Why do some individuals rush to help, while others hesitate? A new study led by Dr. Inbal Bartal of Tel Aviv University digs deep into this question using rats. The findings highlight the strong influence of social experience and brain chemistry on prosocial behavior and willingness to help.



The team used a helping behavior task where rats could free a distressed peer trapped in a restrainer. Rats that had previous positive interactions were more likely to help. 



These "helper rats" also showed more brain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-increases-feelings-of-hope-happiness-and-gratitude/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity</a> in areas linked to empathy and motivation compared to their less helpful counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-bonds-drive-helping">Social bonds drive helping </h2>



Helper rats exhibited stronger activation in the anterior cingulate cortex, somatosensory cortex, and other empathy-related areas. This activity pattern suggests that not just feeling another’s distress, but having a social bond, is crucial for helping.



Interestingly, oxytocin - the hormone involved in bonding - played a key role. Rats that consistently helped had higher oxytocin receptor expression in the nucleus accumbens, a major reward center in the brain. 



Blocking oxytocin signaling did not completely erase helping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-is-happier-being-single-men-or-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> but did reduce the rats’ social tendencies. According to the researchers, caring about others appears more important than simply sensing their distress.



“We appear to live in an increasingly polarized society where there is a gap in empathy towards others," said Dr. Bartal, a faculty member in the Psychology Department and School of Neuroscience at <a href="http://tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel-Aviv University</a>.



"This work helps us understand prosocial, or helpful, acts better. We see others in distress all the time but tend to help only certain individuals. The similarity between human and rat brains helps us understand the way our brain mediates prosocial decisions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helpful-rats-socialize-more">Helpful rats socialize more</h2>



The study found that rats who became "helpers" showed greater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/facial-expressions-arent-enough-to-understand-human-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social</a> affiliation even before the helping task began. Before any rat was trapped, these rats spent more time interacting, lying together, and engaging in affiliative behaviors with their cagemates.



The frequency of social interactions predicted how quickly rats would later act to free a distressed peer. Rats that interacted more often on the first day were faster to help across testing days. 



This link between early social behavior and later helping actions offers new insights into how prosocial tendencies develop.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helpers-had-more-oxytocin-receptors">Helpers had more oxytocin receptors</h2>



Gene expression studies revealed that helper rats had significantly higher oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) levels specifically in the nucleus accumbens. They also showed greater activity of genes related to social reward and emotional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coping-with-eco-anxiety-turning-climate-worry-into-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulation</a>.



Importantly, genes tied to stress responses were downregulated in helper rats. This suggests that lower stress reactivity could promote a readiness to help others. Brain-wide analyses also showed that helper rats had more active networks in sensory and empathy-related brain regions.



When the researchers blocked oxytocin signaling in the brain’s paraventricular nucleus, rats showed fewer social behaviors. This reduced sociality hints that oxytocin may strengthen social bonds in the brain, which in turn could drive helping actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-brains-are-motivated-to-help">Social brains are motivated to help</h2>



Helper rats demonstrated a widespread activation of the brain’s prosocial network. Critical areas included the anterior cingulate cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, and insular cortex. Many of these regions overlap with known human empathy and reward circuits.



Moreover, the orbitofrontal cortex stood out as playing a major role. This area, known for evaluating rewards and decisions, showed the strongest difference between helpers and non-helpers.



Social interaction frequency correlated strongly with brain activity in these regions. Rats who were more socially engaged early on had higher brain activation related to empathy later, even days after initial testing.



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



The research suggests that social connectedness and neurochemical factors together shape helping behavior. The results support the idea that empathy alone does not always lead to action - social bonds and emotional rewards are key motivators.



Understanding how oxytocin and social affiliation drive prosocial behavior could help us better support empathy in increasingly divided societies. Strengthening social bonds might be more effective than simply raising awareness about others' distress.



Dr. Bartal and colleagues have illuminated the biological roots of kindness in a way that could one day inform how we nurture empathy in humans.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2025/04/17/JNEUROSCI.0845-24.2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Neuroscience</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Acts of kindness: Social brains are wired to help

Why do some individuals rush to help, while others hesitate? A new study led by Dr. Inbal Bartal of Tel Aviv University digs deep into this question using rats. The findings highlight the strong influence of social experience and brain chemistry on prosocial behavior and willingness to help. The team used a helping behavior task where rats could free a distressed peer trapped in a restrainer. Rats that had previous positive interactions were more likely to help. These "helper rats" also showed more brain activity in areas...

Millions of lives are lost each year as a result of smoking's negative effects, but a new study has discovered another hidden danger in cigarette smoke and discarded cigarette waste.



Researchers at the <a href="https://tu-dresden.de/?set_language=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Dresden</a> (TUD) have found that harmful compounds in cigarettes greatly increase the development and dissemination of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, both in the environment and in the lungs of smokers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-dangers-of-cigarette-waste">Hidden dangers of cigarette waste</h2>



“Cigarette filters contain many of the&nbsp;toxic substances&nbsp;found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoke-exposure-elevates-cancer-risk-in-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cigarette smoke</a>,” explained Dr. Uli Klümper from the Institute of Hydrobiology at the TUD.



“In our study, we found that when these filters end up in waterbodies, they are increasingly colonized by potentially pathogenic bugs and bacteria displaying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-increasing-enterococci-looming-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic resistance</a>, as these are particularly well adapted to the adverse conditions on the filters.”



The research group found that cigarette waste not only pollutes the environment but also poses significant public health risks. 



As these discarded cigarette butts sit in lakes, rivers, and oceans, resistant bacteria multiply rapidly on them.



This could result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotics-for-childhood-infections-are-becoming-ineffective/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infections</a> that are more difficult to treat, which poses an additional public health concern that had previously gone largely unnoticed.



“This underlines the need for stricter measures against the careless discarding of cigarette butts, and highlights another hidden health hazard caused by smoking,” said Dr. Klümper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cigarette-waste-and-microbial-communities">Cigarette waste and microbial communities </h2>



There are many complex ways in which cigarette waste interacts with microbial ecosystems, influencing their balance and behavior. 



Cigarette butts, often discarded without a second thought, create a toxic microenvironment that selects for the survival of the most resilient bacteria. 



These bacteria, many of which already possess antibiotic resistance, thrive in polluted water bodies and form dense biofilms on cigarette filters.



Biofilms are communities of microbes, including bacteria, that adhere to surfaces and transfer genetic material more effectively than planktonic (drifting) bacteria.



The poisonous chemicals seeping from cigarette filters enhance this activity, so bacterial populations become more likely to transfer resistance genes. 



With time, these fortified bacterial colonies can find their way into natural water systems, facilitating the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections from the environment to humans.



By acting as both a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-effects-of-pollutants-on-river-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutant</a> and an incubator for dangerous pathogens, cigarette waste is not just an eyesore but a public health hazard that demands urgent intervention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-of-severe-infections-in-smokers">Risk of severe infections in smokers</h2>



Apart from the ecological consequences, the research discovered similarly worrying effects for consumers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tobacco-bans-could-help-prevent-1-2-million-lung-cancer-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tobacco</a>.



Smokers inadvertently speed up the transmission of antibiotic-resistant germs in their lungs, diminishing the efficacy of antibiotic therapy at times of infection.



The researchers used laboratory tests that modeled conditions within the human lungs, but in artificial lung fluid. They made a striking observation: toxic substances in cigarette smoke stressed out bacteria in lung fluid.



Under this stress, bacteria exchanged antibiotic resistance genes at an accelerated rate, significantly increasing their spread.



