Artificial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-artificial-sweeteners-safe-the-debate-is-heating-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweeteners</a> are appealing to those who want a sweet taste without the calories or health concerns associated with sugar. Yet, emerging research continues to uncover potential gut harm caused by sugar substitutes, such as neotame. 



A new study from Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) sheds light on neotame, a relatively newer artificial sweetener, and its shocking effects on the gut.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-neotame-wrecks-havoc-on-the-gut-microbiome">How neotame wrecks havoc on the gut microbiome</h2>



According to the research, neotame directly harms the gut's protective lining and changes the behavior of good gut bacteria. This can weaken the gut barrier and disrupt the gut microbiome. These changes affect digestion, immune health, and can lead to various health problems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neotame-s-impact-on-epithelial-cells-in-the-gut">Neotame's impact on epithelial cells in the gut</h3>



Research indicates that neotame has the capacity to directly induce cell death in the epithelial cells that line your intestinal walls. The exact mechanism by which this occurs is still being investigated but might involve the disruption of essential cellular functions.



The epithelial lining of the gut plays a crucial role in maintaining a physical barrier between the contents of your digestive tract and your internal systems. 



This barrier is essential for both nutrient absorption and for protecting your body from harmful toxins, pathogens, and other substances found within the gut. Neotame's ability to kill these cells directly undermines the integrity of this barrier.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neotame-s-disruption-of-gut-microbes">Neotame's disruption of gut microbes</h3>



Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria like E.coli and E. faecalis. In a healthy state, many of these bacteria contribute to digestive processes and play a role in immune system support. However, exposure to neotame appears to induce negative changes in these bacteria.



Neotame can cause normally beneficial gut bacteria to become harmful. This includes increased adherence (sticking) to the gut wall, the ability to invade the gut lining, and the potential to break through the gut barrier and enter the bloodstream.



If harmful bacteria escape the confines of the gut and reach the bloodstream, this can cause sepsis - a life-threatening condition where the body has an extreme inflammatory response to infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-a-neotame-compromised-gut">Consequences of a Neotame compromised gut</h2>



Your gut is often called the "second brain." It's home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as your gut microbiome, that have a profound influence on your overall well-being. Here's what might happen when neotame disrupts your delicate gut ecosystem:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs">Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)</h3>



As discussed, damage to the gut barrier can lead to increased intestinal permeability (often called "leaky gut"). This allows unwanted substances to pass through the gut lining and into the body, potentially triggering inflammation and immune responses that exacerbate IBS symptoms.



Research suggests that people with IBS often have altered gut microbiota compared to healthy individuals. An imbalance between beneficial and harmful gut bacteria can contribute to digestive distress, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sepsis">Sepsis</h3>



A compromised gut barrier allows harmful bacteria to potentially escape from the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream. This translocation of bacteria can trigger a severe systemic inflammatory response known as sepsis.



Sepsis is a medical emergency. When not promptly treated, it can progress to septic shock, leading to multiple organ failure and death.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-and-inflammatory-disorders">Metabolic and inflammatory disorders</h3>



The gut microbiome plays a significant role in regulating various metabolic processes, including energy harvesting from food and blood sugar control. An altered gut microbiome can contribute to metabolic dysregulation, leading to issues such as insulin resistance (a precursor to type 2 diabetes).



Disruptions in the gut microbiome from neotame can promote low-grade, chronic inflammation throughout the body. This sustained inflammation is a key contributor to the development of numerous chronic health conditions, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and possibly even some forms of cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neotame-s-place-among-other-artificial-sweeteners">Neotame's place among other artificial sweeteners</h2>



This isn't the first time artificial sweeteners have been under scrutiny. “There is now growing awareness of the health impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-obesity-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweeteners</a> such as saccharin, sucralose and aspartame, with our own previous work demonstrating the problems they can cause to the wall of the intestine and the damage to the ‘good bacteria’ which form in our gut," said study senior author Dr. Havovi Chichger.



For people struggling with weight control, diabetes, or glucose intolerance, artificial sweeteners can be a tool. But the research on neotame and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweetener-has-been-linked-to-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweeteners</a> paints a complex picture. While they reduce sugar intake, the long-term consequences of their effect on the gut remain a significant health concern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-things-to-consider">Things to consider </h2>



Before using any artificial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-linked-to-increased-risk-of-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweetener</a>, consider the following:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moderation-is-key">Moderation is key</h3>



<ul>
<li>Small amounts if needed:&nbsp;If you decide to incorporate artificial sweeteners into your diet, it's crucial to do so with extreme caution. Using them sparingly minimizes potential exposure and reduces the risk of negative effects on gut health.</li>



<li>Retraining your palate:&nbsp;Our taste preferences are adaptable. Gradually reducing your intake of artificial sweeteners and highly sweetened foods allows your taste buds to adjust. Over time, you'll appreciate and enjoy the subtle sweetness of naturally occurring sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and some dairy products.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-read-food-labels">Read food labels</h3>



<ul>
<li>Ingredient awareness:&nbsp;Scrutinize ingredient lists carefully. Artificial sweeteners like neotame, sucralose, aspartame, and others can appear in a surprising variety of products, including diet drinks, processed snacks, chewing gum, and even seemingly "healthy" bars or beverages.</li>



<li>Hidden names:&nbsp;Artificial sweeteners can go by many names. Be vigilant in spotting them on food labels to make more informed choices about what you consume.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-alternatives">Natural alternatives</h3>



<ul>
<li>Stevia and monk fruit:&nbsp;These plant-derived sweeteners have little to no impact on blood sugar levels, making them potentially safer options. However, some individuals may find they have an aftertaste or digestive sensitivities to them.</li>



<li>Use with caution:&nbsp;Even natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweeteners</a> shouldn't be consumed in excess. The goal is to reduce your overall reliance on overly sweet flavors and to appreciate the inherent sweetness of whole foods.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talk-to-your-doctor">Talk to your doctor</h3>



<ul>
<li>Personalized advice:&nbsp;Seeking guidance from your doctor or a registered dietitian is essential, especially if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes or any digestive issues.</li>



<li>Individualized approach:&nbsp;They can help you develop a dietary plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns while taking into account potential risks associated with artificial sweeteners.</li>
</ul>



The evolving understanding of the complex relationship between artificial sweeteners like neotame and gut health underscores the value of a whole-foods based diet. This recent research on neotame is another reminder that what we put into our bodies has far-reaching effects beyond simple taste and metabolism. 



Prioritizing healthy, unprocessed foods is the best way to support your gut microbiome and your overall well-being for the long term.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1366409/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a>.



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Artificial sweetener neotame has shocking effects on gut health

Artificial sweeteners are appealing to those who want a sweet taste without the calories or health concerns associated with sugar. Yet, emerging research continues to uncover potential gut harm caused by sugar substitutes, such as neotame. A new study from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) sheds light on neotame, a relatively newer artificial sweetener, and its shocking effects on the gut. How neotame wrecks havoc on the gut microbiome According to the research, neotame directly harms the gut's protective lining and changes the behavior of good gut bacteria....

Scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Riverside</a> (UCR) has recently developed a revolutionary RNA-based strategy for a universal vaccine capable of combating any virus strain effectively and safely - even in infants and the immunocompromised. This innovative approach could transform how vaccines are developed and administered across the globe.



Traditionally, vaccines are designed to anticipate the most prevalent strains of viruses like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-influenza-virus-hack-our-cells/">influenza</a> and COVID-19, which requires yearly updates and reformulations. However, this new RNA-based vaccine eliminates the need for multiple versions by targeting a common component of the viral genome across all strains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broadly-applicable-vaccine">Broadly applicable vaccine</h2>



“What I want to emphasize about this vaccine strategy is that it is broad,” said Rong Hai, a virologist at UCR. “It is broadly applicable to any number of viruses, broadly effective against any variant of a virus, and safe for a broad spectrum of people. This could be the universal vaccine that we have been looking for.”



