing dilemma</h2>



Nevertheless, there is looming apprehension about the deteriorating environmental conditions, which are expected by 49% to worsen in the next six months.&nbsp;



In addition, 64% of travelers anticipate a worsening cost of living crisis, leaving them with a dilemma over their priorities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-travel-sustainable-badge">Travel Sustainable badge</h2>



In response to these findings, Booking.com continues to take strides in promoting sustainable travel. The company's Travel Sustainable badge, launched in 2021, facilitates easier identification of sustainable accommodations for travelers.&nbsp;



This badge is awarded to various types of properties, including apartments, hotels, and even treehouses, that have successfully implemented a blend of sustainable practices meeting the requisite impact threshold for their specific destinations.



Booking.com has notably expanded its range of recognized third-party certifications and labels, allowing more properties to qualify for the Travel Sustainable badge.&nbsp;



Currently, over 500,000 properties worldwide are spotlighted for their sustainability efforts on Booking.com, bearing the Travel Sustainable badge.&nbsp;



The badge is not only indicative of Booking.com’s commitment to fostering sustainable travel but also serves as a crucial tool for travelers navigating the economic and environmental challenges outlined in the report.



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Travelers are ready for more affordable eco-friendly options

According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2023, 76% of travelers...

Portrait,Of,A,Young,Cheerful,Woman,Eating,Salad,At,The

The global trend of reducing meat consumption has been picking up pace, as initiatives such as "Meatless Mondays" gain popularity. Yet, the decision to go vegetarian might not just be a matter of personal or ethical choice, it may be genetic.



A fascinating study from <a href="https://www.nm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern Medicine</a> posits that a person's genetic composition might significantly influence their ability to commit to a strict vegetarian diet.



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



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-are-proven-better-for-human-and-environmental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetarianism</a> is lauded for its potential health benefits and ethical considerations, there's a conundrum that has puzzled many. Why do a significant number of self-proclaimed vegetarians continue to consume fish, poultry, or red meat? 



<a href="https://www.pathology.northwestern.edu/faculty/profile.html?xid=14114" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Nabeel Yaseen</a> is professor emeritus of pathology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He stated that nearly 48 to 64% of vegetarians admit to occasionally consuming meat. This stat implies that external environmental factors or internal biological constraints might be at play.



"It seems there are more people who would like to be vegetarian than actually are, and we think it’s because there is something hard-wired here that people may be missing,” Dr. Yaseen noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-and-vegetarians">Genetics and vegetarians</h2>



To delve into the genetic underpinnings of vegetarianism, researchers at Northwestern Medicine undertook a comprehensive study. They analyzed UK Biobank genetic data, comparing 5,324 strict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-stigma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetarians</a> with 329,455 control subjects. 



Notably, all participants were of white Caucasian descent to ensure a uniform sample and eliminate potential ethnic biases.



The findings were illuminating. Three genes were found to have a significant correlation with vegetarianism, with an additional 31 genes showing potential association. Intriguingly, two of the three primary genes identified, namely NPC1 and RMC1, play roles in lipid metabolism and brain function.



Dr. Yaseen hypothesized that certain lipids, present in meat but not in plant products, might be essential for some people. "Maybe people whose genetics favor vegetarianism can naturally produce these lipid components," he speculated, though he emphasized that this remains a theory, and further studies are required..



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-trends-and-implications">Global trends and implications</h2>



Despite the burgeoning interest in plant-based diets, the majority of the global population continues to consume meat. In the U.S., vegetarians constitute only 3 to 4% of the populace. Similarly, the U.K. reports that only <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey-results-from-years-1-to-4-combined-of-the-rolling-programme-for-2008-and-2009-to-2011-and-2012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2.3% of adults and 1.9% of children</a> identify as vegetarians. 



This prevalent preference for meat prompts further investigation into its underlying reasons. Dr. Yaseen posits that, akin to one's initial reaction and subsequent acclimatization to alcohol or coffee, there might be a component in meat, possibly a lipid, that individuals might inherently crave or need.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-and-religious-beliefs">More and religious beliefs</h2>



Furthermore, if genetics is a determinant in one's vegetarian inclinations, what implications does it hold for individuals abstaining from meat due to religious or moral beliefs? 



Dr. Yaseen explains, "While religious and moral considerations certainly play a major role in the motivation to adopt a vegetarian diet, our data suggest that the ability to adhere to such a diet is constrained by genetics.”



Concluding his thoughts, Dr. Yaseen expressed hope that future research would shed more light on the physiological differences between vegetarians and non-vegetarians. This knowledge, he believes, can pave the way for more tailored dietary recommendations and better meat alternatives. His ultimate goal is to cater to the genetic predispositions of both vegetarians and meat eaters.



