On Friday, May 12, 2023, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-peak-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storm-expected-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strongest geomagnetic storm</a> in over two decades hit Earth, causing radio blackouts and extending the northern lights to the southern United States. 



As of Monday, May 15, 2023, officials from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) have warned that these geomagnetic solar storms, caused by eruptions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/see-the-sun-in-exquisite-detail-in-rare-solar-orbiter-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Sun</a>, are not yet over.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-geomagnetic-storm-warning-remains-in-effect">Strong geomagnetic storm warning remains in effect</h2>



<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The SWPC</a> issued a G3, or "<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strong</a>," geomagnetic storm warning that remained in effect until 2 a.m. ET on Monday. 



While the likelihood of stronger storms has decreased, and conditions are expected to gradually improve throughout the day, the center's forecast indicates that moderate to strong geomagnetic storms are still likely on Monday, with minor storms possible on Tuesday.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-solar-activity-and-solar-flares">High solar activity and solar flares</h2>



The SWPC also reported that "solar activity is expected to be at high levels," with more <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/sun_solar-flares_region-3664_NASA_1m.jpg?_gl=1*un9usv*_ga*NjcwMzI4NTA4LjE2OTAzMTAwNjc.*_ga_STJW8JPZJQ*MTcxNTYyMzAzMy4xODA4LjEuMTcxNTYyNDIxMy41Ny4wLjA.*_gcl_au*MjEzMjY0ODcwMC4xNzE0NzAwMDg2LjI4NjIyNjExOS4xNzE1MzAwODg2LjE3MTUzMDA4ODU." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">M-class and X-class flares</a> anticipated, primarily due to the flare potential of Region 3664.



Another moderate X-class solar flare, the strongest class of these solar bursts, was recently recorded.



"Flares of this magnitude are not frequent," the SWPC representatives stated, warning that "users of high frequency (HF) radio signals may experience temporary degradation or complete loss of signal on much of the sunlit side of Earth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunspot-regions-3664-and-3663">Sunspot Regions 3664 and 3663</h2>



The flares originated from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-prepares-impact-three-cme-events-solar-storms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sunspot Region 3664</a>, a massive area of the Sun responsible for many of the flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that led to the weekend's extreme geomagnetic storm. 



This spot remains "the most complex and active on the disk," according to NOAA, and is so large that it can be seen from Earth by people wearing eclipse glasses, measuring approximately 124,000 miles across.



Sunspot Region 3664 has been active alongside <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noaa-issues-severe-geomagnetic-storm-watch-first-time-since-2005/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Region 3663</a>, and together, they are considered "magnetically complex and much larger than Earth," as stated by NOAA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-continued-cmes-and-minor-solar-radiation-storms">Continued CMEs and minor solar radiation storms</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-severe-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storms-expected-tonight-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)</a>, which are large bursts from the sun's atmosphere filled with plasma and magnetic fields that lead to geomagnetic storms, are expected to continue throughout Monday and fuel G3 activity. 



NOAA forecasts that "continuing, but weaker CME influences are anticipated to decrease responses down to unsettled to G1 (Minor) levels on May 14, 2023."



Minor solar radiation storms are also expected in the same timeframe, along with more radio blackouts. Some of these blackouts could be considered "strong" events, depending on the solar flares that erupt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-auroras-visible-across-the-continental-united-states">Auroras visible across the continental United States</h2>



Weather permitting,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-mesmerizing-auroras-expected-across-united-states-new-extreme-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auroras will be visible</a>&nbsp;again tonight over most of the continental United States. This spectacular display of lights is a direct result of the ongoing geomagnetic storm.



The threat of additional strong solar flares and CMEs, which ultimately result in spectacular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auroras-southern-united-states-this-week-huge-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aurora displays</a>, will persist until the large and magnetically complex sunspot cluster, NOAA Region 3664, rotates out of view of the Earth. This is expected to occur by Tuesday, May 14, 2024.



As the geomagnetic storm continues to impact Earth, officials urge the public to stay informed and prepared for potential disruptions to radio communications and other technological systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-geomagnetic-solar-storms">Understanding geomagnetic solar storms</h2>



Geomagnetic storms are disturbances in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a> caused by the interaction between the solar wind and the planet’s magnetosphere. These storms can have significant impacts on technology, infrastructure, and even human health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes-of-geomagnetic-storms">Causes of geomagnetic storms</h3>



Geomagnetic storms typically originate from the Sun. They are caused by two main phenomena:



<ul>
<li>Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): Massive bursts of plasma and magnetic fields ejected from the Sun’s surface.</li>



<li>Solar Flares: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strongest-solar-flare-in-7-years-prompts-gps-satellite-warnings-and-aurora-alert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intense eruptions</a> of electromagnetic radiation from the Sun’s surface.</li>
</ul>



When these events occur, they send charged particles streaming towards Earth at high speeds, which can take anywhere from one to five days to reach our planet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-on-earth-s-magnetic-field">Effects on Earth’s magnetic field</h3>



As the charged particles from CMEs and solar flares reach Earth, they interact with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s magnetic field</a>. This interaction causes the magnetic field lines to become distorted and compressed, leading to fluctuations in the strength and direction of the magnetic field.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-technology-and-infrastructure">Impacts on technology and infrastructure</h3>



Geomagnetic storms can have significant impacts on various aspects of modern technology and infrastructure:



<ul>
<li>Power Grids: Strong geomagnetic storms can induce currents in power lines, causing transformers to overheat and potentially leading to widespread power outages.</li>



<li>Satellite Communications: Charged particles can damage satellite electronics and disrupt communication signals.</li>



<li>GPS and Navigation Systems: Geomagnetic disturbances can interfere with the accuracy of GPS and other navigation systems.</li>



<li>Radio Communications: Storms can disrupt radio signals, affecting communication systems that rely on HF, VHF, and UHF bands.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aurora formation</h3>



One of the most visually striking effects of geomagnetic storms is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aurora-borealis-seen-as-far-south-as-the-equator-after-largest-known-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formation of auroras</a>, also known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auroras-southern-united-states-this-week-huge-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northern and Southern Lights</a>.



As charged particles collide with Earth’s upper atmosphere, they excite oxygen and nitrogen atoms, causing them to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steve-phenomenon-looks-like-an-aurora-acts-like-an-aurora-but-what-is-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emit light in various colors</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Monitoring and forecasting</h3>



Scientists continuously monitor the Sun’s activity and use various instruments to detect and measure CMEs and solar flares.