Unlike traditional vaccines that often contain a dead or weakened virus to trigger an immune response, this novel vaccine utilizes a live, modified virus. The significant difference, however, is that it does not depend on the usual immune system response involving T-cells and “memory” B-cells.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silencing-rna-molecules">Silencing RNA molecules</h2>



Instead, the vaccine employs small, silencing RNA molecules, making it suitable for use in individuals with compromised or underdeveloped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-immune-systems-have-hidden-and-surprising-strength/">immune systems</a>, such as babies or those with immunocompromising conditions.



“A host - a person, a mouse, anyone infected - will produce small interfering RNAs as an immune response to viral infection. These RNAi then knock down the virus,” said lead author Shouwei Ding, a professor of microbiology at UCR. “If we make a mutant virus that cannot produce the protein to suppress our RNAi, we can weaken the virus. It can replicate to some level, but then loses the battle to the host RNAi response. A virus weakened in this way can be used as a vaccine for boosting our RNAi immune system.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-vaccine-protection-nbsp">Powerful vaccine protection&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers tested this new strategy using a mouse virus called Nodamura on mutant mice lacking T and B cells. Remarkably, with just one vaccine injection, these mice were protected from a lethal dose of the virus for at least 90 days, equivalent to approximately nine human years per mouse day according to some studies.



This approach has recently received a US patent, paving the way for broader application, including in newborns, who are typically vulnerable due to the insufficient availability of suitable vaccines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeting-viruses-with-similar-functions">Targeting viruses with similar functions</h2>



The team is now looking to extend this strategy to develop a flu vaccine that could be administered to infants, providing them protection independent of maternal antibodies.&nbsp;



“There are several well-known human pathogens; dengue, SARS, COVID. They all have similar viral functions. This should be applicable to these viruses in an easy transfer of knowledge,” Ding explained.



Moreover, the vaccine's potential delivery via a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasal-vaccine-shows-potential-to-stop-covid-19-before-it-starts/">nasal</a> spray could address common aversions to needles, offering a more palatable alternative for many. “Respiratory infections move through the nose, so a spray might be an easier delivery system,” Hai said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-defense-against-viral-mutations-nbsp">Strong defense against viral mutations&nbsp;</h2>



One of the most compelling aspects of this RNAi vaccine technology is its robust defense against viral mutations. “Viruses may mutate in regions not targeted by traditional vaccines. However, we are targeting their whole genome with thousands of small RNAs. They cannot escape this,” Hai added.



Therefore, this study - published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2321170121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a> - holds the promise of a universal vaccine strategy, a “cut and paste” solution adaptable to myriad viruses, potentially revolutionizing preventive healthcare on a global scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-quest-for-a-universal-vaccine-nbsp">The quest for a universal vaccine&nbsp;</h2>



The realization of a universal vaccine would represent a significant breakthrough in infectious disease prevention, potentially transforming our approach to handling viral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-can-we-learn-from-previous-bird-flu-outbreaks/">outbreaks</a> and reducing the global burden of diseases.



A universal vaccine would provide broad protection against multiple strains of a particular pathogen, such as the influenza virus or the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Here's a closer look at what this involves for two major pathogens:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influenza">Influenza</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-influenza-virus-hack-our-cells/">Influenza viruses</a> are known for their rapid mutation rates, which necessitate the annual reformulation of flu vaccines. A universal flu vaccine would ideally protect against all types (or at least most types) of influenza viruses, dramatically reducing the impact of seasonal flu epidemics and the threat of potential pandemics.&nbsp;



Research in this area focuses on identifying parts of the virus that are least susceptible to mutation, such as the stem of the hemagglutinin protein, which could serve as targets for a broadly protective vaccine.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coronavirus-sars-cov-2">Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)</h3>



With the emergence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-vaccines-linked-to-neurological-blood-and-heart-related-issues/">COVID-19</a> and its global impact, there has been an accelerated interest in developing a universal coronavirus vaccine.&nbsp;



This vaccine would aim to protect against not only the existing SARS-CoV-2 variants but also potential future coronaviruses that could cross over from animals to humans. Researchers are exploring multiple strategies, including targeting conserved regions of the virus’s spike protein that are less likely to mutate.



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Universal vaccine may be effective against any variant of any virus

Scientists at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) has recently...

Visual perception is deeply linked to the act of blinking. So, have you ever wondered why we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-stability-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blink</a> so much? While it may seem minor, blinking significantly affects our waking hours by impacting our vision.



Humans spend 3 to 8 percent of their time awake with their eyes closed. More than just moisturizing the eyes, blinking plays a critical role in how we see the world.



This connection was the focus of a pivotal study by researchers from the <a href="https://www.rochester.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rochester</a>. Their findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveal that blinking is crucial for processing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-masking-your-brain-can-see-things-without-your-knowledge/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual information</a>, highlighting its essential role in our visual experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-impact-of-blinking-on-vision">Surprising impact of blinking on vision</h2>



The study team, led by Michele Rucci, a professor in the <a href="https://www.sas.rochester.edu/bcs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences</a>, investigated the effects of blinking on visual perception. 



"By modulating the visual input to the retina, blinks effectively reformat visual information, yielding luminance signals that differ drastically from those normally experienced when we look at a point in the scene," explains Rucci. 



As a result, this modulation allows our brains to receive and interpret visual stimuli in a uniquely beneficial way.



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



Rucci and his team used eye-tracking technologies and computer models to study how blinking affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-linked-to-vision-impairment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our vision</a>.



Consequently, their findings challenge the traditional view that blinking only serves to moisten the eyes. Instead, they found that blinking crucially enhances our perception of larger, gradual changes in our environment.



This occurs because the rapid motion of the eyelid during a blink alters the patterns of light reaching the retina. This creates a unique visual signal that aids in processing the overall 'big picture' of what we see.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blinking-as-a-beneficial-vision-disruptor">Blinking as a beneficial vision disruptor</h2>



The notion that blinking might disrupt visual continuity is a common assumption. However, the research findings suggest otherwise.



"We show that human observers benefit from blink transients as predicted from the information conveyed by these transients," says Bin Yang, a graduate student in Rucci's lab and the first author of the paper. 



This suggests that blinks actually improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-carrots-and-colorful-veggies-really-can-improve-your-eyesight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual processing</a> by providing critical information that compensates for any loss in stimulus exposure during the blink.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-a-sensory-process-aided-by-movement">Vision: a sensory process aided by movement</h2>



The implications of Rucci's research extend beyond blinking. They contribute to a broader understanding of how vision operates similarly to other senses, such as smell and touch. In these senses, body movements assist in interpreting spatial information.



Thus, this challenges the previously held belief that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-delays-visual-inputs-by-15-seconds-to-keep-us-stable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision</a> was fundamentally different because spatial information is explicitly available in the image on the retina.



"Our results suggest that this view is incomplete and that vision resembles other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-perception-speed-varies-greatly-among-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory</a> modalities more than commonly assumed," Rucci adds. This new perspective underscores the dynamic interaction between sensory input and motor activities in shaping how we perceive the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-the-blink">Embracing the blink</h2>



In summary, the act of blinking, which may seem like a vulnerability in our visual system, is actually a beneficial process that enhances our ability to perceive and process visual information. 



By reformatting visual input and providing the brain with information about the overall scene, blinking plays a crucial role in our visual perception. 



This research challenges the common assumption that vision is fundamentally different from other senses and highlights the importance of understanding the complex interplay between sensory input and motor activity in human perception.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2310291121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Blinking plays a crucial role in vision and human perception

Visual perception is deeply linked to the act of blinking....

Dreams have been a source of wonder and speculation for millennia. Are they cryptic messages from beyond? Or are our brains merely firing off random patterns as we sleep? What if they change our perceptions?



As it turns out, science is starting to lean away from the "random patterns" idea. Researchers are discovering compelling evidence that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dreams-keep-the-brain-from-becoming-too-familiar-with-everyday-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a> play a far more important role in our lives than we might have thought.



