For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-think-they-found-two-key-bacteria-that-cause-multiple-sclerosis/">bacteria</a>, make up around 90% of the gut virome.



Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health.



A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/inflammatory-bowel-disease/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IBD</a>), <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colonoscopy-vs-stool-tests-doctors-found-out-which-is-better-at-detecting-cancer/">colorectal cancer</a>, and Clostridium difficile infection (<a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15548-c-diff-infection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDI</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-s-virome-changes-across-life-stages">Gut's virome changes across life stages</h2>



The gut virome changes constantly throughout life. Infants show high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-that-eat-forever-chemicals-discovered-in-contaminated-soil/">diversity</a> in gut bacteriophages (also called phages), which is shaped by birth method, diet, and antibiotic exposure.



As individuals grow, diet and hormones refine the virome. In adults, phages and bacteria form a stable, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-021-00536-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balanced community</a>.



However, aging shifts this balance. Older adults show more lysogenic phages, which integrate into bacterial genomes and potentially alter metabolism and immune interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-environment-shape-the-virome">Diet and environment shape the virome</h2>



Diet greatly <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9455721/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influences</a> the virome. High-fiber diets support beneficial phages by encouraging helpful bacteria. Western diets, rich in fat and sugar, promote harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bacteria-breathe-by-creating-electricity/">phages</a>.



Urbanization reduces exposure to natural viruses. Studies show that rural diets which are rich in fiber boost gut virome diversity.



Host genetics and immunity also play roles. Genetic variants can affect viral detection and clearance. Immune defenses, like <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/interferons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interferons</a> and <a href="https://www.immunology.org/public-information/bitesized-immunology/receptors-molecules/immunoglobulin-iga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IgA</a>, keep the virome balanced.



However, immune dysfunction can trigger viral imbalances, worsening conditions like HIV and gut inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viruses-and-bacteria-interacting">Viruses and bacteria interacting</h2>



Viruses, including phages, along with bacteria and fungi form a complex and dynamic ecosystem in the gut. The components interact in positive and negative ways, thus affecting host metabolism, immune regulation and resistance to disease. 



The gut virome plays a crucial regulatory role in these intricate interactions. Phages interact with bacteria through lytic, lysogenic, and budding cycles, which regulate bacterial populations and gene flow. 



In a form of microbial arms race, the bacteria defend against phages using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-used-to-remove-extra-chromosomes-in-down-syndrome-and-restore-cell-function/">CRISPR systems</a> and the phages evolve escape mechanisms.



Some phages even boost bacterial metabolism and biofilm formation, affecting disease risk. For instance, phages can transfer genes that enhance bacterial survival in acidic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-influence-on-immunity">Virome’s influence on immunity</h2>



The virome affects gut immunity deeply. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-bacteria-get-hungry-they-turn-on-each-other/">Phages</a> can anchor to gut mucus and form a protective barrier. They also shape our own <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459471/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T and B cell</a> activity and regulate macrophages. In addition, viruses that infect eukaryotic cells affect immune pathways and maintain gut balance.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1s.webp" alt="This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine" class="wp-image-1976450"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine</figcaption></figure>



However, infections and antibiotics can disrupt this harmony and lead to inflammation. Phages can trigger TLR9 pathways, causing excessive immune responses such as those linked to IBD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-role-in-disease">Virome’s role in disease</h2>



Imbalances in the gut virome have been linked to several gut diseases. In IBD, specific phages become abundant and worsen inflammation.



Certain groups of phages (such as Caudovirales) amplify immune responses, while norovirus and rotavirus can damage the gut lining. Viral imbalances are also common in IBS and CDI.



In colorectal cancer, phages and eukaryotic viruses like HPV and JC virus (polyomavirus) appear more often. They may promote tumor growth by altering bacterial communities and gene expression.



Studies suggest that some phages directly influence cancer risk by promoting biofilms and transferring harmful genes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-based-treatments">Virus-based treatments</h2>



Several therapies now explore the virome’s potential to treat certain diseases or conditions. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) restores gut balance and reduces inflammation in IBD and CDI.



FMT works not only by shifting bacteria but also by transferring beneficial phages. Studies show that donor phages often align quickly with recipients and promote recovery.



Phage therapy, which uses viruses to kill specific bacteria, is another approach that is gaining traction. It can reduce harmful microbes while preserving beneficial ones.



Researchers have created phage cocktails that target specific gut pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, and this approach has had promising results in animal models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-as-a-tool-to-reshape-the-virome">Diet as a tool to reshape the virome</h2>



Dietary strategies also reshape the virome. High-fiber diets boost beneficial phages and support bacterial diversity.



Whey protein has shown potential in managing Crohn’s disease by improving phage-bacteria interactions.



Other interventions, such as exclusive enteral nutrition and low-FODMAP diets, also show benefits in gut diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-prebiotics-and-phages">Probiotics, prebiotics, and phages</h2>



Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics feed them. Combining them, known as symbiotics, shows promise for restoring and maintaining gut health.



Recent research suggests that adding phages can enhance these effects. Phage-based products, such as PreforPro, have already shown benefits in clinical trials.



These products can reduce populations of harmful bacteria and improve probiotic performance, thereby creating a more stable gut environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-gut-viruses-to-detect-diseases-early">Using gut viruses to detect diseases early</h2>



The gut virome is now being studied as a diagnostic tool. Viral patterns are more stable than bacterial ones, making them reliable biomarkers.



Distinct virome signatures can predict IBD and colorectal cancer. Machine learning models already use virome data to detect these diseases early.



Virome profiling may also track treatment responses, such as FMT success in IBD and CDI.



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



Despite the excitement over potential new treatments, many hurdles remain. Current methods struggle to capture the full virome due to technical limits.



Many phages are still unculturable, and their roles remain unclear. Researchers are working to improve viral databases and develop targeted therapies. Once these gaps close, virome-based therapies could change how we treat gut diseases.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pcm/article/8/2/pbaf010/8152264" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Precision Clinical Medicine</a>.



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Move over microbiome, it's time for the human gut's 'virome' to shine

For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, make up around 90% of the gut virome. Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health. A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI)....

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently analyzed the first severe human case of bird flu in the United States.



This case, identified in a Louisiana resident over the age of 65, revealed new mutations in the virus that were not found in the infected flock on the patient’s property. These findings have raised critical questions about the virus's behavior and its implications for public health.



Dr. Sarah Jenkins, lead virologist at CDC's Influenza Division, made this discovery with her team while analyzing samples from a Louisiana resident who contracted the virus.



The case marked a significant moment in U.S. public health monitoring, as it represented the first severe human infection of avian influenza in the country.



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



The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a>'s analysis revealed mutations in the hemagglutinin gene - the viral component that acts like a key fitting into a cell's lock. 



These genetic changes hadn't shown up in samples taken from the infected birds on the patient's property, suggesting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-outbreak-in-domestic-cats-raises-new-concerns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> might have evolved during human infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patient-profile-and-bird-flu-strain">Patient profile and bird flu strain </h2>



The patient was experiencing severe respiratory symptoms. The variant that infected the patient belongs to the D1.1 genotype - a strain recently spotted in American wild birds and poultry.



This differs from the B3.13 genotype that's been making headlines for infecting dairy cattle across multiple states. The B3.13 genotype is also responsible for some human cases. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-context-and-similar-bird-flu-cases">Global context and similar bird flu cases </h2>



The mutations discovered in this case aren't completely unprecedented. Similar genetic changes have cropped up in other countries, typically in cases where the infection turned severe. 



One particular mutation bears a striking resemblance to a change seen in a severe case in British Columbia, Canada.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-assessment-and-public-health-impact">Risk assessment and public health impact </h2>



The good news is that the CDC has not found any evidence that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/efforts-to-control-bird-flu-are-not-working-are-humans-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> jumped from this patient to anyone else. Despite the mutations, the overall risk to the public remains low - a reassuring constant in this evolving situation.



