Life expectancy in the United States reveals a deeply fractured landscape. Yale School of Public Health researchers examined records of 179 million deaths between 1969 and 2020, and traced how generational health patterns diverged across regions.



The team chose an unconventional approach - analyzing life expectancy by birth cohort instead of by year - to uncover hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unhealthy-habits-can-make-your-heart-age-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disparities</a> missed by standard mortality reports.



The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, tell a compelling story of a nation where regional policies, economic conditions, and public health initiatives shape life trajectories in dramatically different ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-expectancy-gains-in-some-states">Life expectancy gains in some states </h2>



California and New York surged ahead in terms of extending lifespans significantly. In contrast, many Southern states struggled to keep pace. This result indicates that the U.S. is a country where the place of birth remains a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/girls-diets-strongly-influence-when-they-begin-puberty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potent predictor</a> of lifespan.



“For females born in some Southern states, life expectancy increased by less than three years from 1900 to 2000,” said Theodore R. Holford, lead author and professor emeritus at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale</a>.



“That’s a staggering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medical-oddity-human-skin-heals-three-times-slower-than-our-primate-relatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contrast</a> when you consider that in states like New York and California, life expectancy rose by more than 20 years over the same period.”



Washington, D.C., a region once synonymous with low life expectancy, now exemplifies transformative progress. Between 1900 and 2000, the life expectancy of women in the capital increased by almost 30 years, while the life expectancy of men leapt by 38 years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-fueled-such-a-stark-contrast">What fueled such a stark contrast?</h2>



Public health policies, economic revitalization, and aggressive tobacco control campaigns reshaped the region. 



California, banned workplace smoking in 1995, slashed smoking rates among workers and teens, and lowered smoking-related deaths. Kentucky, by contrast, chose a different path by resisting tobacco control efforts and continuing to grapple with high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-are-spreading-a-deadly-disease-across-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mortality</a> rates from smoking.



“These trends in mortality and life expectancy reflect not only each state’s policy environment but also their underlying demographics as well,” said Jamie Tam, assistant professor at Yale. 



“It’s not surprising that states with fewer improvements to life expectancy also have higher rates of poverty, for example.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-expectancy-trends-by-generation">Life expectancy trends by generation</h2>



The study’s approach of using an age-period-cohort model allowed the researchers to isolate the impact of generational experiences. 



Instead of year-by-year comparisons, the team followed birth cohorts from 1900 to 2000, revealing how early-life conditions like disease exposure, sanitation, and vaccine access shaped lifespans.



“Looking at mortality trends by cohort gives us a more accurate reflection of the lived experiences of populations,” noted Holford.



“It shows the long-term impact of policies and social conditions affecting the life course of populations, that might otherwise be invisible in year-by-year comparisons of mortality rates from different generations.”



A child born in Mississippi in 1900 faced vastly different health risks than one born in California in 1950. The study’s cohort analysis illuminated how those risks compounded over time, creating distinct health outcomes across states.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-rapidly-or-aging-well">Aging rapidly or aging well</h2>



States varied not only in life expectancy gains but also in how quickly health declined after age 35. Oklahoma and Iowa showed rapid rises in mortality risk, with mortality doubling in less than eight years. 



New York and Florida, in contrast, experienced slower rates of increase, suggesting healthier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/20-year-study-of-1000-adults-reveals-how-marijuana-alters-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> populations.



Among women, the slowest mortality increase occurred in New York, where it took 9.39 years for mortality risk to double. 



For men, Florida recorded the longest doubling time at 11.47 years. Oklahoma’s women faced the fastest decline, with mortality risk doubling in just 7.96 years - a rate that suggests rapid health deterioration.



“The disparities we see today are the result of decades of cumulative effects on smoking rates, health care access, environmental exposures, and public health investments,” Holford emphasized. “Without conscious policy changes, these gaps will likely persist or even widen.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reinvention-in-washington-d-c">Reinvention in Washington, D.C.</h2>



Washington, D.C., a region once plagued by poor health outcomes, now serves as a case study in urban transformation. 



At the dawn of the 20th century, women in the capital could expect to live just 63.9 years. By 2000, life expectancy had soared to 93 years - the highest gain recorded nationwide. Male life expectancy jumped from 48.7 years to 86.5 years over the same period.



What drove this metamorphosis? Improved healthcare infrastructure, urban policy changes, and robust public health initiatives fueled the gains. 



Yet, for rural Southern states, the story remained grim. In Kentucky and Alabama, policymakers resisted public health reforms, leaving residents trapped in cycles of poverty and poor health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poverty-s-impact-on-life-expectancy">Poverty's impact on life expectancy</h2>



While Washington, D.C., and California leveraged economic growth to implement effective health policies, states like Mississippi and Kentucky remained mired in economic hardship. 



Poverty compounded existing health risks, leaving residents more vulnerable to chronic diseases and less likely to access preventive care.



California’s tobacco control measures slashed smoking rates, particularly among younger cohorts. In Kentucky, however, the absence of similar policies allowed smoking rates to persist, resulting in higher smoking-related death rates. 



The data illustrate a stark divide: states with strong economies and progressive health policies saw life expectancy gains, while poorer states stagnated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interventions-to-bridge-the-gap">Interventions to bridge the gap</h2>



Targeted public health interventions offer a path forward. Researchers recommend that states with lower cohort life expectancy consider comprehensive tobacco regulations, expanded healthcare access, and environmental health initiatives.



“This research highlights the importance of viewing health through a generational lens,” Tam said. “The benefits of health interventions ripple across lifetimes.”



For Southern states, reversing the stagnation will require targeted investments in public health infrastructure, disease prevention, and health education. 



Without such efforts, the study warns, the gap between states with high and low life expectancy will only widen, locking future generations into predetermined health outcomes.



“Where you are born shouldn’t determine how long you live,” Holford concluded. “But in America, it still does.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833159" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Life expectancy in America depends on where you are born  

Life expectancy in the United States reveals a deeply fractured landscape. Yale School of Public Health researchers examined records of 179 million deaths between 1969 and 2020, and traced how generational health patterns diverged across regions. The team chose an unconventional approach - analyzing life expectancy by birth cohort instead of by year - to uncover hidden disparities missed by standard mortality reports. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, tell a compelling story of a nation where regional policies, economic conditions, and public health initiatives shape...

In the rapidly evolving world of digital games, a surprising new player has emerged: electronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/e-cigarettes-linked-to-increased-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cigarettes</a>.



Once simple nicotine delivery devices, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-vaping-exposes-teens-to-toxic-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vape devices</a> are now being equipped with sophisticated touch screens, animated displays, and even embedded games, marking a potentially concerning trend in both the tech and gaming industries.



This technological evolution transforms vaping into an interactive experience that may attract more young users, inadvertently coupling the risks of nicotine addiction with those of gaming disorder.