“In our experiments with an artificial lung medium, we were able to show that the toxic substances that accumulate in the lung fluid due to&nbsp;cigarette smoke&nbsp;trigger a stress reaction in the bacteria which, among other things, more than doubles the frequency with which&nbsp;resistance genes&nbsp;are passed on between bacteria via plasmids,” explained the researchers.



This reaction effectively speeds up the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant infections, thus complicating medical treatments and increasing risks of severe infections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-call-to-action">Global call to action</h2>



Countless lives are lost each year from cigarette-smoking-related illnesses, but the new findings point towards an even stronger rationale for curtailing cigarette smoking without delay.



Reduction in cigarette waste pollution benefits communities by constraining the propagation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in water bodies.



Simultaneously, stopping smoking cuts exposure to harmful bacteria, enhancing health conditions overall.



The research highlights the need for stronger public policy and heightened public understanding regarding the threat posed by cigarette waste - an overlooked source of antibiotic resistance bacteria.



Ultimately, the research indicates that smoking dangers run much deeper than they appear, and threaten health in ways that need urgent attention and response.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP14704" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Health Perspectives</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Cigarette waste fuels antibiotic resistance

Millions of lives are lost each year as a result...

Something is shifting in adolescent mental health. Anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms - once thought to be the struggles of a small fraction - are now affecting nearly a third of young people. Social expectations, academic pressures, and increasing screen time all contribute to this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/screen-time-delays-language-development-in-toddlers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growing concern</a>. 



But is technology the primary culprit? That’s the question researchers at the <a href="https://www.jyu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Jyväskylä</a> and the <a href="https://www.uef.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Eastern Finland</a> set out to answer.



The long-term study, which tracked 187 adolescents over eight years, offers some striking insights. Lifestyle choices - especially physical activity and screen time - emerge as key players in shaping mental well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-s-heavy-toll">Screen time’s heavy toll</h2>



The more time adolescents spent on screens, the worse their mental health outcomes. But not all screens affected them equally. Mobile device use stood out as the biggest culprit, linked to heightened stress and depressive symptoms.



Dr. Eero Haapala is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä.



“Several international, evidence-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-are-key-to-reducing-kids-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recommendations</a> suggest that the leisure screen time of children and adolescents should be limited to two hours per day. Personally, I think that even this figure is high, as it amounts to almost one month of screen time per year,” said Dr. Haapala. 



A screen is just a tool - yet prolonged exposure can erode sleep quality, reduce meaningful social interactions, and expose adolescents to distressing online content. The result? More stress, more anxiety, more moments of feeling trapped in a digital loop.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-as-a-buffer-against-stress">Movement as a buffer against stress</h2>



Not all the findings were bleak. The research also uncovered a powerful antidote: movement. Adolescents who engaged in more physical activity - particularly supervised exercise - reported lower stress levels and fewer depressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a>.



Sports participation, in particular, seemed to provide a buffer against mental health struggles, likely because of its structured environment and built-in social support.



“The modern sedentary lifestyle, with high screen exposure, challenges the mental health of children and adolescents,” said Dr. Haapala.



“Recent discussions have rightly focused on screen time and social media, but I hope our findings encourage adults in young people’s lives to promote a broad spectrum of healthy habits – especially by balancing screen time and physical activity.”



The key takeaway? Physical activity helps, but it’s not a cure-all. If screen time remains excessive, even active adolescents are at risk. The worst outcomes appeared in those with both high screen time and low physical activity - double trouble for mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-sleep-and-diet">What about sleep and diet?</h2>



The researchers also examined the impact of sleep and diet.



Unlike screen time and physical activity, these factors had a weaker connection to mental health outcomes. This might be because the study’s participants generally had adequate sleep and relatively healthy diets, making it harder to detect their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-too-much-screen-time-struggle-to-gain-language-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence</a>.



“Achieving change requires collaboration,” said Dr. Haapala. "Society as a whole - from families to policymakers - must invest in promoting healthy lifestyles for children and adolescents by ensuring balanced screen time, sufficient physical activity, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet.”



While diet and sleep didn’t play as strong a role in this particular study, previous research suggests they do matter. Poor sleep patterns and unhealthy diets have been linked to increased anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Still, the dominant players in this study were screen time and physical activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobile-screens-are-the-worst-offenders">Mobile screens are the worst offenders</h2>



One of the study’s most eye-opening revelations? Mobile devices had a significantly stronger negative impact on mental health than other forms of screen time.



Unlike television, which is often a passive experience, mobile devices demand constant interaction. Whether through social media, gaming, or endless scrolling, they create a cycle that’s hard to break. More engagement often means more stress, and the pressure to stay connected can take a toll on self-esteem and emotional well-being.



Social media, in particular, amplifies these effects. Teenagers are not just consuming content - they’re comparing, curating, and responding. The pressure to maintain an online presence, measure up to influencers, or keep up with peers can turn a harmless scroll into a breeding ground for self-doubt.



Cutting down on mobile device use may be one of the most effective ways to reduce adolescent stress levels.



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



One of the study’s strongest messages? Early intervention is key. 



The habits children form in elementary school often stick with them into adolescence. If kids grow up with unrestricted screen time and little encouragement for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taking-a-smartphone-break-can-improve-your-life-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a>, they’re more likely to carry those patterns into their teenage years - when stress and depression become real risks.



Encouraging structured sports, outdoor play, and clear screen time limits can help. It’s not about eliminating screens but creating a balanced relationship with them. Programs that integrate both movement and responsible technology use could be the most effective way forward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-everyday-choices-and-long-term-health">Everyday choices and long-term health</h2>



This research is part of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) Study, which investigates how lifestyle choices impact long-term health outcomes. 



The PANIC Study operates within the Metabolic Diseases Research Community at the University of Eastern Finland. This research network, consisting of 20 teams, works across genetics, patient care, and disease prevention to uncover new ways to support physical and mental well-being.



By tracking children’s habits over several years, studies like this one help paint a clearer picture of how everyday choices - like how much time we spend moving versus sitting - shape adolescent health.



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



This study delivers a clear message: less screen time, more movement. It’s a simple formula, yet difficult to implement in today’s digital world. 



Parents, teachers, and policymakers all have a role to play in helping young people develop healthier habits.



Future research will likely explore how different lifestyle factors - diet, sleep, stress management - interact with screen time and exercise.



But for now, the evidence is strong. Cutting back on mobile devices and increasing physical activity could be two of the best steps toward improving adolescent mental health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2830233" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Too much screen time is making teens anxious

Something is shifting in adolescent mental health. Anxiety, stress, and...

A team of engineers has recently created a breakthrough prosthetic hand that can deftly handle everyday objects, from plush toys to water bottles, adjusting its grip to avoid damaging them.&nbsp;



In doing so, the experts have introduced a novel hybrid approach to robotic hands, merging rigid and soft elements in a way that mimics the human hand’s unique design.



The innovative research was conducted in the Neuroengineering and Biomedical Instrumentations Lab at <a href="https://neuroengineering.bme.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a>. The team previously developed an electronic “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-tech-will-track-emotions-through-changes-in-our-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a>” with a humanlike sense of pain in 2018. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prosthetic-hand-with-sensing-capabilities-nbsp">Prosthetic hand with sensing capabilities&nbsp;</h2>



The new hand features a multi-finger setup made of rubberlike polymers over a rigid, 3D-printed skeleton. 



Its three layers of tactile sensors, modeled after the layers of human skin, go beyond simple contact detection to identify textures, shapes, and the precise force needed to pick up various items.