This case highlights the critical role of genetic surveillance in public health. While bird flu has traditionally struggled to spread efficiently between humans, each case provides valuable information about how the virus might adapt and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-flu-is-now-spreading-from-mammal-to-mammal-alarming-health-officials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolve</a>.



This knowledge is critical for preparing response strategies and protecting public health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-bird-flu">Dynamic nature of bird flu</h2>



This case serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of viral infections. 



Viruses constantly evolve - it's their nature. Our ability to detect and understand these changes represents one of our strongest defenses against potential threats to public health.



The CDC will continue to monitor human infections and investigate cases to assess whether the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephant-seal-colony-lost-95-of-its-pups-to-bird-flu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> can spread from person to person, which could signal pandemic potential.



The CDC has contingency plans for bird flu pandemics, which include vaccine development and distribution, antiviral stockpiles, and public health guidelines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward </h2>



The discovery of new bird flu mutations in a human patient highlights the importance of continued vigilance. Understanding these viral changes helps health officials stay one step ahead.



The CDC's quick identification and analysis of these mutations demonstrates the strength of our disease surveillance systems.



For the general public, the message remains straightforward: there is no need for alarm. The discovery of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-bird-flu-manage-to-infect-mammal-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutations</a>, while scientifically significant, does not yet change the overall risk assessment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-you-stay-safe-from-bird-flu">How can you stay safe from bird flu?</h2>



In humans, bird flu infections often result from direct or close contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated environments. 



Severe cases are associated with a high risk of complications, including kidney and respiratory issues and secondary infections. 



Although the risk to the general public is low, the CDC advises taking the following precautions to minimize exposure to bird flu:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Avoid direct contact with birds: Particularly wild birds or those in affected areas.</li>



<li>Practice good hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds or their environments.</li>



<li>Cook poultry properly: Ensure all poultry and eggs are fully cooked before consumption.</li>
</ol>



These simple steps can help reduce the risk of exposure to avian influenza and other zoonotic diseases.



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Bird flu mutations found in first severe U.S. human case

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently...

The universe is packed with intricate, carbon-based compounds, including organic molecules, that hold clues about life’s raw materials. Some of these compounds are found in space.



Over the past few years, robotic missions have taken samples from comets and asteroids to learn how these compounds formed and whether our planet might owe its biological chemistry to faraway dust clouds.



The findings hint that organic molecules appear in every corner of space, which suggests that our own evolution may fit into a larger cosmic narrative.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-molecules-in-space">Organic molecules in space</h2>



Scientists studying bits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-undergoing-major-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar</a> dust, comets, and asteroids keep finding the same theme: these objects contain a variety of organic molecules. The story began in 1986 when the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Giotto_overview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Giotto spacecraft </a>conducted the first in-situ analysis of a comet, <a href="https://www.space.unibe.ch/about_us/personen/dr_haenni_nora/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1P/</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eta-aquarids-see-up-to-50-shooting-stars-per-hour-this-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halley</a>, during its apparition (when it was visible from Earth). It revealed an unexpected abundance of organic species in the coma, but their exact origins -- whether from polymeric matter or smaller molecules -- remained unclear. The small spacecraft followed the comet for two years, capturing the dust and gas it shed. Instruments recorded dozens of molecules that contained carbon, leading scientists to look deeper for connections to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-in-submarines-can-help-astronauts-prepare-for-future-space-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early solar system</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-records-of-organic-molecules-in-space">Past records of organic molecules in space</h2>



The <a href="https://www.swri.org/press-release/rosetta-data-reveals-more-surprises-about-comet-67p">Rosetta</a> spacecraft was the first to orbit and land on a comet, namely 67P. In 2015, it detected simple organic compounds, including <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.1600285">glycine</a>, which is a building block of proteins. This discovery marked the first direct detection of this molecule on a comet. By 2022, researchers analyzing high-resolution mass spectrometry data <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-31346-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">identified</a> 44 organic compounds in just one day’s worth of Rosetta data, with some molecules weighing up to 140 Daltons (Da). “Rosetta really changed the view,” said <a href="https://www.space.unibe.ch/about_us/personen/dr_haenni_nora/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Nora Hänni</a>, a chemist at the <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bern</a>. Soon after this, her team identified dimethyl sulfide, a gas that, on Earth, is generally produced by living organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroids-as-cosmic-sample-returns">Asteroids as cosmic sample returns</h2>



Japan’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hayabusa-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hayabusa2</a> and NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/osiris-rex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSIRIS-REx</a> missions offered a similar look at ancient space rocks. They scooped material from asteroids Ryugu and Bennu and brought the samples back to Earth. Early analyses suggested that both asteroids have a wide range of organics present. <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abn7850" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-ryugu-has-unexpected-family-ties-near-jupiter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ryugu</a> found at least 20,000 varieties of carbon-based compounds, including 15 different amino acids. “It’s just everything possible from which life could emerge,” said <a href="https://www.helmholtz-munich.de/en/bgc/pi/philippe-schmitt-kopplin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philippe Schmitt-Kopplin</a>, an organic geoscientist at the Technical University of Munich.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-about-planetary-origins">Questions about planetary origins</h2>



Those organic-rich rocks may date back to a time before planets fully formed. Scientists wonder if these compounds started in cold, dark clouds between stars, or if they originated in energetic zones near young suns.&nbsp;



“Those of us interested in searching for life have to understand how planets could acquire organics in the absence of life,” said <a href="https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/nai/directory/glein-christopher/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christopher Glein</a>, a planetary scientist at the Southwest Research Institute. Many experts ask whether the early Earth became <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expanding-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitable</a> partly because of organic molecules that arrived from space. “I would like to know where we come from as a planetary species,” said <a href="https://astronomy.fas.harvard.edu/people/karin-oberg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karin Öberg</a>, an astrochemist at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-chemistry-across-the-cosmos">Early chemistry across the cosmos</h2>



Astronomers have traced certain hefty carbon structures called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05998-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PAHs</a>) back to about 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang.



Carbon atoms often form large, sturdy rings and chains in the outflows of dying stars. “It’s actually not too different from combustion as we understand it here on Earth,” said Öberg, referring to the ways these molecules can build up in stellar winds. 



Observations confirm that interstellar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parker-solar-probe-will-fly-through-suns-atmosphere-tomorrow-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> has more than 200 carbon-containing compounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icy-labs-in-the-dark">Icy labs in the dark</h2>



In molecular clouds, simple ingredients gather on cold dust grains. Once stuck together, atoms can combine to form key molecules like methane. Over time, ultraviolet radiation and cosmic rays split molecules into radical fragments, which recombine to form something new. Experiments hint that this can produce anything from methanol to glycine “You can build complexity without much going on in just a cold, dark cloud,” said <a href="https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/people/alice-s-booth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alice Booth</a>, an astronomer at Harvard University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-disks-and-newborn-worlds">Planetary disks and newborn worlds</h2>



Observations of protoplanetary disks -- thick, spinning layers of dust and gas around baby stars -- show that methanol and other organics survive the intense heat of stellar births. Recent modeling suggests these compounds may grow into even more sophisticated structures when disk materials cycle between hot surface zones and cooler midplane regions. This process could be one reason comets and asteroids wind up so chemically rich by the time they form. “Comets are, I think, the best that we can do to go back in time,” said Hänni.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-organic-molecules-in-space">Origins of organic molecules in space</h2>



When organic chemicals land on a planet, they might set the stage for the emergence of living systems. A few theories propose that meteorites or comets delivered certain amino acids or <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-03/documents/pahs_factsheet_cdc_2013.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PAHs</a> to early Earth.



Astrobiologists debate about which molecules represent a solid proof of life, and which might be possible false positives. 



The presence of dimethyl sulfide from comet 67P, supports the idea that lifeless processes can make molecules that we tend to associate with living organisms.



In 2016, <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Rosetta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosetta</a> concluded its mission with a controlled impact on comet 67P’s surface, which resulted in a rich legacy of data for further analysis.