As electronic cigarettes become more enticing and multifunctional, the lines between recreational gaming and nicotine consumption blur, raising significant public health concerns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-new-draw-of-electronic-cigarettes">The new draw of electronic cigarettes</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Riverside</a> are sounding the alarm on these new tech-savvy products.



The heightened concern lies in the possible expansion of the electronic cigarette market to include young people who previously had no interest in nicotine products. This could simultaneously reinforce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaping-epidemic-half-of-students-who-try-e-cigs-get-hooked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nicotine addiction</a> among existing users.



"Our lab is constantly monitoring the electronic cigarette market for new devices, especially ones that target youth and young adults," said study first author Man Wong.



The team flagged devices such as the Craftbox V-Play, which can host games like Pac-Man, Tetris, and F22.



Other concerning products include vapes with built-in games encouraging users to vape, those boasting animations changing as users puff, and devices that enable customization with personal photos and offer celebrity-endorsed promotional trading cards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-issue-of-disposable-vapes">Growing issue of disposable vapes</h2>



Disposable vapes, which were relatively simple devices two years ago, now resemble smartphones with handheld gaming device features, making them increasingly attractive to young users.



Tech-forward improvements have shifted these items from being mere nicotine delivery devices to potential triple-threat addictions: nicotine dependence, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gaming-addiction-mental-health-disorder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gaming disorder</a>, and screen time obsession.



The researchers were taken aback by the discovery of smart vapes sporting games that required <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teen-vaping-rates-surge-despite-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaping</a> to advance levels. An example of this was the URSA Pocket, a refillable pod-system with three built-in games. One game features a virtual pet fed with coins earned through puffing.



The scientists further voiced their concern about the affordability of such devices, often priced around $15-20, which makes them accessible to young audiences who might be enticed to purchase and use them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-call-for-regulation">Urgent call for regulation</h2>



Given the potential risks, the researchers argue for a closer monitoring and regulation of these devices. 



They propose that heightening awareness of how quickly vapes can evolve may enhance surveillance and encourage swift removal of youth-targeted products from the market. 



The researchers offer potential solutions such as imposing stricter regulation to restrict certain vape features and advocating for a complete ban on disposable vapes - an approach adopted by several countries.



But it's not just an addiction problem, it is an environmental issue too. Disposable vapes, being one-time-use products, generate considerable waste, exacerbated by the addition of screens, Bluetooth, and digital storage to these devices.



The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Center for Tobacco Products, provides valuable insights for future regulation and public health policies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electronic-cigarettes-integrated-with-gaming">Electronic cigarettes integrated with gaming</h2>



The integration of gaming and vaping not only raises concerns about addiction but also about the long-term health impacts on young users. 



Nicotine is known to affect brain development, particularly in adolescents, potentially leading to cognitive impairments, mood disorders, and a higher likelihood of addiction to other substances. 



The lure of integrated gaming features could exacerbate these issues by increasing the frequency and duration of vaping sessions.



Moreover, the combination of prolonged screen time and nicotine use can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-parents-and-educators">The role of parents and educators</h2>



Parents and educators play a crucial role in combating this emerging trend. By raising awareness about the dangers of combined vaping and gaming, they can help prevent young individuals from falling into these harmful habits. 



Open conversations about the risks, coupled with monitoring and guidance, can significantly reduce the appeal of these devices.



Educational programs that emphasize the importance of healthy habits and the risks associated with nicotine and prolonged screen time are essential. Schools should consider integrating such programs into their health curriculums to equip students with the knowledge and strategies to resist these temptations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intersection-of-gaming-and-vaping">Intersection of gaming and vaping</h2>



The intersection of vaping and gaming presents a multifaceted challenge that requires a coordinated effort from researchers, policymakers, parents, and educators.



As we navigate the evolving landscape of digital innovation, we must prioritize the health and well-being of our youth. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.bmj.com/wp-signup.php?new=tobaccocontrol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tobacco control</a>.



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Electronic cigarettes with games: A dangerous innovation

In the rapidly evolving world of digital games, a surprising...

Living near green spaces in our middle years may offer surprising benefits for our mental health, according to a recent study. The research suggests that exposure to green spaces can help delay <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-reality-extreme-heat-worsens-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a>.



And this exciting discovery is not just about older adults, but it is of particular significance for certain groups of people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-spaces-amid-concrete-jungles">Green spaces amid concrete jungles</h2>



The study was led by Dr. Marcia Pescador Jimenez, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the <a href="https://www.bu.edu/sph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston University School of Public Health</a> (BUSPH).



The mission? To understand how residing near greenery in the prime years can potentially improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-walking-quantifiably-improves-brain-health-and-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive health</a> in the later stages of life. 



The riveting results? Living in greener neighborhoods during middle age may slow down the annual cognitive decline rate by eight months.



Interestingly, this correlation was even more pronounced for individuals residing in neighborhoods with low socioeconomic status (SES) and densely populated areas. 



Cognitive decline is more prevalent in these clusters of society, making green spaces an unexpected yet promising solution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apoe-ɛ4-gene-carriers-and-alzheimer-s">APOE-ɛ4 gene carriers and Alzheimer’s </h2>



The study also brought into focus a crucial genetic component that's tied to Alzheimer's disease. Individuals possessing the APOE-ɛ4 gene, a variant associated with increased Alzheimer's risk, also showed noteworthy cognitive benefits from green exposure.



APOE-ɛ4 carriers living in greener neighborhoods exhibited a threefold deceleration in cognitive decline compared to those without the gene. 



A revelation of this magnitude is critical, especially as carriers of APOE-ɛ4 gene currently have no established measure to mitigate their dementia risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-green-less-dementia">More green, less dementia</h2>



While there have been links between green exposure and cognitive health before, this study is significant due to its larger scope and longer observation period. 



Dr. Pescador Jimenez and her colleagues from various institutions utilized data from a long-running health study to explore this association.



The comprehensive study took into account the cognitive health of over 16,000 participants above the age of 70.



Moreover, the team used state-of-the-art satellite image metrics to compute greenness levels in the residential areas of the participants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-space-a-socioeconomic-equalizer">Green space: A socioeconomic equalizer</h2>



Notably, the study found that participants residing in low-SES and densely populated neighborhoods benefited more from exposure to green spaces. 



Dr. Pescador Jimenez drew parallels with the theory of equigenic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peoples-love-of-nature-is-both-learned-and-inherited-genetically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>, which suggests that greenery can help even out socioeconomic health disparities. 



This insight is particularly pivotal as it propounds the concept of green space creation in disadvantaged areas to promote cognitive health and social equity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-and-the-green-connection">Mental health and the green connection</h2>



The role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-the-critical-role-of-nature-in-human-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> was another intriguing aspect. The data suggests that green exposure might be related to cognitive decline over time through mental health.



This extends previous research that hinted at a connection between limited green space exposure during middle age and a decrease in cognitive function via depression.



The research highlights the importance of prioritizing the preservation and creation of green spaces.



Considering the mounting cases of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/access-to-nature-improves-the-mental-health-of-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's disease</a> and related dementia, green spaces might just be the key to delay or prevent these conditions, especially among at-risk communities. 