This data helps them forecast the timing and intensity of geomagnetic storms, allowing for better preparedness and mitigation of potential impacts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Historical geomagnetic storms</h3>



Some of the most notable geomagnetic storms in history include:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carrington-event-biggest-solar-storm-history-radiocarbon-earth-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Carrington Event (1859)</a>: The most powerful geomagnetic storm on record, which caused widespread telegraph system failures and auroras visible as far south as the Caribbean.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/news/great-halloween-solar-storm-2003" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Halloween Storms (2003)</a>: A series of powerful geomagnetic storms that caused power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_1989_geomagnetic_storm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Quebec Blackout (1989)</a>: A geomagnetic storm that caused a massive power outage affecting millions of people in Quebec, Canada.</li>
</ul>



Understanding geomagnetic storms is crucial for protecting our technology-dependent world and mitigating the potential risks associated with these powerful space weather events.



Stay tuned to Earth.com and the Space Weather Prediction Center (<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPC</a>) for updates.



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NOAA: 'Strong' geomagnetic storms and auroras continue through Tuesday

On Friday, May 12, 2023, the strongest geomagnetic storm in over two decades hit Earth, causing radio blackouts and extending the northern lights to the southern United States. As of Monday, May 15, 2023, officials from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) have warned that these geomagnetic solar storms, caused by eruptions from the Sun, are not yet over. Strong geomagnetic storm warning remains in effect The SWPC issued a G3, or "strong," geomagnetic storm warning that remained in effect until 2 a.m. ET on Monday. While...

Thylacine,Was,The,Largest,Carnivorous,Marsupial.,Now,Extinct,,The,Last

In a groundbreaking new study, scientists have sequenced RNA from a Tasmanian tiger specimen that is over a century old, bringing the goal of resurrecting extinct species closer to reality. 



The specimen, preserved at room temperature in the <a href="https://www.nrm.se/en/16.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Museum of Natural History</a>, has allowed researchers to reconstruct the skin and skeletal muscle transcriptomes from this extinct species, marking a first in the scientific community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tasmanian-tiger-a-look-back">The Tasmanian tiger: A look back</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tasmanian-tigers-aboriginals-extinct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tasmanian tiger</a>, or thylacine, stands as a symbol of human-induced extinction. This carnivorous marsupial, once reigning as an apex predator across Australia and the island of Tasmania, faced its downfall post-European colonization. 



Deemed an agricultural nuisance, the government set bounties on these creatures in the late 19th century. This resulted in their rapid decline. The last recorded thylacine died in captivity in 1936, but its memory still haunts the conservationist community.



Today, there are renewed efforts to bring the Tasmanian tiger back. Its native Tasmanian habitat remains largely intact, suggesting that its reintroduction could restore past ecosystem balances disrupted by its absence. But reviving the thylacine requires more than just its DNA; scientists must understand its gene expression and regulatory mechanisms, which is where transcriptome (RNA) research comes in.



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



Emilio Mármol, the lead author of the study, highlights the challenges of de-extinction, stating, “Resurrecting the Tasmanian tiger or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-made-woolly-mammoths-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">woolly mammoth</a> requires a deep knowledge of both the genome and transcriptome regulation.” This sentiment underscores the significance of their research, published in the <a href="https://genome.cshlp.org/content/early/2023/07/18/gr.277663.123.abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genome Research journal</a>, as they've provided the first detailed look into the Tasmanian tiger’s RNA.



The team's ability to sequence the transcriptome from <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/tasmanian-tiger_Thylacine_Specimen_2medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">130-year-old tissue samples</a>, and identify tissue-specific gene expressions akin to extant marsupials and mammals, is a monumental achievement. Moreover, the quality of the recovered transcriptomes allowed for the annotation of previously undiscovered ribosomal RNA and microRNA genes, adhering to MirGeneDB recommendations.



Marc R. Friedländer, an Associate Professor at <a href="https://www.su.se/cmlink/stockholm-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a>, commented on the revolutionary nature of the study. He stated that it offers a first look at “thylacine-specific regulatory genes, such as microRNAs, that got extinct more than one century ago.”



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



This research doesn't just hold promise for the Tasmanian tiger. It points to the vast potential locked away in museum specimens worldwide. These treasure troves could hold the keys to understanding, and likely resurrecting, extinct species and even ancient RNA viruses.



Love Dalén, Professor of evolutionary genomics at Stockholm University, foresees a future where scientists could potentially recover RNA from ancient RNA viruses like SARS-CoV2, or even their evolutionary ancestors, from preserved specimens like bat skins.



As we move forward, the interplay of genomics and transcriptomics could usher in a golden age of paleogenetics, going far beyond just DNA. The authors of this study stand at the forefront of this brave new world, anticipating the holistic research developments that await.



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



De-extinction, a fascinating frontier in modern biology, seeks to resurrect extinct species using advanced scientific techniques. But how does this process work, and what are its implications?



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-de-extinction">The science behind de-extinction</h3>



At the heart of de-extinction lies DNA. Scientists extract and sequence DNA from preserved specimens of extinct species, often from museum samples or frozen remains. Once they've obtained a clear genetic blueprint, they undertake the process of cloning.



Cloning involves implanting the DNA of the extinct species into the egg of a closely related living species. The living species then acts as a surrogate, carrying the embryo to term and giving birth. If successful, the result is a living, breathing animal of a previously extinct species.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-success-stories-and-challenges">Success stories and challenges</h3>



The <a href="https://rgs-ibg.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/tran.12478" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pyrenean ibex</a>, extinct since 2000, briefly touched the world of the living in 2003 when scientists successfully cloned a calf. Sadly, the calf lived for only a few minutes due to lung defects, but the experiment proved de-extinction's potential.



However, challenges abound. Cloning remains an imperfect science, often leading to birth defects. Additionally, even if scientists achieve de-extinction, the reborn species might not exhibit the same behaviors or fulfill the same ecological roles as their predecessors.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-and-ecological-considerations">Ethical and ecological considerations</h3>



De-extinction raises important ethical questions. Is it right to bring back a species that nature, or human interference, has eradicated? And if we do, where will these animals live? Many extinct species lost their habitats long ago, and reintroducing them might disrupt current ecosystems.



Moreover, some argue that funds and energy spent on de-extinction could better serve efforts to prevent currently endangered species from going extinct.