Since then, scientists have connected these findings to other Solar System reservoirs of organics, such as Saturn’s ring rain and meteoritic material, revealing their shared prestellar origins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-organic-molecules-in-space">Future research on organic molecules in space</h2>



Scientists will continue exploring these mysteries with missions like NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/europa-clipper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa Clipper</a>, the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Juice</a>, and a future rotorcraft bound for Saturn’s moon Titan.



Researchers hope to spot organic compounds that might give hints about oceans hiding beneath icy crusts. 



Such discoveries could bring us closer to answering one of humanity's oldest questions: are we alone in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-mission-set-to-search-for-life-on-jupiters-ocean-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>?



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Organic molecules found throughout the universe hint that life began in deep space

The universe is packed with intricate, carbon-based compounds, including organic...

Looks,Like,Reversed,Infinity,Time,Spiral,,Digital,Generated,Image,With

It is widely known among scientists that light sometimes appears to exit a material before it has even entered. This odd "negative time" phenomenon was long seen as an illusion caused by the way waves become distorted by matter. 



Over time, many considered it a harmless quirk of physics, dismissed without much further investigation. Now, fresh experiments suggest that this behavior might carry deeper implications related to "negative time."



Researchers recently posted findings on the preprint server arXiv, drawing global interest and some reservations about what it all means.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-time-is-no-longer-theoretical">"Negative time" is no longer theoretical</h2>



Aephraim Steinberg, a <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> professor in experimental quantum physics, has seen how people can misunderstand discussions about negative time.



"This is tough stuff, even for us to talk about with other physicists. We get misunderstood all the time," he said. His team contends that negative time is not just theoretical but may exist in a measurable way.



They remain cautious in describing their experiments, emphasizing that the results reflect a subtle effect in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>. 



"That time turned out to be negative," Steinberg explained. Their data points to strange interactions between light and matter that defy everyday assumptions.



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



Their basement lab brims with mirrors, wires, and delicate lasers that track how photons interact with atoms. 



The atoms sometimes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/precise-shape-of-single-photon-light-revealed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorb photons</a> and later emit them, leaving the atoms in an excited state for a short period. Measuring this period was tricky, and to many, it sounded like it might flirt with impossibilities.



Steinberg and graduate student Daniela Angulo focused on the short time atoms remain excited. By collecting data on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atoms emit absorbed light</a>, they uncovered intervals that appeared less than zero. 



"We don't want to say anything traveled backward in time," Steinberg said. "That's a misinterpretation."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-time-doesn-t-violate-reality">"Negative time" doesn't violate reality</h2>



Investigations into quantum phenomena often spark worry about collisions with Einstein's theory of special relativity. 



Yet nothing in these experiments hints that any object can outrun light. Photons here do not convey information faster than physical laws permit, so there is no conflict with long-accepted principles.



Some have questioned whether labeling this interval as negative time might invite confusion. 



The team is aware that such language can sound surreal, but they believe it captures the unusual nature of quantum measurements that drift from usual expectations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photons-and-probabilities">Photons and probabilities</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photons have a split personality</a>, sometimes acting like particles and other times behaving like waves. 



They follow probability rules that let them appear in multiple states at once, prompting a range of possible outcomes. This fuzziness underpins the notion that events do not always fit into a neat timeline.



In standard settings, photons pass through materials in ways consistent with well-established physics. 



But in the group’s experiments, certain measurements produce results that slip into territory most would never predict. 



These findings spark curiosity about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> can present effects that appear at odds with common sense.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reactions-and-skepticism">Reactions and skepticism</h2>



The concept has captured the attention of many, including German theoretical physicist <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErLHm-1c6I4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sabine Hossenfelder</a>, who remains unimpressed. 



"The negative time in this experiment has nothing to do with the passage of time -- it's just a way to describe how photons travel through a medium and how their phases shift," she said in a YouTube video with more than 250,000 views.



Some observers suspect the term negative time is too dramatic and misrepresents the study’s scope. Others argue that a fresh approach could encourage deeper conversations about how quantum processes unfold. 



The researchers maintain they are not rewriting the rules of physics but aiming to highlight the weirdness at play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-tunneling-allow-particles-break-light-speed-barrier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fundamental experiments</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-for-negative-time-studies">Next steps for "negative time" studies</h2>



"We've made our choice about what we think is a fruitful way to describe the results," Steinberg said, adding that while practical applications remain elusive, the findings open new avenues for exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum phenomena</a>. 



He acknowledged that many remain skeptical, but he insists the numbers speak for themselves. No serious criticism has challenged their raw data.



"I'll be honest, I don't currently have a path from what we've been looking at toward applications," Steinberg admitted. "We're going to keep thinking about it, but I don't want to get people's hopes up."



Whether the idea of negative time transforms into something with everyday uses remains to be seen, yet the curiosity it sparks is hard to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



To sum it all up, quantum physics has always pushed boundaries, forcing researchers to adjust old assumptions. 



These experiments from the University of Toronto team serve as another reminder that the world behaves in ways that do not always match common intuition. Still, they stress that no claims of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time travel</a> are on the table.



By presenting evidence that something can measure out to less than zero time, these researchers have challenged expectations about how light interacts with matter. 



For now, the puzzle remains a subject of debate. Unraveling the enigma might take further studies, but many agree that investigating such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bizarre possibilities</a> is part of the ongoing effort to understand quantum reality.



The results highlight how experiments can produce outcomes that differ from conventional thinking. Negative intervals in absorption times remain an intriguing piece of a much broader puzzle.



Scientists continue to refine experiments and weigh alternative explanations. Despite lingering questions, the project stands as a reminder that quantum behavior can seem downright strange, to put it mildly.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2409.03680" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arXiv</a>.



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"Negative time" observed in new quantum experiments, surprising scientists

It is widely known among scientists that light sometimes appears...

The world’s largest iceberg has astonished scientists by shaking free from a spinning ocean trap and continuing its trek across remote southern waters.



Its journey, marked by twists and turns since it separated from Antarctica, has become a focus for research on the changing ocean and the ice’s influence on life beneath the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-breaks-free">A23a iceberg breaks free</h2>



The icy slab covers about 1,418 square miles, which makes it bigger than Rhode Island. 



It originally broke away from <a href="https://eros.usgs.gov/earthshots/filchner-ice-shelf-antarctica" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica’s Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf</a> in 1986 and remained stuck close to the continent for decades. 



Ocean currents and seafloor topography restricted its path. After finally regaining momentum last year, the towering block ran into a swirling formation of water near the <a href="https://www.ndsu.edu/subantarctic/southorkney.htm">South Orkney Islands</a>, where it ended up spinning in place for months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-iceberg-movements">Tracking iceberg movements</h2>



“It’s exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck,” said <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/media-post/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-breaks-free/">Dr Andrew Meijers</a>, an oceanographer at the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>.



Ocean experts have been monitoring this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-undergoing-major-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg’s</a> every move to understand how such massive blocks can influence sea circulation, temperature balance, and the distribution of nutrients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-for-the-a23a-iceberg">New chapter for the A23a iceberg</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birth-of-an-iceberg-a-83-breaks-free-from-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg’s</a> latest departure from its watery prison has stirred up fresh discussions about its fate. 



As it progresses northward, warmer seas may take a toll on its bulk. Many large ice masses follow a similar route before gradually disintegrating. Scientists emphasize that ice already afloat in the water does not raise sea levels when it melts. That does not mean these events should be dismissed, though, since Antarctica’s overall health is a concern in a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-and-its-ocean-impacts-nbsp">A23a iceberg and its ocean impacts&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers have pointed out that although this particular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg</a> calved naturally, Antarctic ice shelves are showing other, more concerning changes.



Experts worry that accelerated ice loss in certain areas could have far-reaching effects. Even small changes along coastal regions of the continent can result in shifts in glacial flow, which might eventually lead to an uptick in sea-level rise. 