"Our results are vital as they propose cognitive benefits of increasing green space exposure at a population level, particularly among vulnerable subgroups," said Dr. Pescador Jimenez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-impacts-of-the-green-revolution">Lasting impacts of the green revolution</h2>



So, is it time for a green revolution? As this study indicates, increasing green spaces, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods, proves essential in reducing health inequities and promoting better cognitive health later in life.



It's time we start investing sustainably in our neighborhoods to reap the long-term cognitive benefits. After all, our mental health might just depend on a daily dose of green.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP13588" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Health Perspectives</a>.



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Surprising mental health benefits of living near green spaces

Living near green spaces in our middle years may offer...

Doomscrolling, a phenomenon where individuals are drawn to the malevolent magnetism of unsettling stories, has become a defining feature of our digital age. 



We find ourselves swimming in a sea of events, news, and narratives - from the admirable to the deplorable. 



But what exactly is this habit, and what is its impact on our perception of life and humanity?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-browsing-distressing-news">Browsing distressing news</h2>



In an unprecedented research venture, a team from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a> delves into the effects of doomscrolling from an existential perspective.



Doomscrolling, defined as the act of incessantly browsing distressing news on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-less-time-on-social-media-improves-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social media</a>, has become a common behavior in the digital age.



Tales of calamities, terror attacks, and wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-may-be-hardwired-to-believe-lies-and-conspiracy-theories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conspiracy theories</a> might spring to mind when thinking of doomscrolling.



The study shows that this practice can significantly alter how we perceive humanity, our sense of security, and the overall purpose of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doomscrolling-s-impact-on-mental-health">Doomscrolling’s impact on mental health</h2>



Study lead author Reza Shabahang is an expert in the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work at Flinders. 



“Doomscrolling can have dire consequences on our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> and wellbeing, leaving us feeling stress, anxiety, despair, and questioning the meaning of life," said Shabahang.



It turns out that frequently consuming negative news from social media can be a conduit for vicarious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-trauma-chronically-affects-survivors-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trauma</a>.



People can experience adverse psychological effects even though they didn't directly experience the traumatic event themselves. 



In some instances, people reported symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as anxiety and despair.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doomscrolling-and-misanthropy">Doomscrolling and misanthropy</h2>



The researchers delved deeper, surveying 800 university students from two distinctly diverse cultures: an Eastern collective (Iran) and a Western individualistic culture (the United States).



The team examined how excessive consumption of negative news can shape individuals' thoughts and feelings about their existence.



Could a correlation exist between doomscrolling and individuals' thoughts and feelings about humanity and the importance of life? 



Indeed, the study confirmed the link, with doomscrolling significantly tied to existential anxiety - concerns about one's existence, life, and death. 



Moreover, doomscrolling emerged as a significant predictor of misanthropy - a general resentment of people - in the Iranian sample.



“When we're constantly exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative news</a> and information online, it can threaten our beliefs when it comes to our own mortality and the control we have over our own lives," said Shabahang.



"Moreover, doomscrolling can negatively affect how we view the people and world around us."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mindfully-navigating-the-digital-landscape">Mindfully navigating the digital landscape</h2>



The study highlights the importance of monitoring our online habits, taking regular breaks from social media, and limiting exposure to negative news. 



“We suggest that people pay attention to how much time they are spending on social media and to be aware of the impact it is having on their emotions, thoughts, and feelings, especially when it comes to negative news and events," said Shabahang.



The message is clear: Track your doomscrolling habits and take steps to reduce this behavior if it seems problematic. 



“By becoming more aware of our online habits, such as doomscrolling, and taking small steps to address them, it could help with improving our overall mental well-being,” noted Shabahang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-tips-to-combat-doomscrolling">Practical tips to combat doomscrolling</h2>



To counter the adverse effects of doomscrolling, implementing practical strategies can make a considerable difference. 



Start by setting specific time limits for social media usage and establishing "tech-free" zones or periods in your day.



Engage in alternative activities like reading a book, exercising, or meditating to break the cycle of constant online negativity. 



Curate your news feed to follow uplifting and positive sources, balancing the narrative you consume. Taking proactive steps such as setting boundaries for social media use and engaging in positive offline activities can help mitigate the sense of despair and anxiety often brought on by doomscrolling. 



Empowering yourself with these practices can promote better mental health and a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-work-and-no-play-striking-the-balance-may-be-the-key-to-life-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balanced outlook on life</a>.



In the vast digital landscape, it's easy to lose oneself in the rabbit hole of distressing narratives. However, awareness of our online habits and implementing changes can be the first step toward improved mental well-being and a healthier perspective on life and humanity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S245195882400071X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Computers in Human Behavior Reports</a>.



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Doomscrolling threatens our mental well-being

Doomscrolling, a phenomenon where individuals are drawn to the malevolent...

Is there more to the phrase "you are what you eat" than we might think? Perhaps we should also be considering - not just what - but when we eat. The timing of meals plays a significant role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-protein-with-intermittent-fasting-better-weight-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overall health and well-being</a>. Recent research has shed light upon the benefits of intermittent fasting.



Dr. Krista Varady, a leading scientist in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition at the <a href="https://www.uic.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Chicago</a>, specializes in intermittent fasting with over fifteen years of research in weight management and metabolic diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-intermittent-fasting">Impact of intermittent fasting </h2>



Intermittent fasting is a structured eating pattern. It involves cycles of eating and not eating. This method is designed to manage calorie intake that works within specific timeframes.



The technique has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. In short, the method involves alternating periods of eating and fasting, which can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-triggers-remarkable-changes-throughout-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help regulate metabolism</a> and support weight management.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-for-thought">Food for thought</h2>



This special issue of research features several studies. One notable study, led by Dr. Alaina P. Vidmar from the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine of USC, focuses on type 2 diabetes in adolescents.



This condition is increasing in many communities. The study explores an 8-hour eating window for obese teenagers with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.



The results? Late time-restricted eating proved to be both safe and effective, leading to meaningful weight loss and a decrease in liver enzymes. Also, there were no negatives concerning sleep, eating behaviors or physical activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-night-owls-versus-early-birds">Night owls versus early birds</h2>



On another enlightening note, research from Dr. Jess A. Gwin at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine delves into our sleep patterns and our eating habits.



Conventional wisdom, and most parents, will tell you not to eat just before bed. This study supports that, pointing out that breakfast skipping and late-night snacking could mess with our sleep quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intermittent-fasting-and-fitness">Intermittent fasting and fitness</h2>



One particularly intriguing aspect of intermittent fasting is its impact on exercise performance. Dr. Mark Mattson, a neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins University, played a crucial role in the study.



How does this work? During fasting, the body shifts from using glucose-based energy to ketones, which has been shown to enhance muscle efficiency and reduce recovery times.&nbsp;



Moreover, fasting seems to stimulate the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), aiding mental clarity and cognitive function. This additional benefit is a welcome bonus to any fitness regimen.