“The goal from the beginning has been to create a prosthetic hand that we model based on the human hand’s physical and sensing capabilities - a more natural prosthetic that functions and feels like a lost limb,” said Sriramana Sankar, a Johns Hopkins biomedical engineer who led the work.&nbsp;



“We want to give people with upper-limb loss the ability to safely and freely interact with their environment, to feel and hold their loved ones without concern of hurting them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-soft-and-rigid-elements">Bridging soft and rigid elements</h2>



In prosthetic technology, robotic hands have often been either too stiff to safely handle fragile objects or too soft to manage heavier ones. This new device tackles that issue by combining a pliable exterior with an internal frame.&nbsp;



The soft, air-filled finger joints can accommodate delicate items without crushing them, while the solid core provides the stability needed to lift or grip sturdier materials.



“We’re combining the strengths of both rigid and soft <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-with-space-to-think-will-become-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotics</a> to mimic the human hand,” Sankar explained.&nbsp;"The human hand isn’t completely rigid or purely soft - it’s a hybrid system, with bones, soft joints, and tissue working together. That’s what we want our prosthetic hand to achieve.”&nbsp;



Sankar noted that this is new territory for robotics and prosthetics, which haven’t fully embraced this hybrid technology before. “It’s being able to give a firm handshake or pick up a soft object without fear of crushing it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-the-sensation-of-touch-nbsp">Restoring the sensation of touch&nbsp;</h2>



Another central focus is restoring a sensation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-hidden-way-that-humans-feel-and-sense-touch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">touch</a> to individuals with upper-limb loss. The device employs machine learning algorithms to process signals from the artificial receptors embedded in its fingertips.&nbsp;



These signals merge with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-fuels-neuron-growth-through-muscle-signals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a> activity from the forearm to guide grip strength, finger positioning, and overall dexterity.



“The sensory information from its fingers is translated into the language of nerves to provide naturalistic sensory feedback through electrical nerve stimulation,” Sankar said. “Each of its soft air-filled finger joints can be controlled with the forearm’s muscles.”



For many prosthesis users, regaining the ability to “feel” objects is equally as important as being able to hold them.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifelike-prosthetic-hands-nbsp">Lifelike prosthetic hands&nbsp;</h2>



According to Nitish Thakor, a Johns Hopkins biomedical engineering professor who directed the work, any <a href="https://youtu.be/dnPrY7xA08c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifelike prosthetic hand</a> must incorporate three major components. 



First, sensors need to detect what the hand is touching; second, the system must convert that data into nerve-like signals; and third, the user’s nerves have to receive those signals as if they come from a natural limb.



“If you’re holding a cup of coffee, how do you know you’re about to drop it? Your palm and fingertips send signals to your brain that the cup is slipping,” Thakor said.&nbsp;



“Our system is neurally inspired - it models the hand’s touch receptors to produce nervelike messages so the prosthetics’ ‘brain,’ or its computer, understands if something is hot or cold, soft or hard, or slipping from the grip.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-tests-on-everyday-objects">Successful tests on everyday objects</h2>



In controlled lab experiments, the researchers tested the new hand’s performance on 15 ordinary items, ranging from stuffed animals and dish sponges to pineapples and sturdy cardboard boxes. 



These trials showed the hand deftly recognized each object’s characteristics and adjusted its grip accordingly.



The team reported a success rate of 99.69% in handling these items without error, a marked improvement over existing prosthetic hands.&nbsp;



One notable demonstration involved the hand lifting a fragile plastic cup filled with water using only three fingers - without denting the cup or spilling the liquid.



Although the prototype represents a major step toward prostheses that blend humanlike sensitivity and adaptability, the researchers emphasize that the system is still in early development.&nbsp;



Stronger grip forces, additional sensors, and more durable materials are among the enhancements they envision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-prosthetics">What's next for prosthetics?</h2>



Thakor also sees this hybrid approach to dexterity benefiting not just amputees but the broader robotics field. 



Robots that can handle delicate objects, such as glassware or soft materials, while still possessing the strength for more demanding tasks will be vital in settings ranging from warehouses to healthcare facilities.



“This hybrid dexterity isn’t just essential for next-generation prostheses,” Thakor said. “It’s what the robotic hands of the future need because they won’t just be handling large, heavy objects. They’ll need to work with delicate materials such as glass, fabric, or soft toys.”&nbsp;



“That’s why a hybrid robot, designed like the human hand, is so valuable - it combines soft and rigid structures, just like our skin, tissue, and bones.”



As this technology matures, it could lead to more natural prosthetics that let users regain a full range of motion and sensation.&nbsp;



The engineers hope that the progress made here will spur further refinements, ultimately resulting in prosthetic hands that can handle everything from a gentle handshake to a firm grasp of heavier objects - all while preserving a truly humanlike sense of touch.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr9300" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.&nbsp;



-----



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



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



-----

Future of prosthetics: Bionic hand 'knows' what it’s touching

A team of engineers has recently created a breakthrough prosthetic...

Water keeps us alive, but what happens when something meant to help us raises new concerns? For decades, governments have added fluoride to drinking water to protect teeth, believing it to be a simple solution for cavity prevention. 



However, a recent study from <a href="https://ki.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karolinska Institutet</a> in Sweden suggests fluoride exposure - especially in pregnancy and early childhood - could impact brain development.



It’s not the first time this issue has surfaced, but the findings add weight to a long-standing debate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluoride-in-drinking-water">Fluoride in drinking water</h2>



Naturally occurring fluoride is present in many water sources, but its levels are often too low to significantly prevent cavities. 



To address this, countries such as the USA, Canada, Chile, Australia, and Ireland have long introduced fluoride into their public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-strain-identified-that-can-eat-forever-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water systems</a>. The standard level used in these nations hovers around 0.7 mg per liter, which is considered optimal for dental health benefits.



Despite its widespread use, the addition of fluoride to drinking water has remained a topic of debate. Health officials argue it is a cost-effective public health measure, but concerns about potential side effects persist. 



“Given the concern about health risks, the addition of fluoride to drinking water is controversial and has been widely debated in the USA and Canada,” said Maria Kippler, associate professor at Karolinska Institutet.



“Our results support the hypothesis that even relatively low <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-water-fluoridation-still-effective/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concentrations of fluoride</a> can impact children’s early development.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-fluoride-exposure">Tracking fluoride exposure</h2>



To understand how fluoride affects brain development, scientists focused on a rural area in Bangladesh. Here, fluoride naturally seeps into the water supply, just like in many other regions worldwide. They followed 500 mothers and their children for years.



By studying these families over time, researchers could observe how fluoride exposure influenced thinking and learning. 



The scientists tested urine samples to check fluoride levels in mothers and children. Unlike toothpaste, which isn't swallowed, most fluoride comes from drinking water and food.



When the children turned five and ten, the researchers tested their cognitive abilities using trusted psychological methods. The goal was to see if fluoride <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/too-much-fluoride-in-tap-water-supply-might-lower-kids-iq-by-few-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levels</a> played a role in shaping their thinking and reasoning skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluoride-exposure-and-its-effects">Fluoride exposure and its effects</h2>



The findings were concerning. The median concentration of fluoride in the urine of pregnant women in the study was 0.63 mg/L. Higher levels of fluoride in mothers were linked to lower cognitive abilities in their children at both five and ten years old.



“I’d like to stress that dental care products such as toothpaste are not normally a significant source of exposure since they are not intended for ingestion,” said Dr. Kippler.



“Fluoride in toothpaste is important for prevention of caries, but it’s important to encourage small children not to swallow the toothpaste during brushing.”



At age ten, children with more than 0.72 mg/L of fluoride in their urine showed significant cognitive deficits compared to those with lower levels. The most affected areas were verbal reasoning and sensory processing, essential skills for learning and communication. 