Data gathered from icebergs like A23a helps build a clearer picture of these wider trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-antarctic-ice-shelves">Importance of Antarctic ice shelves</h2>



These massive floating ice platforms act as natural barriers, holding back glaciers from flowing too quickly into the ocean, while playing a crucial role in our planet's climate system.



By doing this, they help regulate sea levels and prevent dramatic rises that could flood coastal communities around the world. 



Additionally, ice shelves influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean currents</a> and the global climate by interacting with surrounding water and air, helping to maintain temperature and weather patterns. 



Without these ice shelves, we could see much faster ice loss from the Antarctic, leading to significant changes in our global climate.



Beyond their impact on climate, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-shelves-are-fracturing-from-meltwater-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ice shelves</a> are vital indicators of environmental health. Scientists closely monitor these ice structures to understand the effects of global warming and to predict future changes in ice behavior. 



When ice shelves start to thin or collapse, it signals shifts in climate trends, providing valuable data for researchers working on climate models and sea-level rise projections.



Moreover, the areas beneath and around ice shelves host unique marine ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife, contributing to Earth’s biodiversity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystems-under-the-ice">Ecosystems under the ice</h2>



Observations have shown that drifting ice blocks can stir the waters they pass through, sometimes generating short-lived plankton blooms. 



These blooms support fish, krill, and other marine life in areas that might otherwise lack resources. "These icebergs provide different sources of nutrients," explained Professor <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/profile/gant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geraint Tarling</a>, Biopole's principal investigator. By sampling the water where the giant iceberg has traveled, scientists hope to gauge whether this berg’s size and origin play a notable part in shaping ocean communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-future-holds">What the future holds</h2>



Many anticipate that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a23a-worlds-largest-iceberg-is-moving-after-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A23a</a> will continue meandering through the Southern Ocean currents. As it ventures closer to milder latitudes, the ice is expected to weaken and break into smaller chunks. 



Some fragments may persist for a while, but the main body of the iceberg will likely diminish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-research-enhances-ocean-circulation">A23a iceberg research enhances ocean circulation</h2>



Ongoing research on these gargantuan ice blocks helps experts refine climate models, track ocean circulation patterns, and pinpoint areas most vulnerable to environmental changes. 



Observations from ships, satellites, and on-site measurements all combine to offer a clearer view of what is happening far from major population centers. The hope is that findings from the watery trails left by A23a will guide future decisions on how we manage and protect polar waters and fragile marine habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-lab-for-ocean-studies">Moving lab for ocean studies</h2>



A23a’s odyssey is important because it shows how an individual iceberg can become a moving lab for oceanographers and climate scientists. 



The iceberg's escape from a rotating water column this month hints at nature’s complexity, from shifting ocean currents to unseen underwater topography.



While it has been around for nearly four decades, its path in the coming months may reveal more about the chain reactions set in motion when a piece of Antarctica sets sail for open waters.



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World’s largest iceberg breaks free from ocean cyclone and is on the move again

The world’s largest iceberg has astonished scientists by shaking free...

Earth sometimes picks up unexpected companions. One recently spotted object, about 33 feet (10 meters) long, caught astronomers’ attention in late summer as it moved close enough to become, for a short time, a temporary guest in our gravitational field.



It was found using the ATLAS survey, a system that scans the skies for approaching space rocks. The object was named 2024 PT5.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-rock-linked-to-the-moon">Space rock linked to the Moon</h2>



From September 29 to November 25, this traveler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">looped around our planet</a> before drifting away. It resembled what some call a mini-moon, but not everyone agrees on the label. According to Paul Chodas, director of NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>), it could have come from a lunar impact long ago.



This possibility elevates the significance of the mysterious object. If it truly broke off the moon, then wandered into space only to show up here as a fleeting visitor, that’s more than a random asteroid drop-in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-captures-mini-moons">Earth captures mini-moons</h2>



Short-term orbital captures happen when Near-Earth Objects, or NEOs, move close enough for Earth’s gravity to temporarily capture them.



NASA describes <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/about/basics.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NEOs</a> as bodies nudged by other planets until they drift into Earth’s neighborhood. This can turn them into passersby that come and go. Although most slip away unnoticed, a few of these objects get spotted.



“Earth can regularly capture asteroids from the near-earth object (NEO) population and pull them into orbit, making them mini-moons,” noted Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evasive-space-objects">Evasive space objects </h2>



As discussed, many objects that buzz around our world do so invisibly. It’s common for them to either miss Earth entirely or crash through the atmosphere, producing bright meteors or even catastrophic impacts like the one linked to the dinosaurs’ demise. But spotting a small object that loops near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-moon-trifecta-september-2024-harvest-moon-supermoon-and-partial-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> without hitting it is trickier. Sometimes astronomers confuse such objects with old rocket parts or spacecraft, which has happened before with artificial satellites.



Careful observations confirmed that 2024 PT5 was natural, and not a piece of space junk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mini-moons-and-other-oddballs">Mini-moons and other oddballs</h2>



Temporary satellites come in different varieties. Some perform multiple orbits around Earth, then stick around for a while before drifting off. Others take a quick loop and vanish, never even completing a full circle.



According to prior <a href="http://mpcweb1.cfa.harvard.edu/mpec/K24/K24PH0.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>, some have even been mistaken for asteroids orbiting the sun before their real trajectory was understood. Past cases show how researchers work to classify these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transient neighbors</a>. They rely on data from surveys and institutions like the Center for Astrophysics, where astronomers study asteroid dynamics. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-earth-s-mini-moon">Is it really Earth's mini-moon?</h2>



There’s been much debate over what counts as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-lost-its-mini-moon-2024-pt5-may-have-come-from-our-main-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mini-moon</a>. Some argue that if the object doesn’t complete a full orbit, it’s just a near miss. Others insist even a partial capture is worth noting.



Lance Benner, who leads asteroid radar research at JPL, looks at what an object actually does before classifying it. Whether 2024 PT5 meets strict definitions matters less to those simply intrigued by what its presence can teach us.



If this object truly came from our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvest-moon-2024-will-feature-a-partial-lunar-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, it suggests that large impacts scattered lunar material far and wide. Bits of our celestial neighbor might still be drifting through space, waiting for a chance encounter with Earth. Understanding how material escapes the moon’s gravity and ends up roaming free can help refine models of lunar and Earth evolution. It might even clarify how common these lunar fragments are. Though no one can say for certain yet, this possibility is exciting to astronomers, prompting further observations and better tracking methods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-defense-strategies">Planetary defense strategies </h2>



We live amid a cosmic swirl, where not all objects are potential hazards. Many are tiny fragments just passing through. But scientists pay close attention to any that could come closer than comfort allows. Monitoring these objects supports <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2023-NSTC-National-Preparedness-Strategy-and-Action-Plan-for-Near-Earth-Object-Hazards-and-Planetary-Defense.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary defense strategies</a>, which track objects that might threaten life on Earth. 



While giant asteroids top the priority list, even smaller rocks can cause serious damage if they strike. There are <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/science-research/planetary-science/planetary-defense/near-earth-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">millions</a> of these modest but still threatening bodies lurking out there.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mining-mini-moons">Mining mini-moons </h2>



Some groups talk about mining asteroids for metals and other resources. If an accessible mini-moon passed by one day, it might be easier to reach than other targets.



In theory, a future spacecraft might push a rich fragment into Earth’s orbit and create a mine at our doorstep. This remains a vision for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visitors-from-our-cosmic-neighborhood">Visitors from our cosmic neighborhood </h2>



For now, 2024 PT5 has come and gone. Just because it visited doesn’t guarantee we’ll see more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-supermoon-blue-moon-will-outshine-and-outsize-all-other-moons-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> fragments passing by, but it hints at a bustling environment that may hide many surprises. Astronomers continue cataloging and studying these objects, including tricky, short-term captures known as <a href="https://www.planetary.org/defend-earth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arjuna asteroids</a> that travel near Earth’s orbit. We share this cosmic neighborhood with countless wanderers, and each passing object has a story to tell. 