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



"Many people stop adhering to standard diets that restrict calories because they become frustrated with having to regularly monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-helps-the-body-fight-inflammation-and-chronic-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food intake</a> day in and day out. Intermittent fasting protocols can bypass this requirement by allowing participants to simply ‘watch the clock’ instead of monitoring calories, while still producing weight loss," said Dr. Varady.



Furthermore, she noted, intermittent fasting does not require the purchase of expensive food products and allows individuals to continue consuming familiar foods, making it a highly accessible diet, especially for lower resource patient groups. 



"Although fasting regimens are no more effective than other diet interventions for weight management, these protocols offer individuals an alternative, straightforward approach to addressing obesity by omitting the need for calorie counting." 



Dr. Varady pointed out that while weight loss is important, having a diet with a wide variety of nutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and legumes is paramount in maintaining a replete nutritional status. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-to-get-started">Tips to get started</h2>



Starting intermittent fasting can be simple with these tips:



<ol>
<li>Pick a fasting schedule that works for you, like:</li>
</ol>



<ul>
<li>16/8 method: Fast for 16 hours and eat during an 8-hour window.</li>



<li>5:2 method: Eat normally for 5 days and cut calories for 2 days.</li>
</ul>



<ol start="2">
<li>Start slowly by gradually increasing your fasting time.</li>



<li>Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas.</li>



<li>Plan your meals to avoid impulsive eating and ensure they are balanced.</li>



<li>Listen to your body; if you feel dizzy or very tired, adjust your plan.</li>



<li>Consult a healthcare professional before starting, especially if you have health issues.</li>
</ol>



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.jandonline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics</a>.



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Intermittent fasting could be the key to better health

Is there more to the phrase "you are what you...

Have you ever wished you could slow down the ticking clock of aging? Science might have come a smidgen closer to granting your wish. Researchers have developed a new anti-aging drug that claims to significantly increase lifespan, adding up to 25% more healthy, vibrant years.



The brain behind this exciting development is none other than Professor Stuart Cook from the UK's Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Science (<a href="https://lms.mrc.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MRC LMS</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-age-with-interleukin-11">Fighting age with interleukin-11</h2>



Cook, along with a team of scientists, discovered that a protein we inherited from fish 450 million years ago called interleukin-11 might be the cause of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discrimination-speeds-up-aging-molecular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age-accelerating effects </a>in our body.



"These findings are very exciting. The treated mice had fewer cancers, and were free from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-tea-delays-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usual signs</a> of aging and frailty, but we also saw reduced muscle wasting and improvement in muscle strength," Professor Cook declared. 



The potential of this elaboration could eventually benefit humans as well!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-of-interest-interleukin-11">Protein of interest: Interleukin-11</h2>



Interleukin-11 has been linked to a host of health woes, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-helps-the-body-fight-inflammation-and-chronic-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic inflammation</a>, organ tissue scarring, metabolism disorders, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resistance-exercise-in-the-evening-can-improve-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle wasting</a>, and cardiac fibrosis.



By switching off this protein, scientists found that the lifespan of rats could be extended by 25%.



In the experiments conducted, the treated rats displayed not just longevity but also a lower risk of cancer, no gray hair, improved vision, and better muscle functionality. 



These rats, equivalent to a 55-year-old human, lived for an average of 155 weeks, compared to the 120 weeks for those not treated. Who wouldn't want an extra 35 weeks of life?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interleukin-11-impact-on-aging-and-lifespan">Interleukin-11 impact on aging and lifespan</h2>



While these findings are only confined to rats at the moment, Cook tantalizingly suggests that the results have the potential to be replicated in humans.



"Anti-IL-11 treatments are currently in human clinical trials for other conditions, potentially providing exciting opportunities to study its effects in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvard-scientists-fountain-of-youth-pill-sparks-controversy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging humans in the future</a>," Cook commented.



Cook's ambitious endeavors aim to make anti-IL-11 therapy widely available worldwide, ensuring healthier and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-discovered-in-plant-leaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged lives</a> for people. 



However, he admits the road ahead is fraught with obstacles as raising funds for clinical trials in this area and getting approvals for drugs to treat aging is an uphill task.



Assistant Professor Anissa Widjaja from <a href="https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke-NUS Medical School</a>, Singapore, also played a vital role in the project.



"This project started back in 2017 when a collaborator of ours sent us some tissue samples for another project," Widjaja recounts. 



Out of curiosity, she tested the samples for IL-11 levels and found that these levels increased with age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-road-to-human-trials">Road to human trials</h2>



Transitioning from promising results in rodents to successful human trials involves a meticulous process. 



Although anti-IL-11 treatments are being tested in humans for other ailments, applying this therapy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-blood-pressure-drug-called-rilmenidine-dramatically-slows-aging-in-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specifically for aging</a> poses new challenges.



Researchers must navigate regulatory landscapes, ensure the safety and efficacy of treatments, and verify that the benefits observed in rats translate effectively to humans. 



Despite these hurdles, the scientific community remains optimistic that this breakthrough could eventually revolutionize how we approach aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-aging-and-lifespan-research">Future of aging and lifespan research</h2>



This pioneering work opens up numerous avenues for further research. Scientists are eager to explore how IL-11 interacts with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnancy-may-speed-up-aging-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proteins and pathways</a> associated with aging. 



Furthermore, the quest to develop drugs targeting IL-11 could pave the way for combination therapies, where multiple aspects of the aging process are addressed simultaneously. 



As research progresses, the goal is not just to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anti-aging-molecule-extends-lifespan-by-improving-cellular-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extend lifespan</a> but to enhance the quality of life during those added years, bringing us closer to a future where aging can be managed with the same precision as many chronic diseases today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthier-lives-not-just-longer-lives">Healthier lives, not just longer lives</h2>



Their research has provided an important leap toward a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">better understanding</a> of aging. The therapy could potentially extend not just longevity but also reduce frailty and physiological manifestations of aging. The future indeed looks promising.



In conclusion, while the road to unlocking the secret to youth may still be long and winding, recent advancements do provide a glimmer of hope. 



So, fingers crossed, who knows the day we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvard-scientists-fountain-of-youth-pill-sparks-controversy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drink from the fountain of youth </a>may not be as far off as we think!



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New anti-aging drug boosts lifespan by 25% while preventing cancer and gray hair

Have you ever wished you could slow down the ticking...

A recent study led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> training may induce altered states of consciousness, such as disembodiment and unity. 



The researchers emphasize the importance of awareness among mindfulness teachers and students about these potential side effects.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mindfulness-training-and-altered-states-nbsp">Mindfulness training and altered states&nbsp;</h2>



The study involved a randomized controlled trial conducted from September 2015 to January 2016, assessing the effectiveness of mindfulness training in managing examination <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/look-at-stress-as-a-challenge-rather-than-a-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>. 