Despite its challenges and controversies, de-extinction captivates the scientific community and the public alike. As laboratory techniques improve, such as extinct RNA extraction discussed in this article, and ethical debates continue, we may yet see lost species roam the Earth once again.



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Huge progress made in the race to resurrect extinct species

In a groundbreaking new study, scientists have sequenced RNA from...

Bio-computing, a concept once confined to the pages of a sci-fi novel, is now a burgeoning reality.&nbsp;



Breakthroughs in this field of technology could redefine our understanding of intelligence, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-in-the-brain-does-consciousness-reside-scientists-think-they-might-know/">consciousness</a>, and moral rights.&nbsp;



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



The biotech start-up <a href="https://corticallabs.com/">Cortical Lab</a> has pioneered a fascinating development: the DishBrain.&nbsp;



This remarkable innovation comprises 800,000 living brain cells that have demonstrated the ability to learn to play the game Pong.&nbsp;



Led by Dr. Brett Kagan, the team believes that the fusion of biological neural systems with silicon could bring about intelligence-like behavior.&nbsp;



However, with such breakthroughs come the critical questions of sustainability and ethics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-a-brain-in-a-dish-have-moral-rights">Does a brain in a dish have moral rights?</h2>



Study co-author Professor Julian Savulescu, warns of the urgency to determine practical answers to the question of what makes us human or conscious.



“We haven’t adequately addressed the moral issues of what is even considered ‘conscious’ in the context of today’s technology,” said Savulescu.



“As it stands, there are still many ways of describing consciousness or intelligence, each raising different implications for how we think about biologically based intelligent systems.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moral-status-consciousness-or-suffering">Moral status: Consciousness or suffering?</h2>



The researchers draw inspiration from Jeremy Bentham. He argued that, with respect to the moral status of animals, “the question is not, ‘can they reason?’ nor, ‘can they talk?’ but, ‘can they suffer?’”



Dr. Tamra Lysaght from the National University of Singapore said that even if bio-computers exhibited human-like intelligence, their moral rights aren't automatically ensured.



“Our paper doesn’t attempt to definitively answer the full suite of moral questions posed by bio-computers, but it provides a starting framework to ensure that the technology can continue to be researched and applied responsibly,” said Dr Lysaght.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medicine-s-new-frontier">Medicine’s new frontier</h2>



Beyond ethical considerations, the DishBrain also presents tangible advancements in medical research. The technology could potentially revolutionize our understanding of conditions like epilepsy and dementia.&nbsp;



“Current cell lines used in medical research predominately have European-type genetic ancestry, potentially making it harder to identify genetic-linked side effects,” said study co-author Dr Christopher Gyngell from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and The University of Melbourne.



“In future models of drug screening, we have the chance to make them more sufficiently representative of the real-world patients by using more diverse cell lines, and that means potentially faster and better drug development.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-green-promise-of-bio-computing">The green promise of bio-computing</h2>



Another compelling reason to explore bio-computing is its potential environmental impact. The researchers noted that it is worth working through moral issues, as this potential impact is significant.



“Silicon-based computing is massively energy-hungry with a supercomputer consuming millions of watts of energy. By contrast, the human brain uses as little as 20 watts of energy – biological intelligences will show similar energy efficiency,” said Dr Kagan.



“As it stands, the IT industry is a massive contributor to carbon emissions. If even a relatively small number of processing tasks could be done with bio-computers, there is a compelling environmental reason to explore these alternatives.”



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108233">Biotechnology Advances</a>.



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Bio-computing: Should a brain in a dish have moral rights?

Bio-computing, a concept once confined to the pages of a...

In the battle against garlic breath, yogurt is now a strong contender. According to a recent study, whole milk plain yogurt is exceptionally effective in preventing the release of volatile compounds responsible for garlic’s distinctive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crabs-are-losing-their-sense-of-smell-and-vanishing-due-to-ocean-acidification/">smell</a>.



The research team, led by Professor Sheryl Barringer at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/">The Ohio State University</a>, examined the ability of yogurt and its components - water, fat, and protein - to neutralize garlic odor.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-protein-foods">High-protein foods</h2>



Impressively, both fat and protein emerged as strong adversaries of garlic's scent. This discovery has raised prospects of developing high-protein foods that can double as garlic breath combatants.



With the rising popularity of high-protein diets, Professor Barringer is optimistic about these findings.&nbsp;



“High protein is a very hot thing right now - generally, people want to eat more protein,” said Professor Barringer. “An unintended side benefit may be a high-protein formulation that could be advertised as a breath deodorizer in addition to its nutritional claims."



“I was more excited about the protein’s effectiveness because consumer advice to eat a high-fat food is not going to go over well.”



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



Previous studies by Professor Barringer identified foods like apples, mint, lettuce, and milk as potential odor-fighting agents against garlic breath. The current study was prompted by speculations regarding yogurt's deodorizing capabilities.



To gauge the deodorizing potential, equal amounts of raw garlic were placed in glass bottles, ensuring the release of recognizable concentrations of sulfur-based volatiles.&nbsp;



Post-treatment measurements revealed a staggering 99% reduction of major odor-producing raw garlic volatiles by yogurt. While all components of yogurt showcased some deodorizing effect, fat and protein outperformed water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flavor-binding-proteins">Flavor-binding proteins</h2>



Further studies revealed the superior performance of a casein micelle-whey protein complex. “We know proteins bind flavor - a lot of times that’s considered a negative, especially if a food with high protein has less flavor. In this case, it could be a positive,” said Professor Barringer.



The researchers also evaluated the impact of pH levels on yogurt's deodorizing efficacy. A reduced deodorizing effect was observed as the yogurt's acidity was decreased. Interestingly, water's deodorizing effect remained unchanged despite alterations in pH.&nbsp;



“That’s telling me it goes back to those proteins, because as you change pH you change the configuration of proteins and their ability to bind. That said we definitely should be looking at these proteins,” explained Professor Barringer.&nbsp;



“It probably depends on the protein, as well, because different proteins react differently to pH. So that may be an important thing as we look at other proteins for their garlic deodorization effect.”



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



Yogurt's efficiency was also tested on fried garlic. The results indicated a substantial reduction in garlic’s odor-causing volatile compounds upon frying. Though yogurt and its components demonstrated reduced efficacy on fried compared to raw garlic, the results were still promising.



Barringer foresees the potential of Greek yogurt, given its higher protein content, as an even more potent remedy for garlic breath. She advises immediate consumption post garlic intake for optimal results.