Alarmingly, these effects were observed at fluoride levels below the current World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>) and European Union (<a href="https://european-union.europa.eu/index_en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU</a>) drinking water safety threshold of 1.5 mg/L.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-impact-on-development">Complex impact on development </h2>



Surprisingly, fluoride <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happens-to-our-teeth-as-we-age-new-details-have-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levels</a> in five-year-olds did not strongly correlate with cognitive abilities. "This may be due to the shorter exposure time,” said Dr. Kippler.



“But also to the fact that urinary fluoride concentrations aren’t as reliable in younger children owing to greater variations in how much fluoride is taken up and stored in the body, particularly in the bones.”



Perhaps younger children process fluoride differently, or maybe it takes longer for the effects to become noticeable. Either way, this part of the study highlights how complex fluoride’s impact on development might be.



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



The study found strong links, but it can't prove fluoride directly causes these effects.



To fully understand how fluoride affects cognitive abilities, more longitudinal studies are needed. The researchers plan to examine this issue in other populations and develop experimental models to explore the potential biological mechanisms at play.



“There is a need for more research to create a robust basis for reviewing fluoride health risks and thresholds for drinking water, foods, and dental care products, especially for children,” said Dr. Kippler. “Even small changes in cognition at a population level can have serious public health consequences.”



Since many people are exposed to fluoride, it's important to understand its risks. Protecting teeth matters, but experts must also consider if fluoride affects brain development.



This study received financial support from the <a href="https://www.vr.se/english.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Research Council</a> and the Swedish Research Council for Environment, Agricultural Sciences, and Spatial Planning (<a href="https://www.era-learn.eu/network-information/organisations/swedish-research-council-for-environment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FORMAS</a>). 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP14534" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Health Perspectives</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Fluoride in drinking water raises concerns for brain development

Water keeps us alive, but what happens when something meant...

Close-up,In,A,Frying,Pan,With,Olive,Oil,,Ghee,(clarified

Swapping butter for plant-based oils may be a simple way to support better long-term health. 



A new study suggests that people who consume more plant-based oils - such as soybean, canola, and olive oil - tend to live longer than those who regularly eat butter.



The research, which tracked dietary habits for over 30 years, found a lower risk of death from cancer and heart disease among those who opted for plant oils. 



Meanwhile, higher butter intake was linked to an increased risk of early death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-diet-affects-longevity">How diet affects longevity</h2>



Scientists from <a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health</a>, Mass General Brigham, and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard analyzed dietary data from more than 220,000 participants. 



These individuals were part of long-running studies that collected information on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-eating-habits-can-lead-to-lifelong-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a> every four years. 



By reviewing this data, researchers could estimate butter and oil consumption over time.



Butter intake included all sources - spreads, cooking, baking, and margarine blends - while plant-based oil intake was calculated based on how often participants used oils in frying, sautéing, baking, and salad dressings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butter-vs-plant-based-oils">Butter vs plant-based oils</h2>



The study's lead author, Yu Zhang, M.B.B.S., is a research assistant at the Channing Division of Network Medicine at <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brigham and Women's Hospital</a>.



"What's surprising is the magnitude of the association that we found - we saw a 17% lower risk of death when we modeled swapping butter with plant-based oils in daily diet. That is a pretty huge effect on health," Zhang explained.



The key difference comes down to fat composition. 



Butter is high in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-linked-to-unexpected-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">saturated fat</a>, while plant-based oils contain more unsaturated fats. Previous research has looked at dietary fats in general, but fewer studies have focused on their primary sources.



The findings suggest a clear contrast in health risks. Participants who ate the most butter had a 15% higher risk of death compared to those who ate the least. 



Meanwhile, those who consumed the most plant-based oils had a 16% lower risk of dying.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-plant-based-oils-over-butter">Choosing plant-based oils over butter</h2>



"People might want to consider that a simple dietary swap - replacing butter with soybean oil or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/regular-olive-oil-consumption-can-literally-save-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">olive oil</a> - can lead to significant long-term health benefits," said corresponding author Daniel Wang, M.D., Sc.D., of the Channing Division of Network Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital.



"From a public health perspective, this is a substantial number of deaths from cancer or from other chronic diseases that could be prevented."



To further explore this link, the researchers ran a substitution analysis. Their model showed that replacing just 10 grams of butter per day - less than a tablespoon - with an equivalent amount of plant-based oil could reduce cancer deaths and overall mortality by 17%.



"Even cutting back butter a little and incorporating more plant-based oils into your daily diet can have meaningful long-term health benefits," Wang added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-economic-benefits">Environmental and economic benefits</h2>



Beyond personal health, switching from butter to plant-based oils has broader implications. 



Butter production requires more land, water, and energy compared to plant oil production. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-began-dairy-farming-much-earlier-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dairy farming</a>, which supports butter production, contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. 



In contrast, plant oils have a lower environmental impact, making them a more sustainable choice.



Economically, plant-based oils are often more affordable and widely available than butter. 



With rising food prices, making the switch could be a cost-effective way for individuals and families to improve their diets without significantly increasing their grocery bills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-research">What’s next for research?</h2>



Although the study presents strong evidence, the investigators do recognize some limitations. 



A majority of participants were healthcare professionals, so the results may not be representative of the overall U.S. population.



Also, self-reported food intake information may have some error, although the long duration and large number of participants in the study reduce the concerns of the scientists in this regard.



Future studies will investigate the biological processes that mediate these health consequences.



For the moment, the message is straightforward: replacing butter with plant-based oils is a simple, practical move toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prescription-for-fruits-and-vegetables-linked-to-better-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improved health</a> in the long run.



Small, sustainable changes to eating habits can have long-term payoffs - not only for individuals but for public health and the planet too.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2831265" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Internal Medicine</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Health challenge: Cooking with butter vs. plant-based oils

Swapping butter for plant-based oils may be a simple way...

Microplastics in the environment have become a well-known issue, sparking global concern. More recently, however, research has revealed that microplastics infiltrate human bodies, particularly the brain.



As studies reveal new details about the accumulation of plastic particles in our bodies, scientists are delving deeper into their potential impacts and ways to prevent exposure.



A recent study published in the journal <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39901044/">Nature Medicine</a> found that our brains house around a spoonful of these tiny plastic fragments, which is alarming, to say the least. 



When the researchers analyzed the brains of deceased people who had been diagnosed with dementia, their levels of microplastics were 3-5 times higher.



In response to these and other relevant findings, researchers from the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Ottawa</a> and the University of Toronto published a review of the current state of knowledge on the accumulation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/micro-nanoplastics-mnps-help-cancer-cells-spread/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micro and nanoplastics</a> (MNPs) in humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-the-brain">Microplastics in the brain</h2>



The analysis showed that microplastics are pervasive in the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe. 



"The dramatic increase in brain microplastic concentrations over just eight years, from 2016 to 2024, is particularly alarming. This rise mirrors the exponential increase we're seeing in environmental microplastic levels," said Dr. Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa's Department of Psychiatry.



The researchers noted that concentrations of MNPs were 7-30 times higher in brain tissue than in other vital organs, such as the liver or kidneys. It seems that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-are-constantly-working-to-predict-what-comes-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brains</a> are favored by these miniscule shards of plastic.



Mostly less than 200 nanometers in length and primarily composed of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disposable-coffee-cups-release-trillions-of-plastic-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polyethylene</a>, these tiny invaders were found in the cerebrovascular walls and immune cells of the brain. The particles are small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to speculations about their role in neurological conditions.



It is not certain whether patients with dementia had high levels of MNPs due to the neurological condition, or whether the particles promoted the development of dementia. Future studies will investigate this relationship further.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-the-microplastic-menace">Tackling the microplastic menace</h2>



Moving beyond the danger they pose, the research highlights useful practices that we can employ in our daily lives to reduce MNP exposure.