Participants who received mindfulness training were more likely to experience these altered states compared to those in the control group. The findings are detailed in a paper published in the journal PLoS ONE.



Mindfulness-based programs have surged in popularity, with 15% of UK adults having learned some form of mindfulness, often to manage stress, depression, or anxiety.&nbsp;



Anecdotal evidence suggests mindfulness can alter sensory perceptions, self, and body boundaries, similar to effects induced by psychotropic drugs.&nbsp;



The study's lead author, Dr. Julieta Galante, noted the challenge of discerning whether these experiences result from mindfulness practice or if individuals prone to such experiences are more likely to practice mindfulness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experiencing-unity-and-disembodiment-nbsp">Experiencing unity and disembodiment&nbsp;</h2>



During the follow-up study, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire exploring 11 dimensions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-reveals-common-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">altered states of consciousness</a>, including spiritual experiences, blissful states, disembodiment, and unity. 



Unity experiences involve a dissolution of borders, integrating perception of time and space, while disembodiment includes sensations of floating or dissolved body boundaries.&nbsp;



Of the 670 participants in the trial, about a third completed the questionnaire. The results showed that mindfulness-trained individuals were twice as likely to experience unity and disembodiment compared to the control group.&nbsp;



Additionally, the more hours spent on mindfulness practice, the higher the likelihood of experiencing unity, disembodiment, or blissful states.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-results-align-with-previous-research">Results align with previous research</h2>



“Although we can’t say definitively, our results at least suggest the possibility that mindfulness training causes these experiences of unity and disembodiment,” said Dr. Galante.



She noted that the research aligns with other studies showing that people who practice mindfulness training are more likely to describe experiencing a sense of relaxed self-boundaries and broadening their spatial awareness beyond the physical body.



“I’ve benefited a lot personally from meditation and mindfulness and I’ve also had many of these experiences,” said Dr. Galante.&nbsp;



“They were intense, and at first I found it difficult to share them with my meditation teacher. I didn’t know if they were normal or desirable or if they were a sign of problems with my <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-americans-have-lost-years-of-time-to-poor-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-and-insightful-experiences-nbsp">Meditation and insightful experiences&nbsp;</h2>



The study found that 43% of participants who meditated in the six months prior reported unity experiences, 47% reported blissful states, 29% reported disembodiment experiences, and 25% reported insightful experiences.&nbsp;



While many altered states are pleasant, some can be startling or alarming. Dr. Galante highlighted the importance of informing individuals about the possibility of encountering these experiences during mindfulness practice.&nbsp;



If participants are aware, they are less likely to be disturbed and can discuss any concerns with their mindfulness teacher or doctor.



“There may be nothing wrong with their experience, but it may be useful for them to check in with their mindfulness teacher, and if the experience was negative, to also consider discussing it with their doctor,” noted Galante.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-of-mindfulness-training-nbsp">Effects of mindfulness training&nbsp;</h2>



The study provides valuable insights into the effects of mindfulness training, emphasizing the need for awareness and open communication about potential altered states of consciousness.&nbsp;



It underscores the mental and physical health benefits of mindfulness while recognizing and managing its potential side effects.&nbsp;



The findings enhance the understanding of how mindfulness training can affect individuals, providing a foundation for future research and better-informed mindfulness practices.



According to the study authors, the results provide a novel suggestion of causal links between mindfulness practice and specific altered states of consciousness.&nbsp;



“To optimize their impact, practitioners and teachers need to anticipate and handle them appropriately,” said the researchers. “Future studies need to confirm findings and assess mechanisms and clinical implications.”



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Mindfulness can lead to altered states of consciousness

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

A new study led by the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis has shown how psilocybin, the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, affects the brain. 



“A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic that acutely causes distortions of space-time perception and ego dissolution, produces rapid and persistent therapeutic effects in human clinical trials,” wrote the study authors.



In animal models, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-why-psilocybin-mushrooms-make-you-hallucinate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a> induces neuroplasticity in cortex and hippocampus. It remains unclear how human brain network changes relate to subjective and lasting effects of psychedelics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelics-dissolve-a-key-brain-network-nbsp">Psychedelics “dissolve” a key brain network&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers discovered that psilocybin temporarily disrupts the default mode network, a crucial brain area involved in introspective thinking, such as daydreaming and remembering.&nbsp;



This desynchronization leads to the characteristic psychedelic experience and could explain psilocybin's potential to treat mental illnesses like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-depression-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a> and PTSD.



“There’s a massive effect initially, and when it’s gone, a pinpoint effect remains,” said so-senior author Dr. Nico U. F. Dosenbach of <a href="https://medicine.wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WUSTL</a>. “That’s exactly what you’d want to see for a potential medicine.”



Dosenbach went on to explain that "you wouldn’t want people’s brain networks to be obliterated for days, but you also wouldn’t want everything to snap back to the way it was immediately. You want an effect that lasts long enough to make a difference."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelics-and-brain-activity">Psychedelics and brain activity</h2>



The experts utilized functional MRI scans to observe the brain activity of seven healthy adults before, during, and after consuming psilocybin or methylphenidate. The researchers aimed to correlate changes in brain networks with subjective experiences.



“These days, we know a lot about the psychological effects and the molecular/cellular effects of psilocybin,” said first author Dr. Joshua S. Siegel. “But we don’t know much about what happens at the level that connects the two - the level of functional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-share-a-common-network-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain networks</a>.”



Psilocybin caused profound but temporary changes in the brain’s functional networks, particularly the default mode network. 



After the acute effects of the drug wore off, small differences from pre-psilocybin scans persisted for weeks.



“The idea is that you’re taking this system that’s fundamental to the brain’s ability to think about the self in relation to the world, and you’re totally desynchronizing it temporarily,” explained Dr. Siegel.&nbsp;



In the short term, this creates a psychedelic experience. The longer-term consequence is that it makes the brain more flexible and potentially more able to come into a healthier state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-functional-networks-nbsp">Changes in functional networks&nbsp;</h2>



During the experience, participants rated their feelings of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-induces-feelings-of-oceanic-boundlessness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transcendence</a>, connectedness, and awe using the validated <a href="https://www.trippingly.net/lsd-studies/2018/5/22/the-mystical-experience-questionaire-30-questions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mystical Experience Questionnaire</a>. 



The changes in functional networks corresponded with the intensity of each participant’s subjective experience.



“We were able to get very precise data on the effects of the drug in each individual,” said co-senior author Dr. Ginger E. Nicol.&nbsp;



“This is a step toward precision clinical trials. In psychiatry, we often don’t know who should get a particular medicine and how much or how often. By using this approach in clinical trials, we can identify the factors that determine who benefits and who doesn’t, and make better use of the medicines we have.”



However, the researchers caution against self-medicating with psilocybin, which is not FDA-approved and carries risks if taken without professional supervision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-effects-of-psilocybin-nbsp">Understanding the effects of psilocybin&nbsp;</h2>



"The dramatic departure from typical synchronized patterns of co-activity may be key to understanding the acute effects of psilocybin and also its persistent neurotrophic effects,” wrote the researchers.