Think back to your last few nights. What did your dreams hold? Triumphs? Terrors? Perhaps just those odd, fleeting moments that fade with the morning light. At the recent Cognitive Neuroscience Society (<a href="https://www.cogneurosociety.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNS</a>) annual meeting, experts like Remington Mallett from the <a href="https://www.umontreal.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Montréal</a> shared that no matter the content, our dreams can profoundly influence the way we think, feel, and experience the world around us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-dreams-random-or-perceptions-of-the-self">Are dreams random or perceptions of the self?</h2>



For ages, the question of "Why do we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meaningful-dream-experiences-can-boost-your-work-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dream</a>?" has puzzled philosophers, artists, and scientists alike. One of the biggest challenges, according to Mallet, is the difficulty in studying such a subjective, internal phenomenon. But the tide is starting to shift:



"Because we don't know much about dreams, it is hard to estimate their full impact on our waking lives," says Mallett. "But current results suggest that indeed dreams influence our waking experiences."



So, if your dreams aren't just a jumble of nonsense, what are they, and how are they making a difference?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dreams-insomnia-and-perception">Dreams, insomnia and perception</h2>



If you suffer from insomnia, you're intimately familiar with that frustrating sense of exhaustion that persists even after what seems like a long night of sleep. This begs the question: could how you think you slept be misaligned with the reality of your sleep patterns?



Claudia Picard-Deland and her team investigated this concept by studying "good sleepers." Their method involved waking participants multiple times throughout the night to record their self-reported state (awake or asleep) and the presence or absence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-dreams-help-us-organize-our-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dream</a> activity. 



The findings were surprising: Participants often reported feeling awake while measurements clearly indicated they were asleep. This phenomenon was most common in the earlier, lighter stages of sleep.



Moreover, when participants were able to recall their dreams, they reported an overall feeling of having slept more deeply. This effect was strongest when the remembered dreams were particularly vivid or immersive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-findings">Implications of the findings</h2>



For those who struggle with insomnia, understanding that they might be getting more sleep than they realize could significantly reduce anxiety surrounding sleep. This newfound awareness has the potential to break a negative feedback loop fueled by sleep-related worry.



Picard-Deland's research hints at the possibility of "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-genes-control-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dream</a>-based" therapies. The idea is that by learning techniques to have more vivid or memorable dreams, people could train themselves to feel like they've had a more restful sleep, improving their overall sense of well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-lucid-dreaming">The power of lucid dreaming</h2>



What if you could actively take part in your dreams and even send messages to the outside world? Well, some people can, and Saba Al-Youssef of <a href="https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sorbonne Université</a> is uncovering what we can learn from them.



Lucid dreaming happens when you're asleep but become aware that you're dreaming. This grants you a remarkable level of control over your dream world. Al-Youssef's research uses the ability of lucid dreamers to move facial muscles as a real-time communication tool.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/angry-dreams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dreams</a> are a hidden world to which we have no direct access," explains Al-Youssef. "The capacity of lucid dreamers to communicate with us in real time gives us side door access to dreams, at least knowing when a specific event is happening."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manipulating-dreams-for-better-living">Manipulating dreams for better living</h2>



The research presented by both Picard-Deland and Al-Youssef hints at the possibility of directly influencing our dreams, a key concept with wide-ranging potential for improving our well-being. Controlled dream manipulation offers several key benefits.



The ability to purposefully modify aspects of dreams would give scientists unprecedented control in their experiments. This could lead to faster, more accurate discoveries about how dreams work and their impact on our waking lives.



Nightmares go beyond mere annoyance; they can be a source of profound distress and even trauma. By understanding the mechanisms behind dream generation, researchers hope to develop methods for altering dreams in real-time. This could mean turning a terrifying nightmare into a neutral or even positive experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dream-manipulation-and-perceptions">Dream manipulation and perceptions</h2>



Dreams often feel like a kaleidoscope of our lives – fragments of experiences, perceptions, and emotions woven together into strange yet captivating narratives. This unique quality makes dreams a potentially invaluable tool for both self-discovery and therapeutic intervention.



If we can learn to intentionally shape or influence our dreams, we might unlock:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-mind">Understanding the mind</h3>



By manipulating specific aspects of our dreams, researchers could gain insights into the complex ways our minds process information, store memories, and generate emotions. This knowledge could translate into better models of the brain and more effective treatments for cognitive disorders.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeted-therapy">Targeted therapy</h3>



Individuals struggling with conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression may benefit from tailored dream manipulation techniques. Therapists could potentially guide patients towards having dreams that promote emotional processing, help work through trauma, or reinforce positive coping mechanisms.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-mental-wellness-nbsp">Personalized mental wellness&nbsp;</h3>



Even beyond clinical settings, dream manipulation could offer new ways to boost creativity, enhance problem-solving, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness. Imagine being able to cultivate dreams that leave you feeling inspired, mentally refreshed, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-dreams-and-perceptions">Linking dreams and perceptions</h2>



It's easy to dismiss dreams as fleeting nonsense that vanishes with the morning light. However, this research suggests it's high time to reconsider that attitude. Dreams aren't just a quirky form of nocturnal entertainment – they hold a wealth of potential insights into your inner workings, how you rest, and even your overall mental health.



Dreams directly mirror the way we experience the world around us. This means that the themes, emotions, and patterns that emerge in your dreams likely tell a deeper story about how you think, feel, and navigate life in your waking hours.



Imagine if you could learn to understand the language of your dreams. Your dreams could highlight patterns and blind spots in your thinking, emotions, or behavior. This newfound awareness could be a catalyst for self-improvement and growth.



Moreover, paying attention to your dreams might change your perception of your sleep quality. You might realize you're sleeping better than you thought. 



Dream interpretation techniques could become a tool for emotional processing, stress reduction, and even creative problem-solving within your subconscious mind.



The science of dreams is still evolving. But one thing is crystal clear: those journeys you take as you sleep have the power to spill over into your reality in fascinating ways.



The study is part of the symposium <a href="https://www.cogneurosociety.org/symposia/?sym=28" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Into the Night: The Cognitive Neuroscience of Dreaming</a>.



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How dreams influence our perceptions

Dreams have been a source of wonder and speculation for...

We all know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/">aging</a> comes along with some inevitable changes: wrinkles, achy joints, and of course, weaker muscles. It makes tackling those stairs harder, and simply standing up from a chair can become a chore. 



But what if your muscles aren't just helplessly succumbing to age? They're fiercely fighting back.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-muscle-map-and-aging">Decoding the muscle map and aging</h2>



A recent study unveils the most detailed picture yet of how our muscles change – and resist those changes – as we age. Researchers at the <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a> and <a href="https://www.sysu.edu.cn/sysuen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun Yat-sen University</a> took samples from people across the lifespan and went deep – examining them at the cellular and molecular levels. 



This research contributes to a fantastic project called the Human Cell Atlas, which is trying to map all the different cell types in the human body. What the researchers found is a complex, microscopic fight for muscle survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-toll-of-aging-on-muscles">The toll of aging on muscles</h2>



Let's first consider the reasons behind the decline of muscles with age. The ribosomes, essential components in muscle cells responsible for protein synthesis, become less active as we age. This reduced activity impairs the muscles' ability to repair themselves. 



Additionally, non-muscle cells within the muscle tissue begin to produce higher levels of a pro-inflammatory molecule called CCL2. This molecule attracts immune cells to the area, which can exacerbate muscle deterioration rather than help.



Moreover, the type of muscle fibers that provide explosive power, known as fast-twitch fibers, gradually diminish as we age. This loss further contributes to the overall weakening of muscle function in elder individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-muscles-are-fighters">Your muscles are fighters</h2>



Now for the good news: Our muscles don't go down without a fight. This study revealed some of their secret weapons:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifty-slow-twitch-fibers">Shifty slow-twitch fibers</h3>



Our bodies have two main types of muscle fibers. Slow-twitch fibers are built for endurance activities like long-distance running. Fast-twitch fibers give us bursts of power for things like sprinting or jumping. As we age, we lose some of our fast-twitch fibers. 



Incredibly, this study revealed that slow-twitch fibers try to pick up the slack. They start activating genes that are normally found in fast-twitch fibers, attempting to take on a more powerful role.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regenerator-boost">Regenerator boost</h3>



The fast-twitch fibers we do have left don't surrender easily. The study suggests these remaining fibers start regenerating at a faster rate. This helps to offset the loss, allowing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscle-weakness-could-be-the-new-smoking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscles</a> to maintain some of their strength and power.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nerve-repair-crews">Nerve repair crews</h3>



Muscles rely on signals from our nerves to function properly. Age weakens this crucial nerve-muscle connection. 