An action as simple as opting for filtered tap water instead of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-thousands-of-nanoplastics-found-in-bottled-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bottled water</a> could lower microplastic intake from a staggering 90,000 to 4,000 particles per year.



"Bottled water alone can expose people to nearly as many microplastic particles annually as all ingested and inhaled sources combined. Switching to tap water could reduce this exposure by almost 90%, making it one of the simplest ways to cut down on microplastic intake," said Dr. Brandon Luu.



Other significant sources of MNPs include plastic seals in tea bags, which could release millions of tiny particles per brewing session, noted Dr. Luu.



"Heating food in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-containers-may-release-forever-chemicals-into-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic containers</a> - especially in the microwave - can release substantial amounts of microplastics. Avoiding plastic food storage and using glass or stainless steel alternatives is a small but meaningful step in limiting exposure."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-elimination-pathways">Possible elimination pathways</h2>



The research team also reported on studies about potential elimination pathways. For instance, sweating may aid in the removal of certain plastic-derived compounds from the body. However, the researchers caution that more studies are needed.



"We need more research to wrap our heads around microplastics - rather than wrapping our brains in them - since this could be one of the biggest environmental storms most people never saw coming," said Dr. David Puder.



The commentary emphasizes the need for research priorities, including establishing clear exposure limits and evaluating long-term health repercussions of microplastic bioaccumulation. 



There is also an urgent need for extensive human studies to uncover relationships between microplastic exposure and chronic health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-neurological-health">Microplastics and neurological health</h2>



As researchers continue to uncover the extent of microplastic accumulation in the human brain, concerns are mounting about its potential impact on neurological health. 



The presence of these particles in cerebrovascular walls and immune cells in the brain suggests they may contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurodegenerative diseases.



Chronic inflammation in the brain has been associated with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other cognitive impairments. 



Higher concentrations of microplastics in individuals with dementia raise concerns about their role in accelerating neuroinflammation and neurological decline.



Understanding how these particles interact with brain cells, disrupt neural pathways, and influence cognitive decline is essential for assessing long-term health risks.



The full review article was published in the journal <a href="https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/brainmed/aop/article-10.61373-bm025c.0020/article-10.61373-bm025c.0020.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain Medicine</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Microplastics in the brain: Alarming new details revealed

Microplastics in the environment have become a well-known issue, sparking...

A good night’s sleep can feel like a luxury as people age. Many older adults find themselves staring at the ceiling in the middle of the night, restless and exhausted. Insomnia creeps in, bringing groggy mornings and sluggish days. 



While sleep aids exist, they come with side effects, leaving many searching for natural solutions. Could exercise be the answer?



A new analysis suggests that physical activity plays a crucial role in sleep quality. But not all movement is created equal. Among various exercise types, one stands out as particularly effective - strength training.



The results are clear: lifting weights, performing push-ups, and engaging in resistance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-the-risk-of-brain-diseases-by-up-to-54-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercises</a> may be the key to deeper, more restful sleep in older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-sleep-worsens-with-age">Why sleep worsens with age</h2>



As people age, sleep gets harder. Something once easy can turn into a nightly challenge. Studies show that about one in five older adults has insomnia, which causes more than just tiredness.



Sleep deprivation doesn’t just cause fatigue; it has been linked to cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immune function.



Even for those without underlying health issues, poor sleep disrupts daily life. Concentration slips, energy levels plummet, and mood swings become frequent.



Older adults who still work may see their productivity decline, while those enjoying retirement may feel too exhausted to fully engage in social <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-doses-of-exercise-can-greatly-reduce-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activities</a>. The consequences ripple far and wide, making sleep quality a major concern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-type-of-exercise">Best type of exercise</h2>



Understanding that exercise could hold the key to better sleep, researchers set out to determine which type had the greatest impact. They scoured medical databases, analyzing clinical trials published up to October 2022. Their focus? Adults formally diagnosed with insomnia.



The studies that were examined by the team compared different forms of exercise against routine daily activities, usual care, and other non-exercise interventions. To measure sleep quality, the researchers relied on the Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (GPSQI), a widely recognized tool in sleep research.



Across these studies, a variety of exercises emerged. Some focused on aerobic activities like cycling, dancing, swimming, brisk walking, and even gardening. Others examined the effects of resistance training, including exercises with weights, push-ups, and planks.



Balance training featured step-ups and heel-to-toe walking, while flexibility exercises involved gymnastics, yoga, and Pilates. A few studies combined multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/step-and-time-based-exercise-goals-are-equally-beneficial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> types into a single regimen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-participated-in-the-studies">Who participated in the studies?</h2>



The analysis included data from 24 studies, encompassing 2,045 older adults with an average age of 70.



These studies spanned the globe, with research conducted in Asia, North America, South America, and Europe. Some studies were community-based, while others focused on nursing home residents.



Exercise programs varied significantly. Some involved mild activity, while others pushed participants into moderate-intensity workouts. On average, sessions lasted just over 50 minutes and were performed two to three times per week. 



Most programs continued for about 14 weeks, long enough to assess meaningful changes in sleep patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-training-improves-sleep">Strength training improves sleep</h2>



At first glance, aerobic exercise seemed promising. When analyzed alone, it improved sleep quality by 4.35 points on the GPSQI. Combination exercise also showed positive effects, though slightly less impressive, with an improvement of 2.35 points.



Then came the deeper analysis. Using an advanced statistical method known as network meta-analysis, the researchers compared multiple exercise types simultaneously, accounting for direct and indirect effects.



The results flipped the script. Strength training took the lead, improving sleep quality by a remarkable 5.75 points - far surpassing all other exercise types.



Aerobic exercise, while still beneficial, improved sleep by 3.76 points. Combination exercises, which incorporated multiple techniques, improved it by 2.54 points. 



Sleep education, a non-exercise intervention that researchers examined as a comparison, showed some effectiveness but fell short of the impact seen with strength training.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-strength-training-works">Why strength training works</h2>



The impact of resistance exercises on sleep may not be immediately obvious. Yet, a closer look reveals multiple pathways through which strength training promotes better rest.



One explanation lies in hormonal balance. Strength training influences the production of cortisol and melatonin, two hormones critical to sleep regulation. 



It also reduces stress, a common trigger for insomnia. Physically, stronger muscles contribute to better posture, reduced joint pain, and improved mobility - all factors that can make sleep more comfortable.



Unlike aerobic workouts, which primarily elevate heart rate, strength training activates deep muscular and neurological processes. The controlled, intentional nature of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-it-comes-to-practice-and-learning-variety-is-key/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercises</a> may help calm the nervous system, preparing the body for rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-sleep-education">Role of sleep education</h2>



Interestingly, sleep education emerged as the strongest non-exercise <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-exercise-can-make-belly-fat-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intervention</a> in this analysis. However, its effectiveness varied across studies. 



Some programs focused on relaxation techniques, while others provided guidance on sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent bedtime or limiting screen exposure before bed.



While sleep education did show benefits, it still didn’t match the power of physical exercise - especially resistance training. The researchers emphasized that while knowledge is valuable, action is more effective.



Understanding how to sleep better is one thing; engaging in a structured exercise routine that actively enhances sleep is another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-considerations">Challenges and considerations</h2>



Despite the strong evidence supporting strength training, the researchers acknowledged limitations in their analysis. 



The studies they reviewed varied in design, making it difficult to compare results perfectly. Some lacked precise details about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-training-improves-mental-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> intensity, while others didn’t focus on specific types of resistance training.