Changes in resting activity are linked to shifts in glutamate-dependent signaling during psilocybin exposure. 



This phenomenon, shared by ketamine and psychedelics, engages homeostatic plasticity mechanisms, a neurobiological response to large deviations in typical network activity patterns.



Psychedelics rapidly induce synaptogenesis in the hippocampus and cortex, effects that seem to be necessary for rapid antidepressant-like effects in animal models. 



However, understanding the underpinnings of the behavioral effects of psychedelics requires human studies.



Advances in precision functional mapping and individual-level characterization enabled us to identify desynchronization of resting-state fMRI signals, connect these changes with subjective psychedelic effects and localize these changes to depression-relevant circuits (DMN, hippocampus).



These analyses rely on precise characterization of an individuals’ baseline brain organization (for example, individual definition of brain areas, networks and day-to-day variability) to understand how that organization is altered by an intervention.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07624-5?utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=commission_junction&amp;utm_campaign=CONR_PF018_ECOM_GL_PBOK_ALWYS_DEEPLINK&amp;utm_content=textlink&amp;utm_term=PID100052172&amp;CJEVENT=cd59fa7b445011ef804a007a0a82b838" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Psychedelics give the brain flexibility to enter a healthier state

A new study led by the Washington University School of...

New research suggests that taking three-minute resistance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-significantly-lowers-heart-disease-risk-by-reducing-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> breaks every 30 minutes over a four-hour period in the evening may improve sleep length. 



The study, led by researchers who recruited 30 non-smokers aged 18 to 40, found that participants slept an average of 27 minutes longer after incorporating these activity breaks compared to prolonged sitting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resistance-exercise-in-the-evening-nbsp">Resistance exercise in the evening&nbsp;</h2>



Current recommendations discourage intense exercise before bed due to its potential to increase body temperature and heart rate, which can result in poorer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/getting-high-quality-sleep-helps-prevent-depression-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a>. 



However, the study explored whether short, simple exercises could positively impact sleep without these adverse effects.



Participants wore activity trackers to record their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/any-type-of-physical-activity-can-help-protect-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> and sleep patterns. They completed two sessions: one with continuous sitting and another with resistance exercise breaks, including chair squats, calf raises, and standing knee raises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-disruptions-in-sleep-quality">No disruptions in sleep quality</h2>



The results indicated that after the exercise breaks, participants slept longer, averaging 7 hours and 12 minutes compared to 6 hours and 45 minutes after prolonged sitting. Wake times were also later, with participants waking at 8:06 am after exercise breaks versus 7:35 am after sitting.



No significant differences were found in sleep efficiency or the number of awakenings during the night, suggesting that these activity breaks did not disrupt sleep quality.&nbsp;



Additionally, there were no notable differences in activity patterns in the 24 hours following each intervention.



The researchers acknowledged several limitations, such as the small sample size and the controlled laboratory setting, and called for further studies involving larger numbers of people in their normal home environments.



“These results add to a growing body of evidence that indicates evening exercise does not disrupt sleep quality, despite current sleep recommendations to the contrary,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-influence-of-evening-exercise-nbsp">The influence of evening exercise&nbsp;</h2>



The experts highlighted that extending sleep duration, particularly for those who sleep less than the recommended nightly total, may potentially reduce metabolic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crucial-discoveries-will-improve-cardiovascular-disease-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a> risk over the long term. 



The simple resistance exercises used in the study can be easily integrated into daily routines, even while streaming content, which may increase adherence to the routine.



“While existing research indicates that evening exercise may not adversely impact sleep, the mechanisms by which it influences sleep quality remain unclear,” they concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-resistance-exercise-nbsp">More about resistance exercise&nbsp;</h2>



Resistance exercise, also known as strength training or weight training, involves activities that cause your muscles to work against an external resistance. This could be weights, resistance bands, or even your body weight. The main goal is to increase muscle strength, size, and endurance.



When you do resistance exercise, you're essentially creating tiny tears in your muscle fibers. Your body repairs these tears, making the muscles stronger and bigger in the process. It's like giving your muscles a workout to build their resilience.



One of the great things about resistance exercise is that it’s versatile. You can lift weights at the gym, use resistance bands at home, or even do bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats anywhere. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.



Resistance exercise offers numerous benefits beyond just building <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecule-in-coffee-trigonelline-keeps-muscles-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a>. It can improve bone density, boost metabolism, enhance joint function, and even help with weight management. Regular resistance training can also improve your overall physical performance and reduce the risk of injuries.



It's important to start slowly and focus on proper form to prevent injuries. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the resistance or the number of repetitions to continue challenging your muscles.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Open Sport &amp; Exercise Medicine</a>.



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Resistance exercise in the evening can improve sleep

New research suggests that taking three-minute resistance exercise breaks every...

A new study led by the <a href="https://www.uga.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a> (UGA) has revealed that one in five U.S. farmers binge drink when under high stress. The research highlights the link between farmers using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-amounts-of-alcohol-have-big-impacts-on-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> to manage stress, driven by the intense and risky nature of their work.&nbsp;



“Alcohol is the most acceptable way to deal with that stress versus actually going to talk to somebody about that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turn-stress-productive-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, or it’s a way to be able to talk about that stress with friends,” said lead author Christina Proctor, a clinical associate professor at UGA’s College of Public Health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-as-a-coping-mechanism-nbsp">Alcohol as a coping mechanism&nbsp;</h2>



Unique barriers to healthcare for farming communities include not just the usual rural issues like distance and lack of specialists, but also stigma and distrust of healthcare providers.&nbsp;



Farmers fear that seeking mental health care might be seen as an inability to manage their operations. This often leads to increased alcohol consumption as a coping mechanism.



“Farming is a high-risk, physically challenging occupation. Considering farmers report high stress and barriers to seeking healthcare, it is important to understand factors influencing alcohol use to tailor interventions and healthcare resources for alcohol use in rural areas,” wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farming-and-mental-health-nbsp">Farming and mental health&nbsp;</h2>



Proctor and her co-author, Noah Hopkins, surveyed 1,045 farmers and found that almost all farmers drink, with over one-third consuming multiple drinks per week. These drinking habits are concerning due to the stigma around mental health care and the associated risk of suicide.



“Knowing the stigma that exists within rural farming populations about seeking care and then looking at death by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suicide-rate-increases-during-the-week-of-a-full-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suicide</a> numbers, it really is a public health issue because there are drastic, traumatic outcomes associated with not being able to ask for that care, using alcohol to cope and then feeling hopeless,” Proctor said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-for-stressed-farmers">Support for stressed farmers</h2>



The study found that farmers who could rely on community support and peers were less likely to drink excessively. Proctor emphasizes the need for community-based support and training for various rural professionals to facilitate open conversations about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.