This pivotal study has the distinction of being the first peer-reviewed study examining the relationship between genetics and strict vegetarianism.



This full study, titled “<a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0291305" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetics of Vegetarianism: A Genome-Wide Association Study</a>,” was published in the journal PLOS ONE.



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Being a vegetarian is genetic and could explain why some people can’t give up meat

The global trend of reducing meat consumption has been picking...

Verbal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-abuse-animals-abused/">abuse</a> towards children by adults, such as shouting, belittling, or making threats, can be as harmful to their growth as physical or sexual mistreatment, according to a recent study published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106394">Child Abuse Neglect</a>.&nbsp;



By analyzing 166 previous studies, offering a comprehensive overview of the existing data on the subject, the scientists argued that verbal abuse during childhood should receive its own maltreatment category in order to bolster prevention and intervention efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-child-maltreatment-nbsp">Child maltreatment&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, child maltreatment falls into four main groups: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse - with verbal abuse being a subset - and neglect.&nbsp;



Different from other emotional abuse types like indifference, silent treatment, or exposure to domestic violence, verbal abuse should be considered as more overt and thus warranting special attention, according to the experts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curbing-verbal-abuse-nbsp">Curbing verbal abuse&nbsp;</h2>



Sponsored by <a href="https://wordsmatter.org/">Words Matter</a>, a UK-based charity focusing on enhancing children’s well-being by curbing verbal abuse, the research was conducted by specialists at Wingate University in North Carolina and University College London (UCL).



“Childhood verbal abuse desperately needs to be acknowledged as an abuse subtype because of the lifelong negative consequences,” said lead author Shanta Dube, the head of Wingate University’s Master of Public Health Program.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-impacts">Long-term impacts</h2>



Examining the ramifications of adults - like parents, educators, and coaches - raising their voices, the scientists cited a variety of previous studies indicating that the long-term impacts of verbal abuse during childhood cause mental distress.&nbsp;



The consequences of this distress can lead to issues such as depression, anger, criminal behavior, substance abuse, inflicting abuse, and health issues including obesity or respiratory diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-true-scale-and-impact-nbsp">Understanding the true scale and impact&nbsp;</h2>



Jessica Bondy, the founder of Words Matter, emphasized the need to understand “the true scale and impact of childhood verbal abuse.”



“All adults get overloaded sometimes and say things unintentionally,” she said. “We have to work collectively to devise ways to recognize these actions and end childhood verbal abuse by adults so children can flourish.”



Interestingly, this study suggests that the nature of child abuse may be evolving. While rates of physical and sexual abuse appear to be on the decline, emotional abuse seems to be on the rise, as pointed out by the World Health Organization in 2014 and four other research papers highlighted in the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-establishing-effective-interventions-nbsp">Establishing effective interventions&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, there is a “need for consistency” in how childhood verbal abuse is defined in order to measure its prevalence and aftermath accurately and to establish effective interventions.



Words Matter’s online resources advise adults to steer clear of shouting, derogatory comments, belittling remarks, or name-calling when addressing children. They also recommend reflecting before speaking and making amends with the child if hurtful words are used.



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



Furthermore, Elizabeth Gershoff, a scholar in Human Development and Family Sciences at the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/">University of Texas at Austin</a>, has stressed that when raising one’s voice, one should avoid criticizing. 



Moreover, she argued that the age of the child is significant too: while toddlers might only register the anger and not the message, children’s reactions to shouting can vary.



However, further research is needed to clearly understand all the ramifications of verbal abuse and to devise specific strategies to combat this type of abuse in order to ensure children’s wellbeing and healthy development.



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Verbal abuse can be as harmful to children as physical abuse

Verbal abuse towards children by adults, such as shouting, belittling,...

Researchers at the University of Bristol have unveiled a cutting-edge robot designed to conduct clinical breast examinations (CBE).&nbsp;The technology represents a significant stride toward improved monitoring ands early breast cancer diagnosis.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-manipulator-nbsp">The manipulator&nbsp;</h2>



The robot, known as "the manipulator," was developed at the <a href="https://www.bristolroboticslab.com/medical-robotics">Bristol Robotics Laboratory</a>. The machine stands out for its ability to administer specific forces comparable to those applied by human examiners during breast exams (see <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/1000519">image</a>).&nbsp;



Notably, its advanced sensor technology is adept at identifying lumps at greater depths than previously possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-breast-health">Monitoring breast health</h2>



The introduction of this robotic device may ultimately transform women's approach to monitoring their breast health.&nbsp;



It offers an innovative method for safe, electronic breast exams that can be strategically positioned in accessible locations like pharmacies and health centers.&nbsp;



The robot is the brainchild of a diverse team comprising both postgraduate and undergraduate researchers, all operating under the supervision of Dr. Antonia Tzemanaki from the Bristol Robotics Laboratory.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effectiveness-of-breast-exams">Effectiveness of breast exams</h2>



According to study lead author George Jenkinson, there's a range of opinions regarding the effectiveness of clinical breast examinations.