No one knows what kind of guests Earth might host in the future. Some will barely register on telescopes, others will linger, and a few could turn out to be fragments of places we thought we knew.



More details of the study are available <a href="https://arxiv.org/html/2412.10264v1">here</a>. 



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Surprise arrival: A fragment of the Moon just circled Earth

Earth sometimes picks up unexpected companions. One recently spotted object,...

Community dog parks are often seen as cheerful places where dogs can run free and interact with other pets. Many people feel that these shared spaces help animals stay active, but new <a href="https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-024-06563-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> points to a different story.



Recent <a href="https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-024-06563-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> from the Department of Ecosystem and Public Health at the University of Calgary have revealed that half of the fecal samples collected in select dog parks contained intestinal parasites. These particular parasites have the potential to affect not only canines but also humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parasites-in-dog-parks">Parasites in dog parks</h2>



 The experts found that parasites are often more common in areas where several dogs gather and roam freely. 



Parasites in the dog park samples included protozoa that are known to cause gastrointestinal issues, especially in younger or immune-compromised canines.



These types of parasites are also known to spread from animals to humans through contaminated materials.



Many of them linger in the environment, which increases the risk for anyone handling infected objects or soil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-dog-traffic-areas-and-parasites">High dog traffic areas and parasites </h2>



Dogs that visit more than one park or spend significant time off-leash have a greater chance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-superbugs-are-being-passed-from-pets-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">picking up infections</a>. 



Overlapping areas with high dog traffic can make it easier for parasites to spread, especially if waste is not disposed of properly.



These newly identified parasite infection patterns point to an urgent need for consistent hygiene practices and vigilant parasite prevention measures among dog owners. Missing these steps could lead to larger issues in households and communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-dogs-from-parasites">Protecting dogs from parasites</h2>



“Administer year-round broad-spectrum parasite control with efficacy against heartworm, intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks. Control of parasites with zoonotic potential is essential,” noted the <a href="https://capcvet.org/guidelines/general-guidelines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Companion Animal Parasite Council </a>(CAPC). 



Such preventive care can also lower veterinary bills over time. Early treatment helps ensure that dogs remain safe from conditions that might otherwise worsen and spread.



“All dogs should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many dogs, more frequent visits may be appropriate,” stated the <a href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/aaha-avma-canine-preventive-healthcare-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Veterinary Medical Association</a> (AVMA). 



Consistent check-ups can catch issues early before they turn into bigger problems.



Veterinarians can recommend parasite prevention methods suited to each dog’s lifestyle. They can also help pet owners to address any new concerns about health or behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stopping-the-spread-of-infections">Stopping the spread of infections </h2>



Some of the parasites identified by the experts can affect humans through direct or indirect contact - with children and older family members facing the greater risk. 



Hands-on moments with pets may carry hidden dangers if basic precautions are neglected. 



Habits like washing hands and tidying up after dogs are simple actions that can make a big difference by stopping infections from spreading between households or within neighborhoods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-cleanliness-in-play-areas">Maintaining cleanliness in play areas</h2>



Dog parks can still be fun if everyone does their part in disposing of waste and keeping the area clean. It is critical to use designated trash bins and avoid leaving any droppings behind, as parasites thrive in damp conditions.



Regular park maintenance further reduces contamination by preventing harmful organisms from circulating in the soil. A clean environment creates a healthier space for everyone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-home-routines">Tips for home routines</h2>



An effective deworming schedule can shield pets from exposure to parasites that might be picked up outdoors. Over-the-counter remedies are not always reliable, so <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neutering-linked-to-serious-health-risks-in-some-dog-breeds/">consulting a veterinarian</a> remains the best bet.



Families that allow pets on couches or beds may want to vacuum more frequently. This is especially true for homes with small children who explore surfaces by touch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-awareness-and-responsible-actions">Community awareness and responsible actions</h2>



Dog parks help maintain social bonds among pets and people in the community. Many owners appreciate these places because their pets can socialize and burn off excess energy.



Paying careful attention to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warning-dogs-drinking-from-public-water-sources-is-dangerous/">parasite control</a> does not eliminate the social benefit of these shared spaces. Instead, it helps everyone feel secure while enjoying all the perks of playing outdoors.



Active outreach by local pet groups can remind park visitors to be responsible. Handouts, reminders on social media, and polite signs in dog parks can also help to raise awareness.



Any step that guides owners toward better cleaning habits or timely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-on-vegan-diets-stay-healthier-and-visit-the-vet-less-often/">veterinary checks</a> is a win for public health. Simple changes can reshape how communities share public spaces like dog parks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



Informed decisions about parasite control allow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-cat-people-really-more-crazy-than-dog-lovers/">dog lovers</a> to keep enjoying community parks without constant worry. This means routine vet care, proper hygiene, and thorough cleaning habits.



These measures benefit everyone who values recreational spaces that welcome four-legged friends. 



The new findings about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-killing-liver-fluke-parasite-discovered-us-colorado-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intestinal parasites</a> may sound unsettling, but vigilance can make a clear difference. Renewed awareness often spurs owners to take small but vital steps to protect their cherished companions.



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Dog parks may be fueling parasite outbreaks

Community dog parks are often seen as cheerful places where...

After nearly 250 years of informal recognition, the bald eagle has officially been designated as the national bird of the United States. On Christmas Eve 2024, President Joe Biden signed into law a bill amending title 36 of the United States Code to declare the bird’s status.



"For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't," said Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the <a href="https://www.nationaleaglecenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Eagle Center</a>. "But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-proclamation-centuries-in-the-making">A proclamation centuries in the making</h2>



In June 1782, the bald eagle was adopted as the Coat of Arms for the United States Great Seal. Despite its symbolic significance, the bird’s status as the national bird was never acknowledged by law until now.&nbsp;



The legislation, introduced on National American Eagle Day (June 20, 2024), was sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and supported by a bipartisan group, including Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symbol-of-freedom-nbsp">A symbol of freedom&nbsp;</h2>



"The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation," Senator Mullin said in a statement. 



"It's only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I was glad to join my colleagues in leading this bipartisan effort and appreciate the House's swift consideration."



Jack Davis called the move “long overdue,” emphasizing the bird’s unique role as a symbol of American values and its indigenous roots in North America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-debate-over-the-bald-eagle">Historical debate over the bald eagle</h2>



Although widely revered today, the bald eagle’s path to national recognition was not without debate. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously opposed its selection as a national emblem, disparaging the bird as one of “bad moral character.”



However, for generations, the bald eagle has been celebrated for its attributes of strength, courage, and freedom - qualities deeply associated with the American spirit.&nbsp;



Unlike other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australias-largest-eagle-was-a-massive-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eagles</a>, the bald eagle is found exclusively in North America, making it a uniquely fitting representative of the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovering-from-the-brink-of-extinction">Recovering from the brink of extinction</h2>



The bald eagle’s journey reflects the resilience of the nation it symbolizes. Once on the brink of extinction due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use, the bird was listed as endangered in 1967.&nbsp;



Thanks to conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and the enactment of the National Emblem Act of 1940, bald eagles have made a dramatic comeback.



By 2020, the bald eagle population had reached 316,700 individuals - which quadrupled the estimated number of these birds in 2009.&nbsp;



This recovery demonstrates the power of preservation and the collective commitment to safeguarding America’s wildlife. However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-are-threatened-by-avian-influenza/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">challenges persist</a>.&nbsp;



In recent years, threats like avian influenza (bird flu) have emerged. Since January 2022, at least 136 bald eagles have died from bird flu across 24 states.&nbsp;



Furthermore, habitat loss, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lead-ammunition-is-a-silent-threat-to-bald-eagle-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead poisoning</a> from hunting ammunition, and environmental contamination continue to pose risks.