The research team has now identified specialized nuclei (think of them as control centers) within the muscle fibers. These nuclei seem dedicated to repairing the nerve-muscle connection, helping counteract the deterioration caused by aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-ways-to-help-aging-muscle">New ways to help aging muscle</h2>



“Through the Human Cell Atlas, we are learning about the body in unprecedented detail, from the earliest stages of human development through to old age," said Dr. Sarah Teichmann, one of the senior authors of the study. 



"With these new insights into healthy skeletal muscle aging, researchers all over the world can now explore ways to combat inflammation, boost <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecule-in-coffee-trigonelline-keeps-muscles-young/">muscle</a> regeneration, preserve nerve connectivity, and more." 



"Discoveries from research like this have huge potential for developing therapeutic strategies that promote healthier aging for future generations."



The research does not imply that a cure for age-related muscle weakness is around the corner, but it does give scientists new targets for potential therapies and treatments. 



Imagine medications that could rev up those sluggish ribosomes, keep inflammation in check, or even coax our bodies to make new fast-twitch fibers. That could be the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay-active-stay-strong">Stay active, stay strong</h2>



While we wait for science to catch up, this research gives us even more reason to focus on what we can control. We've always known exercise is important, but now we know how it might work at the microscopic level. 



So think about strength training not just as building <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-molecule-that-helps-grow-stronger-and-bigger-muscles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a>, but also potentially helping your muscle cells repair themselves and maybe even shifting those slow-twitch fibers into higher gear.



The bottom line? Aging may be inevitable, but it doesn't have to mean losing your strength and independence. Every time you take a walk, hit the gym, or simply stand up from a chair, you're helping your muscles wage their secret war.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s43587-024-00613-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Aging</a>.



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Muscles defy aging with remarkable resilience

We all know that aging comes along with some inevitable...

Let’s say you're a teenager and survive on a steady diet of cheeseburgers, pizza, chips, and soda. Sound appetizing? Maybe for right now. But what if I told you this junk food obsession could do more than make your jeans feel tight – it might also be messing with your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-and-diet-nutrition-helps-lower-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>, even years from now?



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a> found that rats who spent their teenage years eating a junk food diet suffered some pretty serious memory problems. 



These effects didn't go away when they started eating healthier, suggesting there might be lasting consequences for human teens with similar diets.



"What we see not just in this paper, but in some of our other recent work, is that if these rats grew up on this junk food diet, then they have these memory impairments that don’t go away," said Scott Kanoski, professor of Biological Sciences at USC. "If you just simply put them on a healthy diet, these effects unfortunately last well into adulthood.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acetylcholine-the-memory-messenger">Acetylcholine: The memory messenger</h2>



Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that carries signals between brain cells (neurons). It plays a crucial role in several cognitive functions, including learning, attention, and memory formation.



In conditions like Alzheimer's disease, acetylcholine levels decline significantly, leading to impaired memory and other cognitive problems.



Researchers divided rats into two groups: one group received a diet high in fat and sugar, mimicking a typical "junk food" diet, while the other group received a balanced, healthy diet.



After the rats were fed their respective diets, scientists conducted experiments, including those that tested the rats' ability to recognize and remember objects and their placement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-results-junk-food-damages-brain">Shocking results: Junk food damages brain</h2>



Rats on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-food-consumption-impairs-deep-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">junk food</a> diet performed poorly in memory tests. They demonstrated difficulty recalling previously seen objects and their locations within a familiar environment.



Further analysis of their brains indicated disruptions in acetylcholine signaling. This suggests that the junk food diet negatively impacted the brain's normal memory processes that rely on acetylcholine function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-junk-food-and-brain-damage-in-humans">Junk food and brain damage in humans</h2>



Okay, but we're not rats, right? True. But our brains share similarities, especially during teen years when things are changing rapidly.



"Adolescence is a very sensitive period for the brain when important changes are occurring in development," Kanoski explains. "I don’t know how to say this without sounding like Cassandra and doom and gloom, but unfortunately, some things that may be more easily reversible during adulthood are less reversible when they are occurring during childhood."



The idea is that a super unhealthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-food-advertising-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> could mess with your memory down the road, making it difficult to recall things like where you left your keys or even important details of past experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-junk-food-impacts-beyond-brain-damage">Junk food impacts beyond brain damage</h2>



Junk food, typically high in fats, sugars, and salts, while low in essential nutrients, can cause significant and far-reaching impacts on various organs in the body. Here's how junk food can affect different organs and systems:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Heart</h3>



Consuming high levels of saturated and trans fats found in many junk foods can increase blood cholesterol levels. This leads to the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries, which can reduce or block blood flow. Over time, this increases the risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease and heart attacks. 



Additionally, excessive sodium intake from salty snacks and fast foods can contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure), further stressing the cardiovascular system and increasing the risk of stroke.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Liver</h3>



The liver processes most of the fat that we consume. Diets high in unhealthy fats can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where fat accumulates in the liver cells. 



Over time, this can cause inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis), severely impairing liver function. The liver is also crucial for detoxifying harmful substances, and a diet heavy in processed foods can overwhelm this system, leading to further liver damage.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pancreas</h3>



Junk food can be extremely high in sugars, including high-fructose corn syrup and other refined sugars, which can cause spikes in blood glucose levels. To manage this, the pancreas releases insulin. 



However, over time, the body's cells can become resistant to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. The pancreas then has to work harder to produce more insulin, which can strain it and potentially lead to pancreatic exhaustion or diabetes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kidneys</h3>



The kidneys filter waste products from the blood and regulate fluid and mineral balance in the body. High sodium levels from junk food can put stress on the kidneys by increasing blood pressure and potentially leading to kidney disease. Moreover, diets high in sugar can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, particularly uric acid stones.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Digestive System</h3>



Junk food typically lacks dietary fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. Without sufficient fiber, individuals can suffer from constipation and other digestive disorders. 



Over time, a poor diet can lead to more severe gastrointestinal issues like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid regularly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus), or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which involves recurrent digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Skin</h3>



Skin health can be directly affected by diet. Foods high in sugar and fat can promote inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. This can exacerbate conditions like acne and eczema. 



Additionally, the lack of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids in junk food can deprive the skin of the compounds it needs to prevent oxidative damage from UV rays and environmental pollutants, leading to premature aging and poor skin health.



In summary, while junk food can be tempting due to its convenience and taste, its adverse effects on various organs highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall health and well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-to-reverse-brain-damage-from-junk-food">Potential to reverse brain damage from junk food</h2>



To investigate potential solutions, scientists administered medications designed to increase acetylcholine levels to some of the rats exhibiting memory impairment.



These medications were effective in restoring memory function in the treated rats. However, this finding highlights a key concern: without specific pharmacological intervention, the memory damage caused by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-allergies-junk-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">junk food</a> diet during adolescence may be difficult to reverse. 



More research is required to fully understand the long-term consequences of such a diet and explore potential avenues for treatment. This study highlights just how powerfully food choices can impact our brains, and not just our waistlines. 



Of course, enjoying your favorite foods in moderation is totally fine. But consistently opting for processed, fatty, or overly sugary stuff, especially when you're young, might have more significant consequences than you think.

Junk food diet triggers lasting changes in the brain

Let’s say you're a teenager and survive on a steady...

The timing of exercise has a substantial influence on health outcomes, particularly among those who are managing obesity, according to recent study from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/">University of Sydney</a>. 



The experts found that evening exercise was linked to greater health benefits among obese individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evening-exercise-the-healthiest-choice">Evening exercise: The healthiest choice?</h2>



For the investigation, researchers in the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/charles-perkins-centre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Perkins Centre</a> analyzed data from nearly 30,000 participants. This analysis covered a span of almost eight years.



They focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-activity-can-protect-mental-health-in-pre-teen-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activities</a> tracked by wearable devices to determine whether the time of day affected health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-benefits-of-evening-exercise">Surprising benefits of evening exercise </h2>



The study revealed significant findings about the timing of exercise. Moderate to vigorous exercise, which increases heart rate and breathing, proved particularly beneficial when performed in the evening.