“If the networks don’t exist, we’ve got to train our bankers. We’ve got to train, you know, farm bureau agents; we’ve got to train feed store managers. Everyone in rural areas has to be willing to have those open and honest conversations about mental health. It starts so basic, but it’s so big.”



The researchers noted that interventions to address stress and alcohol consumption should focus on promoting resilience, reducing stigma, and encouraging peer support to address cultural norms around mental health and alcohol use.&nbsp;



“Rural practitioners should develop cultural competence to better serve agricultural communities to prevent alcohol use disorders. To discuss ways to reduce stigma and encourage peer support to address alcohol and mental health disorders in rural farming populations.”



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



Farming is an inherently demanding occupation, often subjecting farmers to significant stress due to a combination of environmental, economic, and personal factors.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-pressures-nbsp">Economic pressures&nbsp;</h3>



The unpredictability of weather and the impacts of climate change can drastically affect crop yields and livestock health, leading to financial instability.&nbsp;



Market fluctuations, trade policies, and changing consumer demands further compound the economic pressures farmers face, making it challenging to maintain a consistent income.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensive-labor">Intensive labor</h3>



Additionally, farming is a labor-intensive job that requires long hours and physical exertion, which can lead to physical fatigue and health issues.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isolation">Isolation</h3>



The isolation associated with rural living can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and mental strain, as farmers often work alone or with limited social interaction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-pressures-nbsp">Cumulative pressures&nbsp;</h3>



The necessity to make quick decisions in response to unforeseen problems, such as pest infestations or equipment failures, adds another layer of stress.&nbsp;



These cumulative pressures can lead to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-networks-nbsp">Support networks&nbsp;</h3>



Despite these challenges, many farmers find resilience and strength in their connection to the land, their community, and their passion for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>.&nbsp;



Support networks, including family, friends, and agricultural organizations, play a crucial role in helping farmers manage stress and maintain their well-being.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/1059924X.2024.2374737" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Agromedicine</a>.



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Stressed out farmers are turning to alcohol to cope

A new study led by the University of Georgia (UGA)...

A longitudinal study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjph-2024-001295" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Public Health</a> has recently found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/51-percent-of-the-world-relies-on-car-commutes-every-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commuters</a> who choose to cycle or walk to and from work have lower risks of developing physical and mental issues. Although both types of activity appeared to be beneficial, cycling had the highest advantages.



Active commuting is one of the most practical and sustainable ways to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-67-minutes-daily-outdoors-boosts-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improve health</a>, as scientists have long argued. Yet, previous studies had many limitations, including short monitoring periods, narrow age groups, and limited health outcomes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-vs-inactive-commuting-nbsp">Active vs. inactive commuting&nbsp;</h2>



In this new study, the scientists collected and analyzed data from the <a href="https://sls.lscs.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scottish Longitudinal Study</a>, which is based on five percent of Scotland’s population derived from Census returns in 1991, 2001, and 2011. 



First, the respondents had to select which mode of travel they use for the longest part of their commute. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-is-a-powerful-tool-to-boost-brain-health-and-overall-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walking</a> and cycling were defined as active travel, all the other methods were deemed “inactive.” 



The experts then connected these responses to data regarding hospital admissions, deaths, and use of mental health drugs like antidepressants, sedatives, and anxiolytics.&nbsp;



Other factors, such as age, sex, socioeconomic factors, distance to work, and pre-existing health issues have also been taken into consideration.



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



The analysis revealed that between 2001 and 2018, 4,276 participants died (half of them from cancer), and 52,804 were admitted to hospital (12 percent for cardiovascular issues, seven percent for cancer, and three percent after traffic accidents). Moreover, 38.5 percent were prescribed heart medicines, and 41 percent mental health drugs.



Compared to those who did not engage in active commuting, individuals who walked to work were more likely to be younger females who worked shifts, lived in cities, commuted for shorter distances, and had lower incomes and educational attainment.&nbsp;



Cyclists shared some similarities, being more likely to be younger males who worked shifts, lived in urban areas, and were less likely to own homes or have caregiving responsibilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-health-benefits-of-active-commuting-nbsp">Clear health benefits of active commuting&nbsp;</h2>



However, active commuting was clearly linked to reduced risks of death and mental and physical health issues compared to inactive commuting.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cycling-to-work">Cycling to work</h3>



Respondents who cycled to work had a 47 percent lower risk of death from any cause, a 10 percent lower risk of any hospital admission, and a 24 percent lower risk of hospital admission for cardiovascular disease.&nbsp;



Cycling was also associated with a 30 percent lower risk of needing cardiovascular medication, a 51 percent lower risk of dying from cancer, a 24 percent lower risk of hospitalization for cancer, and a 20 percent lower risk of needing mental health medications. 



Nevertheless, cyclists were twice as likely to be hospitalized due to road traffic collisions compared to inactive commuters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-walking-to-work-nbsp">Walking to work&nbsp;</h3>



On the other hand, walking to work was linked to an 11 percent lower risk of hospital admission for any cause, a 10 percent lower risk of hospital admission for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, a 10 percent lower risk of needing cardiovascular drugs and a seven percent lower risk of requiring mental health medications.



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



Since the study was observational, it cannot definitively establish cause and effect. Moreover, the researchers identified other limitations, including the fact that census responses only captured a single point in time and did not account for overall physical activity levels or multimodal trips.



According to the authors, despite such limitations, the study strengthens the evidence that active commuting has population-level health benefits and can contribute to reduced morbidity and mortality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-commuting-and-mental-health">Active commuting and mental health</h2>



“That cyclist and pedestrian commuting is associated with lower risks of being prescribed medication for poor mental health is an important finding.”



“These findings provide direct evidence of the health benefits of active commuting in a Scottish context, supporting current policy. This study has wider global relevance to efforts to reduce carbon emissions and to shift to more active and sustainable travel modes.”&nbsp;



However, the experts concluded that the “finding that cyclist commuters have twice the risk of being a road traffic casualty compared with non-active commuters reinforces the need for safer cycling infrastructure.”



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Active commuting: Cycling to work linked to enormous health benefits

A longitudinal study published in the journal BMJ Public Health...

The SMIM1 gene has been identified as a potential new factor in genetic predisposition to obesity. This discovery was made by an international team of scientists investigating the genetic contributors to obesity.



In a study led by the University of Exeter, researchers have found that individuals with a genetic variant disabling the SMIM1 gene tend to have higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-impairs-the-brains-response-to-nutrient-intake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body weight</a> and lower resting energy expenditure. This insight could potentially lead to new approaches for obesity treatment.



The research team is now interested in exploring whether an existing, affordable thyroid medication could effectively treat obesity in individuals lacking both copies of the SMIM1 gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-underestimated-effect-of-smim1">The underestimated effect of SMIM1</h2>



The SMIM1 gene was discovered just a decade ago during a search for the gene encoding a distinct blood group known as Vel. 



This breakthrough came as a result of dedicated efforts to understand the genetic underpinnings of various blood types, leading to the identification of SMIM1 as the gene responsible for the Vel blood group.