“There are conflicting ideas about how useful carrying out clinical breast examinations are for the health outcomes of the population," said Jenkinson. “It’s generally agreed upon that if it is well performed, then it can be a very useful and low risk diagnostic technique.



“There have been a few attempts in the past to use technology to improve the standard to which healthcare professionals can perform a CBE by having a robot or electronic device physically palpate breast tissue."&nbsp;



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



"But the last decade or so of technological advances in manipulation and sensor technology mean that we are now in a better position to do this."



“The first question that we want to answer as part of this is whether a specialized manipulator can be demonstrated to have the dexterity necessary to palpate a realistic breast size and shape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-the-robot">Creating the robot</h2>



The team's manipulator prototype was created using 3D printing and computer numerical control techniques. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="yOEDKTB1jc-3040080-12187" type="single"]</div>



The development process incorporated a series of laboratory experiments and simulated trials, all conducted on a silicone breast and its digital twin.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulations-and-experiments-nbsp">Simulations and experiments&nbsp;</h2>



Through simulations, the researchers could execute thousands of palpations and evaluate numerous hypothetical scenarios. This included efficiency analysis while using varying numbers of sensors, ranging from two to four, concurrently.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the team conducted actual experiments on the silicone breast in the lab. This approach was crucial to validating the accuracy of the simulations and empirically determining the forces required by the real equipment.



Ultimately, the robot's dexterity in palpating realistic breast sizes and shapes will be under scrutiny as the team progresses with their work.&nbsp;



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



“We hope that the research can contribute to and complement the arsenal of techniques used to diagnose breast cancer, and to generate a large amount of data associated with it that may be useful in trying to identify large scale trends that could help diagnose breast cancer early," said Jenkinson.



“One advantage that some doctors have mentioned anecdotally is that this could provide a low-risk way to objectively record health data. This could be used, for example, to compare successive examinations more easily, or as part of the information packet sent to a specialist if a patient is referred for further examination.”



“So far we have laid all of the groundwork,” said George. “We have shown that our robotic system has the dexterity necessary to carry out a clinical breast examination – we hope that in the future this could be a real help in diagnosing cancers early.”



This research was a part of project ARTEMIS, funded by Cancer Research UK and supported by EPSRC.



Image &amp; Video Credit: George Jenkinson



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New robot could revolutionize breast cancer diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Bristol have unveiled a cutting-edge...

A study from the University of Southern Denmark is shedding new light on the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, the active compound found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-can-treat-depression-by-restructuring-the-brain/">psychedelic mushrooms</a>. The researchers have found that "microdosing" psilocybin may have a beneficial effect on mental disorders.



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



The study explored the effects of psilocybin microdosing on rats, offering promising insights into its possible advantages for human mental health.&nbsp;



Led by Professor Mikael Palner and PhD student Kat Kiilerich, the research focused on administering repeated low doses of psilocybin to rats, significantly lower than the amounts commonly used in therapeutic contexts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-medication-technique-nbsp">Self-medication technique&nbsp;</h2>



Microdosing has recently gained traction as a popular self-medication technique.&nbsp;



"Microdosing is a phenomenon popularized within performance culture, notably in areas like Silicon Valley, California, and has subsequently spread through stories and anecdotes on the internet as a form of self-medication for various challenges," explained Professor Palner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-microdosing">Psilocybin microdosing </h2>



The results of the study suggest that rats can tolerate repeated psilocybin microdosing without signs of anxiety, reduced pleasure (anhedonia), or altered locomotor activity.&nbsp;



The low doses of psilocybin also increased the rats' resilience to stress, reduced their compulsive behaviors, and notably enhanced connectivity to their brain's thalamus region. This part of the brain plays a crucial role in decision-making and managing concerns.



"The change in connectivity to the thalamus may contribute to our enhanced resilience to stress factors and could explain why so many people report positive effects on their well-being from small doses of psychedelic mushrooms," explained the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-treatment-approaches-nbsp">Innovative treatment approaches&nbsp;</h2>



The findings offer a scientific foundation for the potential benefits of psilocybin microdosing as a therapeutic intervention. This opens avenues for further research and the development of innovative treatment approaches for various mental disorders.



"The increased anxiety and stress in society currently have placed a strong focus on microdosing, leading to a surge in the trade of mushrooms. Countries such as the Netherlands, Australia, the USA, and Canada have either legalized or are in the process of legalizing psilocybin for therapeutic treatment" said Professor Palner.