The results showed that individuals who performed most of their aerobic moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between 6 PM and midnight had the lowest risk of premature death. They also experienced a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.



Dr. Angelo Sabag, a lecturer in Exercise Physiology at the University of Sydney, emphasized the broader context of these findings. 



"Around two in three Australians are affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-in-six-u-s-adult-deaths-linked-to-excess-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excess weight</a> or obesity, which significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and premature death. While exercise alone isn't the sole solution to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-the-obesity-crisis-linked-to-the-use-of-a-common-pesticide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity crisis</a>, our research suggests that timing it effectively may help mitigate some health risks," noted Dr. Sabag.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-gym-everyday-activities-count-too">Beyond the gym: Everyday activities count too</h2>



The research did not limit itself to structured exercises; it also considered any continuous physical activity lasting three minutes or longer. 



Dr. Matthew Ahmadi is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Sydney and joint first author of the study. He clarified the scope of the activities that were monitored for the analysis. 



“We didn’t discriminate on the kind of activity we tracked, it could be anything from power walking to climbing the stairs, but could also include structured exercise such as running, occupational labour or even vigorously cleaning the house,” said Dr Ahmadi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rigorous-research-and-reliable-results">Rigorous research and reliable results</h2>



The participants were all over the age of 40 years old and living with obesity. For one week at the start of the study, the individuals were monitored 24 hours a day using a wrist accelerometer.



Health outcomes were then tracked through data linked from the National Health Services and National Records of Scotland over nearly eight years. This tracking included recording numerous health events and mortalities.



To enhance the reliability of their findings, the researchers controlled for various variables such as age, sex, lifestyle habits, and baseline health conditions.



The researchers noted that while the length of the study follow-up and additional sensitivity analysis bolster the strength of their findings, they cannot completely rule out potential reverse causation, which is the possibility that some participants had lower aerobic activity levels due to underlying or undiagnosed disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wearable-technology-in-health-research">Wearable technology in health research</h2>



Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis, director of the Mackenzie Wearables Research Hub at the Charles Perkins Centre and senior author on the paper, highlighted the potential of wearable technology in health research. He noted that the sophistication of studies in the wearables field is providing huge insights into the patterns of activity that are most beneficial for health.



“It is a really exciting time for researchers in this field and practitioners alike, as wearable device-captured data allow us to examine physical activity patterns at a very high resolution and accurately translate findings into advice that could play an important role in health care." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-timing-and-obesity-interventions">Exercise timing and obesity interventions </h2>



The research opens up new avenues for tailored health care interventions. For individuals battling obesity, evening exercise could be a valuable addition to their health management strategy.



 “While we need to do further research to establish causal links, this study suggests that the timing of physical activity could be an important part of the recommendations for future obesity and Type 2 diabetes management, and preventive healthcare in general," said Professor Stamatakis.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/doi/10.2337/dc23-2448/154403/Timing-of-Moderate-to-Vigorous-Physical-Activity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diabetes Care</a>.



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Evening exercise can reduce major health risks of obesity

The timing of exercise has a substantial influence on health...

A recent study led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/">University College London</a> (UCL) and the <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk/">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a> has unveiled significant differences in the way nasal cells from young and elderly individuals respond to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This discovery provides new insights into why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-play-an-unexpected-role-in-covid-19-transmission/">children</a> generally exhibit milder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasal-vaccine-shows-potential-to-stop-covid-19-before-it-starts/">COVID-19</a> symptoms compared to older adults.&nbsp;



The findings shed light on the initial interactions between the virus and human nasal epithelial cells (NECs), which are among the first cells targeted by the virus.



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



“Children infected with SARS-CoV-2 rarely progress to respiratory failure. However, the risk of mortality in infected people over 85 years of age remains high,” wrote the study authors.



“Here we investigate differences in the cellular landscape and function of pediatric (&lt;12 years), adult (30–50 years) and older adult (&gt;70 years) ex vivo cultured nasal epithelial cells in response to infection with SARS-CoV-2.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-nasal-cells-exposed-to-the-virus">Analysis of nasal cells exposed to the virus</h2>



The researchers analyzed nasal cells donated by healthy individuals across all three age groups to the <a href="https://www.gosh.org/">Great Ormond Street Hospital</a> (GOSH), <a href="https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/our-services/our-hospitals/university-college-hospital">University College London Hospital</a> (UCLH), and the <a href="https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/">Royal Free Hospital</a>.



The cells were cultured to regrow into the diverse cell types originally found in the nasal passages. Employing advanced single-cell RNA sequencing techniques, the researchers identified 24 distinct types of epithelial cells. Each age group’s cultures were then exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in controlled experiments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-s-nasal-cells-mounted-a-rapid-response-nbsp">Children’s nasal cells mounted a rapid response&nbsp;</h2>



Three days post-infection, the results showed that children’s nasal cells mounted a rapid response by increasing the production of interferon, a critical component of the body’s initial antiviral defense, which effectively restricted viral replication. However, this robust antiviral response was found to diminish with age.



In elderly individuals, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severity-of-covid-19-may-be-tied-to-nasal-cells/">NECs</a> not only produced more infectious virus particles but also exhibited increased cellular shedding and damage. This could explain the higher severity of COVID-19 symptoms and complications seen in older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-related-changes-in-nasal-cells-nbsp">Age-related changes in nasal cells&nbsp;</h2>



“Our research reveals how the type of cells we have in our nose changes with age, and how this affects our ability to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection. This could be crucial in developing effective antiviral treatments tailored to different age groups, especially for the elderly who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19,” explained project leader Claire Smith, an associate professor in infection, immunity, and inflammation at UCL <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/child-health/great-ormond-street-institute-child-health-0">Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health</a>.



“By carrying out SARS-CoV-2 infections of epithelial cells in vitro and studying the responses with single-cell sequencing, we get a much more detailed understanding of the viral infection kinetics and see big differences in the innate immune response between cell types,” added co-senior author Kerstin Meyer, an expert in cellular genetics at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-is-the-single-greatest-risk-factor">Age is the single greatest risk factor</h2>



Despite the advancements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-vaccination-reduces-mortality-risk-but-only-for-6-months/">vaccination</a> and treatment options, the mortality risk remains high for those over 85 who contract the virus. This research emphasizes the importance of age as a critical factor in both the study and treatment of infectious diseases.



“Despite effective vaccines, age remains the single greatest risk factor for COVID-19 mortality. Children infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) rarely develop severe disease, while the mortality in infected people over 85 years is currently as high as 1 in 10,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-specific-differences-in-our-body-s-response">Age-specific differences in our body’s response</h2>



“It is fascinating that when we take away immune cells from nasal samples, and are only left with nasal epithelial cells grown in a dish, we are still able to identify age-specific differences in our body’s response to the SARS-CoV-2 between the young and elderly to explain why children are generally protected from severe COVID-19,” said co-senior author Marko Nikolic, a clinical scientist the UCL Division of Medicine.



“Understanding the cellular differences at the initiation of infection is just the beginning. We now hope to investigate the long-term implications of these cellular changes and test therapeutic interventions using our unique cell culture model. This ‘gold-standard’ system is only possible with the support of our funders and the willingness of participants to provide their samples,” Smith concluded.



The researchers suggest that future studies should explore how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-diet-puts-the-brakes-on-brain-aging/">aging</a> affects the body’s response to other viral infections, potentially leading to more age-specific medical strategies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41564-024-01658-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Microbiology</a>.



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Nasal cells protect children against severe COVID-19

A recent study led by researchers at the University College...

From a young age, individuals are taught the importance of being aware of their external environment, yet the significance of attuning to one’s internal environment often receives less attention. Neuroscientists are now increasingly exploring how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/">mindfulness</a> training can impact a wide range of psychological aspects, from depression and memory to stress levels and aging.&nbsp;



The goal of ongoing research is to demystify the neural mechanisms that underlie these brain changes, providing clearer guidelines for individuals interested in incorporating mindfulness into their daily lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-short-cuts-in-mindfulness-training-nbsp">No short-cuts in mindfulness training&nbsp;</h2>



“Attentional training is a mechanism by which you can train your brain,” said Erika Nyhus, a cognitive neuroscientist at <a href="https://www.bowdoin.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bowdoin College</a>, who is chairing a session on new research findings in mindfulness at the annual <a href="https://www.cogneurosociety.org/annual-meeting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS) meeting</a> in Toronto. 