“With apples, we have always said to eat them immediately,” she said. “The same with yogurt is presumed to be the case – have your garlic and eat the yogurt right away.”



While these findings lay a solid groundwork, the next phase involves verifying yogurt's effectiveness against actual garlic breath in humans.&nbsp;



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Yogurt may be the perfect cure for garlic breath

In the battle against garlic breath, yogurt is now a...

Neuron,Cell,Close-up,3d,Rendering,Illustration,With,Nervous,Impulses,Along

A new study reveals that brain cell components were forming in shallow seas around 800 million years ago. Experts at the <a href="https://www.crg.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centre for Genomic Regulation</a> have traced brain cells back to placozoans, tiny marine animals, shedding light on the evolutionary journey of neurons.



Placozoans, roughly the size of a large grain of sand, feed on algae and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-that-can-digest-plastic-in-freezing-temperatures/">microbes</a> in warm, shallow waters. Along with ctenophores, sponges, cnidarians, and bilaterians, placozoans represent one of the five primary animal lineages, even though they lack organs or distinct body parts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peptidergic-cells-nbsp">Peptidergic cells&nbsp;</h2>



Central to the placozoans' existence are peptidergic cells which release peptides directing their feeding and movements. Through extensive molecular and computational analyses, the researchers crafted "cell atlases" to understand the evolution and function of these cells. They were found to be precursors to modern neurons.



The findings indicated a network of "in-between" cell types connecting the main nine cell types in placozoans.&nbsp;



The peptidergic cells, distinguishable from other cells, bore a surprising resemblance to neurons that emerged millions of years later in advanced organisms. This unique similarity to neurons was not observed in other early-branching species like sponges or ctenophores.



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



Three notable parallels between peptidergic cells and neurons emerged from the study. First, placozoan cells differentiate in a manner akin to neurogenesis observed in cnidarians and bilaterians.&nbsp;



Second, while these cells possess many components of a neuron's messaging end, they lack the attributes of a true neuron, such as conducting electrical signals.&nbsp;



Furthermore, using deep learning, it was found that these cells communicated through GPCRs (G-protein coupled receptors), which are initiated by neuropeptides, a feature of neuronal communication.



“We were astounded by the parallels," said Dr. Sebastián R. Najle, co-first author of the study. "The placozoan peptidergic cells have many similarities to primitive neuronal cells, even if they aren't quite there yet. It's like looking at an evolutionary stepping stone."



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



Highlighting the evolutionary timeline, the research indicates that the neuron's foundational components were taking shape in the ancient seas 800 million years ago.&nbsp;



Placozoans' peptidergic cells, with their neuropeptide communication, likely evolved to include features critical for neurons, such as ion channels and post-synaptic scaffolds, about a century after their ancestors first appeared.



The evolutionary narrative of the nervous system remains incomplete. While the first modern neuron is believed to have appeared around 650 million years ago, there are neuronal-like cells in ctenophores with distinct characteristics. Their existence raises significant questions about the evolutionary trajectory of neurons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-questions-remain">Many questions remain</h2>



“Placozoans lack neurons, but we’ve now found striking molecular similarities with our neural cells. Ctenophores have neural nets, with key differences and similarities with our own," explained Dr. Xavier Grau-Bové, co-first author of the study.



"Did neurons evolve once and then diverge, or more than once, in parallel? Are they a mosaic, where each piece has a different origin? These are open questions that remain to be addressed."



As genomic sequencing progresses, the evolutionary paths of neurons and other cell types are expected to become clearer.&nbsp;



“Cells are the fundamental units of life, so understanding how they come into being or change over time is key to explain the evolutionary story of life," said study co-author Professor Arnau Sebé-Pedro.&nbsp;



"Placozoans, ctenophores, sponges and other non-traditional model animals harbor secrets that we are only just beginning to unlock."&nbsp;



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2023.08.027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a>.



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Brain cell origins traced to creatures that lived 800 million years ago

A new study reveals that brain cell components were forming...

Engaging in moderate to vigorous morning exercise between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. might be the most effective time to combat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-impairs-the-brains-response-to-nutrient-intake/">obesity</a>.&nbsp;



This conclusion, drawn from a study published by <a href="https://www.obesity.org/">The Obesity Society</a>, offers a fresh perspective on how the timing of physical activity affects weight management and overall health outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-physical-activity">Timing of physical activity</h2>



Previously, most research centered on the frequency, intensity, and duration of physical activities.&nbsp;



Few studies have explored the daytime patterns of accelerometer-measured physical activities to determine the specific times most associated with obesity.



Study co-author.Tongyu Ma, PhD, is an assistant professor in the Health Sciences Department at Franklin Pierce University. “Our study provided a novel tool to explore the diurnal pattern of physical activity and to investigate its impact on health outcomes,” said Ma.



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



The goal was to determine whether meeting the physical activity guidelines (150 minutes/week of moderate to vigorous activity) at varying times had different outcomes in terms of reducing obesity.



Using data from the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the team analyzed data from 5,285 participants.&nbsp;



Activity patterns were classified into morning, mid-day, and evening groups using the K-means clustering analysis.



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



The results were striking: there was a strong link between morning exercise and lower obesity rates. By comparison, midday and evening activity displayed a weaker connection.&nbsp;



Those in the morning cluster had better metrics such as lower body mass index and waist circumference.&nbsp;



Intriguingly, while they consumed a healthier diet and fewer calories relative to body weight, they also exhibited more extended sedentary behavior. However, the positive results in terms of weight persisted.



Demographics added another layer to the findings: participants in morning exercise group were predominantly older by about 10 to13 years, mostly female, highly educated, and refrained from tobacco and alcohol.



“Our findings propose that the diurnal pattern of moderate to vigorous physical activity could be another important dimension to describe the complexity of human movement,” wrote the study authors.



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



Dr. Rebecca Krukowski, a clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral weight management, highlighted the practical implications of the research, noting the benefits of morning exercise routines.&nbsp;



“This is exciting new research that is consistent with a common tip for meeting exercise goals - that is, schedule exercise in the morning before emails, phone calls or meetings that might distract you," said Dr. Krukowski.



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



However, she noted that since this is a cross-sectional study, it is not known whether people who exercise consistently in the morning may be systematically different from those who exercise at other times, in ways that were not measured in this study.&nbsp;



"For example, people who exercise regularly in the morning could have more predictable schedules, such as being less likely to be shift workers or less likely to have caregiving responsibilities that impede morning exercise," said Dr. Krukowski.