Sustained efforts are needed to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of the bald eagle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bald-eagle-a-national-icon">The bald eagle: A national icon</h2>



The legislation is particularly meaningful for the state of Minnesota, which is home to one of the largest bald eagle populations in the country.&nbsp;



“The bald eagle is a symbol of our country’s freedom and strength. In Minnesota, we are proud to call ourselves home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the country as well as the National Eagle Center in Wabasha,” said Senator Klobuchar.&nbsp;



Preston Cook is co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center and author of the book American Eagle - A Visual History of Our National Emblem.&nbsp;



"This is an exciting day. The Bald Eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782," said Cook. "With this legislation, we honor its historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-symbols-of-the-united-states">National symbols of the United States </h2>



In the past, the United States designated other symbols to represent its natural heritage and cultural identity. Among these, the rose holds the title of the national flower, chosen for its widespread beauty, significance in American culture, and long history as a symbol of love and resilience.&nbsp;



The oak, revered for its strength and longevity, was declared the national <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-oak-trees-isoprene-emissions-air-pollution-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> in 2004 to represent the enduring spirit of the nation.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plains-bison-are-in-danger-from-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bison</a>, an iconic species of the American plains, was named the national mammal in 2016 to honor its historical and ecological importance, as well as its recovery from near extinction.&nbsp;



The formal designation of the bald eagle as the national bird marks a new chapter in its history - one that reflects the values and aspirations of the United States.&nbsp;



As this majestic bird continues to thrive, its legacy as a symbol of freedom and resilience is now protected by law for future generations.



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It's official: The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States 

After nearly 250 years of informal recognition, the bald eagle...

Reincarnation is often viewed as a mystical concept, but could it have a scientific basis? 



The universe operates on energy. Everything - from galaxies spiraling in space to thoughts forged in the human mind - involves energy.



Science tells us that energy can be neither created nor destroyed; it simply transfers from one form to another. Applying this principle to consciousness yields staggering possibilities.



Could our consciousness, as energy, be truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-in-reverse-comb-jellies-can-transform-from-adult-to-juvenile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immortal</a>, merely transitioning from one existence to another? 



A controversial U.S. Army study, declassified in 2003, explores this captivating theory of reincarnation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-consciousness-and-reincarnation">Unlocking consciousness and reincarnation</h2>



In the early 1980s, Lieutenant Colonel Wayne M. McDonnell undertook a 29-page analysis named "The Gateway Process."



The goal was to unravel what Army personnel were encountering at a small institute in Charlottesville, Virginia.



This establishment was developing the "Gateway Experience," a unique training system designed to enhance personal strength, focus, and coherence in a way that would change the fabric of consciousness.



The Gateway's aim was to take <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/panpsychism-what-if-all-things-humans-plants-atoms-have-universal-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consciousness</a> beyond the physical constraints, even transcending the limitations of time and space. It seems that the purpose was to alter the mind in order to create a kind of psychic spycraft.



The analysis details some well-known techniques, such as hypnosis and transcendental meditation, but also ventures into some less well known methods of investigating consciousness.



But how does this relate to reincarnation?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cases-of-reincarnation">Cases of reincarnation </h2>



Researchers at the Monroe Institute, the center of these mind-stretching exercises, made discoveries that seemed to bolster the case for reincarnation.



"When consciousness returns to the Absolute (Monroe jargon for a realm outside spacetime), it brings with it all the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> it has accumulated through experience in reality," McDonnell explained. 



In other words, memories pass from life to life, thereby supporting the idea of reincarnation.



Renewed interest in this study was sparked by Chicago-based comedian Sara Holcomb.



Holcomb summarized the intriguing findings in a social media post: "We're pretty sure reincarnation is real. Consciousness is energy and it exists outside of our understanding of reality. And energy … never dies."



Notably, the <a href="https://med.virginia.edu/perceptual-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Virginia Medical School's Division of Perceptual Studies</a> provided further evidence of over 2,500 professed cases of reincarnation. Remarkably, these cases involved children under five years old who claimed to remember living a previous life.



"Why the kids? It seems they're the ones that most easily remember their past lives," noted Holcomb.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-purpose-of-the-gateway-study">The dual purpose of the Gateway study</h2>



However, the study was not limited to spiritual discourse on reincarnation and consciousness. It had a second, more strategic purpose.



At the time, Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) was investigating the potential use of paranormal abilities for military intelligence – a field known as psychic spycraft.



Under the leadership of Major General Albert Stubblebine III – a staunch advocate of psychic warfare – was Joe McMoneagle, identified as Remote Viewer No.1. 



McMoneagle's role was to use remote viewing to spy on Russian military bases and gather clandestine intelligence.



His efforts - despite a success rate of around 28 percent - proved crucial for dealing with “the hopeless cases” and in painting an overall intelligence picture.



McMoneagle, now retired, serves on the Board of Advisors and as a trainer for the Monroe Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-psychic-spying-strategy">The psychic spying strategy </h2>



The "Gateway Experience" also became a subject of scrutiny for the U.S. Army INSCOM, as part of their exploration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-near-death-experiences-validated-by-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"out of body" experiences</a> for espionage.



"There is a sound and rational basis in terms of physical science parameters for considering Gateway to be plausible in terms of its essential objectives. Intuitional insights of not only personal but of a practical and professional nature would seem to be within the bounds of reasonable expectations," concluded McDonnell.



He endorsed the "psychic spying" strategy as a practical approach, but he also cautioned about the difficulties in controlling or directing these experiences consistently.



However, the study concluded that more research was necessary for the U.S. intelligence to be able to utilize this process.



McDonnell provided <a href="https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/cia-rdp96-00788r001700210016-5.pdf">recommendations</a> for potential Gateway studies, though it's uncertain whether any more research was eventually conducted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-continues">The journey continues </h2>



Interestingly, one section of McDonnell's report – the 25th page – is missing. This has piqued the curiosity of readers who have even started a Change.org petition for the CIA to release it. 



The CIA claims never to have had this page, further fueling theories of purposeful omission due to the possible powerful techniques described in the missing document.



The Gateway study opens up a thrilling discussion, not just on the realms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/third-state-of-existence-beyond-life-and-death-confirmed-by-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life after life</a>, but on the applications of such phenomena in areas as demanding as military intelligence. 



As our understanding and exploration of reality continue to evolve, we might one day unravel these profound mysteries. Until then, the journey continues.



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U.S. Army Intelligence study suggests that reincarnation is real

Reincarnation is often viewed as a mystical concept, but could...

If you've ever crossed paths with ants scurrying across your kitchen counter, you know they aren't solitary creatures. Just like us humans, ant groups enjoy a robust social life.



Perhaps that's not news to you, but did you know that both ants and humans share a unique trait? We're the only species that collaborate to transport bulky items that are enormously bigger than ourselves.



This rare trait forms the basis of a fascinating study led by Professor Ofer Feinerman and his team at the Weizmann Institute of Science. 



The researchers pitted ants against humans in maneuvering a large object through a maze, and it led to surprising insights about decision-making and the dynamics of teamwork.



Published in the&nbsp;Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study explores the advantages and limitations of cooperation in two vastly different species. 



The results highlight the strengths of collective ant behavior and the challenges humans face in group settings, particularly when communication is restricted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piano-movers-puzzle-for-ants-and-humans">"Piano movers puzzle" for ants and humans</h2>



To compare the cooperation within these species, the researchers adapted the "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moving-sofa-problem-mathematician-solves-a-century-old-puzzle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">piano movers puzzle</a>."



This computational problem, common in robotics, involves moving a bulky object through a complex space. Instead of a piano, participants maneuvered a T-shaped object through a maze with three chambers that were connected by narrow slits.



Ants and humans tackled mazes scaled to their respective sizes. For humans, recruitment was straightforward - they volunteered for the fun of competition.



Ants, however, were lured by the false promise of food. The selected ants,&nbsp;Paratrechina longicornis&nbsp;or "crazy ants," are common in Israel and known for their agility and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-use-chemical-trails-to-guide-their-friends-to-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social behavior</a>.



Participants were divided into three categories: individuals, small groups (six to nine humans or seven ants), and large groups (26 humans or 80 ants). 