"It is, therefore, crucial that we understand the effects and side effects of these substances, which are already widely used by people around the world."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-and-performance-enhancement">Mental health and performance enhancement</h2>



Inspired by the surge in self-improvement practices in Silicon Valley, Professor Palner has dedicated years to researching the beneficial impacts of microdosing psychedelics on mental health and performance enhancement.



"Some books were published that popularized the concept of using small doses of psychedelics to address both mental issues and enhance performance. This motivated me to launch the project I've been devoted to for the past six years," said Professor Palner.



"Now, we can determine the appropriate dosage in rats, enabling us to investigate the effects of microdosing, which could significantly advance our understanding of the brain and mental challenges. This benefits both the field of science and society at large."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41380-023-02280-z">Nature - Molecular Psychiatry</a>.



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Psilocybin microdosing may improve mental health by boosting stress resilience

A study from the University of Southern Denmark is shedding...

In an ever-busy world, achieving sufficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/getting-high-quality-sleep-helps-prevent-depression-and-anxiety/">sleep </a>has become a formidable challenge. Now, a team of scientists from the Channing Division of Network Medicine of Brigham and Women’s Hospital (affiliated with the Mass General Brigham healthcare system), has highlighted the health implications of proper sleep.&nbsp;



The research indicates a connection between insufficient sleep and a heightened risk of hypertension in women.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-insomnia-nbsp">Symptoms of insomnia&nbsp;</h2>



“These findings suggest that individuals who struggle with symptoms of insomnia may be at risk of hypertension and could benefit from preemptive screening,” said lead author Shahab Haghayegh, a research associate at the Brigham and Harvard Medical School.&nbsp;



“Hypertension is associated with many other physical and mental health complications. The sooner we can identify individuals with high blood pressure and treat them for it, the better we can mitigate future health issues.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-adequate-sleep-nbsp">Lack of adequate sleep&nbsp;</h2>



The rising trend of both hypertension and sleep-related issues is concerning for adults across the United States. Disturbingly, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that over 35 percent of US adults are deprived of adequate sleep.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine points out that nearly 30 percent of Americans are battling with insomnia. Even more alarmingly, 45 percent of US adults appear to be grappling with high blood pressure.



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



In their comprehensive study, Haghayegh and his team monitored 66,122 participants, aged 25-42, from the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHS2) cohort. None of these participants had hypertension at the beginning of the study, which took place between 2001 until 2017.&nbsp;



The researchers examined diverse variables, including age, lifestyle habits, sleep patterns, and health history. Regular assessments were conducted to determine the onset of hypertension among participants, factoring in their sleep durations and any challenges related to sleep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-risk-of-hypertension-nbsp">Increased risk of hypertension&nbsp;</h2>



The results painted a clear picture: women with compromised sleep often exhibited higher BMI, indulged in unhealthy lifestyles, including smoking and alcohol consumption, and many had undergone menopause.



In the collected data, 25,987 instances of hypertension were identified. Strikingly, women who managed less than the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep displayed an increased likelihood of developing hypertension.&nbsp;



Those who faced challenges in initiating or maintaining sleep also exhibited a heightened risk. However, waking up early did not correlate with this risk. Crucially, these connections were evident even after adjusting for the participants’ work schedules and natural sleep-wake cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiological-changes-nbsp">Physiological changes&nbsp;</h2>



The exact dynamics between sleep disturbances and hypertension risk remain elusive. Yet, the experts have argued that disruptions in sleep might trigger a sequence of physiological changes potentially leading to hypertension.&nbsp;



This includes factors like sodium retention, arterial rigidity, and variations in cardiac output. Additionally, any imbalance in the sleep/wake cycle can interfere with the vascular tone regulation.



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



Though the study centered on women, the researchers aim to broaden their focus to include male and non-binary participants in future studies. Another limitation was the intermittent data collection on sleep quality during the study. However, the extensive participant base and the lengthy follow-up period bolster the study’s credibility.



Haghayegh highlighted the non-causal nature of these findings. He is keen on delving deeper to comprehend the link and ascertain if addressing one condition might alleviate the other. His future research aims to investigate whether sleep medications can influence blood pressure positively.



“I hope these findings further underscore the crucial role of quality sleep in our overall well-being. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends sleeping seven or more hours a night, and if you cannot fall or stay asleep, it might be worth exploring why that is. This study highlights yet another reason why getting a good night's sleep is so important,” he concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.123.2135">Hypertension</a>.



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Study reveals link between insomnia and hypertension in women

In an ever-busy world, achieving sufficient sleep has become a...