"Predictable schedules could have other advantageous effects on weight that were not measured in this study, such as with sleep length/quality and stress levels. In addition, the ‘morning larks’ who consistently rise early enough for morning exercise may be biologically different from their ‘night owl’ counterparts.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



The study is published online in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/1930739x">Obesity</a>.



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Morning exercise may be the best way to lose weight, study reveals

Engaging in moderate to vigorous morning exercise between 7 a.m....

In an extraordinary accomplishment, NASA's <a href="https://mars.nasa.gov/msl/">Curiosity Mars rover</a> has successfully navigated its way to Gediz Vallis Ridge, an area believed to be the remnants of powerful ancient debris flows on the Red Planet.&nbsp;



This significant achievement offers an intriguing glimpse into Mars's watery history.



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



Approximately three billion years ago, during one of Mars's last wet phases, powerful debris flows transported mud and boulders down a massive mountain.&nbsp;



This material then settled into a fan formation, which, over time, was eroded by Martian winds into the ridge that stands today. The ridge now holds valuable clues about the past existence of water on the planet.



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



The journey to Gediz Vallis Ridge wasn't without challenges. Curiosity made three attempts to reach this elusive destination.&nbsp;



Its previous endeavors were thwarted by treacherous "gator-back" rocks and prohibitively steep terrains.&nbsp;



However, on August 14, after one of its most arduous climbs, Curiosity finally stationed itself at an area offering a prime view of the ridge. From here, the rover could expertly study the area using its 7-foot robotic arm.



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



"After three years, we finally found a spot where Mars allowed Curiosity to safely access the steep ridge," said Ashwin Vasavada, Curiosity’s project scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.&nbsp;



"It’s a thrill to be able to reach out and touch rocks that were transported from places high up on Mount Sharp that we’ll never be able to visit with Curiosity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-sharp-nbsp">Mount Sharp&nbsp;</h2>



Since 2014, the rover has been on a scientific trek, ascending the 3-mile-tall Mount Sharp, unearthing evidence of ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/">lakes</a> and streams during its journey.&nbsp;



Each layer of this mountain symbolizes distinct periods in Martian history. Gediz Vallis Ridge, one of the last formations on the mountain, offers an invaluable snapshot of one of the youngest Martian epochs.



Curiosity's 11-day expedition at the ridge was nothing short of prolific. The rover photographed and analyzed the composition of dark rocks that unmistakably came from other regions of the mountain.&nbsp;



The debris flows responsible for shaping Gediz Vallis Ridge transported these rocks, some as gigantic as automobiles, from the higher terrains of Mount Sharp, offering an unparalleled peek into the upper mountain's material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debris-flow-fan-nbsp">Debris flow fan&nbsp;</h2>



Intriguingly, the rover’s presence at the ridge also provided scientists with the first intimate views of a geologic formation called a debris flow fan.&nbsp;



While such features are prevalent on both Mars and Earth, the precise mechanics of their formation remain a subject of study.



“I can’t imagine what it would have been like to witness these events,” said William Dietrich, a mission team member at the University of California, Berkeley, who has helped lead Curiosity’s study of the ridge.&nbsp;



“Huge rocks were ripped out of the mountain high above, rushed downhill, and spread out into a fan below. The results of this campaign will push us to better explain such events not just on Mars, but even on Earth, where they are a natural hazard.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curiosity-s-journey">Curiosity's journey</h2>



On August 19, Curiosity’s Mastcam captured 136 images at Gediz Vallis Ridge. When assembled into a mosaic, these images present a comprehensive 360-degree panorama of the vicinity, chronicling Curiosity's journey, including its passage through the "Marker Band Valley" where traces of an ancient lake were found.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6nqt33xOEz-3008632-12187" type="single"]</div>



As scientists continue to sift through the extensive data and imagery from Gediz Vallis Ridge, Curiosity is already gearing up for its next mission: pinpointing a route to the channel atop the ridge to further unravel the mysteries of water's past presence on Mount Sharp.



Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ESA/University of Arizona/JHUAPL/MSSS/USGS Astrogeology Science Center



Video Credit: Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS/UC Berkeley



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NASA's Curiosity Rover explores Mars ridge with intriguing watery past

In an extraordinary accomplishment, NASA's Curiosity Mars rover has successfully...

Gentoo,Penguin,Runs,Over,The,Snow,In,Antarctica

Antarctica, often referred to as Earth's final frontier, has been making alarming headlines. The latest comes from the <a href="https://nsidc.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Snow and Ice Data Center</a> (NSIDC), which reports that sea ice levels in the region have plunged to an unprecedented low this year.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mind-blowing-decline-nbsp">Mind-blowing decline&nbsp;</h2>



This decline in sea ice levels is so significant that even seasoned experts find it hard to comprehend. Walter Meier, a senior research scientist at the NSIDC, described these figures to the BBC as "almost mind-blowing."



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



Sea ice, which forms on the sea's surface in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-dipole-the-atmospheric-pattern-shaping-our-future-climate/">Arctic</a> and Antarctic regions, plays a crucial role in regulating our planet's climate. Its white surface reflects sunlight back into space, which cools the Earth.&nbsp;



Less sea ice means more dark water surfaces to absorb the sun's heat, leading to warmer temperatures. Therefore, a drop in sea ice levels has repercussions beyond just the polar areas; it affects global climate patterns and weather events.



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



This isn't the first time Antarctica has raised alarms regarding sea ice levels. The region witnessed similar lows in 2017 and 2022.&nbsp;



While the sheer size of Antarctica, roughly 1.5 times that of the US, has made it challenging for scientists to gauge the extent of the climate crisis, it's clear that the situation is deteriorating.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-nbsp">Global warming&nbsp;</h2>



Professor Martin Siegert, a glaciologist at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, told the BBC: "When I started studying the Antarctic 30 years ago, we never thought extreme weather events could happen there."



Antarctica's climate patterns have been significantly influenced by global warming. Since the 1950s, the continent has recorded temperature increases of 3.2°C (37.76°F), a rate that's more than triple the global average.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition states that the region's oceans are heating faster than the global norm and that its ice shelves are dissolving six times quicker than they did in the 1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inconsistent-sea-ice-behavior-nbsp">Inconsistent sea ice behavior&nbsp;</h2>



The behavior of sea ice in Antarctica, however, hasn't always been consistent. There was a notable decline in the early 20th century, followed by an increase in later years.&nbsp;



Some parts even gained ice as recently as 2018, according to a report from NASA. Nevertheless, the most recent record lows underscore the gravity of the current situation.