For a fair comparison, human groups were sometimes prohibited from speaking or gesturing. They even wore surgical masks and sunglasses to mimic the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a>’ non-verbal communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-excel-alone-ants-shine-in-groups">Humans excel alone, ants shine in groups</h2>



The study revealed striking differences between humans and ants in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-now-using-cars-to-travel-spread-to-new-locations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">problem-solving approaches</a>. When working individually, humans significantly outperformed ants, thanks to their cognitive abilities and strategic planning.



In group tasks, however, ants outcompeted humans, especially in larger groups. Ant colonies demonstrated remarkable coordination and collective memory. They consistently pursued effective strategies and avoided repeated errors.



“An ant colony is actually a family. All the ants in the nest are sisters, and they have common interests,” explained Feinerman.



Humans, on the other hand, struggled to translate individual strengths into group success. Without communication, their performance often declined. They tended to choose “greedy” solutions - quick fixes that weren’t sustainable.



According to the researchers, these choices reflected the “lowest common denominator” approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lowest-common-denominator">Lowest common denominator </h2>



The "lowest common denominator" approach means that the decisions made by the group tended to simplify or reduce complex problems to the easiest or most basic solution. 



This often happens when groups prioritize solutions that everyone can agree on - even if those solutions are less effective or strategic.



In the context of this study, it implies that human groups chose strategies that required the least effort or consensus, sacrificing long-term benefits for short-term simplicity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-ant-groups">Lessons from ant groups</h2>



The study from the <a href="https://www.weizmann.ac.il/pages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weizmann Institute of Science</a> highlights the unique social dynamics of ant colonies.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-queens-turn-to-cannibalism-recycle-bodies-for-colony-disease-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ants</a> function as a super-organism, with individuals acting like cells in a larger body. Their cooperation is seamless, driven by shared goals rather than competition. 



“Our findings validate this vision. We've shown that ants acting as a group are smarter, that for them the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” said Feinerman.



In contrast, the famous human "wisdom of the crowd" didn’t emerge in this experiment. Communication barriers and individual tendencies hindered group efficiency. This highlights the complexities of human cooperation, even in controlled settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-science-and-collaboration">Bridging science and collaboration</h2>



The study exemplifies how collaboration across disciplines can yield remarkable insights. 



Contributors included Dr. Ehud Fonio, Professor Nir Gov, and Dr. Amir Haluts, along with Professor Amos Korman from the <a href="https://www.haifa.ac.il/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Haifa</a>.



Despite the challenges of human teamwork, the researchers successfully merged expertise in physics, biology, and computational modeling.



This unique experiment offers valuable lessons about group dynamics and decision-making. While humans and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-shifting-to-new-habitats-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> excel in different ways, this comparison sheds light on the potential - and pitfalls - of working together.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2414274121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Ants work in groups more successfully than humans

If you've ever crossed paths with ants scurrying across your...

Heavy rain has always been part of Earth's water cycle, but lately something is different. Cities are flooding more often, storm drains are overwhelmed, and weather records keep getting broken. 



Now, scientists have solved a puzzling mystery about extreme rainfall that's been bugging researchers for years.



Led by Dr. Sarosh Alam Ghausi at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany, researchers have determined why some data seemed to contradict what we know about rainfall in a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-rainfall-extreme">What makes rainfall "extreme"?</h2>



Extreme rainfall refers to an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unusually high amount of rain</a> over a short period, often surpassing local thresholds set by meteorologists. 



To put this in perspective, scientists consider "extreme rainfall" to be the heaviest 5% of rain events in any given area. 



Its definition varies by region due to differences in climate and historical weather patterns. For example, what is considered extreme in arid regions may be normal in tropical areas. 



Extreme rainfall can result from slow-moving weather systems, tropical cyclones, or atmospheric rivers - long, narrow bands of moisture in the atmosphere. 



These events can disrupt ecosystems, overwhelm urban drainage, and cause significant damage to agriculture and infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cloud-confusion">The cloud confusion</h2>



For a long time, scientists noticed something odd in their data. While we know that warmer air holds more moisture and should lead to heavier rain, the numbers weren't adding up in tropical and mid-latitude regions.



When daily temperatures went above 23-25°C (73-77°F), extreme rainfall actually seemed to decrease.



This didn't make sense. The science is clear: warmer air can hold more water vapor, so why weren't we seeing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more intense rainfall</a> in these warmer conditions?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-missing-piece-of-the-puzzle">The missing piece of the puzzle</h2>



Interestingly, clouds were found to interfere with temperature measurements during rainfall. When it rains, clouds block sunlight from reaching the Earth’s surface, causing a cooling effect. 



This cooling was distorting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature data</a>, particularly in tropical regions where clouds reflect a significant amount of sunlight back into space. 



This made it appear as though extreme rainfall was less linked to warming than it actually is. By accounting for this cooling effect, scientists uncovered the true relationship between rising temperatures and increasing extreme rainfall rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-track-extreme-rainfall">New approach to track extreme rainfall</h2>



The research team found a clever way around this problem. Using satellite data that measures radiation, they developed a method to remove the cooling effect of clouds from their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/september-2024-was-the-second-hottest-month-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature measurements</a>.



When they looked at the corrected data, everything fell into place. The relationship between temperature and extreme rainfall matched what science predicts and what climate models have been showing us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-the-future">What this means for the future</h2>



"This confirms what is widely expected: Extreme rainfall intensifies in a globally warmer climate," said Dr. Ghausi. His team found that the heaviest increases in extreme rainfall are happening in tropical humid areas like India, Northern Australia, and the Amazon.



The implications are serious. Without proper preparation, these more intense rainfall events could lead to increased flooding. 



"These results support the physical expectations that the whole hydrological cycle becomes more intense and extreme with warmer temperatures," said Dr. Axel Kleidon, senior author of the study from <a href="https://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry</a>.



"We will not only see more extreme rainfall rates, but also more intense and longer dry spells in the future." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-climate-science">Complexity of climate science</h2>



This research gives us a clearer picture of what's happening with extreme rainfall and why. It confirms what many communities are already experiencing: rain patterns are changing, and they're changing fast.



The study also highlights the complexity of climate science. Sometimes what looks like a contradiction in the data is actually telling us something important about how our atmosphere works. 



By figuring out the role clouds play in temperature measurements, scientists have given us a better understanding of what to expect as our planet continues to warm.



For cities and communities around the world, this knowledge is crucial. It can help planners design better drainage systems, improve flood defenses, and prepare for the more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a> that lies ahead.



This isn't just about numbers and measurements. It's about helping communities prepare for a future where the phrase "when it rains, it pours" takes on a whole new meaning.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55143-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Forecasting the floods: New clues about extreme rainfall

Heavy rain has always been part of Earth's water cycle,...

Our brains process countless visual signals every second, but some triggers spark instant recognition. New research shows that when it comes to spotting snakes, it's their scales that set off ancient alarm bells in primate brains - including our own.



Dr. Nobuyuki Kawai, a researcher at Nagoya University in Japan, has discovered that monkeys respond to snake scales as a key visual warning sign, suggesting this trait is deeply embedded in primate evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fear-of-snakes-in-primates">Fear of snakes in primates</h2>



Snakes have posed a serious danger to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-do-fear-and-anxiety-reside-in-the-brain-new-cells-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> since the earliest stages of our evolution. 



For our ancestors, the ability to quickly detect and react to snakes was crucial for survival, as many species of snakes are venomous and can be deadly. What makes this fear particularly fascinating is that it is not learned through experience. 



Both monkeys and human babies, even those who have never encountered a snake in real life, still show strong reactions to images of snakes. 



This suggests that the fear of snakes is an innate survival mechanism, hardwired into the brain through millions of years of evolutionary pressure. This instinct ensures that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>, including humans, remain vigilant and can avoid potentially life-threatening encounters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkeys-reacting-to-snake-images">Monkeys reacting to snake images</h2>



To uncover the specific triggers in primates behind this instinctive fear of snakes, Dr. Nobuyuki Kawai's team from <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> designed a straightforward test. 