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as long as you compliment your co-workers too, according to a new study published in the <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-96750-001">Journal of Personality and Social Psychology</a>.&nbsp;



The researchers suggest that this type of "dual promotion" strikes the proper balance of competence and warmth, whereas self-promotion does not typically make the best impression.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-credit-to-others">Giving credit to others</h2>



"To create favorable impressions and receive credit, individuals need to share information about their past accomplishments," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Broadcasting one’s past accomplishments or claiming credit to demonstrate competence, however, can harm perceptions of warmth and likability."&nbsp;



"In fact, prior work has conceptualized self-promotion as a hydraulic challenge: tactics that boost perceptions along one dimension (e.g., competence) harm perceptions along other dimensions (e.g., warmth)."&nbsp;



"In this work, we identify a novel approach to self-promotion: We show that by combining self-promotion with other-promotion (complimenting or giving credit to others), which we term “dual-promotion,” individuals can project both warmth and competence to make better impressions on observers than they do by only self-promoting."



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



The researchers - from Vanderbilt, George Mason University, and the University of Pennsylvania - emphasize the distinction between dual-promotion and ingratiation, which is when an individual speaks highly of someone in their presence to get in their good graces.



Dual-promotion, on the other hand, is when an individual praises the achievements of another person whether or not he or she is present for the conversation.&nbsp;



"With dual-promotion, the goal isn't directly about improving relationships with the person being complimented, but rather about demonstrating that you care about this other person to a third party to demonstrate your own warmth and competence," said study co-author Dr.&nbsp; Eric VanEpps, an associate professor of Marketing at Vanderbilt University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-promotion-dilemma">Self-promotion dilemma</h2>



The researchers suggest that dual promotion is a good strategy to use at a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/money-job-matches-personality/">job</a> interview, but most people don't.&nbsp;



They said that previous studies have identified "so many behaviors" people use to self-promote that academics have coined the term the "self-promotion dilemma."



The team initiated the research with surveys targeting hiring managers. These employers reported that the majority of job candidates they interviewed used only self-promotion (69.1 percent), while the vast minority (12.6 percent) used dual-promotion.



"It seems like people either don't think of talking positively about others in the moment, or they're worried that they would look worse by comparison," said Dr VanEpps.&nbsp;



"But we find over and over that it's good to compliment your colleagues, especially - this is the 'dual' part of dual-promotion - alongside claiming credit for your own abilities and achievements."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-favorable-impressions-nbsp">Favorable impressions&nbsp;</h2>



The team also completed seven experiments involving 1,488 participants.



"In seven preregistered studies, including analyses of annual reports from members of Congress and experiments using social network, workplace, and political contexts, we show that individuals who engage in dual-promotion create more favorable impressions of warmth and competence than those who only engage in self-promotion," wrote the researchers.



"The beneficial effects of dual-promotion are robust to both competitive and noncompetitive contexts and extend to behavioral intentions."



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Dual promotion: Bragging on your co-workers makes a good impression

It's okay to brag on yourself in the workplace, as...

In a new study from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/study-introduces-new-internet-addiction-spectrum-where-are-you-scale">University of Surrey</a>, researchers have introduced an internet addiction spectrum, classifying internet users into five specific categories based on their behavior and dependency levels.&nbsp;



The goal of the study was to distinguish between problematic internet use and actual addiction, providing critical insights that could guide future digital services and AR application design.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-snapshot-of-online-behavior">A snapshot of online behavior</h2>



The research data shows that younger individuals, those aged 24 and below, spend an average of six hours a day online, with the primary device of choice being their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-spend-nearly-5-hours-a-day-on-smartphones/">smartphones</a>.&nbsp;



By contrast, those aged 24 and above reported spending approximately 4.6 hours on the internet daily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-spectrum">Breaking down the spectrum</h2>



The study, which was focused on data from 796 participants, divided internet users into the following categories:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-casual-users-14-86">Casual users (14.86%)</h3>



Represented primarily by older users with an average age of 33.4 years, this group utilizes the internet for specific purposes and doesn't hang around. Notably, these individuals are not interested in exploring new apps and exhibit no signs of addiction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-initial-users-22-86-nbsp">Initial users (22.86%)&nbsp;</h3>



With an average age of 26.1 years, these users tend to spend more time online than they initially plan to. While these individuals might neglect some household chores, they don't label themselves as addicted and have a moderate interest in new apps.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimenters-21-98">Experimenters (21.98%)</h3>



Falling within the age range of 22.8 to 24.3 years, this category is characterized by individuals who experience uneasiness or anxiety when not online. Their connection to the internet is a relief, and they are quite open to exploring new apps and technology.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-in-denial-17-96">Addicts-in-denial (17.96%)</h3>



These users exhibit clear signs of addiction, such as prioritizing online relationships over real-world commitments but deny feeling any discomfort when not connected. Their confidence in using mobile technology is apparent.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-22-36">Addicts (22.36%)</h3>



This segment openly acknowledges their internet addiction and the consequent negative impacts on their lives. These individuals show the most confidence in using and experimenting with new technology and apps. Their online presence is considerably greater than that of casual users.