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



A study published in the journal Nature connects these sea-ice level declines to escalating ocean temperatures, suggesting that ice is melting from beneath.&nbsp;



Study co-authors Ed Doddridge and Ariaan Purich pointed out to Australia's ABC News that this year's sea ice coverage was approximately 930,000 square miles less than the typical maximum observed in September. Disturbingly, they believe these alterations might be permanent.



The plummeting sea ice levels in Antarctica serve as a shocking reminder of the need to combat climate change. As these changes become potentially irreversible, the study highlights the immediate necessity for policy changes and global action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-antarctica-and-climate-change">More about Antarctica and climate change</h2>



Climate change profoundly affects our world, and nowhere do its effects manifest more starkly than in the Polar Regions. In Antarctica, sea ice levels play a critical role in the global climate system and host unique ecosystems. 



As global temperatures rise, these sea ice levels are undergoing significant changes. As mentioned above, melting sea ice has major consequences for the world at large.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-ice-levels-a-snapshot">Sea ice levels: A snapshot</h3>



Antarctica's sea ice is different from its land ice. While land ice comprises the glaciers and ice sheets that sit on the continent itself, sea ice forms when the ocean surrounding Antarctica freezes. 



This frozen layer expands during the colder months and contracts in the warmer months. However, climate change is altering this pattern.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declining-sea-ice-extent">Declining sea ice extent</h3>



Over the past few decades, scientists have observed an overall decrease in the extent of Antarctic sea ice. Rising global temperatures, driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions, are causing this decline. 



Each year, less sea ice re-forms in winter, and more of it melts in summer. This trend threatens to disrupt the balance of the region's ecosystems and the global climate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-for-global-sea-levels">Consequences for global sea levels</h3>



You might wonder: if sea ice melts, wouldn't it simply return to the ocean without affecting sea levels? This is a common misconception. While it's true that the melting of sea ice doesn't directly raise sea levels, it has an indirect effect. 



When sea ice melts, it reduces the albedo effect — the reflection of sunlight back into space. Darker ocean waters absorb more sunlight, leading to warmer ocean temperatures. Warmer waters accelerate the melting of Antarctica's land ice, which, when it flows into the sea, does raise global sea levels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-marine-ecosystems">Impact on marine ecosystems</h3>



The decline in sea ice affects Antarctica's unique marine ecosystems. Many species, like the iconic krill, depend on sea ice to survive. Krill feed on the algae that grow under the sea ice. 



As sea ice diminishes, so does the krill's food source. This decline in krill populations impacts the entire food chain, from fish to seals to whales, many of which rely on krill as a primary food source.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disruption-of-ocean-currents">Disruption of ocean currents</h3>



Sea ice also influences ocean currents. The formation and melting of sea ice help drive the Antarctic's dense, cold water deep into the ocean, a process known as "oceanic convection." 



This process is essential for the circulation of the world's oceans. As sea ice levels change, so do these currents, with potential effects on global climate patterns, including temperature and precipitation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-research-and-monitoring">Challenges for research and monitoring</h3>



The changing sea ice conditions in Antarctica pose challenges for researchers. As ice becomes more unpredictable and unstable, it becomes harder for scientists to access research sites. This change hampers our ability to gather data, understand the full extent of changes, and predict future trends.



In summary, the effects of climate change on sea ice levels in Antarctica are profound and far-reaching. Beyond the visible loss of ice, the impacts ripple through ecosystems, global ocean currents, and sea levels. It underscores the urgent need for global action to address climate change. 



By understanding and communicating these changes, we can hope to galvanize efforts to protect the fragile beauty and balance of Antarctica and, by extension, our world.



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"Mind-blowing" decline in sea ice levels recorded in Antarctica

Antarctica, often referred to as Earth's final frontier, has been...

Conceptual,Illustration,Of,Vaccination,Against,Coronavirus,,Syringe,Stabs,Into,Sars-cov-2

Amidst the ebb and flow of the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmaceutical companies are making calculated decisions based on a predicted decline in demand for COVID vaccinations this fall. Pfizer, one of the major players in the vaccine market, has revealed that it expects a 24% vaccination rate for its COVID-19 vaccines in the United States during the upcoming fall season.



This projection was shared by Pfizer's Chief Financial Officer, David Denton, at a conference on Monday, drawing attention to the waning demand for COVID-19 shots since their debut in 2021.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-updated-wave-of-vaccines">Updated wave of vaccines</h2>



As the US prepares for its fall COVID vaccination drive, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval to updated COVID-19 shots from Pfizer, BioNTech, and Moderna. Additionally, Novavax has entered the queue, submitting its vaccine for FDA review.



Moderna, another major name in the vaccine race, has forecasted that the demand for its vaccines in the fall will range between 50 million and 100 million doses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-vaccination-campaigns">Past vaccination campaigns</h2>



Federal statistics paint a clearer picture of the scenario, with data showing that only about 56.5 million Americans opted for the updated booster shots in the last re-vaccination drive. This was a time when a significant portion of the US populace had either already contracted the COVID virus or had been vaccinated.



However, contrasting this, a Reuters/Ipsos survey from the previous week has indicated that about 50% of Americans are now contemplating getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. This could suggest a shift in the public's sentiment towards re-vaccination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-the-declining-covid-vaccination-demand">Tackling the declining COVID vaccination demand</h2>



Recognizing the shift in demand from the initial rush in 2021, pharmaceutical companies have been continuously revising their strategies. Pfizer has stated its intention to introduce cost-cutting measures. This is especially true if the demand for its COVID-19 vaccination declines, and their antiviral treatments don't meet their projections in the upcoming months.



Denton emphasized the company's intention to make thoughtful investments, stating, "We want to make sure that we're investing appropriately based on our R&amp;D pipeline and the investments that we're making and bets that we made ... are aligned to the revenue performance of the company long term."



Meanwhile, Moderna is considering streamlining its supply chain in response to the decreasing demand. Nevertheless, the company maintains an optimistic financial outlook, predicting sales to be between $6 billion to $8 billion.



In conclusion, as the pandemic continues to unfold and evolve, vaccine producers are grappling with changing demands, while also ensuring their strategic and financial decisions align with the broader goal of global health and safety.



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Pfizer predicts 24% COVID vaccination decline this fall

Amidst the ebb and flow of the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmaceutical...