“Work to understand the neural mechanisms at play in this mindfulness training show potential pathways toward enhanced cognition but there are no short-cuts. It takes practice.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-mental-health-benefits-of-mindfulness-training-nbsp">Predicting mental health benefits of mindfulness training&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers presenting their latest work at CNS 2024 are excited about the potential benefits that mindfulness training can offer not only to individual practitioners but also to the scientific community’s understanding of cognition. 



Their collective research points to the idea that differences in sensory and cognitive processing within our brains can predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/">mental health</a> outcomes and may be improved through novel technological training methods.



One crucial aspect of mindfulness training involves enhancing interoception - the perception of the body’s internal states - which is pivotal in managing mood disorders such as depression.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acceptance-of-new-sensations-and-emotions">Acceptance of new sensations and emotions</h2>



“Interoception matters in depression because our emotions are made up of both visceral body sensations and our cognitive appraisals of these sensations that help us make sense of those feelings and put them into context,” explained Norman Farb, a psychologist at the <a href="https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/">University of Toronto Mississauga</a>. 



“For example, a fluttering in our belly could be judged as excitement or anxiety depending on our context and appraisal habits.”



Farb and his team are keen on deciphering how the brain processes these interoceptive signals. The findings suggest that mindfulness training focused on internal awareness can divert mental resources away from entrenched cognitive appraisal habits, facilitating the acceptance of new sensations and emotions. 



This shift can significantly help individuals become unstuck from maladaptive self-perceptions and their interactions with the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-mental-resilience-nbsp">Improving mental resilience&nbsp;</h2>



A landmark neuroimaging study on vulnerability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/">depression</a> relapse, published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8978278/">NeuroImage Clinical</a>, provided significant insights. Farb and his colleagues identified a major predictor of depression trajectories: the extent to which individuals engage rather than inhibit sensory and motor processes.



“This result contrasts other neural indicators of depression as being driven by too much activity in regions supporting judgment and appraisal. And it points to the importance of maintaining sensation in times of stress as a sign of mental resilience,” Farb said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-control-and-appraisal">Cognitive control and appraisal</h2>



Further research published in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37316296/">ENeuro</a> focused on the mindfulness practice of attention to the&nbsp; breath, which is a key aspect of mindfulness training. Farb and his team discovered that while attending to external senses activates specific brain regions like the visual cortex, focusing on one’s breath tends to reduce activity across the cerebral cortex, which is associated with cognitive control and appraisal.&nbsp;



“This suggests that mindfulness exercises may first help people to use their attention to stop doing so much with their brains, providing relief from rumination and judgment,” he said.  



“It also has a fascinating implication for how interoception differs from the external senses: interoceptive processing may be continuously represented in the brain to regulate biological processes such as the breath or heartbeat. To detect it, we just need to quiet down.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mindfulness-training-and-technology">Mindfulness training and technology</h2>



On the technological front, David Ziegler, a cognitive neuroscientist at the <a href="https://www.ucsf.edu/">University of California, San Francisco</a> (UCSF), has been pioneering a digital meditation game called <a href="https://www.alternova.co/projects/meditrain-meditation-training-for-adults/">MediTrain</a>, which is rooted in the principles of internal attention. 



This app is designed based on extensive research into neuroplasticity and how the brain compensates for attentional control deficits. “It’s a personalized experience for every individual at every point in their training,” Ziegler explained.



At CNS 2024, Ziegler is presenting data from several studies utilizing MediTrain across different demographics, including young adults, aging adults, and adolescents who have experienced childhood neglect. 



Most notably, a new study published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-019-0611-9">Nature Human Behavior</a>, involving healthy older adults found that the training not only improved attention but also reduced stress reactivity and lengthened telomeres, indicators of reduced cellular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-may-be-driven-by-genetic-imbalances/">aging</a>.



However, the researchers face the challenge of determining the optimal dosage of meditation needed to achieve beneficial effects - a question Ziegler believes technology is uniquely positioned to address. Plans are in motion for a large-scale, nationwide dose-response study of MediTrain that will assess its efficacy in thousands of older adults, utilizing the app's fully mobile digital platform.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-cognitive-function-nbsp">Enhancing cognitive function&nbsp;</h2>



Both Nyhus and Farb, who are practitioners themselves, initially approached mindfulness with a degree of skepticism.&nbsp;



Nyhus, inspired to explore this field further after participating in an eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction course, will present findings from her research into the effects of mindfulness on episodic memory. “You see mindfulness training everywhere and don’t know if there is anything to it, but I was shocked to see the results we got in the lab,” she said.



By investigating the scientific underpinnings of mindfulness, these researchers hope to refine this practice and advocate for its use not only as a psychological tool but also as a means of enhancing overall cognitive function.



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Mindfulness training improves mental resilience

From a young age, individuals are taught the importance of...

Have you ever felt the urge to scream during a frustrating moment but somehow managed not to? This restraint is thanks to the sophisticated way our brains handle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>, which plays a crucial role in our daily interactions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decision-making processes</a>. 



The brain regulates emotions through a network of brain regions, neurotransmitters, and hormones, primarily involving the limbic system.



Researchers at <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a> have conducted a pioneering study that sheds light on this complex process. The experts have distinguished between the neural activities involved in generating emotions and those involved in regulating them.



The research offers new perspectives on emotional flexibility and its significance for mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-brain-a-dartmouth-discovery">Decoding the brain: a Dartmouth discovery</h2>



The Dartmouth-led team, including lead author Ke Bo, a postdoctoral researcher at the Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Lab (<a href="https://sites.dartmouth.edu/canlab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CANlab</a>), used advanced computational methods to analyze fMRI data.



The data had been previously collected by study co-author Peter Gianaros at the University of Pittsburgh, involving participants' responses to emotionally charged images. 



Through this analysis, the researchers pinpointed specific brain regions active during emotional regulation - a process known in neuroscience as "reappraisal." The anterior prefrontal cortex and other higher-level cortical areas, which also play roles in abstract thinking and future planning, were identified as key to regulating emotions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-regions-involved-in-regulating-emotions">Brain regions involved in regulating emotions</h2>



"As a former biomedical engineer, it was thrilling to identify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-violence-may-rewire-teenage-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> regions uniquely involved in regulating emotions," said Bo. "Our findings not only enhance our understanding of how emotion regulation works but also reveal potential clinical applications."



The ability to activate these specific regions correlates with greater resilience against negative experiences, highlighting a critical aspect of mental health.



Furthermore, these areas are also linked to resisting temptations and avoiding dependencies, such as drug addiction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amygdala-and-cortex-at-work">Amygdala and cortex at work</h2>



The research also explored the role of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amygdala-experience-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amygdala</a>, traditionally seen as a center for processing threats and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/managing-negative-emotions-may-prevent-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative emotions</a>. 



The study confirmed that the amygdala consistently responds to negative experiences, regardless of attempts to lessen these emotions.



"It's really the cortex that is responsible for generating people's emotional responses, by altering our perceptions and meanings attached to events," explained Bo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-connections-the-neurotransmitter-network">Chemical connections: The neurotransmitter network</h2>



Further intriguing aspects of the study involved examining how neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin influence these emotion-regulating networks. These chemical messengers are essential for communication within the brain and play a significant role in emotion regulation.



Comparing the emotion regulation brain maps with neurotransmitter binding maps from other studies highlighted significant overlaps.



"Our results showed that areas rich in receptors for cannabinoids, opioids, and serotonin, particularly the 5H2A receptor, are crucial for emotion regulation," noted Tor Wager, senior author and director of the Dartmouth Brain Imaging Center. 



"This discovery is pivotal, especially considering the impact of drugs that target these receptors, shedding light on their potential long-term effects on our ability to manage emotions."



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



Serotonin's role is particularly well-known in the context of depression, with most antidepressants designed to inhibit its reuptake. 