Approximately one in 5,000 individuals lack both copies of the SMIM1 gene, rendering them Vel-negative. This genetic rarity has now been linked to a predisposition for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/just-a-few-extra-pounds-increases-hypertension-risk-in-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher body weight</a>. 



The Exeter study indicates that individuals without both copies of the SMIM1 gene are more likely to be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overweight</a> compared to those with at least one functioning copy.



Alongside this, individuals without both copies of the gene exhibit other obesity-associated measures, such as high levels of fat in the blood, signs of fat tissue dysfunction, increased liver enzymes, and diminished levels of thyroid hormones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-new-treatments-for-obesity">Finding new treatments for obesity</h2>



For the investigation, the team scrutinized the genetics of close to half a million participants in the UK Biobank cohort. They recognized 104 individuals with the variant leading to the SMIM1 gene's loss of function.



The team also collaborated with the <a href="https://bioresource.nihr.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIHR National BioResource</a> to obtain fresh blood samples from both Vel-negative and Vel-positive individuals.



Study lead author Mattia Frontini is an associate professor of cell biology at the <a href="https://medicine.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter Medical School</a>. 



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-now-affects-more-than-a-billion-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Obesity rates</a> have nearly tripled in the past 50 years, and by 2030, more than one billion individuals worldwide are projected to be obese," said Frontini.



"Obesity is due to an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, often a complex interplay of lifestyle, environmental, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-can-be-passed-down-from-parents-to-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic factors</a>. In a small minority of people, obesity is caused by genetic variants." 



"When this is the case, new treatments can sometimes be found to benefit these people -- and we're now hoping to run a clinical trial to find out whether widely-available drug for thyroid supplementation may be beneficial in treating obesity in people who lack SMIM1."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact-of-the-genetic-variant">Global impact of the genetic variant</h2>



Further exploration of these cohorts suggests that the SMIM1 variant could influence obesity in nearly 300,000 people worldwide. This conclusion was reached after analyzing the effects found in four additional cohorts of people with the SMIM1 gene variant.



The experts determined that having the variant had a notable impact on weight, accounting for an average extra 4.6kg in females and 2.4kg in males.



"SMIM1 was only discovered a decade ago, as a long-sought blood group protein on red blood cells, but its other function has remained unknown until now. It's very exciting to find that it has a more general role in human metabolism," said study co-author Jill Storry, a professor at Lund University in Sweden.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modifying-the-gene-to-treat-obesity">Modifying the gene to treat obesity</h2>



The implications of this study extend beyond mere understanding; they hint at potential therapeutic applications. 



Researchers are now exploring whether modifying the SMIM1 gene or its expression could offer new avenues for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-treatment-of-child-obesity-yields-lasting-results/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treating obesity</a>. 



Gene therapy and CRISPR technology could potentially be employed to correct the genetic variant responsible for SMIM1 deficiency. 



Additionally, lifestyle interventions tailored to individuals with SMIM1 variants might be developed, focusing on specific exercise and dietary recommendations that could mitigate the gene's effects.



The study provides us with a more in-depth understanding of obesity. As more information on the SMIM1 mechanism is revealed, individuals lacking SMIM1 could receive essential information and support, contributing significantly to the global fight against obesity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/med/fulltext/S2666-6340(24)00219-8?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2666634024002198%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Press</a>.



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Can the lack of a single gene cause obesity?

The SMIM1 gene has been identified as a potential new...

As we continue to march towards an increasingly digitized era, the possibility of robots co-existing harmoniously with humans in various settings becomes more conceivable. 



Today, we delve deep into fascinating research that's further pushing the boundaries of what <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-do-children-trust-more-robots-or-humans-scientists-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humanoid robots</a> are capable of - incorporating dance moves into their functionality.



The striking work comes from a dedicated team of engineers based at the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego</a>.



The experts have successfully trained a humanoid robot to perform a plethora of expressive movements, with a finesse that makes these complex actions appear effortlessly learned.



From following simple dance routines to interpreting gestures like waving, high-fives, and hugging, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/would-you-trust-a-robot-to-look-after-your-cat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced robot</a> astounds with its ability to maintain a steady gait across differing terrains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-harmonious-co-existence">A harmonious co-existence</h2>



"Through expressive and more human-like body motions, we aim to build trust and showcase the potential for robots to co-exist in harmony with humans," noted Xiaolong Wang, a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UC San Diego.



The team envisions a future where human-friendly robots could render invaluable assistance in settings like factory assembly lines, hospitals, homes, and possibly even replace human presence in hazardous environments like laboratories or disaster sites.



The work is set to be presented to the world at the upcoming 2024 Robotics: Science and Systems Conference in Delft, Netherlands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expressiveness-of-the-robot">Expressiveness of the robot</h2>



The remarkable expressiveness of this robot is rooted in its training regimen. Borrowing techniques from the art of dance, the humanoid's performance capability is built on the foundation of diverse human body motions. 



Much like a highly receptive dance student, the robot quickly picks up new routines and gestures.



The training involved simulating upper and lower body motions separately, which allowed for the replication of complex movements, while maintaining balance and walking across different surfaces. 



"The main goal here is to show the ability of the robot to do different things while it's walking from place to place without falling," said Professor Wang.



This type of coordination is possible because the robot operates under a unified policy governing its entire structure. The policy ensures the synchronization of upper body gestures with a steady gait, enabling the robot to navigate across various terrains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-towards-autonomous-robots">Advancing towards autonomous robots</h2>



As of now, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-cannot-outrun-animals-but-theyre-evolving-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot's movements</a> are dictated by a human operator using a game controller. However, in the near future, the team hopes to equip the robot with a camera that could enable autonomous navigation and task execution.



The team's current focus is fine-tuning the design to tackle more refined and intricate tasks. 



With the objective of extending the capabilities of the upper body, the range of motions and gestures the robot can perform will certainly increase, thus steering us yet closer towards a future where robots and humans can coexist in harmony.



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



Another promising frontier in the development of humanoid robots is enhancing their ability to engage in meaningful social interactions with humans. 



Using sophisticated algorithms and machine learning, experts are creating robots that analyze facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language to gauge emotions and react appropriately.



The intersection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-robots-with-a-local-accent-seem-more-trustworthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social robotics</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-design-and-build-walking-robots-in-seconds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> holds great promise for the future. As these systems become more adept at interpreting and reacting to human emotions, the potential for creating harmonious and supportive interactions between humans and machines continues to expand. 



This progress not only enhances functionality but also fosters a deeper connection and trust between humans and their robotic counterparts.



As we look to the future, the collaboration between engineers, psychologists, and AI specialists will be crucial in refining these social robots. 



By integrating emotional intelligence with physical dexterity, the next generation of humanoid robots will be equipped to navigate complex human environments with ease and sensitivity, further solidifying their role as indispensable partners in our increasingly automated world.



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Dancing robots: The future of human-robot interactions

As we continue to march towards an increasingly digitized era,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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