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



"Our main aim was to clarify the difference between using the internet in a problematic way and being addicted to it. We found that the younger you are, the more likely you are to be addicted to the internet, and this tendency decreases with age," said study lead author Dr. Brigitte Stangl.



"We also wanted to explore how the severity of internet addiction affects users' experience with new, high-tech applications like augmented reality."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-notable-findings">Notable findings</h2>



The study revealed that emotional experiences, such as feelings derived from app use, predominantly predicted future behavior across all groups when it came to augmented reality interactions.&nbsp;



On the other hand, action experiences, like navigating websites or gaming, were found to be largely inconsequential for the addict group.



Interestingly, gender did not influence online behavior. However, the study established a direct correlation between high levels of internet addiction and confidence in using mobile technology.



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



"Our study underscores the need for tailored interventions and support for individuals at various stages of internet addiction," said Dr. Stangl.



"The findings will certainly influence the design and development of digital services and AR applications, ensuring they cater to the diverse needs of users in the current digital environment."



This research underscores the growing need to understand and address internet addiction in today’s digital age.



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Internet addiction: Where do you fall on the spectrum?

In a new study from the University of Surrey, researchers...

A young child’s body and <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/anatomy-of-the-brain">brain</a> are literally designed to be playful, and this is crucial for neural development, says Dr. Jacqueline Harding, a renowned early childhood expert at Middlesex University and the director of <a href="https://www.tomorrowschild.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tomorrow’s Child</a>.



In her new book, "The Brain that Loves to Play," Dr. Harding emphasizes the indispensable role of play in fostering the holistic development of young children.



“Children are naturally wired to play and any sustained deviation from this masterful design comes at a price."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-play-and-learning">Play and learning</h2>



Dr. Harding challenges the long-standing dichotomy between play and learning, highlighting play's pivotal function in the educational spectrum of early childhood.&nbsp;



“At this very moment, his brain also starts to 'jump' and light up with joy as connections between neurons make impressive progress. Does this experience count as learning? Absolutely yes."



The book signifies joyous moments of play as monumental instances of cognitive progression. Dr. Harding advocates for the essential and inseparable integration of play into the learning processes of children ranging from birth to five years old.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neuroscientific-foundations">Neuroscientific foundations</h2>



Dr. Harding provides insightful observations on how a child's brain inherently yearns and optimally flourishes through play.&nbsp;



She notes that engaging in playful activities and sensory experiences significantly facilitates the creation of new neural pathways, establishing a robust foundation for future learning and growth.&nbsp;



These neural pathways, carved through play before reaching six years of age, significantly influence the child's future learning capacities and opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-perspectives-on-play">Traditional perspectives on play</h2>



The book invites readers to reassess and discard the outdated belief that dismisses play as a trivial recreational activity.&nbsp;



Instead, Dr. Harding supports a holistic perspective, asserting play as a fundamental element of a child's developmental architecture.



"There is no doubt, according to all the latest research, that the brain loves to play - and it is time that as adults we got on board with this notion too.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-induced-challenges">Pandemic-induced challenges</h2>



Dr. Harding’s book explores the acute challenges precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly its detrimental effects on children's mental health.&nbsp;



In navigating through these unprecedented challenges, she emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing play and early intervention strategies to effectively support the children who have weathered through the storm of the pandemic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-children-through-play">Supporting children through play</h2>



By simplifying complex terminologies and offering illustrative case studies, Dr. Harding empowers adults with practical knowledge and tools to seamlessly incorporate play into their daily interactions with children.



“As we emerge from a pandemic which has significantly impacted all our lives, there can be no better place to begin than considering how we can rewrite the narrative through support in the early years,” she says.



Dr. Harding also emphasizes that the book is not an exhaustive compilation of scientific findings but rather a practical guide for adults seeking to better understand the value of play in young children’s development.&nbsp;



“It is my belief that a greater awareness of how we can support children is vital for all who care for young children,” she says.



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Lighting up the brain: The power of play in child development

A young child’s body and brain are literally designed to...

A new study published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2023.1236256" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Sports and Active Living</a> sheds light on the way swimming lessons are taught to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-green-space-linked-to-adhd-in-children/">children</a>, suggesting there's significant room for improvement to enhance children’s intrinsic motivation to swim.&nbsp;



The research was led by Carola Minkels, a doctoral student in the Department of Human Movement Sciences at Free University Amsterdam.&nbsp;



“Here we show that swimming lessons in the Netherlands poorly support the intrinsic motivation of children: their need for autonomy is thwarted, while their needs for competence, and relatedness are only weakly supported," said Minkels.