Serotonin is often called the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because it contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. Low levels of serotonin in the brain are commonly linked to a depressed mood.



Additionally, the study highlights the significant effects of psychedelic drugs on these receptors. It suggests that the therapeutic benefits of such treatments depend on their ability to change our cognitive processes and emotional responses.



This underscores the necessity of combining psychological support with pharmaceutical treatments to effectively address mental health challenges.



"It's important to consider these connections that come from basic science," said Wager. "Understanding drug effects requires a deep knowledge of the involved brain systems and their cognitive functions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-emotion-in-the-brain">Mapping emotion in the brain</h2>



This research from Dartmouth provides groundbreaking insights into the neural underpinnings of emotion regulation and generation. 



By identifying specific brain regions and their interactions with neurochemicals, the study has the potential to enhance mental health treatment, offering hope for more effective integration of psychological and pharmaceutical approaches.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01605-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>.



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Study pinpoints the brain regions that regulate emotions

Have you ever felt the urge to scream during a...

We all know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-exercise-routine-can-cut-your-risk-of-early-death-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> is good for us. It strengthens our muscles, boosts our metabolism, and keeps our hearts healthy. But did you know your workouts also give your brain a major tune-up? A fascinating new study shows that physical activity can actually reduce stress-related brain signals, protecting your heart in the process.



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



It's no secret that stress takes a toll on the body. When stress becomes chronic, our bodies release a surge of the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone is meant for short-term survival responses, but constant elevation leads to a cascade of problems. 



Cortisol can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain, and an increased risk of heart disease. But how does the brain play a role in this dangerous cycle?



Scientists are increasingly interested in how our brains handle the pressure of stress. Imagine your brain contains a tiny alarm system called the amygdala. When you're under stress, this alarm gets triggered and goes into overdrive, sending signals of danger throughout the body. 



Fortunately, your brain also has a region called the prefrontal cortex. This area is responsible for logic, reasoning, and self-control. Think of it as the part of your brain that can calm the alarm down. Under normal circumstances, your prefrontal cortex can manage the amygdala's stress signals. 



However, under chronic stress, the amygdala can become hyperactive, overwhelming your brain's ability to manage the response.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-benefits-the-brain-and-the-heart">Exercise benefits the brain and the heart</h2>



Researchers at <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts General Hospital</a> reveal that physical activity quiets stress-related brain activity, especially giving that hardworking prefrontal cortex a boost.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-achieve-greater-benefits-from-exercise-with-less-effort/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical activity</a> was roughly twice as effective in lowering cardiovascular disease risk among those with depression," explains Dr. Ahmed Tawakol, a cardiologist at MGH and the study's lead author. "Effects on the brains' stress-related activity may explain this novel observation."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-a-power-prescription">Exercise, a power prescription</h2>



Researchers in this study carefully analyzed a massive amount of health data collected from over 50,000 individuals. This type of large-scale study gives scientists a much clearer picture of the real-world impact of physical activity. 



Individuals who consistently met recommended physical activity guidelines (at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week) had a significant advantage. They had a 23% lower risk of developing heart disease compared to those who didn't get enough <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-aging-related-fat-buildup-in-tissues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a>.



Those who were physically active also showed a fascinating change: lower levels of stress-related activity within their brains. This suggests that exercise has a direct, calming effect on the areas of the brain that manage stress responses.



Importantly, this calming effect on the brain seemed to play a major role in protecting the heart. The researchers believe that the reduced stress response from exercise is a key reason why physically active people enjoy a lower risk of heart disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-for-depression-and-heart-health">Exercise for depression and heart health</h2>



The study revealed a particularly encouraging discovery. Individuals who struggled with depression actually gained even more heart-healthy benefits from exercise than those without depression. This means that for people facing the challenges of chronic stress and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-all-types-proven-to-ease-depression-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, regular physical activity could be a particularly powerful tool in protecting their hearts. 



The idea that those who might be feeling the most overwhelmed by stress could benefit the most from exercise is a remarkable and inspiring takeaway.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-in-daily-life">Exercise in daily life</h2>



The study adds even more power to the simple recommendation to “get moving”. Here's what to keep in mind:



<ul>
<li>Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (activities like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running) each week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week.</li>



<li>Even short bursts of activity throughout the day can lower stress and improve your health.</li>



<li>Exercise can be a blast. Dance class, swimming, hiking – if it's fun, you're more likely to keep it up.</li>
</ul>



While more research is needed, it's becoming clearer that exercise can change your brain in remarkable ways. Want a healthier heart and a calmer mind? Your sneakers are your new secret weapons!



Note: If you're new to exercise, have health concerns, or suffer from depression, always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.



The study is published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2024.02.02" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American College of Cardiology</a>.



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Exercise significantly lowers heart disease risk by reducing stress

We all know that exercise is good for us. It...

In every cell, a complex called the proteasome acts like a recycling center, breaking down unneeded proteins. However, recent discoveries by <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins Medicine</a> suggest these proteasomes are more than just cellular custodians - they're also crucial communicators in the nervous system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proteasomes-in-neurons">Proteasomes in neurons</h2>



Study co-author Dr. Seth S. Margolis is an associate professor of biological chemistry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-can-predict-human-speech-before-we-say-a-word/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurons</a> live next to each other for a long time, and they need ways to communicate with each other about what they're doing and who they are," said Dr. Margolis. "Proteasomes in the membrane of neurons may help the cells fine-tune this messaging process."



Sensory information, from temperature changes to touch and potential irritants, constantly bombards skin cells. Proteasomes within these cells may influence how this information is processed and relayed to the nervous system.



This is significant because it opens doors to entirely new avenues of research on pain, itch, and other sensory experiences. If we can understand how proteasomes contribute to this communication process, we might be able to develop therapies that target these cellular mechanisms to alleviate pain or control itch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disabling-proteasomes-in-mice">Disabling proteasomes in mice</h2>



To understand the potential role of proteasomes within the nerves near the skin, the scientists conducted a carefully designed experiment. Their approach centered on temporarily disabling proteasome function in mice. 



The experts utilized a specialized drug called biotin-epoxomicin, known to specifically stop proteasomes from doing their usual "clean-up" work. Once the proteasomes were blocked, the researchers performed a series of well-established sensory tests on the mice.



The results were striking. Mice that received the proteasome-blocking drug showed a significant delay in their response to sensory stimuli. In fact, their reactions were on average 25 to 50 percent slower than what would be considered normal. 



This compelling observation was not mere chance. It strongly suggested a deeper role for proteasomes. While crucial for cellular maintenance, proteasomes also critically influence how nerves near the skin process environmental information.



This breakthrough discovery has the potential to pave the way for entirely new approaches to understanding and managing pain, itch, and other sensations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-key-for-itch-relief">Potential key for itch relief</h2>



The next step was even more fascinating. The researchers discovered that proteasomes seemed to be around a specific group of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cleaning-the-brain-neurons-flush-out-waste-while-we-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurons</a> connected to the sensation of itch. (Ever wondered why you have an uncontrollable urge to scratch sometimes?) These itch-related neurons are triggered by histamine, a chemical your immune system releases in response to allergens.



The scientists exposed itch neurons in a petri dish to a proteasome-blocking drug. Interestingly, this exposure changed the activity of neighboring neurons. These changes occurred even in neurons that did not detect itch.



"Blocking proteasomes seems to have an activity-modulatory effect across all the cells, despite being expressed in a subpopulation, suggesting that proteasomes facilitate a kind of cross talk between these cells," explained Dr. Margolis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proteasomes-and-targeted-treatments">Proteasomes and targeted treatments</h2>



The most exciting aspect of this discovery lies in its potential for revolutionizing how we treat sensory conditions. Existing medications known as proteasome inhibitors are already used in the fight against certain types of cancer. 



This breakthrough discovery opens up a fascinating new possibility: could we utilize similar medications to directly target the root cause of itch, pain, and related sensory experiences?



By understanding how to precisely manipulate these cellular messengers, scientists may be able to develop treatments that offer relief in a way that current medications cannot. This could be a game-changer, particularly for those who suffer from chronic pain or debilitating itch. 