American multinational medical technology company, GE Healthcare, has received a significant financial boost with a grant of over $44 million from the esteemed <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation</a>. This grant aims to pave the way for the development of AI-assisted ultrasound technology. 



The primary focus of this technology will be on addressing pivotal issues related to maternal and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brainteaser-how-can-a-mothers-diet-protect-the-brain-health-of-their-grandchildren/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fetal health</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-non-lung-cancers-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respiratory diseases</a>.



Adding an AI component to ultrasound can be a game-changer for medical professionals and even those without specialized training. It promises to provide more comprehensive information, thereby ensuring more effective ultrasound scans.



<a href="https://www.gehealthcare.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GE Healthcare</a> has emphasized that the ultimate goal is to augment the access to top-notch care, especially in regions that are economically challenged, including middle and low-income countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-technological-endeavor">Collaborative technological endeavor</h2>



Caption Health, an AI company recently incorporated under the GE Healthcare umbrella, has been entrusted with the task of developing this advanced technology. The company is aiming for broad applicability, designing the technology to be compatible across an array of ultrasound devices and probes. Notably, this includes the more economical handheld devices, making the technology more accessible.



It's worth noting that Caption Health is no stranger to such ambitious projects or the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation's support. Back in 2020, the foundation awarded them a $4.95 million grant, which was instrumental in Caption Health's endeavors to develop an AI algorithm tailored for lung ultrasound scans. This innovation was primarily geared toward enhancing the screening processes for potentially fatal respiratory diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voices-from-the-leadership">Voices from the leadership</h2>



Roland Rott, the President and CEO of GE Healthcare, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are proud and excited to have received this grant from the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation to make ultrasound more accessible in low-and-middle income countries."



Rott highlighted a pressing challenge, "However, a key limitation is the guidance of lesser-skilled users to effectively apply affordable point-of-care ultrasound in their care environment." He believes that the grant will bridge this gap by customizing Caption Health’s pioneering AI technology for a broader user base, ensuring increased access to superior medical care.



Karley Yoder, the General Manager and Chief Digital Officer at GE Healthcare, also shed light on Caption Health’s prowess. "Caption Health AI applications are meticulously crafted to guide healthcare professionals step-by-step during an ultrasound exam. This ensures they can capture and interpret high-quality ultrasound images."



Ending on a note of gratitude, Yoder remarked, "We are thankful for the continued support of the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation. Their support not only bolsters our existing lung ultrasound project but also magnifies the potential of this groundbreaking technology, especially in offering care to mothers and children."



As GE Healthcare embarks on this new venture, the medical world watches with bated breath, anticipating transformative changes in the realm of ultrasound technology.



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AI ultrasound technology gets investment from the Gates Foundation

American multinational medical technology company, GE Healthcare, has received a...

All animals – including humans – have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-moonlight-affects-the-circadian-clocks-of-animals/">circadian clocks</a> that are regulated by cues from their environment.&nbsp;



However, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.stir.ac.uk/">University of Stirling</a> in Scotland, animals in zoos can be exposed to highly different cues than their counterparts in the wild.&nbsp;



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



Since animals’ circadian clocks are tightly linked to their physiology and behavior, changes in these clocks can impact their welfare, which is crucial to maintaining captive populations at high risk of extinction in the wild, such as giant pandas.&nbsp;



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



To better understand this phenomenon, the experts examined how the “jet lag” of living in high latitudes may affect captive giant pandas. Since the animals did not evolve or live at high latitudes, their circadian clocks do not match their environment.



“Animals, including humans, have evolved rhythms to synchronize their internal environment with the external environment,” said lead author Kristine Gandia, a PhD student in Behavior and Evolution at Stirling. 



“When internal clocks are not synchronized with external cues like light and temperature, animals experience adverse effects. In humans, this can range from jet lag to metabolic issues and seasonal affective disorder.”



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



Since giant pandas have highly seasonal lives, they are an ideal case study for understanding how circadian clocks affect behavior and wellbeing.&nbsp;



Pandas prefer to eat specific species of bamboo and love new shoots, which triggers seasonal migration patterns as these shoots emerge in the spring.&nbsp;



Moreover, since finding mates is easier when all pandas follow the same nutritious shoots, the migratory season is also the breeding season.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-captive-pandas-nbsp">Captive pandas&nbsp;</h2>



Recently, pandas became so popular that many zoos housing them maintain public webcams, which makes it easier for behavior to be monitored around the clock.&nbsp;



In addition, since many pandas live in zoos located outside their normal range – where important cues such as daylight and temperature ranges are different from those in their natural habitats – zoos provide unique opportunities to understand why the circadian clock matters for their wellbeing.



According to the researchers, changes in the daylight and temperature ranges of the pandas could potentially leave them “jet lagged,” particularly since their circadian rhythms are highly dependent on seasonality. Moreover, pandas in captivity also appear to be frequently affected by anthropogenic cues, like zoo keepers’ regular visits.



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



For the present study, the scientists used webcams to monitor 11 giant pandas at six zoos located both inside and outside the animals’ natural latitudinal range.&nbsp;



Every month for a year, the researchers conducted a day’s worth of hourly focal sampling to understand how pandas’ behavior changed across a day, as well as how those patterns changed across a full year, by monitoring variables such as general activity, sexual behavior, and atypical behavior.



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



The investigations revealed that daylight and temperature were particularly important cues for pandas, being closely associated with general activity in latitudes matching their natural range in China.&nbsp;



Just like their wild counterparts, captive pandas showed three peaks in activity over 24 hours, including a peak at night. Moreover, adult pandas only engaged in sexual behavior during the daytime, which makes it easier to find mates in the wild.



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



Pandas outside their natural latitudes were less active, most likely because daylight and temperature cues were different – a finding also supported by the fact that the behaviors of pandas in mismatched latitudes differed from those in matched latitudes the most when the pandas in mismatched latitudes were exposed to more divergent daylight and temperature cues.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-seasons">Extreme seasons</h3>



“When giant pandas are housed at higher latitudes - meaning they experience more extreme seasons than they evolved with - this changes their levels of general activity and atypical behavior,” Gandia explained.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zoo-specific-cues-nbsp">Zoo-specific cues&nbsp;</h3>



The experts also discovered that captive pandas reacted to zoo-specific cues, becoming extremely active in the morning and displaying abnormal behaviors in anticipation with keepers providing them food in the first part of the day.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sexual-behaviors-nbsp">Sexual behaviors&nbsp;</h3>



Finally, the animals’ abnormal and sexual behaviors were found to fluctuate at similar points, suggesting that they might be frustrated because they cannot migrate or mate as they would normally do.&nbsp;



Thus, pandas living at mismatched latitudes performed fewer abnormal behaviors, most likely because they were not getting the same cues for sexual behaviors.