Another challenge is accessibility. Strength training requires proper technique to avoid injury, and not all older adults feel comfortable using weights. Those with joint issues or mobility limitations may find certain movements difficult. 



However, modifications exist, and even low-impact resistance exercises can provide benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-training-a-simple-solution">Strength training: A simple solution</h2>



At the end of their analysis, the researchers reached a firm conclusion. 



“Exercise, particularly strengthening exercise and aerobic exercise, is beneficial for enhancing subjective sleep quality at a clinically significant level compared with normal activities,” they noted.



For older adults searching for a natural way to combat insomnia, strength training may be the missing piece. A simple routine - whether lifting light weights, performing bodyweight exercises, or using resistance bands - could lead to deeper sleep, improved energy, and better overall well-being.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://fmch.bmj.com/lookup/doi/10.1136/fmch-2024-003056" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Family Medicine and Community Health</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Strength training may be the best exercise for insomnia

A good night’s sleep can feel like a luxury as...

Glp-1,Receptor,,Inactivated,And,Surrounded,By,An,Agonist,(semaglutide,,Red)

Sugar holds a strong place in many people’s diets, especially when stress runs high or snacks are within easy reach. While sugar’s appeal may feel irresistible, excessive consumption can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. 



Scientists may have discovered a natural way to regulate blood sugar and curb cravings, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-loss-drugs-could-save-an-enormous-number-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">akin to drugs like Ozempic</a>. They've been investigating the relationship between sugar intake, gut signals, and hormones that help control appetite.



Reducing sugar intake can be challenging, but experts emphasize that managing blood sugar lowers the risk of diabetes complications. 



Health guidelines suggest limiting added sugars to 9 teaspoons per day for men and 6 teaspoons per day for women. 



Though this might seem difficult, research points to gut microbes as a potential secret weapon against persistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americas-tide-of-obesity-is-rising-with-75-already-impacted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cravings and obesity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-glp-1-the-basics">Understanding GLP-1 - the basics</h2>



GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone your body naturally produces in the gut. It plays a big role in managing blood sugar and appetite. 



After you eat, your intestines release GLP-1, which signals your pancreas to pump out insulin. At the same time, it tells your liver to slow down glucose production, keeping blood sugar levels steady. 



But GLP-1 doesn’t stop there - it also slows digestion and sends signals to your brain that make you feel full, which helps prevent overeating.



Drugs like <a href="https://www.ozempic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ozempic</a>, <a href="https://www.wegovy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wegovy</a>, and <a href="https://www.victoza.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victoza</a> mimic GLP-1’s natural actions, helping control blood sugar and curb cravings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-signals-and-sugary-foods">Gut signals and sugary foods</h2>



Dr. Li from <a href="https://english.jiangnan.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jiangnan University</a> in China has been examining how gut signals might shape a person’s preference for sugary foods. 



In a recent publication, the authors state, “A growing body of research has revealed that our cravings for dietary components originate from signals sent from the gut, a key organ in transmitting dietary preferences.” 



This highlights the dynamic interaction between diet and gut microbes.



They also note, “However, which genes, gut flora, and metabolites in the gut microenvironment are involved in the regulation of sugar preference is currently unclear.” 



To understand this better, some studies have explored the role of hormones in sugar cravings, especially in individuals with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/type-2-diabetes-heightens-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">type 2 diabetes</a>. 



There is also evidence suggesting that those with certain genetic variations tied to FGF21 are about 20% more likely to consume high amounts of sweet foods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glp-1-and-gut-microbiota">GLP-1 and gut microbiota</h2>



One surprising discovery involves Ffar4, a receptor that influences gut microbiota composition. When Ffar4 levels decrease, the abundance of a gut microbe, Bacteroides vulgatus, may shift. 



Researchers at Jiangnan University have found that increasing this microbe in diabetic mice can “orchestrate the secretion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-loss-drugs-could-save-an-enormous-number-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glucagon-like peptide-1</a> (GLP-1).” 



This microbe produces metabolic compounds that send signals linked to sugar cravings and energy balance.



Bacteroides vulgatus is known to produce pantothenate, a form of vitamin B5. Scientists report that pantothenate helps release GLP-1, a hormone tied to satiety and blood sugar regulation. 



GLP-1, in turn, triggers the release of another hormone, FGF21. When these signals function properly, the body manages sugar more effectively, ultimately reducing the urge for sweet foods.



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



People with type 2 diabetes often have impaired GLP-1 function, prompting researchers to explore ways to improve or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/olives-may-be-a-powerful-weapon-in-the-fight-against-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mimic its activity</a>. 



GLP-1 agonist drugs, such as semaglutide, have proven effective in lowering blood sugar and controlling appetite. 



While these medications work, some scientists are investigating whether natural methods can stimulate the same hormonal pathways. The authors suggest their study “provides a strategy for diabetes prevention.”



This approach brings the gut microbiome into focus, as small changes in microbial makeup might have broader implications. 



If further research confirms similar outcomes in humans, it could influence how doctors approach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-discovered-that-tell-us-when-to-stop-eating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar cravings</a> and early diabetes management. 



Emerging studies indicate potential benefits in boosting beneficial gut microbes, but it remains unclear how soon this concept will translate into practical medical solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glp-1-microbiomes-and-the-future">GLP-1, microbiomes, and the future</h2>



Many questions remain about how gut microbes shape individual dietary choices. Researchers continue exploring whether manipulating these microbes could regulate sugar intake without drastic measures. 



Adjustments in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbe populations</a> might not only help balance blood sugar but also support overall health.



Evidence linking intestinal bacteria to hunger-regulating hormones is growing, raising hopes that these discoveries may curb sugar cravings before diabetes develops. 



Some might compare this to a helpful chain reaction: the gut microbe produces specific compounds, those compounds activate the body’s natural signals, and the result is steadier blood sugar control. 



While the future direction of this research is uncertain, ongoing discoveries about microbes and hormones provide valuable insights into maintaining health - and possibly preserving a sweet tooth in moderation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-024-01902-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Microbiology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Natural Ozempic alternative may soon be available for humans

Sugar holds a strong place in many people’s diets, especially...

Throughout history, humanity has chased the elusive promise of eternal youth. From mythical fountains to today's anti-aging creams, the pursuit of staying forever young remains constant. But beneath this superficial search lies a deeper scientific exploration into cellular aging.



Recently, a team of researchers at <a href="https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka University</a> in Japan might have brought us closer to genuinely reversing the aging process at a cellular level.



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



Our bodies naturally <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/random-dna-mutations-shape-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age</a> as cells gradually become less active, transitioning into a state known as senescence. Senescent cells are not just older; they are distinctly larger and characterized by thicker stress fibers. 



These stress fibers play a crucial role in how cells move and interact with their surrounding environment. However, why these older cells maintain such an unusually large size has puzzled scientists for years.



"We still don't understand how these senescent cells can maintain their huge size," noted study lead author Pirawan Chantachotikul. 



"One intriguing clue is that stress fibers are much thicker in senescent cells than in young cells, suggesting that proteins within these fibers help support their size."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promoting-cellular-rejuvenation">Promoting cellular rejuvenation </h2>



In their quest for answers, researchers pinpointed a specific protein, AP2A1 (Adaptor Protein Complex 2, Alpha 1 Subunit), which seems crucial to this cellular phenomenon. 



Found predominantly in senescent cells, particularly within the structural stress fibers, AP2A1 could be the key to understanding cellular aging.



To explore AP2A1’s function, researchers manipulated its presence in cells, observing significant effects. 