Instead of merely masking symptoms, these new therapies might offer a solution that targets the underlying communication processes within our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cell-origins-traced-to-creatures-that-lived-800-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nervous system</a>.



"We want to see if we can manipulate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zombie-neurons-shed-new-light-on-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neuronal</a> membrane proteasomes to have a different outcome on pain and itch sensation," said study lead author Eric Villalón Landeros.



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



This discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the astonishing complexity woven into the very fabric of our existence. Even within the confines of a single cell, a structure so minuscule as to be invisible to the naked eye, we find systems that profoundly influence our daily lives. 



The proteasome, once viewed as a mere component of cellular housekeeping, emerges as a potential key player in how we perceive and interact with our environment.



This underscores the profound interconnectedness of biological systems. Seemingly insignificant components may hold the secrets to unlocking a deeper understanding of our bodies, our senses, and ultimately, our place within the intricate tapestry of life itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-proteasomes">More about proteasomes</h2>



Proteasomes are fascinating and complex protein complexes essential to the functioning of cells. They act as a sort of waste disposal system for proteins, ensuring that damaged, misfolded, or no longer needed proteins are promptly broken down and recycled. Here's a deeper look into their role and importance beyond the specific study we discussed:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Essential role in cellular function</h3>



Proteasomes are primarily known for their role in the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). UPS is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Ubiquitin, a small protein, tags proteins destined for degradation, signaling the proteasome to degrade the tagged protein. This process helps regulate the concentration of particular proteins in cells, crucial for controlling various biological pathways.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Involvement in disease</h3>



Several diseases are linked to the malfunctioning of proteasomes. For instance, inadequate proteasome function can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, where proteins aggregate abnormally in cells. 



In cancer, proteasomes are often overactive, leading to the excessive degradation of proteins that suppress tumors, thus promoting cancer cell survival and growth. This has led to the development of proteasome inhibitors as cancer treatments.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Role in immune response</h3>



Proteasomes also play a vital role in the immune system. They help generate peptides presented on the cell surface to the immune system, a process crucial for immune surveillance. This allows the immune system to recognize and destroy infected or cancerous cells. 



Some specialized forms of proteasomes, such as immunoproteasomes, are highly active in immune cells and help in managing immune responses.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Research and therapeutic potential</h3>



Research on proteasomes continues to reveal their complexity and versatility in various cellular processes. This research not only deepens our understanding of cell biology but also aids in the development of new therapeutic strategies. 



Ongoing research is essential as it continues to uncover new roles and therapeutic potentials of proteasomes in human health and disease.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114058" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Proteasomes in brain cells play key role in sensing pain

In every cell, a complex called the proteasome acts like...

Senior,Man,And,Female,Ai,Robot,Sitting,On,The,Couch

Feeling truly heard and understood is a rare thing these days. Life moves quick, and many of us don't get the emotional support, empathy and validation we need from those around us. So, could artificial intelligence (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-decipher-every-possible-facial-expression-outperforming-therapists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>) do it? A new study conducted at the <a href="https://www.marshall.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Marshall School of Business</a> says yes – with some intriguing caveats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-a-surprisingly-good-listener">AI, a surprisingly good listener</h2>



Researchers found that people who received messages generated by AI actually felt more heard than those receiving messages written by a human! 



The AI also excelled at detecting the person's emotions. This might seem counterintuitive, but there are a few key reasons that might explain this surprising result:



AI systems are specifically designed to analyze language and identify emotional cues. They don't get distracted by their own thoughts, feelings, or the myriad of other things going on in their day-to-day lives the way humans can. This allows them to dedicate more processing power to understanding the emotional message being conveyed.



AI systems (ideally) operate from a neutral starting point, without the human tendency for preconceived notions or unconscious biases. Approaching each message from a fresh perspective helps in recognizing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psifi-wearable-ai-device-interprets-emotions-people-nearby/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a> as they are expressed.



AI models are trained on massive datasets of text and human emotional exchanges. This gives them an extensive library of patterns and language cues to draw from, allowing them to detect subtle nuances in emotional communication that a layperson might miss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-offers-the-right-kind-of-emotional-support">AI offers the right kind of emotional support</h2>



It might come down to a surprising advantage AI has over humans. Computers are programmed to analyze and categorize, free of all the distractions that plague our human brains.



"In the context of an increasing loneliness epidemic, a large part of our motivation was to see whether AI can actually help people feel heard," explained study's lead author, Yidan Yin.



The study indicates that the AI-generated messages were better at focusing on acknowledging and validating the recipient's emotional state. This created a sense of being heard and seen, boosting hope and lessening distress.



Moreover, AI may be better at recognizing when simple emotional support is what's required, rather than jumping in with solutions. This ability to discern the right type of response likely contributed to its positive impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-sticks-to-validation">AI sticks to validation</h2>



AI's lack of personal experience and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-can-now-decipher-the-emotional-states-of-chickens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional</a> biases allows it to stick to pure emotional reflection without interjecting its own opinions or judgment. This non-judgmental approach creates a safe space for the person to feel fully understood.



Humans often try to "fix" someone's problems with practical advice when a person is primarily seeking emotional support. AI doesn't have this impulse, which can help the person feel truly heard and free to process their emotions without the pressure of finding a solution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-problem-with-emotional-support-of-ai">The problem with emotional support of AI</h2>



But, and this is a big "but," here's where things get strange. When participants found out their empathetic messages came from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-robots-read-your-mind-this-one-can-anticipate-your-smile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>, they actually felt less heard. This phenomenon is similar to the "uncanny valley" effect in robotics, where humans get uncomfortable when something is almost human, but not quite.



"What we found was that both the actual source of the message and the presumed source of the message played a role," says co-author Cheryl Wakslak. "People felt more heard when they received an AI than a human message, but when they believed a message came from AI this made them feel less heard."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-vs-ai-it-s-not-an-either-or">Humans vs. AI: It's not an "either-or"</h2>



This research doesn't mean AI is going to replace our best friends as the best shoulder to cry on. Rather, it points to a fascinating collaboration potential. 



Humans could learn a lot from how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-robots-be-programmed-to-have-human-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> analyzes emotions and tailors its language for validation. "Humans may potentially learn from AI because a lot of times when our significant others are complaining about something, we want to provide that validation, but we don't know how to effectively do so," notes Yin.



Moreover, AI solutions could provide accessible and affordable emotional support, particularly for those who lack other outlets or social resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeling-heard-via-ai-s-emotional-support">Feeling heard via AI's emotional support</h2>



This research demonstrates that AI has the potential to understand our emotions and offer validating responses in ways that can be incredibly beneficial. 



This opens up possibilities for accessible mental health support, tools for better communication, and perhaps even deeper self-understanding.



The "AI Uncanny Valley" effect, where people are unsettled by something that's almost human but not quite, is a significant obstacle. 



The knowledge that AI generated their supportive messages made participants feel less understood. This suggests a psychological barrier we'll need to overcome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-becoming-more-comfortable-with-ai">Becoming more comfortable with AI</h2>



It makes you wonder, with the inevitable advance of AI, will our attitudes soften? Will the "AI Uncanny Valley" effect fade as we get used to computers that truly understand how we feel?



These are pivotal questions for the future of human-AI interaction. It's possible that with exposure and positive experiences, our discomfort with AI in emotional contexts will lessen. 



We might begin to view it less as a replacement for human connection and more as a unique tool with its own set of strengths. 



However, it's also possible that the unease caused by the "uncanny valley" effect will persist, posing a fundamental challenge to widespread adoption of AI in roles that require deep emotional understanding.



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



As co-author Nan Jia puts it, "we identified that while AI demonstrates enhanced potential compared to non-trained human responders to provide emotional support, the devaluation of AI responses poses a key challenge for effectively deploying AI's capabilities."



The idea of an AI therapist might still be a ways off, but this study proves something important: AI has the potential to understand and respond to our emotions in ways we're still figuring out. It's a tool, and a powerful one. Whether we end up using it to have deeper connections with computers or with each other...that remains to be seen.



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2319112121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Nat</a><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2319112121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">i</a><a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2319112121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">onal Academy of Sciences of the United States of America</a>.



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AI outperforms humans in providing emotional support

Feeling truly heard and understood is a rare thing these...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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