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



“To expand on this research, we would want to incorporate cycles of physiological indicators. Importantly, we would want to assess sexual hormones to understand the effects the environment may have on the timing of release," said Gandia.



"This could help us further understand how to promote successful reproduction for a vulnerable species which is notoriously difficult to breed."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1188566" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Psychology</a>.



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Captive pandas become jet lagged outside of their natural environment 

All animals – including humans – have circadian clocks that...

A recent study has unveiled a startling revelation that over 56 million Americans - which accounts for more than half of the adult population - have unknowingly been exposed to the harmful effects of secondhand tobacco smoke.&nbsp;



This significant exposure to toxic secondhand smoke was discovered by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a> (UF).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secondhand-smoke-exposure-nbsp">Secondhand smoke exposure&nbsp;</h2>



Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoke, is known to have no safe levels of exposure.&nbsp;



Persistent exposure to it can significantly increase the risk of various chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/40-percent-diseases-genetics/">diseases</a> like coronary heart disease, respiratory disorders, and even certain types of cancers.&nbsp;



“There is no safe level of secondhand smoke exposure, and long term exposure can increase the risk of many chronic conditions, such as coronary heart disease, respiratory disease, and cancers. We want people to be aware of their exposure so they can take protective actions,” said study lead author Ruixuan (Roxanne) Wang, a doctoral candidate in the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions.



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



The researchers relied on the presence of cotinine in the blood to determine exposure to tobacco products. Cotinine, a result of nicotine exposure in recent days, is the standard for such detections.&nbsp;



The team analyzed data from the U.S. National Health and Examination Survey, conducted by the CDC from 2013 to 2020, which encompassed over 13,000 American adults.&nbsp;



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



The analysis revealed that the blood of 51% of these individuals contained a byproduct of nicotine, indicating exposure to secondhand smoke.&nbsp;



Astonishingly, less than half of the affected individuals claimed to have been exposed to smoke, revealing a massive gap in awareness about secondhand smoke exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underreported-exposure-nbsp">Underreported exposure&nbsp;</h2>



According to the researchers, it is unclear why the level of underreported exposure was so high. Cotinine measurements are very sensitive and can detect low levels of smoke exposure.



“It could be the case that for low-level exposure, maybe you don’t notice it. You’re in a public setting, and maybe you’re not even aware someone is using tobacco around you. Maybe it’s so minor you forgot,” said study senior author Professor Jennifer LeLaurin.&nbsp;



“There’s also the possibility that some of the respondents were aware of some secondhand smoke exposure but chose not to report it due to the stigma.”



Wang hopes that these revelations will pave the way for targeted interventions for at-risk groups.



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



"Understanding the extent of underreported nicotine exposure is crucial for developing effective public health strategies and interventions," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"It is imperative to bolster public consciousness about the risks associated with secondhand smoke."&nbsp;



"Additionally, surveillance tools should also incorporate measures of exposure to outdoor secondhand smoke and e-cigarette vapor to enhance the quality of data monitoring."



"Findings from this study can guide tobacco control initiatives and inform smoke-free air legislation."



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntad165">Nicotine and Tobacco Research</a>, and was supported by the Florida Health Policy Leadership Academy and the Florida Department of Health.



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Millions of Americans are unknowingly exposed to secondhand smoke

A recent study has unveiled a startling revelation that over...

In an era where technology is pushing the boundaries of what's possible, California-based Squishy Robotics is breaking new ground with a robot designed to aid first responders in dangerous and high-risk situations.



Originally conceptualized for missions on Mars or the Moon, Squishy's robot has found a life-saving purpose here on Earth. This versatile device can gauge environmental hazards and provide a strategic approach for first responders before they delve into situations like wildfires, car crashes, and even war zones. The idea behind this, as expressed by co-founder and CEO Alice Algino, is to prioritize human safety and ensure the best possible outcomes during rescue missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-squishy-robots-from-space-to-land">Moving squishy robots from space to land</h2>



The journey of <a href="https://squishy-robotics.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Squishy Robotics</a> from an outer space concept to a terrestrial lifesaver is remarkable. Back in 2014, the company received a grant of $500,000 from NASA for research. 



The study focused on the robot's mobility in zero gravity or low gravity environments using gas thrusters. Such thrusters enable the robot to leap to regions in space inaccessible to astronauts.



Fast forward to recent times, and the robot has been making waves in on-ground operations. With a weight of under three pounds, it can be seamlessly <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/squishy-robotics_haz-mat-situation_Drone-drop_2medium-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attached to drones</a> for aerial missions. 



This feature was displayed in February when a drone deployed the robot to inspect derailed propane tanks in Florida. Squishy's robot did more than just a visual inspection. It actively monitored air quality and successfully detected gas leaks, potentially averting a major disaster.



The resilience of the Squishy robot was put to the test in various challenging scenarios. In one such test, it was airdropped from an airplane at a staggering height of 1,000 feet. In another, it was squeezed into a compact space beneath a rubble pile to simulate a rescue scenario. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-squishy-robots-are-very-durable">Squishy robots are very durable</h2>



Remarkably, the robot even withstood an intentional explosion within a testing chamber. Through all these trials, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-robots-can-help-you-find-objects-that-youve-lost-or-misplaced/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot</a> not only survived but continued to record videos and stream data, showcasing its robust build and dependable functionalities.



The secret behind its durability lies in its unique web-like structure. This design ensures that the force from any impact is evenly distributed, safeguarding its sensitive central sensors. These sensors are vital for capturing and relaying real-time information to first responders.



Recognizing the potential of the Squishy robot, the company engaged with 300 first responders. These interviews were conducted to glean insights into how the robot could be further optimized for rescue operations.



In summary, Squishy Robotics has emerged as a beacon of innovation, pivoting from space exploration to life-saving terrestrial applications. With its advanced capabilities and potential for further optimization, this robot represents a promising future for emergency response technology.



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Squishy robot designed for space now assists emergency workers on Earth

In an era where technology is pushing the boundaries of...

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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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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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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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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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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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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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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



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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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&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.

How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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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...