"The results were very intriguing," said Shinji Deguchi, senior author of the study. "Suppressing AP2A1 in older cells reversed senescence and promoted cellular rejuvenation, while AP2A1 overexpression in young cells advanced senescence."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-collagen-the-basics">Understanding collagen - the basics</h2>



Collagen is like the glue that holds your body together - it keeps your skin firm, joints flexible, and hair and nails strong. 



But as you age, your body produces less collagen, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and achy joints. 



Starting in your mid-20s, collagen production naturally slows down, and by the time you hit your 40s and 50s, the decline becomes more noticeable. 



Sun exposure, smoking, poor diet, and stress can speed up collagen breakdown, making aging signs appear even faster. 



That’s why skincare and supplement industries are obsessed with collagen - it’s the key to keeping things youthful.



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



Delving further into AP2A1, the researchers identified its close interaction with another vital protein, integrin β1. 



Integrin β1 is known for anchoring cells to their external surroundings, specifically to the extracellular matrix - a complex collagen scaffold providing structural support. 



Both AP2A1 and integrin β1 appear to traverse the stress fibers together, a process critical in cell structure and function.



Integrin β1’s role in strengthening adhesion between cells and their external environment could explain the enlarged and raised structure typical of senescent cells. This interaction likely helps older cells maintain their oversized physical characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-marker-for-cellular-aging">Potential marker for cellular aging</h2>



Given its strong correlation with senescent cells, AP2A1 presents itself as an exciting potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biomarker</a> for aging. 



Identifying such markers is crucial in understanding aging at a molecular level and might eventually allow scientists to quantify aging more precisely.



Moreover, AP2A1 is not just a passive marker. Its active involvement in aging processes positions it as a promising target for medical interventions aimed at combating age-related diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-cosmetic-applications">Beyond cosmetic applications</h2>



This research is important beyond just improving how we look as we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beyond-genetics-the-biggest-factors-that-influence-health-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age</a>. It targets the root cause of aging at the cellular level. 



Diseases linked to aging, such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers, may improve with therapies targeting proteins like AP2A1.



If scientists can reverse or slow cellular aging, people might live healthier, longer lives. Instead of treating symptoms after diseases appear, this approach prevents or delays their onset. 



Thus, understanding AP2A1 could lead to significant advances in medicine, benefiting overall human health, increasing lifespan, and enhancing quality of life.



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



The identification of a cellular process linked directly to aging offers exciting possibilities for future treatments. Current anti-aging methods usually mask aging symptoms rather than addressing their causes.



However, this new cellular discovery targets aging at its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-hotspot-found-in-the-brain-may-hold-the-key-to-longevity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots</a>, potentially reversing the process entirely. While the research is still evolving and requires further studies, its potential impact is significant. 



By understanding and controlling cellular mechanisms like the AP2A1 protein, medicine could effectively reverse aging, not just hide it.



Such advances promise genuine rejuvenation, significantly improving human health and extending lifespan. 



As science moves forward, these findings could lead to treatments combating various age-related diseases, from osteoporosis to heart disease.



Though practical applications are not yet available, the groundwork is promising. The ultimate goal is to help people maintain youthfulness at the cellular level, enhancing overall health and longevity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0898656825000294?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cellular Signalling</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Study: Protein discovered that can reverse cellular aging

Throughout history, humanity has chased the elusive promise of eternal...

Dementia is a growing health risk, affecting millions of people and their families. As life expectancy increases, so does the number of dementia cases, making prevention more important than ever.



While genetics and lifestyle choices play a role, researchers are now looking beyond personal factors. The environment we live in can either increase the risk of dementia or help protect brain health.



A recent study from the University of Georgia <a href="https://publichealth.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Public Health</a> sheds light on the impact of surroundings on dementia risk. 



The research team, led by Professor Suhang Song, set out to investigate how the environment affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/risk-of-dementia-is-much-higher-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. The results show that avoiding pollution and spending more time in green spaces may lower the risk of dementia.



“These numbers show that living in a dementia-friendly environment is important to delay or prevent cognitive decline and the onset of dementia,” said Professor Song.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-environment-affects-dementia-risk">How environment affects dementia risk</h2>



The researchers studied 54 reports on how the environment affects brain health. They closely analyzed 21 of them to measure the impact more accurately.



They found that air pollution and traffic noise increase dementia risk, while green spaces and walkability help prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-activity-may-delay-the-onset-of-dementia-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a>. 



By focusing on objectively measured environmental factors rather than self-reported data, the study provides stronger evidence than previous research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-dementia-risk">Air pollution and dementia risk</h2>



Living near major roads increases dementia risk by about 10%. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PMx) raises risk by 9%, and nitrous oxide (NOx) exposure adds another 10%. Noise pollution has also been linked to a 9% increase in risk.



Long-term exposure to traffic pollution is particularly harmful. Tiny air pollution particles called PM2.5 are linked to memory loss and slower thinking. However, the impact is not the same everywhere. In some places, studies found no strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preventing-dementia-scientists-say-three-factors-matter-most/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">link</a>.



One possible reason is that people in those areas change their behavior - like staying indoors when pollution levels are high - so they are exposed to less pollution, which may reduce its harmful effects on the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protective-role-of-green-spaces">Protective role of green spaces</h2>



Access to parks, forests, and water bodies lowers dementia risk by about 6%. These environments promote physical activity, reduce stress, and improve air quality. 



Walkable neighborhoods with easy access to food stores, community centers, and healthcare also support cognitive health.



“Based on these findings, we can suggest that people visit parks or forests more often and also live further from the major roads,” said Professor Song. “Also, living in a community where there is more walkability, or being close to local amenities like bookstores, health care centers and more is helpful.”



Cities designed with cognitive health in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stop-googling-start-napping-to-reduce-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mind</a> should prioritize pedestrian-friendly streets, connected pathways, and accessible public spaces. 



Encouraging mixed-use developments, where homes, shops, and essential services are within walking distance, can help create healthier environments for aging populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-urban-planning">Rethinking urban planning</h2>



This study emphasizes the need for urban designs that reduce pollution and increase green space. Cities should prioritize public parks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and better air quality to lower dementia risk.



“The biggest advantage of this paper is to quantify the association between certain factors and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-sizes-are-growing-possibly-lowering-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive health</a>. This analysis can provide evidence for data-driven urban planning and support decision makers," said Professor Song.



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



One of the strengths of this study was its focus on objective data. Many past studies relied on subjective reports, which can introduce bias. This research used measurable environmental factors, making the conclusions more reliable.



Future studies should continue using objective methods to investigate the link between surroundings and dementia risk. Understanding the long-term effects of urban design, pollution exposure, and community layouts can help shape policies that improve cognitive health outcomes.



Professor Song hopes this study encourages more research on how the environment affects brain health. Using data-driven solutions, experts can help build communities that reduce dementia risk and support well-being.



A better understanding of these factors could lead to smarter urban planning and healthier living spaces for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163724004483?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ageing Research Reviews</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Living near major roads increases dementia risk

Dementia is a growing health risk, affecting millions of people...

Scientists have been investigating how certain common medications might hold back the movement of cancer cells. Many years of observational research has hinted that daily low-dose aspirin use could curb the spread of certain cancers, including breast and prostate tumors, which caught the attention of clinicians.



One question lingered: how exactly does aspirin slow or stop this hidden process that sends <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-cells-collaborate-to-survive-challenging-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> cells drifting around the body? Experts at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> say they have found a critical clue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-spread-and-immune-defense">Cancer spread and immune defense</h2>



When a tumor stays in one spot, doctors often have a chance to remove or treat it. Trouble emerges when the cancer cells slip into the bloodstream and lodge in other areas, creating <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/metastatic-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metastatic growths</a> that are much harder to manage.