“Fortunately, we also show that teachers can be taught to better support these needs if they adopt a swim teaching program explicitly designed for this.”



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



While swimming is not just a potentially life-saving skill but also a means of a full-body workout promoting cardiovascular and lung health, it has been observed that few children continue with swimming after learning the basics in high-income countries.&nbsp;



In the Netherlands, for example, while a significant percentage of children earn their basic and advanced swimming diplomas, 70% of swimming teachers believe their former students seldom swim post-certification, leading to potential deterioration in their acquired skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-swimming-lessons">Swimming lessons</h2>



"Regularly recurring practice is necessary to preserve swimming skills, and to master swimming in more challenging environments, such as strong currents and waves," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"Since most children in Western countries acquire swimming skills during swimming lessons, these lessons also offer an ideal opportunity to stimulate children to adopt swimming as a sporting activity, be it at a swimming club or in unorganized form."&nbsp;



"To this end, swimming lessons should be focused not only on the acquisition of swimming skills to become water safe, but also on developing motivation for and pleasure in swimming."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-determination-theory-nbsp">Self-determination theory&nbsp;</h2>



Minkels and her colleagues based their research on the self-determination theory of human motivation and personality, which asserts that individuals are more likely to enjoy and persist in activities when they are self-motivated.&nbsp;



This theory proposes that autonomy (the need to control one’s actions and goals), competence (the need to feel effective in one’s behavior), and relatedness (the need to belong to a social group) are critical factors shaping self-determination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted</h2>



The researchers observed 128 swimming lessons at 42 schools, taught by different instructors. Of these, 25% of instructors were trained in the EasySwim program, designed with self-determination theory in mind, whereas the remaining 75% were not.&nbsp;



The lessons varied in duration and size but were all aimed at novice swimmers between the ages of four and ten. Following each lesson, the instructors were rated on a seven-point scale regarding their support or thwarting of autonomy, competence, and relatedness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-learned-nbsp">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



The findings revealed that while competence and relatedness were somewhat supported, autonomy was significantly lacking in the teaching styles observed.&nbsp;



“Instructors scored significantly lower on the employment of autonomy in swimming lessons than on the employment of competence and relatedness,” the authors noted. 



However, instructors trained under the EasySwim program displayed higher scores in supporting autonomy, indicating that it’s possible to teach instructors to nurture all three critical needs.



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



The experts recommend a shift in the teaching style employed by swimming instructors, advocating for an approach that strongly supports autonomy, competence, and relatedness. 



They believe that this teaching style will not only improve swimming skills in children but will also inspire them to enjoy swimming and continue practicing the sport long after their formal education ends.&nbsp;



“Motivation is a prerequisite for all forms of learning, including motor learning. A more motivating teaching style is therefore more likely to improve the swimming capability of children," said Minkels.



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Swimming lessons fail to promote pleasure and motivation in kids

A new study published in Frontiers in Sports and Active...

People are often learning from those around them without even being aware of it. Such social learning through imitation eliminates the need to start from scratch, ensuring progress is not repeatedly reset to zero.&nbsp;



But what is the origin of this intrinsic skill that underpins cultural learning and, by extension, humanity’s evolutionary trajectory?&nbsp;



A new study led by the Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) has recently found that this unique ability has its roots in early infancy.



“Children acquire their ability to imitate because they themselves are imitated by their caregivers,” said senior author Markus Paulus, the chair of the Developmental Psychology and Educational Psychology Department at LMU.



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



The experts examined the interactions between several pairs of mothers and children over an extended period of time. The research sessions commenced when the infants were six months old and concluded at 18 months.&nbsp;



Through a range of playful interactions, the researchers investigated the imitation patterns observed in these dyads.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reciprocal-imitation-nbsp">Reciprocal imitation&nbsp;</h2>



The analyses revealed a clear correlation: the more a mother sensitively interacted and imitated her six-month-old, the more proficient that child became at imitating others by 18 months.



This reciprocal imitation, apparent between parents and their children, acts as a communicative bridge. Caregivers often mirror the cues provided by their children, enhancing and amplifying them in the process, which leads to a shared imitation of movements and expressions.&nbsp;



“These experiences create connections between what the child feels and does on the one hand and what it sees on the other. Associations are formed. The child’s visual experience is connected to its own motor activity,” Paulus explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skill-acquisition-nbsp">Skill acquisition&nbsp;</h2>



Imitation plays a pivotal role in children’s skill acquisition journey – from object handling to cultural norms like hand gestures and even language acquisition.&nbsp;



“Children are incredible imitators. Mimicry paves the way to their further development. Imitation is the start of the cultural process toward becoming human,” Paulus said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imitation-is-learned-nbsp">Imitation is learned&nbsp;</h2>



While historically the prevailing belief in psychology was that imitation was an innate skill, this new study provides evidence it is a learned rather than instinctual skill.