The researchers presented monkeys with two sets of images: one showing snakes and the other depicting salamanders.



Although both creatures share similar elongated, slithering bodies, the monkeys reacted immediately to the snake images but showed no such response to the salamanders. This highlighted that the reaction wasn’t simply about the body shape.



This observation raised an intriguing question: what if a harmless salamander were altered to display the distinctive scales of a snake? Would the monkeys recognize it as non-threatening, or would the scaly appearance alone activate their fear response? 



Kawai’s curiosity set the stage for a deeper investigation into the visual cues that spark this innate fear of snakes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-are-more-interested-in-the-emotions-of-strangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triggered-by-snake-skin">Triggered by snake skin</h2>



Kawai designed a clever experiment to find out. He set up a game where monkeys had to spot the odd image out among nine pictures to get a reward. 



When he placed a single snake image among salamander pictures, the monkeys found it super quickly. But here's where it gets interesting - when he showed them doctored images of salamanders wearing snake skin, they spotted these just as fast, sometimes even faster than real snake images.



"Previously we demonstrated that humans and primates can recognize snakes quickly; however, the critical visual feature was unknown," Kawai said. 



"The monkeys did not react faster to salamanders, a species that shares a similar elongated body and tail with snakes, until the images were changed to cover them with snake skin."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primates-snake-detection-abilities">Primates' snake detection abilities</h2>



The discovery points to something remarkable about primate evolution.



"This may be because during evolution our primate ancestors evolved a visual system to identify scales, which are characteristic of snakes," Kawai explained. 



"These insights into primate evolution will likely improve our understanding of vision and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-changes-how-we-recall-memories-making-them-seem-frightening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain evolution</a> in animals, including ourselves."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primate-brains-evolved-to-spot-danger">Primate brains evolved to spot danger</h2>



The study, published in Scientific Reports, extends beyond simply explaining why primates are quick to spot snakes.



It shows how our visual processing system developed specific tricks to keep us safe. Our brains didn't just evolve to see better - they evolved to see danger better.



This research opens up new questions about other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visually-striking-primate-features-ease-tension-and-reduce-conflict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual cues</a> that might be hardwired into our brains. What other ancient warning signs might we be unconsciously processing? How else has evolution shaped the way we see the world?



The next time you jump at the sight of something snake-like, remember - you're reacting like all primates have for generations. This instinct is the result of millions of years of evolution, designed to shield you from one of nature’s oldest threats. And it all comes down to those scales.



The full study is recently published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-78595-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Primate brains have evolved to rapidly detect snakes

Our brains process countless visual signals every second, but some...

Anthropogenic climate change, driven by human activities, remains a pressing issue for our planet. The rapid changes in terrestrial carbon sinks and stores now challenge the effectiveness of existing climate mitigation strategies. To prevent catastrophic global warming, behaviors must change swiftly.



Gross primary productivity (GPP) offers critical insight into ecosystem health. It measures the carbon dioxide fixed by plants per unit of time and area. 



Researchers recently analyzed the drivers of change in GPP to predict future trends and align global efforts with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting temperature increases to 2℃ (3.6℉). Their findings, published in&nbsp;Ecosystem Health and Sustainability, reveal troubling trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-carbon-sinks">What are carbon sinks?</h2>



Carbon sinks are natural systems that absorb more carbon dioxide (CO2) than they release, playing a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate. While forests, oceans, and soil are well-known carbon sinks, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-both-carbon-sinks-and-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other systems</a> like wetlands, permafrost, and certain rocks also contribute significantly.



Wetlands, such as marshes and mangroves, store large amounts of carbon in their waterlogged soils. This slows decomposition, allowing carbon to remain trapped for centuries. 



Permafrost, the frozen ground in Arctic regions, locks away organic material under ice. However, as temperatures rise, melting permafrost could release stored carbon, intensifying global warming.



Microscopic algae absorb CO2 in the ocean. When they die and sink to the seabed, the carbon is sequestered for long periods of time. Even geological formations, like basalt and limestone, can store CO2 through chemical reactions over thousands of years.



Human activities like deforestation and pollution reduce the effectiveness of these natural carbon sinks. However, their preservation is essential for climate stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-carbon-sink-saturation">Global carbon sink saturation</h2>



Using long-term datasets spanning 1982–2016, the researchers observed a GPP decline across 68% of Earth's terrestrial surface.



This indicates that many natural carbon sinks, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> and soil, are reaching saturation. Once saturated, their efficiency to store carbon plummets. This saturation not only accelerates atmospheric warming but also diminishes plant productivity.



The study compared GPP trends over two distinct periods: 1982–1999 and 2000–2016. The researchers then quantified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental contributions</a> using the optimal-fingerprint approach, a linear regression model.



The analysis revealed a sharp GPP decline of over 50% between the two periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-of-co2-fertilization">Decline of CO2 fertilization</h2>



The experts identified a reduction in the CO2 fertilization effect as the main driver of declining global GPP. This effect refers to increased plant growth with higher atmospheric CO2 levels. However, rising CO2 no longer boosts plant productivity as expected.



"The decline in the CO2 fertilization effect is suggested to be the main driver accounting for the slowing-down of global GPP trends," said Songhan Wang, researcher at <a href="https://english.njau.edu.cn/mainm.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Agricultural University</a>.



"Although it still has positive effects, the impact of rising CO2 on GPP on a global scale fell by about one-half from 2000 onwards compared to its impact in 1982–1999." 



The reduced impact of the CO2 fertilization effect may result from nutrient limitations in soil and leaves, highlighting another critical bottleneck in ecosystem productivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-use-changes-and-environmental-factors">Land use changes and environmental factors</h2>



Land use and land cover change (LULCC) refers to alterations in the way land is used or its natural cover, such as converting forests into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/concrete-becoming-great-carbon-sink-capturing-storing-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cities</a> or farmland. 



These changes, along with rising atmospheric CO2 levels, have significantly contributed to the decline in GPP.



Urbanization, which replaces vegetation with buildings and roads, reduces areas where plants can grow and absorb CO2. Deforestation, the clearing of forests for timber or land, destroys vital carbon sinks like trees and soil, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere. 



Similarly, agricultural expansion often involves replacing diverse ecosystems with monocultures, which are less efficient at absorbing CO2 and may degrade soil quality over time.



These activities not only reduce the ability of ecosystems to act as carbon sinks but also push them closer to collapse, limiting their capacity to mitigate climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-climate-change-mitigation">Implications for climate change mitigation</h2>



The findings highlight the inadequacy of relying solely on terrestrial carbon sinks for climate change mitigation. 



Once carbon sinks saturate, they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-of-2023-weakened-earths-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lose their ability</a> to buffer against greenhouse gas emissions. Future strategies must focus on reducing anthropogenic emissions and achieving carbon neutrality to stay within safe climate thresholds.



Experts stress the importance of limiting global temperature increases to 2℃ to meet the Paris Agreement's climate neutrality targets. This requires innovative, urgent, and collective efforts on a global scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborations-and-contributions">Collaborations and contributions </h2>



This research involved contributions from leading scientists across institutions, including Nanjing Agricultural University, Spanish National Research Council (<a href="https://www.csic.es/en/csic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIC</a>), <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a>, <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>, and <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>. 



Their work was supported by numerous organizations, including the <a href="https://en.most.gov.cn/programmes1/200610/t20061008_36199.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Key R&amp;D Program of China</a>, <a href="http://nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, and the Spanish Government.



The study provides a stark reminder of the urgent need for behavioral changes to combat climate change. The saturation of terrestrial carbon sinks marks a critical turning point in our planet's fight against warming. 



Without immediate action, the window to mitigate the worst effects of climate change may soon close.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://spj.science.org/doi/10.34133/ehs.0278" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecosystem Health and Sustainability</a>.



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Carbon sinks are losing their ability to absorb CO2

Anthropogenic climate change, driven by human activities, remains a pressing...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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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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.

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



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.

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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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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



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.

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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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

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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"

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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

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