Small, lone cancer cells traveling through the body might be more open to immune system attacks than large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-could-accelerate-discoveries-in-cancer-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumors</a>. The Cambridge team tested this idea by looking for the factors that shrink or boost immune defense.



Their work drew attention to thromboxane A2, often called TXA2, which is produced by platelets. The team showed that TXA2 triggers a pathway in <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/t-cell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T cells</a> involving a protein called ARHGEF1, limiting the ability of these T cells to attack cancer.



Aspirin blocks the enzyme that leads to the creation of TXA2. When TXA2 levels drop, T cells seem to have more energy to find and eliminate microscopic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer threats</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aspirin-boosts-immunity-against-cancer">Aspirin boosts immunity against cancer</h2>



“It was a Eureka moment when we found TXA2 was the molecular signal that activates this suppressive effect on T cells,” said Dr. Jie Yang, a researcher in the Department of Pathology.



The experts found that the protein ARHGEF1 makes T cells weaker, so they don’t fight cancer as well. When they stopped ARHGEF1 from doing this, the T cells stayed strong and attacked cancer more effectively. As a result, fewer cancer cells spread in the mice they tested.



In simple terms, the aspirin pathway stifles TXA2 production, which then allows T cells to keep doing their job without being put to sleep by that clotting factor. 



The researchers suspect that, in many people, this added boost could stand between remission and a devastating cancer comeback.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-target-for-cancer-treatment">New target for cancer treatment </h2>



Rahul Roychoudhuri is a professor of cancer immunology and immunotherapy at the University of Cambridge. 



"Despite advances in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-cancer-cells-have-a-molecular-switch-that-could-be-rewired-to-behave-normally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> treatment, many patients with early stage cancers receive treatments, such as surgical removal of the tumor, which have the potential to be curative," said Professor Roychoudhuri.



"We hope that therapies that target this window of vulnerability will have tremendous scope in preventing recurrence."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aspirin-s-potential-for-cancer-prevention">Aspirin’s potential for cancer prevention</h2>



Experts warn that aspirin is not without risks. A small portion of people can experience dangerous bleeding or <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stomach ulcers</a>, so it is vital to speak with a doctor before making any changes to your routine.



On the bright side, the cost of low-dose aspirin is modest compared to many expensive antibody-based cancer drugs. Scientists believe this might mean broader global access if clinical trials confirm the results.



The <a href="https://www.addaspirintrial.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Add-Aspirin</a> clinical trial is investigating whether aspirin might keep some early tumors from returning. Scientists hope these new findings will guide them on how to personalize aspirin use and avoid giving it to people who will not benefit.



New <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41571-018-0134-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-metastatic</a> treatments could also be designed to target the TXA2 and ARHGEF1 pathway with more precision. This may ultimately become a useful strategy to reduce side effects and keep T cells motivated for the long run.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-translating-findings-into-patient-care">Translating findings into patient care</h2>



Researchers agree that it is still early in the process, especially for establishing the safest dose or identifying who is likely to gain the most. But the potential payoff could be significant if these steps lead to lower rates of advanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-is-the-next-frontier-in-cancer-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> diagnoses.



Everything points to a greater role for the immune system in halting cancers before they get out of hand. Aspirin may enhance this defense, making it a key focus of cancer research.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08626-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Aspirin may prevent cancer from moving to other parts of the body

Scientists have been investigating how certain common medications might hold...

Smokers and e-cigarette advocates often believe that vaping helps people to quit the use of tobacco. However, new research provides strong evidence contradicting this belief, challenging the widely held assumption.



The research was conducted by a team of scientists at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, and at Moores Cancer Center at the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, San Diego</a>.



Their significant results have recently been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vaping-vs-smoking">Vaping vs. smoking</h2>



“Most smokers think vaping will help you quit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quitting-smoking-at-any-age-brings-big-and-immediate-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a>,” stated John P. Pierce, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor in the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health (<a href="https://hwsph.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HWSPH</a>), and one of the study's co-authors.



“However, this belief is not supported by science to date. While some researchers have suggested that smokers who switch to daily vaping will be more successful in quitting smoking, we studied quitting success among both daily and non-daily vapers and came up with a quite definitive answer.”



More than 6,000 U.S. smokers took part in the study, of which 943 were also smokers who vaped.



One striking finding from this study was that quitting smoking was less successful among vapers than among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smokers-have-weaker-hearts-that-pump-less-blood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smokers</a> who didn't vape. 



Daily vape users were 4.1% less successful at quitting smoking, and occasional vape users were 5.3% less successful.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misleading-perception-of-vaping">Misleading perception of vaping</h2>



The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that close to one out of every five Americans consumes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tobacco-bans-could-help-prevent-1-2-million-lung-cancer-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tobacco</a> products. 



Most tobacco consumers are cigarette smokers although, in recent times, there has been a shift towards vaping, mostly because people feel that it is safer than smoking cigarettes.



This perception of safety reinforces the illusion that vaping can aid a smoker to get weaned off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cigarettes-accelerates-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cigarettes</a>.



Interestingly, researchers took note of the potential dangers of vaping, and asserted that e-cigarettes are not benign.



“The adverse health effects of cigarette smoking become obvious after people have smoked for 20 years. While vapes generally don’t contain the same harmful chemicals as cigarette smoke, they have other risks, and we just don’t yet know what the health consequences of vaping over 20 to 30 years will be,” shared Pierce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smoking-and-vaping-definitive-study">Smoking and vaping - definitive study</h2>



One particular strength of the research is its capacity to adjust for a large number of variables that are understood to impact the cessation of smoking.



The scientists carefully controlled for variables such as smoking frequency, levels of interest in quitting, having a smoke-free household, and socioeconomic status.



This way, they were able to ensure that what they found wasn't confounded by outside factors, and therefore the conclusions drawn would be stronger.



“For example, if a smoker is already very interested in quitting, has a smoke-free home, and does not smoke daily, they are much more likely to successfully quit, regardless of whether they vape or not,” said senior author Karen Messer, Ph.D., professor of biostatistics at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health.



“We matched each smoker/vaper on such characteristics. You have to make very sure you’re comparing like with like, and that’s why this analysis is so definitive.”



According to the researchers, previous studies that failed to account for these confounding factors have contributed to the persistent misconception that vaping aids smoking cessation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-informing-public-health-policy">Informing public health policy</h2>



The findings also have significant implications for public health policy, particularly in connection with the marketing of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/e-cigarettes-linked-to-increased-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarettes</a>.



Young people are often the target of marketing campaigns and may find themselves using e-cigarettes as a stepping stone to nicotine addiction.



“There’s still a lot we don’t know about the impact of vaping on people,” commented Natalie Quach, &nbsp;a third-year&nbsp;biostatistics Ph.D.&nbsp;student at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, and the study’s first author.



“But what we do know is that the idea that vaping helps people quit isn’t actually true. It is more likely that it keeps them addicted to nicotine.”



Messer emphasized the importance of rigorous research in shaping public health strategies. 



“As the public health community continues to grapple with the complexities of tobacco control, it is essential that we rely on rigorous scientific evidence to inform our policies and interventions,” she stated.



“Our research shows that misleading associations between vaping and smoking cessation routinely occur unless confounding characteristics are carefully accounted for.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-study-matters">Why this study matters</h2>



These findings highlight the importance of evidence-based policymaking, particularly as e-cigarette use continues to increase.



Without careful consideration of the full range of influences on smoking behavior, the public may continue to be misled about the role of vaping in tobacco cessation.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831011" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Does vaping help people stop smoking cigarettes? New study has answers

Smokers and e-cigarette advocates often believe that vaping helps people...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



---



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



---



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

News coming your way