These findings suggest that the finesse with which children learn to mimic others is intimately tied to the responsive nature of their caregivers. In this context, sensitivity means the caregiver’s knack for recognizing and responding adeptly and swiftly to the child’s cues.&nbsp;



“The sensitivity of the mother is a predictor of how strongly she imitates her child,” said lead author Samuel Essler, a postdoctoral fellow in Developmental Psychology at LMU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-interactions">Social interactions</h2>



The research also unravels the essence of what makes us inherently social creatures: our unique abilities that are honed through interpersonal interactions. These human traits are largely influenced by the distinctive methods employed in child-rearing.



“By being part of a social interaction culture, in which they are imitated, children learn to learn from others. Over the course of generations and millennia, this interplay has led to the cultural evolution of humans,” Paulus said.&nbsp;



“Through social learning, certain actions or techniques do not have to be constantly invented anew, but there is a cultural transfer of knowledge. Our results show that the ability to imitate, and thus cultural learning, is itself a product of cultural learning, in particular the parent-child interaction,” he concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.084">Current Biology</a>.



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Cultural learning begins in infancy during parent-child imitation 

People are often learning from those around them without even...

Individuals diagnosed with cannabis use disorder may have a heightened risk of facing major cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes, according to a new study.



The researchers found that people with cannabis use disorder are at a 60% higher risk of experiencing a major heart-related event compared to individuals who do not misuse the drug.



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



The study was focused on information from five databases, including close to 60,000 cannabis users – half of whom were diagnosed with cannabis use disorder.&nbsp;



The findings indicate a “substantial association between cannabis use disorder and the increased risk of first-time adverse cardiovascular events,” said lead researcher Dr. Anees Bahji, a clinical assistant professor of Psychiatry at the <a href="https://www.ucalgary.ca/safer-substance-use/cannabis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Calgary</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-cardiovascular-risks">Potential cardiovascular risks</h2>



However, he emphasized that the research doesn't necessarily prove that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marijuana-use-reduces-demand-for-prescription-drugs/">marijuana</a> abuse causes heart problems, but indicates a potential higher risk for those diagnosed with cannabis use disorder.



The study further highlights the need for a better understanding of the cardiovascular risks linked to cannabis use disorder. Such risks might have been previously underestimated or ignored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-cannabis-use-disorder">What is cannabis use disorder?</h2>



Cannabis use disorder is defined as a pattern of marijuana usage that leads to significant distress or impairment.&nbsp;



Symptoms and related behaviors include:



<ul>
<li>Unsuccessful efforts to reduce or control usage</li>



<li>Spending excessive time obtaining or using cannabis</li>



<li>Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not consuming it</li>
</ul>



"The diagnosis of cannabis use disorder depends on meeting specific criteria, and it is not solely based on frequency or quantity of use," said Dr. Bahji. "Individuals can develop this disorder even with relatively infrequent cannabis use if their use leads to significant impairment in their daily life, relationships or overall well-being."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underlying-factors">Underlying factors</h2>



The underlying cause driving the link between elevated heart risk and cannabis use disorder remains unclear.&nbsp;



Dr. Bahji noted that cannabis could affect heart rate, blood pressure, inflammation levels in the body, blood clotting, and the ability of blood vessels to dilate and relax.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-relationship">Complex relationship</h2>



"The relationship between cannabis use and cardiovascular events is complex and may also be influenced by factors such as the method of cannabis consumption, the presence of other co-occurring health conditions, and individual variations in response to cannabis," said Dr. Bahji.&nbsp;



"Further research is needed to better understand these mechanisms and the overall impact on cardiovascular health."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicting-opinions">Conflicting opinions</h2>



Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a primary care physician and cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, disagrees with the findings.



"The presence of cannabis use disorder isn't very accurate in helping us to determine anything," said Dr. Grinspoon, noting that individuals with this disorder may have had other medical conditions that they were using the cannabis to treat. This could mean they were less healthy and could explain the higher rates of heart disease."



"There are too many possible variables that could skew the results, so I don't make much of the study or its results. It is more anti-cannabis porn, in my humble opinion," said Dr. Grinspoon.



"That said, if you take too high a dosage of cannabis, it can cause anxiety which, in turn, can trigger an arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat) or possibly a coronary event, so, inpatients with a history of coronary disease, particularly recent, unstable coronary disease, or with a history of arrhythmia, I treat very carefully if at all with medicinal cannabis."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.16337">Addiction</a>.



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Cannabis use disorder linked to increased heart risks

Individuals diagnosed with cannabis use disorder may have a heightened...

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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.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

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

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.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

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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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